Tag: tuition

  • May Scholarships of the Month – Apply Now!

    May Scholarships of the Month – Apply Now!

    With the school year almost finished, the time to apply for your scholarships for September has officially arrived. As always, we’ve rounded up some of the latest and greatest scholarships and bursaries that will help fund your educational dreams. Remember to read the applications requirements carefully – some ask that you write a short essay, while some simply need your contact information. Here’s what we found for May:

    1. Wado-Kai Student Development Fund – Open to students across Canada who are involved with Wado-Kai Federation. Must have sensei recommendation. Amount: $1000. Deadline: June 30, 2015.

    2. The Canadian Medical Hall of Fame Scholarship Program – Available to grade 12 high school students who are aspiring to a career in medicine or the health sciences. Amount: $1000 per year for 4 years. Deadline: June 10, 2015.

    3. The Larry Cripps Scholarship Fund (OPSEU) – The scholarship is open to dependents of OPSEU members in good standing who are confirmed as enrolled in either a Police Foundations course or a Law and Security/Corrections course at a publicly-funded, publicly-run post-secondary institution in Ontario. Amount: $1000. Deadline: June 13, 2015.

    4. CrossLites Essay Contest – Open to High School, College, and Graduate School students. As an applicant you will write a reflective essay (400-600 words) based on one of Dr. Parker’s quotes or messages (see website). Amount: $2000. Deadline: December 15, 2015.

    5. Roger Neilson/Toronto Maple Leafs Alumni Scholarship Award – Awarded to graduating student-athletes, in any sport, proceeding to post-secondary education in Canada. Amount: $10,000 spread over 4 years. Deadline: June 1, 2015.

    6. Ontario Power Generation – John Wesley Beaver Memorial Award – All Ontario residents who are First Nations, Inuit or Métis, and enrolled in a full-time post secondary institution in Ontario are eligible to apply. Amount: $3000 – $5000. Deadline: June 1, 2015.

    7. Global Solidarity Scholarship (OPSEU) – Applicants must be children, foster children or wards of OPSEU members in good standing who are studying at a publicly-funded, publicly-run Canadian university or college. Amount: $1000. Deadline: June 14, 2015.

    8. The Worker’s Health and Safety Centre (WHSC) Scholarship & Bursary – Open to any student residing in Ontario and beginning full-time studies leading to a diploma, certificate or degree from any publicly-funded Ontario college or university. Amount: $1200. Deadline: June 13, 2015.

  • Six Tips For Getting A Scholarship

    Six Tips For Getting A Scholarship

    A lot of college students end up with nothing but debt even before they graduate. The option of a scholarship has always been a number two priority when it comes to college students. Most think that they can just pay off their student loans after they graduate and get a job, but many find it too overwhelming. With a scholarship, not only will you study for free but some scholarship plans will even give you money just to stay in school or even provide you with an “allowance”.

    Here are a few tips to help you get a scholarship and avoid debt in college.

    Look for one as soon as possible
    Start looking for a scholarship even if you haven’t graduated yet. Start during your junior year of high school and take advantage of having less competition. This way, you can still renew your efforts and take additional opportunities.

    Look for scholarships elsewhere
    Don’t just limit yourself to online sources. Check with religious organizations, local clubs, your school guidance counselor and employers. Local scholarships are less competitive compared to the national ones and you can find corporations and businesses that award free education to their loyal customers.

    Don’t become intimidated just because you’re not on the top
    So your grades aren’t really made for the honor roll, but many scholarships don’t measure or base their decisions on your grades. Many scholarships would prefer someone who shows volunteerism and leadership.

    Search all year round
    You can find scholarships that are only available for a limited season. For example, some major department stores actually give out scholarships during the holidays as a prize. Treat it like getting a part-time job. You can get different opportunities throughout the whole year.

    Be honest
    Never exaggerate your memberships, skills, qualifications or grades. Better focus on a scholarship that you know you’re eligible for.

    Avoid scams
    There are scholarship scams out there that promise you a full scholarship if you give them a certain amount of money. If someone emails you and asks you if you’re interested in a “discounted” tuition fee, it’s best to avoid these emails so you don’t get into a debt collection lawsuit. These scammers are only after your money and they’ll make a run for it after you give your credit card number to them.

  • Covering the Cost of University

    Covering the Cost of University

    University tuition is a huge expense that leaves many students deep in debt by the time they graduate – especially if they choose to live on their own, either in residence or near campus. Income from summer jobs is difficult to stretch out through the school year. That’s why many students work part-time on or near campus to offset the costs of school.

    But even before you begin to peruse employment options, don’t forget to apply for as many scholarships and bursaries you can find for which you are eligible. Search your school’s website for scholarship and bursary information and ask someone at the finance offices for advice. There is often more money available to students through these awards than there are students who apply for them. So don’t let competition dissuade you from applying. You have nothing to lose and money to gain! (Remember that the most important thing to do with any application for scholarships and bursaries is to have someone edit your work before you submit it).

    On-campus jobs provide another fantastic source of income to help you pay for the school year. There are a lot more options for work than you might think! Some students with disabilities, for instance, require extra assistance reading journal articles or writing down their thoughts. Look for a resource centre on your campus and ask if you could be hired to help out. The work, which is government-funded, pays relatively well. Check out your university’s administration offices to see what else may be available and ask all of your professors what they recommend.

    Off-campus jobs are another alternative means to acquire income as you go to school, but there are things to consider before you apply:

    1. How long will it take me to get to and from the job?
    2. Will my boss allow flexibility so that I can prioritize my schoolwork?
    3. Does what I learn at the job compliment my degree?
    4. Can I get something from the job for free that I would otherwise have to pay for, like a gym membership, food or clothes?
    5. Will I be able to manage my time effectively enough to juggle a job and school?

    It may be a good idea to settle into your classes and develop a homework and study routine before you seek employment. Prioritize your goals and decide how much time you need to commit to your education compared how much time you need to spend earning money.

  • Student Loan Repayment Assistance for Borrowers with Permanent Disabilities

    Student Loan Repayment Assistance for Borrowers with Permanent Disabilities

    Students with permanent disabilities who are having difficulty paying back their student loans are eligible for the Repayment Assistance Plan for Borrowers with Permanent Disabilities (RAP-PD). RAP-PD makes debt repayment easier for students with permanent disabilities by allowing them to pay back what they can reasonable afford.

    Under RAP-PD:

    • Loan payments are based on family income, family size and disability related expenses
    • Students will not make loan payments exceeding 20% of their income (on loans covered by RAP-PD)
    • In some cases, students will not have to make any loan payments until their income increases
    • No student with a permanent disability should have a repayment period longer than 10 years

    For other Inquiries relating to student loans contact:

    CANLEARN
    Web: http://www.canlearn.ca/
    Email: info@canlearn.ca
    National Student Loans Service Centre
    Within North America: 1-888-815-4514
    Outside North America: 1-800-2-225-2501
    TTY: 1-888-815-4556
    P.O. Box 4030
    Mississauga, ON, L5A 4M4

  • Scholarships for Aboriginal Students

    Scholarships for Aboriginal Students

    Bursaries and Scholarships
    The Aboriginal Financial Officers Association of Canada is dedicated to helping Aboriginals reach the highest standard of excellence in finance and management. AFOA’s initiatives in the development of Awards and Scholarships are examples of that commitment.

    See link below for scholarships and bursaries:
    http://www.metisnation.org/programs/education–training/education/bursaries–scholarships

    Want even more options? Check out the scholarships and bursaries for Aboriginal students that we found:

    The Aboriginal Canada Portal
    Offers an online Aboriginal funding tool that offers a way to search for scholarships, bursaries, loans & grants according to your needs.

    Canada Post Aboriginal Education Incentive Award
    The Aboriginal Education Incentive Award is part of Canada Post’s nation-wide scholarship program and commitment to furthering individual potential. Each of Canada Post’s eight regions across the country will grant three awards annually: Two $1,000 scholarships for the return to and successful completion of one full year of high school and One $1,000 scholarship for the return to and successful completion of one full year of post-secondary education, including vocational or trade skills training.

    FAAY (Foundation for the Advancement of Aboriginal Youth)
    FAAY is a scholarship program operated by the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business. CCAB is dedicated to developing the future generations of Aboriginal leaders. They have scholarships for high school or post-secondary students.

    AMMSA (Aboriginal Multi- Media Society)
    Large listing of scholarships and bursaries available to Aboriginal people (including youth) in a variety of educational programs. You can look up educational institutions and find the awards available to their Aboriginal students only.

    Royal Bank of Canada Aboriginal Scholarships 
    Royal Bank offers scholarships to all Aboriginal people and also has a summer placement program as an award to qualified applicants. Royal Bank has employment opportunities for Aboriginal students in grade 9-12 for summer employment.

  • April Scholarships of the Month – Apply Now!

    April Scholarships of the Month – Apply Now!

    Spring has sprung, and so have applications for scholarships and bursaries. This is the perfect time of year to grab that free cash for school. There are a number of scholarships and bursaries for students from all walks of life – check out just a few of the ones we found this month!
    1. OutputLinks Communications Group Sponsors Scholarships – For students enrolled in Document Management and Graphic Communications. Amount: $1000-$5000 USD. Deadline: May 1, 2015.

    2. The Amazing Travel Scholarship – Open to students who submit an essay or video about why they love to travel. Amount: Top prize of $2500 and an internship plus a trip. Deadline: April 25, 2015

    3. Knowing About Research (KARes) Scholar Award – Open to a grade 12 student in each of the nine school boards (visit link for details) who will be attending a university or community college in Nova Scotia in 2015-16. Amount: Up to $15,000. Deadline: April 15, 2015.

    4. Brian Maxwell Memorial Scholarship – Provincial/National – Awarded each year to two athletes that will be continuing their post secondary education at a Canadian College or University. Amount: $5000. Deadline: June 15, 2015.

    5. Federated Women’s Institutes of Ontario (FWIO) Provincial Scholarship – Open to full-time students from Ontario entering their first year of studies at a post-secondary institution. Amount: $1000. Deadline: June 30, 2015.

    6. Make it Right Bursaries and Scholarships – Open to students entering or enrolled in a residential construction program at a Canadian college or university. Amount: $1500. Deadline: June 30, 2015.

    7. The Canadian Printing Industries Scholarship Trust Fund – Open to students in a printing management or technical program. Amount: $1250. Deadline: June 30, 2015.

  • Scholarships and Bursaries for Students with Disabilities

    Scholarships and Bursaries for Students with Disabilities

    You’ve got big academic dreams – they’ve got the funds!

    Scholarships are “free money” given to a student for their college education—unlike loans, this money does not have to be paid back. Many private scholarships are available that grant money to students based on their particular strengths, interests, disabilities and other characteristics or qualities. Finding this money can be the hard part, but we’re here to help. The following is a select list of scholarships particularly for students with learning disabilities.

    The Marion Huber Learning Through Listening Award

    Three $6,000 and three $2,000 awards available to high school seniors with LD who demonstrate leadership skills, scholarship and a high level of service to others; must be a member of Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic (RFB&D).

    Incight Go Getter Scholarship

    A renewable $750 award available to high school students with physical, learning, cognitive, hearing, or vision disabilities.

    LD Resources Foundation

    Awards of assistive technology tools (ex. Kurzweil products, Dragon Naturally Speaking and MacSpeech Dictate, Franklin Dictionary) are available to college students diagnosed with LD and/or ADHD. Students must be enrolled at a college/university with the intention of pursuing an undergraduate degree.

  • Tips on Student Finances

    Tips on Student Finances

    1. Start planning your finances early. Figure out how much money you’ll need as soon as possible (tuition, ancillary fees, books and supplies, living expenses) so you’ll know how much financial support you’ll need. Include a realistic monthly budget for transportation, laundry, groceries, toiletries, entertainment, rent, etc.

    2. Use free money first if you have access to it (money from parents, money saved for your education including RESPs, scholarships and bursaries, etc.). If you need to borrow money, use low interest or no-interest options first, with OSAP being the best example. If you need to borrow money on top of that, try and get a cheap student loan. Stay away from credit cards if you can.

    3. Check out the OSAP Access Window at http://osap.gov.on.ca. The OSAP Access Window was developed by the Ontario government to help students make informed decisions when planning for their post-secondary education. It provides approximate costs by post-secondary institution, OSAP funding estimators, repayment tools and lots of other useful information.

    4. Explore early the scholarships, awards and bursaries offered by the university. There may be some program-specific or special interest awards that you may be eligible for. Many scholarships, awards and bursaries have deadlines and require applications.

    5. Don’t miss an application deadline. Include deadlines for financial support applications in your calendar and make sure you apply in time to be considered.

    6. Investigate getting a job as a source of income. If you need to work, work as much as possible in the summer period, rather than during the school year. If you need to work during the school year, try to avoid working a great deal in your first semester or in any semester that you expect to be particularly challenging. If you expect to be pressed for cash, consider postponing your studies for a year and saving some money, or consider reducing your course load from five or six courses to three or four courses per semester.

    7. Look into various means of saving money:
    • Brown bag it. Packing your own lunch is cheaper and healthier.
    • Buy new to you. Whether it’s used books, secondhand clothing or garage sale furniture, you can find what you need at a fraction of the cost.
    • Shop online to browse, create budgets, compare prices and take advantage of online savings.
    • Take advantage of student discounts. Be sure to flash your student ID at entertainment venues, on public transportation and anywhere else that will take it. Check out special deals through your student union.
    • Pick up the free weeklies to see what entertainment is going on in the city for free. Also check out free events hosted by the university.
    •Maximize public and active transportation (walking, cycling) to keep commuting costs down.
    • Avoid the latte effect and buy a coffeemaker or a kettle to make your own.

    8. Resist the temptation to sign up for a student credit card. If you end up falling into the “this-is-my-only-credit-card” crowd, make sure you get one with a low interest rate and ask them to fix the credit level at $500. Then be sure to use it only for emergencies. When credit cards are the only accepted methods of payment, as in online transactions, save the money you will need before you make the purchase. Then pay off your credit card immediately after charging it.

    9. A line of credit typically has a much lower interest rate than credit cards. A line of credit can be a cost-effective, convenient way to borrow money for a short period of time. Most financial institutions have a student line of credit that offers a lower interest rate, no annual fee and fairly lenient terms and conditions.

    10. Monitor your expenses. Keep all your receipts and track your expenses. This will force you to write down how much you’re spending, prompting you to think about whether you really need to spend that money or not. This will also definitely let you know if you need to change your spending habits and/or increase your income before it’s too late.

    11. If you find you’re running into financial difficulties, immediately speak to a student financial assistance advisor on campus or at your bank. They will look at your budget and give you some good advice before you get in over your head.

  • How to Write a Scholarship Application Essay

    How to Write a Scholarship Application Essay

    Getting a scholarship at any leading college or university requires immense preparation for students. One of the most challenging jobs is to submit a well articulated scholarship essay. Admission officers consider this as an integral part of the scholarship grant process. However, things have changed for the better with many websites being launched which publish numerous sample essays which can be used as a baseline for students who are applying for scholarships. Let us quickly see what these websites have to offer and how we can use the services to come out with world class scholarship essay.

    For starters, these websites ask students to create their profile. After the profile is created, students can submit any number of essays that they want. At any given point, website visitors vote for the essays after which the best five essays are shortlisted. The best among the five essays get a prize of varying amounts depending upon the website’s policies.

    Students are diligently using the services of these websites. They can read essays which they feel are closely related to their requirements and use these as a baseline to write their own original scholarship essay. Some of the websites have video tips which help the students to get better ideas of how to write a scholarship essay. Many sites also have message boards where students can come together to provide tips to each other.

    The essays which are submitted to the site are stored in the database for future reference. The concept is new and, as a result, finding lots of acceptance among students. Most of these websites have different sections which highlight the recently submitted essays and also the most popular sample scholarship essays. As we move forward we will see that there will be many more websites which will offer essay scholarships. Students are expressing their happiness at the launch of these sites. Different sections of the education fraternity have also expressed their support for many of the leading websites.