BC First Nations Scholarships

The First Nation Scholarships, Bursaries, and Grants program provides financial support to BC First Nations students pursuing post-secondary education. We help students overcome financial barriers, reduce stress, fully focus on their studies, achieve academic success, and reach their fullest potential.

• BC First Nations Bursaries are awarded to students pursuing Certificates, Diplomas, Trades and Associate degrees.
• BC First Nations Scholarships are awarded at the Undergraduate, Masters, and Doctorate levels.

Who Can Apply

BC First Nation Scholarships and Bursaries

First Nation (status or non-status) member of a B.C. First Nation Community and planning to attend university, college, skilled trades, and technology programs full-time at an accredited post-secondary institution anywhere in the world.

Nursing Scholarships and Bursaries

First Nations (status or non-status), Métis, or Inuit and planning to attend or attending an accredited Nursing program at a post-secondary institution on a full-time basis within British Columbia.

Intake Frequency

The annual intake and approval process will open each calendar year in May 13th and close August 1st.

Eligible Expenses

Our financial support is flexible, covering a wide range of costs to help you focus on your studies without the added stress of working during your academic year.

Eligible expenses include:

• Tuition and student fees
• Books, supplies, and technology
• Housing and living expenses
• Childcare services
• Transportation and travel costs
• Health and wellness (e.g., gym memberships, counseling)
• Food and groceries
• Internet and phone bills
• Other personal and academic needs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for funding anytime throughout the year?

No, we have two specific application intake periods each year. Check regularly for intake announcements and deadlines to ensure you don’t miss your opportunity to apply.

When do students receive their award funds?

NRT accepts applications throughout the summer with a deadline of August 1. Awarded students are typically provided their funds in September and October depending on student document submission.

Do I have to attend a school within BC to qualify?

No. First Nation students can attend an accredited post-secondary institution anywhere in the world. However, Nursing scholarships and bursaries are specifically for accredited programs within British Columbia.

What kinds of expenses can I use the funding for?

Funds are flexible and can cover essential costs such as tuition, childcare, transportation, housing, technology, groceries, gym memberships, and other expenses that allow you to fully focus on your studies without needing a part-time job.

Do you have any awards for part-time students?

We do not offer part-time awards on a regular basis, NRT awards are intended for full-time students. If a student has special circumstances (medical or health-related) and permission from their school to take part-time studies as full-time, they are encouraged to reach out to us to confirm before applying.