Paying for university can be a long and stressful process, we’re here to help the best we can! Here are definitions for commonly used terminology, and links to financial aid resources both in and outside of NSCAD.
NSCAD Financial Aid & Awards Advising
Financial Aid and Awards Advising is available by appointment
Visit the Booking Page for more information.
You can find more NSCAD specific information here!
Grant
A grant is a sum of money that does not need to be paid back. Grants are generally given by the government on a financial need basis. There are also research and project funding grants, which can be applied for through organizations like Canada Council for the Arts.
USE FOR: TUITION, RESEARCH
Scholarship
A sum of money that does not need to be paid back, scholarships are awarded to students generally by the post secondary institution attended, however also by the government and outside organizations. Scholarships are often merit based; awarded based on skill, or talent, they are always given for educational purposes. Scholarships can also be conditional on maintaining a certain GPA and may have to be annually reapplied for.
USE FOR: TUITION
Bursary
A sum of money that does not need to be repaid, bursaries are generally given by the post secondary institution. Bursaries are given as supplements, in addition to loans, and scholarships, on a financial need basis. Often the application process for bursaries requires course details, including course fees, textbook costs, parental income, etc. Given the supplementary nature of bursaries, they are generally not for large amounts of money, their purpose is to cover course costs, and help students afford post secondary education, including living expenses like heating and power.
USE FOR: TUITION, LIVING EXPENSES
Loan
A loan is a sum of money given on the basis that it will be repaid, often there is interest, and financial consequences if the money is not repaid on time. Student loans can be from the government (Federally and Provincially), as well as private organizations. Students loans can be instrumental in paying for tuition in addition to living expenses.