This release was issued under a previous government.
“Every Albertan deserves the opportunity to pursue education and training to prepare them for a successful future. Our government recognizes its responsibility and will continue supporting youth who were formerly in care as they transition into adulthood. This funding increase will make a difference in the lives of many former youth in care preparing for their future.”
Advancing Futures Bursary supports students aged 18-30 by mentoring them through their transition out of care into post-secondary education and helping fund their studies. Recipients also receive a living allowance to help supplement monthly living costs, such as rent and food, and to alleviate stress associated with paying for living expenses during school.
The Alberta government is providing an increase of $723,000, making a difference for 517 students under the Advancing Futures Bursary in 2016-17. Funding has been increased for individual students and individual parents applying with up to four children.
Quick facts
- Since Advancing Futures Bursary began in 2004, 1,000 students have graduated from post-secondary.
- Since 2009, on average 82 per cent of students have completed their program of study each year.
- Monthly allowances have increased as follows:
- Single student: from $941 to $1,099
- Parent with one child: from $1,628 to $1,940
- Parent with two children: from $2,077 to $2,517
- Parent with three children: from $2,526 to $3,094
- Parent with four children: from $2,975 to $3,671.
- The Bursary provides funding for upgrading or obtaining a degree/diploma, trade, licence or certificate through an approved educational institution to help obtain a career.
- Students are provided with funding to complete training in one employable skill, to a maximum of $40,000 in educational expenses or 60 months of funding.