Awards, bursaries and scholarships

• I am a domestic student coming into my first year. What scholarships are available to me?

  The university has an award of recognition entrance scholarship program for incoming domestic students. If you have been out of high school for less than 18 months, and have a minimum entrance average of 85 per cent in your top six 4U- or M-level courses, you are eligible to receive funding. There is no application required.

  In addition, the university offers four major entrance scholarships based on outstanding academic achievement and community involvement. These scholarships require a separate application, as well as two reference letters. Learn more about criteria and how to apply.

• Who is eligible for an award?

  All full-time registered students at the university may apply, although some awards are specific in nature and are restricted to students who meet the specific criteria stated in the award application.

• What awards does the university offer and how do students apply?
  The university offers a variety of awards and scholarships that recognize student achievement including awards of recognition, in-course scholarships and application-based scholarships. Visit the scholarships and bursaries section of our website for information and application instructions.
• I think I will be receiving a scholarship this year. When I will I see it on my student account?

  Scholarships are applied to eligible students beginning mid-July. Eligibility is based on registration in both Fall and Winter semesters, and other criteria. For more information, visit the scholarships section of our website.

• I have registered, but I’m expecting a scholarship. When do I receive my scholarship so I know how much to pay?

  Scholarships are applied to eligible students beginning mid-July and continue throughout the school year. Eligibility is based on registration in both Fall and Winter semesters, and other criteria. For more information, visit the scholarships section of our website.

• How do I apply for scholarships and bursaries?

  Visit the scholarships and bursaries section of our website for detailed information on how to apply. Some awards have specific application requirements.

• If successful, how do I get my award?

  You will be notified of your award decision via your .net email account. Any awarded amount will be placed on your tuition account and if your student account shows a credit balance, this can be refunded. Ensure your direct deposit is set up with the school, as this is the only way refunds are paid.

• I applied for a bursary, but I have not heard back yet. What do I do?

  General bursary applications will be assessed in the order in which they are received. Once they are assessed, you will receive an email to your .net account. Please read the email carefully as further action may be required.

  Any awarded amount will be placed on your tuition account and if your student account shows a credit balance, this can be refunded. Ensure your direct deposit is set up with the school, as this is the only way refunds are paid.

  If you are experiencing a financial emergency, contact us to book an appointment with a Financial Aid Officer.

  View your application

• My bursary/award application says I need to book an appointment. Why is this required? How do I book?
  Some awards may require you to meet with a Student Awards or Financial Aid Officer to discuss details further. To book an appointment, please give us a call at 905.721.3190.
• I want to apply for awards, but I don’t see any posted.
  Award applications for the upcoming academic year will be posted in August/September. In the meantime, you can check out our SAFA website for information and criteria for awards that will be available.
• Do I have to pay back awards, bursaries or scholarships?
  Scholarships, awards, and bursaries are types of financial assistance that you do not have to repay. They are considered income by the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) and need to be declared on your OSAP application, unless you have been notified in writing that the award will be reported on your behalf.
• I have already paid my tuition and now I received an award. How do I get that money?

  If you have already paid your full year’s tuition prior to receiving an award, you will now see a negative balance on your account. Once the add/drop deadline for the current semester has passed, you can contact our office to request a refund.

• How do I declare this income and how will it affect me?
  Awards, bursaries and scholarships are not considered taxable income, but must be reported to the Canada Revenue Agency through T4A forms. Find out more about tax guidelines and the rules regarding scholarships and bursaries.
• I am a mature or transfer student. What scholarships are available to me?
  Once you have completed one academic year at the university, you may be eligible for an in-course scholarship. Visit our SAFA website for eligibility criteria.
• What other types of financial assistance are available?

  The SAFA office offers several forms of financial assistance including:

  • Awards
  • Bursaries
  • Financial literacy workshops
  • Financial planning
  • Scholarships
  • University Works on-campus employment programs
• I am an international student coming into my first year. What scholarships are available to me?

  International students can apply for the Global Leadership Award, an application-based award that requires students to submit an online application, along with reference letters from teachers and/or community members. Learn more about criteria and how to apply. We also have an in-course scholarship program which you may be eligible for after completing a full academic year. In-course scholarships are available to students who:

  • Completed a fall and winter term at a minimum 80 per cent course load.
  • Achieved a minimum 3.7 grade point average (GPA).
  • Are returning to a minimum 80 per cent course load in the upcoming fall and winter terms.
• Are there any bursaries available to international students?

  Yes. There are a limited number of bursaries available to international students to assist with emergency situations.

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