Financial aid
Preparing financially to come to college may feel like a bit of a challenge. It may require you to change your current financial plans/expectations in order to afford school. However, starting to consider what your financial needs might be, creating your financial plan early, exploring every available funding opportunity and committing the necessary time and effort required can make a huge difference in your financial readiness and ultimately, your student success. And we’re here to help you.
Paying for college
In addition to exploring NSCC student awards, scholarships, and bursaries, you can seek funding from government, financial institutions and community organizations, to name just a few. Review the tabs below to discover some other alternatives for funding your college education and beyond.
There are a lot of external organizations, community groups, companies and other institutions that support student access to post secondary by funding student awards. We encourage you to explore the following sites dedicated to external student awards to see if you are a match for their opportunities:
You may be eligible for government financial assistance.
Nova Scotia Student Assistance - if you are a Nova Scotia resident, this program provides a combination of federal and provincial funds in the form of loans and grants. The loan portion must be paid back (low interest rates and loan repayment assistance options available) however, the grant funding does not. They also provide a comprehensive listing of funding resources that can be helpful to any student.
Post Secondary Accessibility Funding – if you are a student with a disability and need access to disability-related equipment or supports, our Accessibility Services team can help you identify funding opportunities. Learn more about NSCC Accessibility Services.
Canada Learning Bond – if you are an applicant or current student with a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP), you may be eligible for a Canadian Learning Bond. The Canada Learning Bond (CLB) is money that the Government adds to a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) for children from low-income families. If you don't have a bond, you may still qualify for the government contribution portion should you meet the eligibility requirements. Learn more about the Canada Learning Bond (CLB).
The Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency has a listing of awards, grants and loans available to those pursuing an apprenticeship pathway.
Canada Apprentice Loan - an initiative of the Government of Canada to help you complete your apprenticeship in a designated Red Seal trade.
Loans/student lines of credit - many private institutions/banks offer loans or low-interest student lines of credit. A line of credit gives you access to an agreed-upon amount of money, which can be withdrawn as needed. Interest is paid only on the money you withdraw. Talk to your bank to find out what’s available.
Skilled immigrant financing - there are a few sources of support to help newcomers overcome financial barriers to education.
- Windmill Microlending supports skilled immigrants in pursuing careers in Canada. To help cover costs of tuition, books, accreditation and most other costs associated with professional licensing, the organization provides microloans up to $15,000. Learn more about Windmill Microlending.
- Atlantic Immigrant Career Loan Fund is a micro-loan fund for internationally trained immigrants in Atlantic Canada. For those who want to upgrade credentials to further a career in Atlantic Canada, you can also take their quick quiz to determine if you are eligible for funding support. Learn more about the Atlantic Immigrant Career Loan Fund.
Here is a list of helpful tools and other resources for you to explore as you ready yourself for attending college.
- Knowledge of Financial Education (KOFE) – is a platform providing incoming/current NSCC students with supportive resources like webinars, financial tools, interactive courses and financial coaching.
- Financial Empowerment subject guide – curated resources on personal finance and financial wellbeing.
- CampusWell – is an online health and wellness e-magazine providing informative articles and engaging videos on a range of topics, including managing finances.