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.
Bursaries for Ontario residents
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.
Value
$1,000 to $5,000.
How to apply for an entrance bursary
- Starting February 1, applicants and admitted students can find the form on the Awards and financial aid tab in the Waterloo applicant portal.
- Access to the form is limited to Ontario students who will be studying on a full-time basis and who are applying to university or college for the first time.
- You'll need income and tax information for the previous year from your parents, guardians, or spouse.
- Full eligibility criteria and instructions can be found on the form.
Deadline
The application deadline is April 15. If you're selected to receive an Entrance Bursary, you'll be notified through your applicant portal starting mid-May.
Additional bursaries
- Bursaries and scholarships for newly admitted students (you can search for your program/faculty and which awards require an application)
- Bursaries for Ontario students with disabilities
Once you're in first year, there are additional bursaries you can apply for, including bursaries for students with disabilities, Indigenous students, students from outside Ontario, and students whose parents didn't attend college or university.
Learn more about bursaries on The Centre website.
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.
- Discover our ultimate guide to funding your university education.