The University of Manitoba Undergraduate Bursary is a financial assistance program aimed at supporting both domestic and international undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need and academic merit. With an annual fund of $240,000, this bursary program is a valuable resource for students facing financial barriers, helping them focus on their studies and participate in university life without the added stress of financial challenges. The bursary is non-repayable, meaning recipients are not required to pay back the financial support they receive.
Overview of the University of Manitoba Undergraduate Bursary
The University of Manitoba offers this bursary to eligible undergraduate students who meet specific criteria, including course load requirements, GPA standards, and documented financial need. The bursary funds can be used to cover a range of expenses associated with education, such as:
- Tuition Fees: Contributing towards the cost of courses.
- Textbooks and Course Materials: Helping with essential study materials.
- Living Expenses: Assisting with housing, food, and other living costs.
The bursary program is designed to alleviate financial stress, allowing students to concentrate more on their studies, participate in campus activities, and enjoy a well-rounded university experience.
Benefits of the University of Manitoba Undergraduate Bursary
The bursary allocates a total of $240,000 annually, which is distributed among qualified applicants based on their demonstrated financial need. The exact amount awarded to each student varies, depending on their individual financial situation and the availability of funds.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the University of Manitoba Undergraduate Bursary, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Enrollment Requirements:
- Students must be enrolled in courses in both the fall and winter terms to be eligible.
- Undergraduate students must register for and complete at least 60% of a full course load per term (equivalent to a minimum of 9 credit hours per term).
- Graduate students do not need to meet credit hour minimums but must be registered as full-time students over the fall and winter terms.
- Academic Requirements:
- Continuing students must have a minimum degree GPA of 2.0.
- New students (entering directly from high school) must have a Grade 12 average of 70% or higher.
- Students admitted with Mature Student Status may also be eligible.
- Financial Need Documentation:
- Applicants must demonstrate financial need clearly on their application.
- Students applying for government student loans from other provinces must provide a copy of their official government loan assessment to support their financial need claim.
- Restrictions:
- International first-year students who are in their first year of post-secondary study in Canada are not eligible to apply for this bursary.
- Graduate students may also apply for the bursary but must follow full-time registration requirements.
Application Process
The application process for the University of Manitoba Undergraduate Bursary involves submitting a detailed application that documents the student’s financial situation. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Application Portal: The General Bursary Application is accessible through Aurora Student, the university’s online portal, and opens at the beginning of August each year.
- Complete the Application: Provide necessary financial details, including income, expenses, and any supporting documentation required, such as government loan assessments.
- Submit by Deadline: Ensure all application materials are submitted by the deadline.
Application Deadline: October 1, 2024
Additional Benefits of Studying at the University of Manitoba
The University of Manitoba offers a supportive learning environment with a wide range of resources and opportunities for student success:
- Research Opportunities: The university hosts numerous research centers focusing on diverse fields like agriculture, climate change, and Indigenous studies.
- Vibrant Campus Community: With students from various cultural and geographic backgrounds, the campus provides a rich, inclusive atmosphere that fosters growth and collaboration.
- Extracurricular Activities: Opportunities for students to engage in clubs, sports, volunteer work, and leadership programs, enriching the overall university experience.
- Community Engagement: The University of Manitoba is committed to social responsibility, actively engaging with local communities and supporting sustainable development through partnerships and outreach programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for the University of Manitoba Undergraduate Bursary?
The bursary is available to both domestic and international undergraduate students who meet course load requirements, GPA standards, and demonstrate financial need. However, international students in their first year of post-secondary study in Canada are not eligible.
2. How much financial support can I receive?
The bursary is part of a $240,000 annual fund, which is divided among eligible applicants based on individual financial need and available funds. The exact amount varies per student.
3. Can graduate students apply for this bursary?
Yes, graduate students may apply as long as they are registered as full-time students over the fall and winter terms with the Faculty of Graduate Studies.
4. What documents are required to demonstrate financial need?
Applicants must complete a detailed financial section in the application form. Students applying for government student loans must submit a copy of their official loan assessment as proof of financial need.
5. When is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the 2025 University of Manitoba Undergraduate Bursary is October 1, 2024.
6. How do I apply?
The application is available through the Aurora Student portal starting in early August. Be sure to complete all required sections and submit by the deadline.
For more details and to apply, visit the University of Manitoba Official Bursary Page.