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StrongerBC future skills grant

Funding for skills training

The StrongerBC future skills grant (FSG) is open to British Columbians aged 19 years or older and covers up to $3,500 towards designated short-term skills training programs at public post-secondary institutions. Funding is limited and not guaranteed.

Funding update

The StrongerBC future skills grant at Vancouver Island University has been fully allocated. Funding was limited and subject to availability. Updates for any additional StrongerBC future skills grant are expected to be available in July 2025.

For more information about the grant, email: futureskillsgrant@gov.bc.ca.

    Eligibility
    • Must be 19 years or older or have graduated high school by the start of your course/program
    • Must be a Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Protected Person entitled to study in Canada
    • Must be a BC resident, currently living in BC
    • Must provide consent for VIU to disclose your information to the Province of BC
    • You are not receiving duplicate and/or overlapping funding to cover eligible costs (e.g., grants, loans, scholarships, or other funding that covers the same program costs as the StrongerBC future skills grant, such as the BC Tuition Waiver Program)

    Please note:

    • FSG benefits may have tax implications
    • The FSG is subject to a lifetime maximum of $3,500
    • If you are receiving any federal or provincial benefit, such as Employment Insurance (EI), or BC Employment Assistance (BCEA) or BC Tuition Waiver Program, you must seek approval from the appropriate government body before participating in a program
    • The amount of FSG funding you receive is subject to review and audit

    As a recipient of this funding, you will be required to complete the form below to confirm that you have not exceeded your lifetime future skills grant funding of $3,500.

    How to Access StrongerBC future skills grant funding

    Complete these four steps:

    1. Find a Vancouver Island University program that interests you and verify you meet the admission requirements, and that the timing fits your schedule
    2. Complete the online StrongerBC future skills grant application for funding provided below
    3. You will be contacted by a VIU representative to confirm your registration and if any further information is required
    4. Once registered in your program please ensure your student record information is accurate and includes your social insurance number
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