Applying in Alberta
In-province students can apply for financial aid through Alberta Student Aid. Student aid is awarded differently for full and part-time studies. Make sure you review your course load to know how to apply for funding.
Loan Eligibility
- Full-time
A student enrolled in at least 60 percent of a full-time course load; or a student with a permanent disability and approved through Learning Services to study at a reduced course load of at least 40 percent. Note: the number of credits required to meet a full-time course load varies by program.
- Part-time
A student registered in less than 60 percent of a full course load.'
Learn more about the number of credits required to be a full-time student
Apprentice students
Apprentices can now apply for loans and grants through Alberta Student Aid if you are attending a designated technical training program in Alberta, including part-time funding for Weekly Apprenticeship Training (WATs) or Distance Delivery.
Check with your student funding provider
NAIT’s definition of a full-time student may not be the same as your loan provider, such as banks, government, or other student funding sources. Course loads vary by program and term level, which may require a student to be registered in more courses than the NAIT full-time definition in order to be considered full-time for financial assistance purposes. Check your Loan provider’s website to review your eligibility.
Getting your Student Award Letter
After your loan application is processed, you'll receive a Student Award Letter from Alberta Student Aid. In your letter, you will see your award for the upcoming academic year, when you can expect to receive your funds, and how your loan will be disbursed to you (for example, as a Canada Student Loan, Alberta Student Loan, grants, etc.).
Paying your tuition with student aid
If you are approved for aid through Alberta Student Aid before the tuition payment deadline, NAIT will electronically confirm your full-time enrolment and request that payment is sent directly from Alberta Student Aid.
If your loan does not cover the entire amount owing for tuition and fees, then you're responsible for paying the difference on or before the tuition payment deadline.