Entrance awards

These are for students who are just starting their training. They do not have to be paid back and are based on various criteria. For instance, BCIT has entrance awards for women who are entering the trades and technologies. For example:

BCIT Montreal Memorial Awards
for Women in Engineering
The winner of this award has her tuition paid for the first year. The following are eligible:

• Women entering Electronics Technology or any two-year program in the School of Engineering Technology.
• Women who have a high academic standing in high school or post-secondary studies.
• Women who are active participants in school or community activities.
• Women who demonstrate a strong desire to enter their chosen field

Bursaries and grants

Bursaries and grants do not have to be paid back. They are available to students who have financial need and a satisfactory academic record.

Scholarships

Scholarships are awarded on a merit basis, usually for high academic achievement. They do not have to be paid back. These examples come from the 1992-93 Simon Fraser University Calendar:

Ken and Su Jang Scholarship
for Women in Science
An annual scholarship, valued at a portion of the accrued interest, is available in the Fall Semester to an undergraduate female student in the Faculty of Applied Sciences or the Faculty of Science. The award will be based on academic merit.

Evelyn Lett Scholarship
A $600 scholarship is available annually to a full-time woman student enrolled in the Women's Studies Program.

Student loans

Students can borrow money from both the federal and provincial governments for part-time or full-time study. Parts of them sometimes do not have to be repaid. The money can be used to cover course fees, books, supplies, transportation, child care and living expenses.

Details and application forms about the Canada Student Loan Program and the BC Student Assistance Program can be gotten from the financial aid offices of schools. It takes about six to eight weeks to process these applications, so give yourself as much time as possible. Don't wait until the last minute.

BC Part-time Student Assistance Program (BCPTSAP)

Who is eligible:

• Canadian citizens or landed immigrants.
• Residents of BC for 12 months.
• Those in good standing with the Canada Student Loan Program and the BC Student Assistance Program
• People able to show financial need.
• Priority is given to mature students with dependents.
  Money is available for tuition fees, required text- books, and administrative charges.

Work study programs

Some schools offer part-time jobs to students who need financial help getting through school. There is usually a student employment office where you can get more information about this.

Emergency loans

Some schools provide emergency loans for when something unexpected happens. These loans are usually for small amounts for short periods of time, and students must show how they can repay them.