Students can access more than $107 million in scholarship, award and bursary funding for the 2026-27 school year. This non-repayable funding will help students pursue post-secondary education while graduating with less debt. Targeted supports such as the New Beginnings Bursary help low-income learners access high-demand post-secondary programs. In 2026-27, bursary funding has expanded from 1,000 students to support 2,400 students.
“Investing in students is an investment in Alberta’s future. Scholarships, awards and bursaries help reduce financial barriers, recognize student achievement and ensure more Albertans can access the education and training they need to succeed. These supports help learners build in-demand skills while strengthening Alberta’s workforce and economy.”
Heritage Scholarships also provide broad, non-repayable support to Alberta students. In 2025-26, the Alexander Rutherford Scholarship, one of Alberta’s Heritage Scholarships, helped more than 24,000 students with almost $50 million in funding.
“The Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund and its related endowments were established to create lasting benefits for Albertans, and the Heritage Scholarships are an important part of that legacy. By supporting student achievement and educational excellence, these scholarships help ensure the scholarship endowment continues to create opportunities and build a prosperous future for our province.”
This year, 20 scholarships and awards are moving to online applications, making it easier for students to apply while modernizing the application process and improving access to supports. Students are encouraged to review available scholarships, awards and bursaries through the online portal and apply for supports that fit their educational goals beginning Aug. 4.
Quick facts
- Beginning Aug. 4, students will be able to apply online for 20 scholarships and awards through Alberta Student Aid.
- Scholarships, bursaries, grants and awards are non-repayable supports; student loans must be repaid.
- More than $107 million in scholarship, award and bursary funding is available in 2026-27 and will support around 50,400 students.
- More than $1 billion in student aid is available this year.
- The New Beginnings Bursary will support 2,400 students in 2026-27, up from 1,000 students in 2025-26.
- The funding for the bursary will increase by $7 million for a total allocation of $12 million in 2026-27.
- Heritage Scholarships are supported through the Alberta Heritage Scholarship Endowment, which provides income from its investments to fund scholarships and awards for Alberta students.
- The Alexander Rutherford Scholarship, one of Alberta’s Heritage Scholarships, recognizes high school achievement.
- Loan and grant applications opened June 3. Students considering these separate supports should apply at least 60 days before their program starts.