The University of Ottawa: a choice well worth making!

"Money may not buy happiness, but it definitely makes a difference to a student!" says Camille Bégin, a second-year health sciences student at the University of Ottawa. “I would be lying if I said that my decision to study here had nothing to do with the quantity and quality of scholarships and bursaries offered."

The University of Ottawa is, in fact, recognized for its generous scholarships and bursaries program. The renewable admission scholarship, for example, rewards academic excellence and is automatically awarded upon admission based on merit. Worth up to $4,000 annually for four years, for a total of $16,000, it’s a big help to a student budget!

“When I found out I’d be getting this scholarship, I was proud and happy that the University is willing to invest in me,” says Camille, who also received the French Studies Bursary, an award for students who completed all or part of their studies in French. Upon admission, students can also apply for an education bursary, which is based on financial need.

“But don’t think the well runs dry after you’ve started University!” says Stéphanie Proulx, coordinator of communications and strategic initiatives at the Financial Aid and Awards Service. “There are also a number of in-course scholarships, and a Work-Study Program that offers about 1,500 well-paid jobs on campus.”

Moreover, the Service has advisors that students can consult for help with their budget, or to discuss financial difficulties or their scholarships and bursaries file—in short, to make sure they’re receiving the maximum amount of assistance possible and that they have peace of mind during their studies.

“Scholarships and bursaries do bring a certain sense of calm,” agrees Camille, “because they melt away worries about tuition fees and other significant costs related to studies. Without those worries, students can put all the time needed into the task at hand: studying!”

Text: Sophie Coupal
Photo: Mélanie Provencher
Published: October 2011