For the purposes of determining financial aid eligibility, the government uses a set standard of living costs for rent, utilities, food and clothing for each month of full-time study in the loan study period. In addition, educational expenses (tuition, fees, books and supplies) are calculated for the loan study period. Resources such as savings, part-time earnings, scholarships or bursaries, parental assistance, investment income, etc. may be used in calculating loan eligibility. Many provinces have an expected student contribution (resource) amount, regardless of actual contribution. All students are expected to have a financial plan (budget) in place for covering all necessary living and educational expenses before commencing studies. It is the students’ responsibility to plan to meet all expenses not fully covered by approved student loan funding. Visit Enrolment Services (MB 117) to access a variety of budgeting tip sheets and handbooks, or visit: alis.alberta.ca/pdf/cshop/StretchYourDollars.
Any student who experiences an unexpected emergency expense or extenuating circumstance beyond their control that precludes them from meeting their pre-established financial plan while in studies should visit Enrolment Services (MB 117) to explore temporary emergency funding options, such as a Student Emergency Loan.