CBU Announces Tuition Waiver Program for Former Youth in Care

Cape Breton University will launch a new tuition waiver program for former youth in care. The Tuition waiver program was announced during the inaugural Anti-Poverty Conference: Communities Building Hope.

“We are so pleased to announce this tuition waiver program for former youth in care,” says David C. Dingwall, President and Vice-Chancellor. “Access to education has the power to change lives, as well as the power to change communities. By introducing this program and removing barriers to postsecondary education, it is our hope to empower former youth in care so that they can reach their full potential and have a great opportunity to make a significant impact on the world.”

This new program will cover 100 per cent of participating students’ tuition and compulsory fees. A pilot phase of the program will start in January 2022, with a full program launch planned for September 2022. With this announcement, CBU aligns with other postsecondary Institutions from across Nova Scotia with similar programs. CBU’s program will support up to 20 students and each student will be provided academic supports, success coaching, as well as the option for personal counseling and additional support services.

To be eligible, a student must have been in the foster care system for at least one year as a child/youth and meet the admission criteria for their chosen program. Both students straight from high school and mature students are eligible, appreciating that not everyone’s journey to university is a linear one. Additionally, students must be in or entering their first degree and not currently part of the Nova Scotia Department of Community Services’ Educational Bursary Program for Children in Care.

For those interested in applying, you can view the eligibility requirements below.

Eligibility

• You have lived in care for a minimum of one year (cumulative or accumulated). Preference will be given to individuals with experience in the Nova Scotia child welfare system – including Mi’kmaw Family and Children’s Services of Nova Scotia – as defined by the Children and Family Services Act, 2017; or have been in receipt of services through the Department of Community Services, Youth Services Program, or equivalent to in your province or territory.
• You are entering or working towards completing your first certificate, diploma or degree program and have obtained an offer of admission from CBU, meeting your desired program admission requirements. If you have completed other post-secondary schooling, your file will be reviewed for eligibility. 2+2 students from NSCC will be considered with priority
• You are enrolled in or admitted to an undergraduate program with tuition and associated fees in the upcoming academic year with either full time or part time status.
• You consent to a Release of Information for verification processes of your time in care.
• You are not currently receiving (nor eligible to receive) the NS Department of Community Services’ Educational Bursary Program for Children in Care.
• Complete an application — including an Educational/Academic Plan and a Financial Need Statement and provide documentation to support any other extenuating circumstances to assist in determining eligibility

Supporting documents:

Once your PCTWP application has been submitted and screened for eligibility you will be asked to submit supporting documentation for the verification process with the Nova Scotia Department of Community Services – DCS – to complete your application. Questions can be sent to sheryl_trimm@cbu.ca

APPLY FOR THE POST-CARE TUITION WAIVER