Scholarships

Your first stop on the scholarship hunt at Queen's should be Gordon Hall (Room 225). There they have binders upon binders filled with external scholarships to apply for. Additionally, they post new and interesting scholarships on the wall. My first piece of advice is to simply apply. Far too many people are just too lazy, and that really helps YOUR odds.

Next scour the internet. Queen's has a scholarship website that lets you download and print off applications to a few of it's merit based awards. Don't hesitate to apply for awards if you are going on exchange or on an off campus course, there is money set aside specifically for people like you. Also, there is a set amount of funding for student athletes, so if you are involved in a sport, make sure to apply.

Lastly, remember to try and keep your marks up. At Queen's you are automatically considered for in course awards if you keep your grades up.

Bursaries

First of all, this is one of the easiest ways to score free money at Queen's. If you are on OSAP or BCSAP or whereverSAP, then make sure to apply pronto. Or, if you were unable to get on a student loan but are still strapped for cash, then apply anyway. Remember, this money is there for those who need it, not for those who need a new Juicy Couture bag. So, fill out the online bursary application - it takes about fifteen minutes - and then wait for the magic to happen.

Don't forget to check out the interest. There are lots of community organizations that give out bursaries each year. Many years large chunks of that funding goes unclaimed! Try your province's home arts council, your parents place of employment, and any organizations that you volunteer time for.

Work Study

Work study is another great source of funding. Essentially you sign up at the beginning of the year and once accpeted you then can apply for various on campus jobs. These are great for two reasons: 1) you get paid 2) you get work experience in your field of study or interst. During my time at university I was lucky enough to work in Student Recruitment. I gave tours, arranged open houses, and helped to recruit students for Queen's. I can see myself pursuing a career in recruiting in the future, and it was a work study placement that gave me the insight.

Loans

While I'm sure you are familiar with provincial student loans, but did you know that if you have a student loan from the government you are eligible for a Canadian Millenium Bursary? These range from about $1000 - $5000 depending on your debt load and are 100% non-repayble. It's free money, just for taking out a loan.

Another loan option is through your bank. They are called lines of credit, offer low interest, and you don't have to pay them back until you are finished with school. Additionally, you don't pay interest on the money until you've used it!

Queen's itself also offers loans. They have short term loans for emergencies, as well as taxi assistance.