The Inspired by Learning Bursary is a scholarship that provides financial support to tenants living in Ottawa Community Housing (OCH) who are pursuing post-secondary education and can demonstrate financial need. It’s designed to help reduce the financial barriers that can make pursuing higher education challenging. In 2025, we distributed 36 bursaries, reaching a new milestone for the program.
The bursary offers $1,000 in direct financial assistance to support education-related expenses such as tuition, books, transportation, childcare, equipment, and living costs.
Applications for the 2026 Inspired by Learning Bursary will open on April 1. Applications close on May 31.
When applications are open, tenants can apply online through this webpage. You can also contact our team or visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for more details about eligibility, required documents, and the application process:
Once applications are submitted, they are reviewed by our team. Eligible applicants will be contacted after the review period with next steps and decisions. All applicants will be notified of the outcome by August.
We are deeply grateful to Desjardins for their continued support for the Inspired by Learning Bursary. Since 2023, they have helped remove financial barriers for 80 post-secondary students by generously funding this program. Desjardins’ ongoing support is opening doors to brighter futures, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of students across our communities.
Your support for the Inspired by Learning Bursary removes financial barriers and opens doors to opportunity. Donate today to help more students access education, or sponsor a bursary for $1,000 by contacting Annie Premachuk.
