RBC · National
RBC
About this award
Apply by August 1, November 1, or February 1 for an annual bursary for Indigenous students at approved Canadian colleges or universities who show financial need.
The provider doesn't post a fixed dollar amount — contact RBC 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 are an Indigenous student who needs extra financial help to cover the costs of your education. You have three deadlines to choose from: August 1, November 1, and February 1. When you apply, ask how and when you'll hear back — email, portal, or phone. Selection criteria aren't published beyond the focus on financial need, grades, and community work — ask RBC how winners are chosen and roughly how many applicants they typically receive so you can judge your odds. Ask RBC 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 RBC whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain.
Can you get it?
- Indigenous — citizenship requirement
- Undergraduate, Graduate — study level
- Studying Health, Education, Social Sciences — field of study
How to apply
Review eligibility and gather your documents~1 hour
Read the official award page end-to-end. Confirm you meet every requirement before you start.
Request your official transcript1–2 weeks
Order through your school registrar — allow 1–2 weeks.
Submit by No deadline~1 hour
Double-check every field, save a copy, and submit at least 24 hours early.
More details
The biggest mistake is providing a vague statement about needing money.
Winners instead provide a clear budget showing exactly where their funding gaps are.
List your specific tuition, book, and living costs to prove your need.
Many students just list their volunteer hours.
Winners instead describe the actual impact they had on their community.
Use a specific example of a project you led or a person you helped.