OCAD U Urgent Needs Bursary

What you will need

• ✓ Submission via the OCAD University AwardSpring scholarship portal

About this award

You can receive up to $2,860.66 per student. As a bursary, this money is yours to keep — there is nothing to repay. This is for you if you are a student experiencing a financial crisis and need immediate support. You must apply by November 9, 2026. When you apply, ask OCAD University how and when you'll hear back — whether it is by email, phone, or through the portal. Selection is based on your financial need and the total number of students who apply. Selection criteria aren't published — ask OCAD University how winners are chosen and roughly how many applicants they typically receive so you can judge your odds. Ask OCAD University during your application how the money will reach you — some awards pay students directly, others apply funds to tuition. Confirm this so you can plan your cash flow. Renewal conditions aren't listed — if you're counting on this for multiple years, confirm with OCAD University whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain.

Who qualifies

You must be an Ontario resident to qualify. While this award is open to eligible residents, a preference will be given to Canadian students. You must also meet OCAD University's requirements regarding your enrollment load.

This is what the award's official page said when we last checked. Rules change, so confirm on the award's official page before you apply.

• ✓ Open to post-secondary students
• ✓ Resident of Ontario

How to apply

1. 1

   Read the award's official page

   Check you meet every requirement, and note each document they ask for.

2. 2

   Submit your application

   Save a copy, and submit at least a day before the deadline shown above.

Tips for applying

• Financial NeedAvoid giving vague descriptions of your situation. Instead, provide clear details about the specific crisis you are facing. List the exact expenses that created this urgent need.
• StrategyAvoid waiting until the last minute to access the portal. Instead, log in to AwardSpring (the online system OCAD University uses to manage scholarships) early to ensure your profile is complete. This prevents technical glitches from missing the November 9 deadline.
• RealismAvoid assuming this award will cover all your costs. Instead, remember that disbursement depends on the number of other students applying. Treat this as a supplement to your other funding sources.

Questions students ask

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