Navigating the AUSU Awards and Bursaries Program: Your Guide to Spring Cycle Opportunities

For the Athabasca University Students’ Union (AUSU), the Awards and Bursaries Program embodies a commitment to academic excellence, student diversity, and the financial challenges that post-secondary students face. Developed with the unique needs of Athabasca University (AU) undergraduates, our Spring Cycle is open to all current AUSU members taking at least one (1) undergraduate course at AU. In the following guide, we present an overview of the program and spotlight the awards and bursaries open for applications, outlining eligibility criteria and the significance of each opportunity.

The Spirit of Awards and Bursaries at AUSU

Through the Awards and Bursaries Program, AUSU recognizes academic success, community spirit, and perseverance in the face of personal challenges. This program isn’t just about the recipient; it’s a celebration of the shared experiences that form the fabric of our AU student community.

The Spring Cycle, running from April 1st to April 30th, offers a suite of awards addressing a variety of circumstances. It reflects AUSU’s values, providing support to AU undergraduate student journeys. Please take a moment to explore the eight (8) categories below.

I. 2SLGBTQIA+ Award

1 Award, $1000

One of the most important features of the AUSU Awards and Bursaries Program is its responsiveness to the diversity of the AU student body. The 2SLGBTQIA+ Award stands for AUSU’s commitment to inclusivity, supporting students from the 2SLGBTQIA+ community facing the additional challenges associated with their identity. This award recognizes and celebrates the perseverance and accomplishments of 2SLGBTQIA+ students.

II. Academic Achievement Scholarship

3 Awards, $1000 each

Students who have consistently excelled in their academic pursuits can apply for an Academic Achievement Scholarship. This category awards three (3) students with the highest GPA in their last 30 credits and is also a helpful accolade for your resume or CV.

III. AUSU Bursaries

5 Bursaries, $1000 each

AUSU Bursaries support students facing financial challenges and exceptional life circumstances. Five (5) awards of $1,000 each are offered to students who demonstrate financial difficulty and hold a GPA of 2.00 or higher in the most recent six (6) AU credits.

IV. Balanced Student Awards

4 Awards, $1000 each

For those skilled at juggling multiple aspects of their lives, the Balanced Student Awards recognize the effort in your achievements. These four (4) awards of $1,000 each celebrate the commitment of students who diligently harmonize academics with work, family, and voluntary activities.

V. #Igo2AU Award

2 Awards, $1000 each

The #Igo2AU Award is for those students who embody passion and love for the AU community. This award, presented through the submission of a personal video, pays tribute to what AU means to the entrants or how it has played a role in shaping their aspirations. Two (2) students will each receive $1,000.

VI. New Student Bursaries

4 Bursaries, $500 each

Knowing the challenges of the new academic venture, the New Student Bursaries offer a boost for beginners, awarding financial support to four (4) students who have recently started their academic journeys at AU with less than six (6) credits.

VII. Returning Student Awards

4 Awards, $1000 each

The Returning Student Awards recognize the courage and determination of students who’ve recommenced their educational paths after a significant break. Four (4) awards of $1,000 each are distributed to those who’ve overcome the hurdle of returning to formal education.

VIII. Student Volunteer Awards

3 Awards, $1000 each

Community spirit is central to AUSU culture, and the Student Volunteer Awards put this principle into practice. Valuing the time and effort students contribute to various spheres of community building, these awards commend exemplary volunteerism with three (3) prizes of $1,000 each.

How to Apply

Eligibility and application details for each award and bursary are detailed on the AUSU website. Applicants are advised to follow the prescribed application procedures, including submissions of proof of eligibility, references, and personal statements. It’s important to review the application requirements and deadline closely to ensure your submission is accepted.

Visit the AUSU Awards and Bursaries Program page for detailed instructions and to access the official application forms. Please email ausu@ausu.org for responsive guidance and support throughout the application process.

Application period: April 1st at 12:00 a.m. MT to April 30th at 11:59 p.m. MT