Canada Student Grants and Loans

At AIB, we welcome students from Canada and understand that financing your education can be a major consideration. Fortunately, Canadian students have access to a variety of grants and loans through federal and provincial programs. As an International Designated Educational Institution, AIB is registered with CanLearn, making our programs eligible for Canadian student financial aid. We recommend verifying your specific eligibility and details with the relevant authorities to ensure that the available options align with your individual circumstances. 

Apply for Financial Aid Alongside Your AIB Application 

We encourage you to apply for financial aid at the same time as you apply to study with us. This will give you the best chance of receiving your aid at the time you start your studies. As you work through your application to study with AIB, your course advisor will reach out to guide you through the process and offer support with preparing your student aid application. 

We also encourage you to check out the Student Aid Estimator to get an understanding of how much financial aid you may be eligible for.  

How to Apply for Student Aid 

Applying for student aid is a straightforward process, but it can vary depending on your province or territory. Your first step should be to visit the National Student Loans Service Centre website, which provides comprehensive information on applying for loans and grants. You can also access resources from each of the provincial and territorial student aid offices through www.canada.ca. 

The NSLSC recommends starting your student aid application as early as possible, ideally at the same time as applying for your program at AIB. You do not need an acceptance letter to begin your financial aid application. Since the approval process can take some time, applying early ensures that you’ll receive funding as soon as possible after the commencement of your studies. 

Please inform your AIB course advisor as soon as you decide to apply for student aid. They are here to help you navigate the process and ensure your financial aid application aligns with your AIB application timeline. Your advisor can provide guidance on documentation, deadlines, and any specific requirements. 

Eligibility Requirements 

To qualify for a Canada Student Grant and/or Loan through CanLearn you must: 

• be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada or designated as a protected person; 
• be a permanent resident of a province or territory that issues Canada Student Grants and/or Loans; and 
• demonstrate financial need. 

You must also be enrolled in: 

• at least 60 percent of a full course load (at least 40 percent for students with a permanent disability or a persistent or prolonged disability) if you are a full-time student; 
• 20 to 59 percent of a full course load if you are a part-time student; and 
• a degree, diploma or certificate program offered by a designated post-secondary school that runs for at least 12 weeks within 15 consecutive weeks. 

Visit the National Student Loans Service Centre (NSLSC) website to find out more about the eligibility requirements for receiving financial aid. 

Understanding Payment and Disbursement 

Student loans and grants from Canadian financial aid programs are disbursed directly to you, the student. The National Student Loans Service Centre does not make payments directly to AIB. As the student aid process can take a little while, you may want to self-fund initially so that you don’t miss out on your preferred start date.  

Find out more about the tuition fees, payment plans, and financing options available at AIB by speaking with your course advisor. 

We’re Here to Help 

At AIB, we are committed to supporting you every step of the way and make your AIB study journey as smooth as possible. Reach out to your course advisor at any time if you have questions about the application process, student aid, or anything else.