First Citizens Fund Student Bursary Program

The First Citizens Fund Student Bursary Program provides financial awards to Indigenous students enrolled in post-secondary education. Bursaries up to a maximum of $1,200 per funding cycle are awarded to students who meet all eligibility requirements and demonstrate significant financial need.

The Province of British Columbia funds the First Citizens Fund Student Bursary Program while the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres administers it.

Who is Eligible?

Post-secondary students of Indigenous ancestry (status, non-status, Métis, Inuit) who:

• are permanent residents of British Columbia;
• have successfully completed a semester of post-secondary school;
• can submit proof of Indigenous ancestry;
• and are registered in a recognized post-secondary institution in B.C.

How do I apply?

Applications must be completed and submitted by 5:00 p.m. on the application deadline. Students must submit a new application for each semester.

A complete application package must include:

• A completed and signed Application Form
• Proof of Indigenous Ancestry. This could be a copy of your Status Card (front and back). If you are non-status, please provide a copy of your birth certificate and a copy of your parent(s)’ Status Card, or other supporting documentation confirming Indigenous ancestry.
• Proof of Registration/Enrollment from the post-secondary institution you attend
• Documentation from your school outlining the cost of tuition, books, and fees for the semester you are applying for
• Unofficial transcripts/grades, including your most recent semester or schooling
• A letter of recommendation from a recognized Indigenous organization speaking to your character, community involvement, or otherwise supporting your application
• A personal letter outlining your family background, ancestry, education and employment history, and your personal and career goals

Successful applicants will be required to submit official transcripts, including their most recent schooling, as soon as they become available.

For applicants completing graduate studies: if transcripts are unavailable, please submit a letter from your supervisor confirming satisfactory progress in your program.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

How are applications evaluated?

Applications from eligible students will be assessed based on financial need, giving priority to those who do not receive other financial support for their education. Other factors will be taken into consideration such as excellent grades, excellent personal letter, single parents, number of dependents, etc.

Please note: funding is limited, not all applicants may be awarded a bursary, and we cannot guarantee consecutive or multiple bursaries per student.