Financial Aid
How we can help:
Depending on your program and specific needs, Student Financial Aid Advisors at NEC are here to guide you in planning your funding resources while studying. They offer support with financial planning to help cover tuition and living expenses, when available. NEC students may be eligible to explore one or more funding resources, if applicable.
*Indigenous Adult Basic Education & Health Care Assistant program is fully funded by the provincial government currently.
Please contact the admissions coordinator for details.
Contact
Financial Aid Advisor (604) 873-3761 Ext. 313 admissions@necvancouver.org Weekdays - 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Find the right support
Band Funding or Sponsorships
If you know your band affiliation or have status, contact your band funding office for details.
Most Nations fund post-secondary studies for the fall/winter term with spring deadlines. If you miss the deadline, reach out—there may be a waitlist or extension. Once you have the eligibility, deadlines, contact details, covered expenses, and application form, we can start your application process.
If you are a Metis Citizen, you can apply directly to Metis Nations British Columbia. https://www.mnbc.ca/
If you are indigenous but do not have a status, you can apply to Congress of Aboriginal People – Indigenous Skills and Employment Training program https://abo-peoples.org/
Government Student Loans and Grants
NEC students can apply for provincial and federal government student loans. Eligibility is based on household income and individual needs.
- BC Student Aid Maximum: $520 to $740 per week, interest-free for full-time studies
- Repayment: No payments while studying; starts 6 months after leaving school with flexible monthly payment options
- Grants: Automatically assessed based on need and do not need to be repaid
We recommend applying for student loans with sponsorships/scholarships to cover additional costs. For students outside of BC, please contact the Student Financial Aid Advisor at NEC for assistance.
Adult Upgrading Grant (High School Upgrading Only) - Available to BC Residents
This grant covers tuition, books, supplies, transportation (U-PASS), and unsubsidized childcare. Sponsors or band funding may also cover living expenses for full-time students (3+ courses).
Eligibility is income-based. To apply, submit your SIN and income tax information.
Adult Upgrading Technology Grant
A $500 annual grant to help with internet, cell phone, and computer access (available after two weeks of classes).
NEC Entry Scholarships & Student Awards for Indigenous Students
These awards are based on financial need, with proof of support required.
- Entrance Scholarship covers tuition, books, U-PASS, and other fees but does not include computer access or living expenses. Students must show that their living expenses are covered through other funding sources to qualify.
- Student Awards are given to current students based on their extracurricular activities, academic performance, and involvement in the Indigenous community. NEC is grateful to our community partners, donors, and sponsors for their continued support of our students.
Provincial Tuition Waiver Program - BC Residents Only
Provincial Tuition Waiver Program – BC Residents Only
Youth for Future Education Fund
The Youth Futures Education Fund has been established to provide a grant to recipients of the Former Youth in Care Provincial Tuition Waiver, to assist with supplemental educational funding for expenses such as books, housing, utilities, or emergency situations. The amount will vary with the applicant, please check with our Student Financial Aid Advisor.
Eligibility: Ages 19 to 99 and must have been in care for at least 24 months.
- Aboriginal Community Career Employment Services (ACCESS)
ACCESS offers education and training services to Indigenous people in Greater Vancouver. We encourage early application to be considered for tuition and living expense support. ACCESS provides education and training services to Indigenous people living in Greater Vancouver. Apply as early as possible to be considered for tuition and living expenses. (Link or Icon here)
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 Adult Basic Education & Health Care Assistant program is fully funded by the provincial government currently. Please contact the admissions coordinator for details.
- Health Care Assistant Program
- Technology Support Technician
- Indigenous Land Stewardship
- Indigenous Justice Studies
- Family & Community Counselling
- Indigenous Early Childhood Education
- Office Administration & Employment Training
Information - Associate Degree of Arts in Indigenous Studies