(Image generated using AI)

Applications for student loans and grants open June 3 for the 2026-27 academic year

Students across Alberta will soon be able to apply for financial assistance for the upcoming academic year as the provincial government invests more than $1 billion in student aid aimed at making post-secondary education more affordable and accessible.

Applications for Alberta Student Aid officially open on June 3, providing students with access to loans, grants, scholarships and awards that can help cover tuition costs and everyday living expenses while pursuing their education.

According to the Government of Alberta, the investment is designed to help students remain in school, complete their studies and build successful careers while supporting the province’s future workforce needs.

As part of the 2026-27 academic year changes, Alberta is increasing funding for non-repayable assistance and updating the way financial need is assessed. For some applicants, parental or spousal contributions will now be considered when determining eligibility for aid. The province says the changes are intended to better reflect individual financial circumstances and ensure support is directed to students with the greatest need.

The updated approach also aligns Alberta’s student aid system more closely with the Canada Student Financial Assistance Program and practices used in most other provinces and territories.

“We know students and families are under real financial pressure, and student aid can make the difference for staying in school,” said Myles McDougall, Alberta’s Minister of Advanced Education. “By increasing non-repayable support and updating how we assess financial need, we are ensuring help is fair, transparent and focused on students who need it most.”

Students who apply for Alberta Student Aid are automatically assessed for both repayable loans and non-repayable grants through a single application process, simplifying access to available funding.

To apply, students must create or sign into their Alberta Student Aid account, complete the online application and provide any additional documentation if requested. One application covers eligibility for both provincial and federal loans and grants.

Officials recommend students submit applications at least 60 days before their study period begins to ensure funding is available when classes start.

The province notes that student aid plays an important role in reducing financial barriers to higher education while helping Albertans develop the skills needed in the workforce. Beyond tuition costs, financial assistance can also help students manage housing, transportation, food and other day-to-day expenses associated with attending school.

For the coming academic year, Alberta is increasing support for non-repayable aid, including nearly $107 million in scholarships and awards and more than $75 million in grants.

Additional information about eligibility requirements, program changes and the application process is available through Alberta Student Aid.

Information for this article was sourced from the Government of Alberta website.