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OTIP Bursary for Indigenous Students

Reviewed by G Paul · verified August 31, 2026

Nov 1, 2026

Next deadline

What you will need

Proof of Indigenous affiliation
Confirmation of residency in Ontario
Proof of enrollment in a post-secondary program at any level

About this award

Deadlines fall on August 1, November 1 and February 1 for this bursary supporting Indigenous students from Ontario in any level of study.

The provider doesn't post a fixed dollar amount — contact Ontario Teachers Insurance Plan (OTIP — the insurance provider for Ontario's education community) to confirm the value for your specific award before you apply. As a bursary, this money is yours to keep and you do not have to pay it back. This is for you if you identify as Indigenous and are pursuing your education in Ontario. Deadlines come around three times a year on August 1, November 1 and February 1, so aim for whichever one is next. When you apply, ask how and when you'll hear back — whether it is by email, phone, or through an application portal. Selection criteria aren't published — ask Ontario Teachers Insurance Plan how winners are chosen and roughly how many applicants they typically receive so you can judge your odds. Ask Ontario Teachers Insurance Plan 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 Ontario Teachers Insurance Plan whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain.

Who qualifies

You qualify for this award if you are a student from Ontario with any Indigenous affiliation. This bursary is open to you regardless of your program of study or your level of study.

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

Resident of Ontario

How to apply

Read the award's own page
Check you meet every requirement, and note each document they ask for.
Submit your application
Save a copy, and submit at least a day before the deadline shown above.

More details

Identity

Avoid providing a generic statement about your background.

Instead, share specific stories about how your Indigenous heritage and community connection drive your educational goals.

Write a personal narrative that connects your identity to your future career.

Support

Avoid submitting references that only speak to your grades.

Instead, provide letters from community elders or mentors who can vouch for your character and leadership within your community.

Secure a reference who knows your impact outside the classroom.

Share this scholarship

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