University of Ottawa First Generation Bursary

What you will need

• ✓ uoAccess ID and password
• ✓ Proof of financial need
• ✓ Confirmation that parents have not pursued postsecondary education globally (full or part-time)

About this award

You will receive a minimum of $1,000 through this bursary. As a bursary, this money is yours to keep — there is nothing to repay. This is for you if your parents have not gone to college or university anywhere in the world and you need financial help to study. You must apply by January 31. When you apply, ask how and when you'll hear back — email, portal, or phone. Selection criteria aren't published — ask University of Ottawa how winners are chosen and roughly how many applicants they typically receive so you can judge your odds. Ask University of Ottawa 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 University of Ottawa whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain.

Who qualifies

To qualify, you must be a current student enrolled in a direct-entry faculty at the University of Ottawa. You must demonstrate financial need and be the first member of your family to attend a postsecondary institution. Specifically, you are considered first-generation if your parents have not pursued postsecondary education anywhere in the world on either a full or part-time basis.

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

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 providing vague descriptions of your situation. Instead, use specific numbers and documents to prove your financial need. Gather your latest tax notices or income statements before you start.
• SupportAvoid submitting your application without checking for errors. Instead, ask a counselor or academic advisor to review your claims of first-generation status. Ensure your family history is clearly explained.
• StrategyAvoid waiting until the last minute to find your login details. Instead, secure your uoAccess ID (the University of Ottawa's secure portal login) and password immediately after applying to the school. This allows you to access the application portal early.
• RealismAvoid assuming this is the only source of help. Instead, look for other bursaries for current students on the University of Ottawa website. Applying for multiple compatible awards increases your total funding.

Questions students ask

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