If you’re a student struggling with financial debt, there are programs designed to support you—especially if you have a disability. In this post, we’ll focus on financial aid programs for students with disabilities in British Columbia and Alberta, covering everything from provincial grants to specialized bursaries that can help you cover education-related expenses.
Understanding Who Qualifies as a Student with Disabilities
A disability doesn’t have to be visible to qualify for support. Disabilities can include physical, cognitive, or learning disabilities, as well as mental health conditions. Students with conditions such as ADHD, insulin-dependent diabetes, and learning disabilities may qualify for financial assistance through provincial and federal grants.
Financial Aid Programs in British Columbia
B.C. Assistance Program for Students with Disabilities
This program provides financial assistance for exceptional education-related services and adaptive equipment. Depending on your needs, you may receive up to $10,000 per academic year, or up to $12,000 if you require an attendant at school. You can only access this grant after you’ve exhausted all available funds from the Canada Student Grant for Services and Equipment.
Eligibility requirements include enrollment in a designated post-secondary institution and having a permanent, persistent, or prolonged disability. This program also supports students in developmental courses, such as ESL or adult education.
B.C. Access Grant for Deaf Students
This grant helps cover the costs for deaf and hard-of-hearing students attending post-secondary institutions where American Sign Language (ASL) is the primary language of instruction. Eligible institutions include Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C., and the National Technical Institute for the Deaf in Rochester, New York.
To apply, students must submit a completed application form with medical documentation, such as an audiogram, to StudentAid BC.
B.C. Access Grant for Students with Disabilities
This grant replaces up to $1,560 in student loan funding per academic year for students with disabilities, offering non-repayable financial aid. Students enrolled full-time in an eligible program will automatically be assessed for this grant if their disability documentation is on file with StudentAid BC.
B.C. Supplemental Bursary for Students with Disabilities
This bursary supports students with disabilities who are taking a reduced course load. Students enrolled in at least 40% of a full-time course load can receive $800, while those enrolled at 20% to 39% of a full-time course load can receive $400. If your disability has not yet been verified, you must submit the necessary documentation through the Appendix 8 form for assessment.
Learning Disability Assessment Bursary
This bursary provides up to $3,500 to cover the cost of a learning disability assessment. A recent assessment is often required to determine eligibility for services and equipment. This bursary is available to students who are enrolled part-time or full-time and have been recommended for an assessment by their school’s accessibility services office.
Financial Aid Programs in Alberta
Alberta Grant for Students with Disabilities
This is the only provincial grant available to students with disabilities in Alberta outside of federal programs. It provides up to $3,000 per loan year to help cover the costs of assistive services, equipment, or specialized transportation related to a documented disability.
To apply, you must submit supporting documentation, including vendor estimates for equipment or detailed cost breakdowns for services. Receipts must be submitted before the end of your study period to confirm that funds were used as intended. Any unused funds must be returned to Alberta Student Aid.
Why Financial Aid Programs for Students with Disabilities Matter
These programs provide essential financial support, ensuring that students with disabilities can pursue their education without being held back by costs related to adaptive equipment, services, or specialized learning needs. Whether you need a sign language interpreter, a learning disability assessment, or assistive technology, these grants and bursaries are here to help you succeed in school.
If you’re a student in B.C. or Alberta, make sure to take advantage of these resources and apply early to secure the support you need.
Sources
1. B.C. Assistance Program for Students with Disabilities
2. B.C. Access Grant for Deaf Students
3. B.C. Access Grant for Students with Disabilities
4. B.C. Supplemental Bursary for Students with Disabilities
5. B.C. Learning Disability Assessment Bursary
6. Alberta Grant for Students with Disabilities