The StrongerBC future skills grant is available to most British Columbians aged 19 years or older – regardless of financial need – and covers a lifetime maximum of up to $3,500 in costs for eligible short-term skills training at public post-secondary institutions. You can use the funding to upskill, transition or further your career.
Who can apply for the future skills grant?
You can apply for the future skills grant if you:
- are a Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident or Protected Person entitled to study in Canada
- are a resident of British Columbia and currently live in BC
- are 19 years of age or older or have graduated from Grade 12 or equivalent by the start of your course/program
- provide your consent for NIC to disclose your relevant personal information to the Province
- aren’t receiving duplicate/overlapping funding to cover eligible costs (such as other grants, loans, scholarships or funding)
You understand that:
- there may be tax implications
- the grant is subject to a $3,500 lifetime maximum
- all eligible costs will be counted towards the $3,500 per learner limit
- if you’re receiving EI or any other federal or provincial benefit, you must seek approval from the appropriate government body before applying for the grant
- the amount of funding you receive is subject to review and audit
What does the future skills grant pay for?
The StrongerBC future skills grant will cover tuition, mandatory fees, program/course materials. Costs such as childcare, transportation costs or living allowances while you attend training aren’t covered by the grant.
NIC’s Fall 2024 and Winter 2025 Courses
Funding for this program was provided by the Province of British Columbia through the StrongerBC future skills grant.
How to Apply
- Program applications will be accepted beginning August 1 through EducationPlannerBC.ca. Use waiver code NICFSG to waive the application fee.
- August 6 - apply for the future skills grant funding online with your BC Services Card Account. The online application portal will check your eligibility. Application portal coming soon.
- Are there any pre-requisites required for the program you applied for? If so, be sure to submit your transcripts or take an assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will more NIC programs become eligible for the StrongerBC future skills grant in the future?
A: This decision is made by the Ministry, based upon in-demand jobs at that specific time.
Q: What if my tuition and fees total more than my StrongerBC future skills grant lifetime maximum of $3,500?
A: Any amount over and above the $3,500 lifetime maximum is not covered by future skills grant and would need to be paid.
Q: What are the admissions requirements for the program?
A: Please, refer to your chosen program webpage to see what the requirements are, if any.
Q: I still have questions that aren’t answered here. Who do I contact?
A: First, please review our website and the full FAQ file, as your questions may be answered.
Q: Are there limited seats in these programs?
A: Yes, seating is limited. Apply as soon as possible to secure your spot.
Q: Can I exit the program at any time?
A: Seating is limited, and it is imperative that only learners committed to all aspects of the training pursue this program.
