• Private Schools
• Advice Guide
• Paying for School

Grants may also be awarded for a specific purpose—such as supporting a student’s unique research project aligned with the grant provider’s interests. While the terms "grant" and "bursary" are often considered synonymous, "grant" is the more commonly used term in most school contexts.

The important distinction is this: grants, bursaries, and scholarships are all non-repayable forms of private school financial aid. This sets them apart from loans and other tuition strategies such as payment plans. Some schools even offer sibling discounts—sometimes referred to as “sibling bursaries”—where a refund is applied after full tuition is paid for multiple children.

If your family has a demonstrable financial need, the best time to apply for a private school grant is now.

Where can you find private school grants?

There are two main sources of school grants and bursaries:

1. Private schools themselves: Many private schools offer need-based grants or bursaries directly. These may be funded by the school or its donors, and you’ll typically apply during the admissions process. Contact schools individually to learn what type of financial aid packages they provide.

2. Independent grant providers: While rare at the K–12 level, some foundations or organizations offer education grants, including subject-specific or community-based funding. These are more commonly found in higher education, but opportunities for private school students do exist.

Are there grants for private schools themselves?

Yes—private schools may also receive funding in the form of institutional grants. These are awarded by governments, non-profits, or special interest groups to schools that meet specific criteria. One example is the Green Community School Grants Program, which funds environmentally focused initiatives at both public and private schools.

How can you learn more about financial aid options?

Explore financial aid—including grants, scholarships, and tax breaks—by attending a Private School Expo. These fall events bring together a wide range of schools across Canada, including boarding schools, Montessori programs, gifted learning environments, special needs schools, and private preschools.

The benefits of private school often include small class sizes, personalized attention, and enriched learning environments—but affordability can be more achievable than many families realize. Grants, bursaries, and scholarships open doors for students from diverse financial backgrounds.