Frequently Asked Questions

ASPIRE AC students are students who face multiple barriers to get their college credentials, and who may need individualized support and services to access, transition to, and succeed at college. ASPIRE AC students can include:

• First-generation students (the first in their family to attend college/university)
• Students who are new to Canada
• Indigenous peoples
• LGTBQ students
• Students who were in extended society care
• Persons with disabilities
• Mature students (Second Career, retraining, etc.)
• Students who identify with diversity groups
• Students facing socio-economic or other challenges

Please register online to declare your ASPIRE AC student status. Once declared, explore our website to learn about ASPIRE AC services for current and prospective students.

Algonquin’s First Gen program is now ASPIRE AC. We continue to serve first-generation students (who are the first in their family to attend post-secondary), as well as other students who need individualized support for success at college.

Yes. ASPIRE AC offers all of the services previously provided by the First Generation program.

Yes. As a First Generation student in your first post-secondary program, you can apply for the bursary in each semester you are enrolled.

Only students selected to receive the bursary will be contacted by Financial Aid via e-mail approximately one month after the application process closes.