Alberta invests $3.5 million to help low-income students

The Alberta government says it is investing an additional $3.5 million to help low-income students.

The funding is part of the New Beginnings Bursary program introduced in June, with the goal of supporting 700 more low-income learners, according to a government release.

The government initially invested $15 million to create the New Beginnings Bursary program to support 1,000 low-income Albertans attending high-demand, qualified post-secondary programs, with a $5,000 non-repayable support each year over three years.

However, it quickly capped out for the 2022-23 academic year, leaving hundreds of eligible students without a bursary.

“Affordability is top of mind for this government. That’s why we have and will continue to increase funding for student assistance. I’m very glad that we can now support all eligible applicants for the New Beginnings Bursary with this additional funding,” said Minister of Advanced Education Demetrios Nicolaides. “All Albertans, no matter their income, should be able to access post-secondary education to gain the skills and training they need to build successful careers and join the workforce of tomorrow.”

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“We’re committed to implementing affordability measures to benefit all Albertans, including students, while delivering targeted relief for those who need it most,” added Minister of Affordability and Utilities Matt Jones. “This additional bursary funding will increase post-secondary education accessibility and produce lifelong benefits for our students.”

The New Beginnings Bursary is available to students pursuing education in key economic majors that can hep diversifying the economy, including energy, technology, computer science, and aerospace and aviation, among others.

Eligible Albertans will be contacted by Alberta Student Aid, as all funding has been allocated for the 2022-23 academic year.