Paying for college shouldn’t hold you back from a healthcare or community service career. At ABES College, more than 95 % of applicants qualify for funding thanks to 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 may receive up to $8,500 per semester in loans plus non-repayable grants such as the Alberta Grant for Full-Time Students (up to $425 a month) and Canada Student Grants for dependents or disabilities (up to $525 a month).
Loans stay interest-free while you study and for six months after you finish, giving you breathing room to find work.
2. The ABES Student Grant (Up to $1,000)
Need a quick boost to close a small gap? Complete a short online form, and an Admissions Advisor will confirm whether you pre-qualify for up to $1,000 in ABES Student Grant funding, often within 24 hours. Grants never have to be repaid.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Microloans for New Canadians and Career Changers
When traditional loans aren’t an option (perhaps you lack Canadian credit history), a microloan of up to $15,000 from organizations like Windmill Microlending or the Servus-Bredin program can fund tuition, exam fees and even living expenses. Rates are usually about 1.5 % above prime, and repayment starts only after you complete your program.
6. 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.
7. Flexible Payment Plans
Prefer to avoid borrowing? ABES lets you split tuition into equal monthly instalments with no hidden fees. This option pairs well with part-time work or family support.
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.
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.
Ready to Calculate Your Funding?
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.