StudentAid BC offers a single application for:
- Canada Student Loan
- B.C. Student Loan
- Canada Student Grant for Persons with Dependents
What is StudentAid BC?
A needs-based provincial and federal student financial assistance program that helps eligible students with the costs of post-secondary education.
This program is designed to supplement, not replace, funding from:
- Employment
- Savings or assets
- Family income
Who can apply?
You may be eligible if you:
- Are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person
- Have a valid Canadian Social Insurance Number
- Are a B.C. resident as defined by StudentAid BC
- Are enrolled in at least 60% of a full-time course load (9+ credits) — or 40% for students with permanent disabilities
- Are studying in an approved certificate, diploma, or degree program at a designated institution
- Have a study period of at least 12 weeks
- Can demonstrate financial need
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress
Note: Some students must apply through their home province based on residency. Contact UFV Financial Aid and Awards for clarification. UFV Financial Aid and Awards often carry applications from the different provinces.
How much can I receive?
The amount you receive is based on:
- Your financial need, as calculated by federal and provincial government assessment regulations
- Number of weeks of study in your application period
- Lifetime loan/grant limits under each program
Students in high-tuition programs or with complex financial obligations may need additional funding sources.
Grants included: Canada Student Grant for Persons with Disabilities
This grant helps low-income students who have dependent children under the age of 12, or children with disabilities 12 years of age or older:
- $200/month per child under 12
- Flat-rate grant, may exceed assessed need
- Renewable each year if eligibility is maintained
While you're in school (In-study status)
Your Canada and BC student loans are:
- Interest-free
- No payments required while you're a full-time student (60%+ load)
Repayment begins 6 months after you are no longer a full-time student. You are responsible for repaying the full amount loaned.
To maintain in-study status:
Apply for funding or
Confirm enrolment through your NSLSC account if you are not receiving new funds
Required agreement
If approved for full-time funding, you must complete and agree to the Master Student Financial Assistance Agreement (MSFAA) — a legal contract with the provincial and federal governments outlining your responsibilities from application to repayment.
Application deadlines
- Earliest: Early June for the upcoming program year
- Latest: 6 weeks before your study period ends (all documentation must be submitted)
You can apply before being accepted into UFV, but funds will only be released once enrolment is confirmed.
Changes after applying (Reassessments)
If your circumstances change:
- Submit a Reassessment Form (Appendix 7) to the Ministry
- Available from UFV Financial Aid and Awards
- Deadline: At least 6 weeks before your study end date
Exceptional cases (Appeals)
If you have exceptional circumstances not covered by standard policy, you can request a StudentAid BC Appeal.
- Reviewed individually — not all are approved
- Unresolved cases are referred to the Appeal Committee
- Contact UFV Financial Aid and Awards to speak with an advisor if you wish to appeal.
Plan Ahead
Apply early and budget carefully to ensure you can cover current expenses and manage loan repayment after studies end.