Native Education

Meet with Our Student Financial Aid Advisor

Post-secondary education is a meaningful investment, and NEC is committed to supporting access for all learners.

We help students explore financial resources to support their studies and living costs, including bursaries, scholarships, awards, loans, and grants.  We provide personalized support for Indigenous NEC learners to explore eligible financial resources and make informed financial decisions.

Appointments are available in person or by phone.

When studying at NEC, keep in mind the following expenses:

  • Tuition, Books and other fees
  • Living expenses, loss of income and childcare expenses
  • Transportation and groceries 
  • Technology resources – Internet, phone, and computer access 

*Indigenous Adult Basic Education & Health Care Assistant program is fully funded by the provincial government currently. Please contact the admissions for details.   

Find the right support

First Nation, Band or Community Sponsorship

  • Contact Immediately: Inquire about sponsorship options and deadlines
  • Support Available: May cover tuition, other fees, and living expenses
  • Application Assistance: NEC Financial Aid Advisor can assist
  • Sponsorship Confirmation: Provide to NEC for registration

Government Student Loans and Grants

  • Maximum: $520 to $740 per week interest-free for full-time studies
  • Repayment: No payments while studying; starts 6 months after leaving school, flexible monthly payment options
  • Grants: Assessed automatically based on need; does not need to be repaid
  • Apply for BC Aid with sponsorships to cover extra costs - recommended

Provincial Tuition Waiver Program - BC Residents Only

  • Applies to: Former or current youth in care studying full-time or part-time Covers tuition, mandatory costs, and transportation costs (U-PASS)
  • Learning for Future Grant - $3500 annual grant towards textbooks, computer access, and supplies which is not covered by tuition
  • 19 to 26 years, have been in care for at least 24 months
  • Youth for Futures Education Fund - assist with books and some emergency expenses

Aboriginal Community Career Employment Services (ACCESS)

  • ACCESS offers education and training services to ALL Indigenous people in Greater Vancouver only
  • If eligible, Access will cover Tuition, books, supplies, transportation (U-PASS), and living expenses
  • Apply as early as possible to be considered

Adult Upgrading Grant (High School) - BC Residents Only

  • Tuition, books, supplies, transportation (U-PASS), and unsubsidized childcare
  • Applicants must be BC resident, Canadian or Permanent Resident
  • Grant has limitations on repeat eligibility for other fees
  • Sponsors or band may also cover your living expenses
  • Based on income, submit application with SIN# and income tax info
  • AUG TECH GRANT - $500 per annual basis to cover internet, cell phone, and towards computer access (Available after 2 weeks classes start)

NEC Entry Scholarships & Student Awards for Indigenous Students

NEC entrance scholarships support post-secondary learners in achieving their educational goals.
  • We support Indigenous learners and offer scholarships for students without band funding.
  • Entrance Scholarships are need-based and may require documentation. They cover tuition, books, U-PASS, and related fees, but do not include laptops or living expenses.
  • Awards are granted by the NEC Scholarship Committee based on academics, extracurricular involvement, and Indigenous community engagement.

Book your appointment for more program information

Ready to embark on your educational journey? You’re not alone. Schedule your appointment today with our student aid and advisor. Discover valuable insights into educational opportunities and funding options at NEC for the upcoming intake. Choose your advisor based on the program of your interest.

 

  • Indigenous Technology Support Technician
  • Indigenous Early Childhood Education
  • Office Administration and Employment Training

 

Student & Financial Aid Advisor

Student & Financial Aid Advisor

Catherine Bolton
  • Family & Community Counselling
  • Indigenous Land Stewardship

 

 

Student & Financial Aid Advisor

Student & Financial Aid Advisor

Joeleen Okeymow
  • Associate Degree of Arts in Indigenous Studies
  • Health Care Assistant 
  • Indigenous Justice Studies

 

Student & Financial Aid Advisor

Student & Financial Aid Advisor

Sevil Ghaffari
  • Indigenous Adult Basic Education Upgrading
  • Indigenous Adult Basic Education Diploma

 

 

IABE Pathway Coordinator

IABE Pathway Coordinator

Kathy Li