This guide sets out the funding routes ABES College students ask about: government student loans and grants, scholarships and bursaries, band funding for Indigenous students, microloans for newcomers, bank credit and monthly payment plans.
Each option below has its own rules, and they are set by the body that runs it rather than by the College. The sections that follow take them one at a time.
Paying for college shouldn’t hold you back from a healthcare or community service career. Our funding team works with our on-site Funding Centre and dedicated Student Finance Officers, who walk you through every form and deadline so you don’t have to visit an outside agency.
The guide below explains each major option, so you can choose the mix that works for your budget and timeline.
1. Government Student Loans & Grants
All ABES programs are designated for both Alberta and Canada student aid, so you can combine provincial and federal loans in one application. Full-time learners can apply for loans alongside non-repayable grants such as the Alberta Grant for Full-Time Students and Canada Student Grants for dependents or disabilities.
Interest terms differ between the provincial and federal portions of a student loan, and they have changed more than once. Check the current terms with Alberta Student Aid before you borrow.
The Alberta student loan program partners with the federal system to provide loans for tuition, room and board expenses, and some textbook costs too. Eligibility for funding is broken down by income – the lower your income, the more funding you will be eligible for.
2. Scholarships & Bursaries
Scholarships reward grades, community service or specific backgrounds; bursaries focus on financial need. Start with ScholarshipsCanada or the Alberta government’s searchable award list, then ask our finance team to help you assemble transcripts and references.
Many government programs, non-profit organizations, and other entities provide scholarships and bursaries. These are different from student loans in that they do not require repayment. In addition, many scholarships and bursaries are tailored to specific programs.
One organization that provides vocational and technical scholarships for the programs at ABES College is the Rupertsland Institute. The Rupertsland Institute (RLI) provides post-secondary financial aid to Métis students to reduce the overall cost of education and the financial burden it can have. RLI seeks to increase the number of Métis students who successfully complete post-secondary studies and to bring parity between Métis post-secondary participation to that of other Albertans.
Another opportunity that’s available to ABES College students is the Advancing Futures bursary. Advancing Futures is a transitional support program for current and former youth in government care aged 18 to 24. The program provides social and emotional supports and funding to eligible students while they pursue post-secondary studies.
3. Band Funding for Indigenous Learners
If you are First Nations, Inuit or Métis, tuition, books, and living costs may be covered through your Band office or Indigenous Services Canada. Our officers provide letters of acceptance and budget breakdowns to support your application.
Indigenous students can get student financial aid that is administered partly by the Government of Canada and partly by Indigenous Services Canada.
If you’re a Band member of a First Nation, you may be eligible for federal funding, administered through your Band office, to help you pay for your education. First Nations students who want to pursue post-secondary studies and access available funding programs should contact their local band office or ISC regional office.
4. Microloans for New Canadians and Career Changers
When traditional loans aren’t an option (perhaps you lack Canadian credit history), a microloan from organizations like Windmill Microlending or the Servus-Bredin program can fund tuition, exam fees and even living expenses. Each lender sets its own maximum, interest rate and repayment schedule, so ask the lender for its current terms before you apply.
5. Bank Lines of Credit & Personal Loans
Major banks and credit unions offer student lines of credit with flexible terms. If you choose this route, compare interest rates and ask whether you can make interest-only payments while in school. ABES staff can supply cost-of-attendance letters for your banker.
Some banks and lenders offer school tuition financing options. You may be eligible for a student line of credit or student loan through various lending institutions.
6. Flexible Payment Plans
Prefer to avoid borrowing? Ask an ABES advisor about payment plan options for your program. This option pairs well with part-time work or family support.
Find Out What You Qualify For
Speak with us and get a clear breakdown of your funding options.
On-Site Funding Centre Support
Our Funding Centre is right on campus, so you can apply for aid, scan documents and sign paperwork in one visit. Student Finance Officers guide you step-by-step until the funds arrive, saving you the trip to an external assessment office that many private colleges require.
If you have any questions about admissions to your program in general, our office can help with that as well.
Speak with an ABES Student Finance Officer at 403-232-8758 or start your application online. We’ll map out every dollar you’re eligible for so finances never stand between you and a rewarding new career.
Repayment Strategies After Graduation
When it’s time to pay back your loans, choose the method that matches your cash flow:
- Pre-authorized debit: automatic withdrawals on the date you choose.
- Online or telephone banking: add your loan provider as a bill payee using your seven-digit account number.
- Post-dated cheques: Student Aid Alberta recommends providing 12 at a time.
If your budget tightens, repayment-assistance plans can lower or postpone payments until you regain your footing.
Related reading
- Admissions, program options and student life at ABES College
- Career college education for new immigrants in Calgary
- Career colleges compared with universities in Alberta
Work out your funding with an ABES advisor
ABES College trains students for health care and community service programs at ABES College in Calgary. An ABES College advisor can go through entrance requirements, upcoming intakes and funding options with you.
