I am graduating from high school this year and need to pay for university, where and when should I look for some financial help?
Apr 21, 2009
Where and when to start…Start Now…first you may want to look into any scholarships or bursaries that may be available to you in your community, free money. If you are graduating from high school apply for their awards, check with local organizations or youth centre, financial institutions like a credit union, employer, contact the school you are attending and see if they have awards related to your field and always check the internet. Sites like studentawards.com can point you in the right direction.
Check out http://www.aved.gov.bc.ca/studentaidbc/ila/, this is the British Columbia Student Aid Program. They grant funds to students that qualify. Research this before you go to your financial institution for a loan or student line of credit.
If you go to a bank or credit union you will want to ask about student specific products since there may be a grace period for paying back a loan or line of credit. A standard loan will require repayment immediately; this can be tough when you are not earning much income while at school in order to make the required monthly payments.
You will have to have to fill out an application form with your financial institution and supply your account info, any assets (what you own) and liabilities (what you owe), some form of income verification (pay stubs, T-4). If you are uncertain be sure to ask what they would like to specifically see from student applicants.
Good Luck
