ESL and Academic Upgrading Funding
Foundational Learning Assistance program
The Foundational Learning Assistance program, formerly known as Alberta Works, provides funding for Albertans in designated full-time and part-time programs. Funding is limited and provided on a first come, first service basis to qualified applicants.
Advance Education determines learner eligibility and may include a monthly living allowance depending on full or part-time study status and a financial need assessment.
Funding applications for 2024/2025
Due to limited funding, Foundational Learning Assistance funding applications for 2024/25 will be only available to a small number of continuing English as a Second Language (ESL) students. These students will be contacted by email. We know this is deeply impactful to many; if more funding becomes available, this page will be updated.
When to apply
Registration for Foundational Learning Assistance opens approximately 10-12 weeks before term start. Check this page for the most up-to-date registration dates.
Before you apply
- Know if you're a new or continuing student:
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Continuing students: you're considered a continuing student if you have previously attended ESL or Academic Upgrading at NAIT and received Foundational Learning funding within the previous 2 semesters.
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New students: you're considered a new student if you are new to NAIT, or have attended NAIT but have not received Foundational Learning funding within the previous 2 semesters.
- Ensure you have a verified Alberta.ca Account (formerly MyAlberta Digital ID). It may take up to 10 days to receive your verified account.
- Check your funding and program eligibility, as outlined in steps 1 and 2 below.
How to apply for ESL and Academic Upgrading funding
To access Foundational Learning Assistance funding, you must complete these 5 key steps:
After receiving funding
If you have any changes to your situation while you attend NAIT (eg. course load or finances), you must update the government by submitting a Change in Circumstance form.