Scholarships for First-Generation Students in Canada

These programs specifically support first-generation post-secondary students:

• University-specific first-generation bursaries: U of T, York, Western, Queen's, Ottawa, and many others maintain dedicated first-gen awards
• TD Scholarship for Community Leadership: $70,000 value — first-gen background is viewed favourably
• Canada Student Grant: Being first-gen can increase your assessed financial need, resulting in larger grants
• Indspire Building Brighter Futures: Supports Indigenous first-gen students with up to $30,000/year
• Horatio Alger Canadian Scholarship: $5,000 for students who have overcome adversity — many first-gen students qualify

Here's something most first-gen students don't realize: many university bursary applications ask whether your parents attended post-secondary. Answering 'no' can significantly increase your bursary amount because institutions recognize that first-gen students often lack family financial planning for education costs. Always fill out your university's bursary application — even if you think you won't qualify.

Practical advice for navigating university funding without family experience to lean on:

• Visit your university's financial aid office in person — they can walk you through every form
• Apply for student loans even if you think you won't qualify — the grant portion is free money
• Look for first-gen student mentorship programs at your university — they connect you with experienced students
• Don't be afraid to ask for help — financial aid officers deal with these questions every day