What is a bursary?
A bursary is money given to a student based on financial need rather than on academic achievement. You don't need to pay back any money you're awarded as a bursary.
Approximately 1,000 first-year Waterloo students who are Ontario residents with financial need and who are starting university or college for the first time may receive a Waterloo entrance bursary, valued from $500 to $4,000.
How to apply
- Starting February 1, log in to Quest. Under the Finances menu, click the link to the Entrance Bursary Application.
- Complete the quick eligibility check (You must be an Ontario resident as defined by OSAP.)
- Fill in all fields on the application. You will need income and tax information from your parents, guardians, or spouse.
- Click Agree to submit your application.
The application deadline is April 15. Bursaries will be awarded in mid-May.
More bursaries
There are additional bursaries you can apply for once you're on campus including bursaries for students from outside Ontario, bursaries for international students in second year or above, bursaries for students with disabilities, bursaries for Indigenous students, Ontario First Generation bursary, and more.
Learn more about bursaries on Waterloo's Student Awards and Financial Aid website.
Discover our ultimate guide to funding your university education.
What's the difference between a scholarship and a bursary?
A scholarship is awarded based on your academic, extracurricular, or personal achievement while a bursary is normally awarded based on financial need. A bursary is similar to a scholarship in that you're not expected to repay it.
