PIRS is proud to offer educational bursaries to immigrant and refugee women who aspire to further their education and job skills, and require financial support to do so.

Participants might request a maximum of $2,000 to be used to cover tuition or other expenses to support education (i.e. books, childcare).

Who can apply?

1. Immigrant or refugee woman with Permanent Resident (PR), Protected Person status or Canadian citizenship. International students, temporary workers, individuals with pending immigration status or on temporary work visas, and PIRS full-time employees are not eligible.  
2. Enrolled or intending to enroll in a post-secondary program or training in BC for the upcoming year, OR have completed their studies in the previous year.
3. Show proof that they are over the age of 17.
4. Provide proof of enrollment before payment is issued. Eligible academic institutions include universities, colleges,technical schools or private training centers offering certificate, diploma and other degree programs.
5. Demonstrate financial need.
6. Have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN).
7. Submit their application in English.

Deadline for application is: June 8, 2026.

Successful recipients may be asked to share a short story about how the bursary supported their educational pursuit, to be shared with the funders, PIRS Board of Directors as well as on PIRS social media.

Priority will be given to those who have not previously received a PIRS Educational Bursary.

Eligible expenses:

• Partial or complete tuition 
• Textbooks required for study
• Computer or digital equipment required for study
• Other supports that facilitate your access to study (e.g. childcare)

How to apply

Interested applicants should submit an online application with information about education and employment goals, and the purpose or plan of use of this grant.

Please submit your application by June 8, 2026.

You can view the example application here to review the questions, print it, and keep your answers ready before applying!
This is just an example NOT the application form. Your application MUST be submitted online through this link.

For more information visit our FAQ page or contact us:

The Educational Bursary is supported by generous gifts from the George Sister’s Fund held at and administered by Vancity Community Foundation, the Amy Dalgliesh Memorial Endowment Fund held at and administered by Vancity Community Foundation, Judy McFarlane, and Robin Pascoe and Rodney Briggs.