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Students planning to attend post-secondary school this fall will soon have access to more than $107 million in scholarships, awards and bursaries as Alberta Student Aid opens applications for the 2026-27 academic year on Aug. 4.

The funding is designed to help reduce the financial burden of higher education by providing non-repayable assistance to students pursuing college, university and other post-secondary programs across the province.

According to the Government of Alberta, the scholarships, awards and bursaries will support approximately 50,400 students during the upcoming academic year. The province is also making it easier to access financial assistance by moving 20 scholarships and awards to an online application process.

Minister of Advanced Education Myles McDougall said the investment is aimed at helping more Albertans pursue education while strengthening the province's workforce.

"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."

One of the most significant changes this year is the expansion of the New Beginnings Bursary, which supports low-income learners entering high-demand post-secondary programs. The bursary will now assist 2,400 students, more than doubling last year's total of 1,000 recipients.

Funding for the program has also increased by $7 million, bringing its total allocation to $12 million for the 2026-27 school year.

The province continues to support academic excellence through its Heritage Scholarships, including the Alexander Rutherford Scholarship, which recognizes outstanding high school achievement. During the 2025-26 academic year, the scholarship provided nearly $50 million in funding to more than 24,000 students.

Heritage Fund Opportunities Corporation Chair Joe Lougheed said the scholarships continue to provide lasting benefits for Alberta students.

"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."

While scholarships, awards, bursaries and grants do not have to be repaid, student loans remain available as a separate form of financial assistance and must be repaid after studies are completed.

Applications for student loans and grants opened on June 3, and students are encouraged to apply at least 60 days before their program begins. Scholarship, award and bursary applications open Aug. 4 through Alberta Student Aid.

Key Highlights

• More than $107 million in scholarships, awards and bursaries available for 2026-27.
• Funding expected to support approximately 50,400 Alberta students.
• Applications for 20 scholarships and awards will be available through a new online application process.
• New Beginnings Bursary expands to support 2,400 students, up from 1,000 last year.
• Bursary funding increases to $12 million.
• More than $1 billion in total student aid is available this year.

(Source: Government of Alberta)