Pursuing education at Ashton College comes with unique opportunities and, for students with disabilities, financial support options that can make a difference. This guide outlines key financial aid resources available specifically for students with disabilities in British Columbia, helping you navigate the support available and maximize your educational journey.
Canada-BC Integrated Student Loans: Interest-Free Support
Ashton College students with disabilities may be eligible for Canada-BC integrated student loans, which are interest-free, reducing your financial load. These loans are combined into a single amount, with one monthly payment and contact point, simplifying repayment, which starts six months after completing your studies.
Eligibility Requirements for Ashton College Students: To qualify, you must:
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person.
- Live in British Columbia.
- Have a valid Canadian Social Insurance Number.
- Be enrolled in an Ashton College program.
- Demonstrate financial need and meet academic progress requirements.
BC Access Grant for Students with Disabilities
The BC Access Grant provides up to $1,560 per program year for full-time students with permanent or prolonged disabilities to help cover tuition and additional educational expenses. If your disability is verified with StudentAid BC, you'll be automatically considered for this grant when applying for student aid—no separate application is needed.
Canada Student Grant for Services and Equipment – Students with Disabilities
To support the added costs of services or equipment you might need for learning, this grant provides up to $20,000 per academic year. It’s ideal for students who require specialized equipment, note-takers, interpreters, or other assistive resources. Learn more here.
BC Assistance Program for Students with Disabilities
If you have used all available funds through the Canada Student Grant for Services and Equipment – Students with Disabilities (CSG-DSE), you may be eligible for the BC Assistance Program for Students with Disabilities. Applicants can receive up to $12,000.
BC Supplemental Bursary for Students with Disabilities
This provincial bursary offers additional financial support for students with disabilities, whether they are studying part-time or full-time at Ashton College. The bursary amount varies based on your course load:
- $800 if your course load is 40% or greater.
- $400 if your course load is between 20% and 39%.
Like the BC Access Grant, automatic assessment applies for students with documentation on file with StudentAid BC.
Canada Student Grant for Students with Disabilities
This grant provides $2,800 per program year and is available to Ashton College students with a documented disability who qualify for a federal student loan. Automatic assessment applies if you have verified your disability with StudentAid BC, saving you the hassle of applying separately.
Repayment Assistance Plan for Borrowers with Disabilities (RAP-D)
Repaying student loans can feel overwhelming, and for Ashton College students with disabilities, the Repayment Assistance Plan for Borrowers with Disabilities (RAP-D) offers flexible options. This plan adjusts monthly payments based on your income and disability-related expenses, and in some cases, payments may be waived entirely.
Applying for RAP-D: Unlike other aid programs, RAP-D requires re-application every six months. Keeping financial information updated ensures you get the support you need.
Additional Financial Resources for Ashton College Students
If you’re exploring additional aid, start by connecting with the student services at Ashton College by emailing studentservices@ashtoncollege.ca
For further details, check StudentAid BC or Canada.ca, which regularly update funding information and offer tools to help you assess eligibility and apply for support.
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