Youth Education Bursary: supporting a career in the social services
Established by Federation members in 2009, the Youth Education Bursary assists young people, ages 30 or younger, that are in or have been in care, and want to pursue a career in the field of human and social services. Bursaries support students with the financial costs of tuition, books, and supplies for post-secondary academic education, training, or upgrading. Since 2009, the bursary program has awarded $355,998 in bursaries to 272 students (as of August 2025).
Youth can apply each year they are in school, and, if eligible, may receive funding each year they apply, as we share a long-term interest in their studies and development into social services professionals. The bursary is available up to a maximum of $2,000 per academic year (two semesters).
As a former youth in care, I bring my abilities to empathize, treat clients with compassion and dignity, and advocate for their right to make informed decisions for themselves. Moreover, I want children and youth growing up in our foster care systems to see themselves represented in the fields of human services. I want them to know that their biggest dreams are possible, despite all the adversities they will have to overcome to get there.
+ 2022 Student
Eligibility
In order to be eligible for The Federation Youth Education Bursary, you must meet all of the following criteria:
- You are currently in care or you are a former youth in care in the province of B.C. This includes being under a continuing custody order (CCO), temporary custody order (TCO, Voluntary Agreement or Special Needs Agreement), or a Youth Agreement under British Columbia's Child, Family and Community Services Act.
- You are a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident.
- You are 30 years old or younger n the year of your application.
- You are currently attending or plan on enrollingg in a post-secondary academic program provided by an institution, organization, or company in Canada.
- Your education plans relate to a career in the field of Human and Social Services. Examples include Social Work; Counselling; Child & Youth Care; Psychology; Community, Family & Child Studies; Gerontology & Social Work; Health Care; Mental Health & Addictions; Law; and Sociology.
If you have questions about whether your area of study qualifies, please contact info@fcssbc.ca.
Psychology sparked my interest because I have a great passion for learning and understanding why people think the way they do. It also helps me understand myself better, having gone through a tremendous amount of trauma in my life.
+ 2022 Student
How to Apply
Applications for the 2025 Youth Education Bursary are closed; the last date to apply was May 12, 2025. Please check in Spring 2026 for the next application period.
- You can apply for the bursary if you are receiving other bursaries and/or a tuition waiver.
- You can apply for the bursary more than once. This means you can be awarded the bursary multiple years in a row.
Applicants will be notified about the status of their applications in the summer.
Administration of the Bursary
- The bursary is available to a maximum of $2,000 per academic year (two semesters).
- Bursary funds are given directly to the academic institution for deposit into the student's account.
- Bursary funds must be used within 18 months.
For recipients in 2024, funds must be used by the January semester of 2026.
For recipients in 2025, funds must be used by the January semester of 2027.
I chose my area of study because I have seen and experienced the impact psychophysical health has on individuals achieving their optimal quality of life. It is an honour and pleasure to contribute positive interventions that help my community thrive.
+ 2022 Student
Support the Youth Education Bursary
Please donate and help to support youth in care with their post-secondary education. We need these dedicated, caring, and skilled young people in our field!
The Federation of Community Social Services is a registered charity BN: 898839790RR0001
Donate now through CanadaHelps.org
Donate online using your credit card, with or without a dedication.
Donate by Cheque
If you would like to make a donation by cheque, please fill in the Bursary Donation Form, print the completed form, and mail it along with your cheque to
The Federation of Community Social Services of BC
102-739 Kings Road
Victoria BC V8T 1W4
Donation Dedications
You can dedicate your donation in honour of a friend, colleague, or family member, or mark a specia occasion. The Federation will acknowledge your donation with a card sent to either you or the honoree describing the impact the donation will make.
If you have any questions about your donation, please contact the Federation office at info@fcssbc.ca.
Spread the Word
Help us spread the word and support youth in care who are pursuing their post-secondary goals! Share this page on the social media platform of your choice, or include it in an email to friends and family members.