Frequently Asked Questions About
Mohawk's Student Assistance Bursary Program (General Help Fund)

What is a bursary (General Help Fund)?
A bursary is a financial "gift" to students who can demonstrate financial need. The bursary program is funded through donor contributions to the College and tuition reinvestment. Bursary funds are limited and are not intended to fund a student's full deficit.

As a first year student, can I apply for bursary (General Help Fund) Assistance?
Yes, students who are currently registered, in good standing, and have demonstrated financial need are eligible to apply. The applications for the 2004-2005 Fall/Winter terms will be available in early September 2004.

How many Mohawk students receive assistance?
More than 1250 Mohawk students were assisted in 2000-2001 with Student Assistance bursaries of varying amounts.

What type of bursary (General Help Fund) assistance is available to part-time students?
The Ontario Special Bursary Program (OSBP), the Part-time Canada Student Loans Program and/or Special Opportunity Grant, are available to students with less than 60% of a full-course load. Part-time students who do not qualify for Ontario Special Bursary may qualify for the CE Help Fund Program for tuition and books.

Am I eligible for a bursary (General Help Fund) if I did not apply for OSAP?
There is an expectation that applicants first access the OSAP program (or government funding from their home province, if not a resident of Ontario). Please see a Financial Aid Advisor if you have extenuating circumstances.

When will I find out if I am to receive a bursary (General Help Fund)?
You should check with the Financial Aid Office one week after submitting your application.

Is a bursary (General Help Fund) considered to be income?
Yes. Bursaries are considered to be part of a student's taxable income for the year by Canada Customs and Revenue Agency. The College will issue T4A forms to all bursary recipients.

What if I receive a bursary (General Help Fund) and then withdraw from my studies?
Your refund from the College may be used to repay any bursary overpayment.

What if I am receiving government assistance from my home province (other than Ontario)?
If you are receiving government assistance from your home province (other than Ontario), submit a copy of your Student Loan Notice of Assessment or Notification of Award with your bursary application.

May I receive more than one bursary (General Help Fund)?
Students are normally eligible to apply for one bursary per semester.

Did you know that…
You may be eligible to appeal your summer contribution if your savings were less than the minimum expected by OSAP? See http://osap.gov.on.ca ("reviews").

We offer a Work-Study Program for students who feel they can work part-time during the academic year and can demonstrate financial need? Watch for job postings.

Dropping units or withdrawing from studies can have a considerable effect on your current and future OSAP entitlement? See a Financial Aid Advisor before making this decision.

For more information, contact the Financial Aid Office