Financial Aid Options

Financial Aid

 

Let's make a plan.

"I am beyond grateful for the financial support of generous, faithful donors."

 

Financial help is available for your studies at Columbia.  There are four main sources of financial aid available to Columbia students: scholarships & bursaries, partner grants, student loans and discounts. What's truly amazing is that the majority of this funding comes from generous individuals and churches who are passionate about investing in you and your Bible college education!

Scroll down to learn about eligibility, timelines, and how to apply for each type of aid. Remember that our financial aid advisor, Chantelle, is here to answer all your questions and to help you make a plan for attending Columbia.

 

 

Scholarships & Bursaries

Scholarships & Bursaries for New Students

New Student Scholarships

Awards based on grades and/or community & church involvement
* Reference required

New Student Scholarships | Fall Semester

Columbia Service Scholarship | 4 Awards at $1,500

Awarded to students with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (74%+) who plan to complete a Bachelor degree at Columbia. The recipients will have demonstrated a history of ministry involvement in their church, school, and/or community and show a commitment to ongoing ministry involvement while at Columbia.

Faith Formation Award | 3 Awards at $1,000

Awarded to students with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (74%+) who have demonstrated a renewed faith through involvement in their church, school, and/or community. Recipients will also exhibit a desire and intention to be involved in the Columbia community. 

*Cornelius & Katherine Funk 1st Year ICS Scholarship | 2 Awards at $1,000

Awarded to new students with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (75%+ high school average) who are entering the Intercultural Studies program. Selected recipients will have demonstrated strong Christian character and exceptional engagement in evangelism/mission. Please note that you must provide a reference from a teacher or pastor who can confirm your involvement in evangelism/mission before your application will be considered complete. Reference Required »

Quest Academic Achievement Scholarship | 1 Award at $5,000 or 2 Awards at $2,500

Awarded to students enrolled in the Quest program with a high school GPA of 85% or higher; preference will be given to students with a GPA of 90%. Preference will also be given to a student who may lose a scholarship at another academic institution for deferring in order to attend Columbia. (Applications open from March 15, 2021 - July 15, 2021) Quest Academic Achievement Scholarship Application Form »

*Student Development Discipleship Scholarship | 2 Awards at $1,000

Awarded to new students with a minimum GPA of 2.75 (73%+ high school average) who are declared in a 4 year degree program. The selected recipients will have a history of involvement in their church, school, and/or community and have been affirmed as having leadership abilities (a reference must be submitted by a teacher or mentor who has worked with you in a leadership capacity). Selected recipients are expected to actively contribute to the Columbia community and will participate in a mentoring relationship with a member of the Student Development staff. Reference Required »

New Student Scholarships | Winter Semester

Columbia Service Scholarship | 3 Awards at $1,500

Awarded to students with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (74%+) who plan to complete a Bachelors degree at Columbia. The recipients will have demonstrated a history of ministry involvement in their church, school, and/or community and show a commitment to ongoing ministry involvement while at Columbia.

Faith Formation Award | 2 Awards at $1,000

Awarded to students with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (74%+) who have demonstrated a renewed faith through involvement in their church, school, and/or community. Recipients will also exhibit a desire and intention to be involved in the Columbia community. 

 

 

New Student Bursaries

Awards based on demonstrated financial need
* Reference required

New Student Bursaries | Fall Semester

New Student Bursary | 10 Awards between $500 - $1,000

Awarded to students with a minimum GPA of 2.0 (63%+) who show financial need. Amount of bursary will depend on need.

40s & 50s Alumni Bursary | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a new student with a minimum GPA of 2.0 (63%+ high school average) who has financial need and who demonstrates maturity, strong Christian character and a commitment to Christian ministry.

ELF Bursary in Memory of Elijah Lee Friesen | 1 Award at $2,000

Awarded to the new student with a minimum GPA of 2.0 (63%+ high school average) who is least able to afford attending college. The successful recipient will also receive a $1000 bursary in their 2nd year if they return to Columbia on a full-time basis and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0.

ELF Bursary (Friends & Family) | 1 Award at $500

Awarded to the new student with a minimum GPA of 2.0 (63%+ high school average) who is least able to afford attending college.

G & K Letkeman Memorial Bursary | 2 Awards at $2,000

Awarded to new students with a minimum GPA of 2.0 (63%+ high school average). Preference shall be given to students who are studying for a vocation in Ministry. 

Hildebrand Family Bursary | 2 Awards at $1,500

Awarded to a new student with a minimum GPA of 2.0 (63%+ high school average) who demonstrates significant financial need.

Hulda Nickel Memorial Bursary | 1 Award at $2,500

Awarded to a new student with a minimum GPA of 2.0 (63%+ high school average) who is the child of overseas missionaries or who is from a low-income family.

International Student Bursary | 1 Award at $2,000

Awarded to a new student with a minimum GPA of 2.0 (63%+ high school average) who demonstrates significant financial need. Preference will be given to international students.

Menno Place HCA Bursary | 6 Awards at $2,000

Awarded to students with a minimum GPA of 2.0 (63%+ high school average) who is entering the Health Care Assistant program and demonstrates significant financial need. Preference will be given to students who have displayed compassion and service in alignment with Menno Place's mission and vision. (Applications open from March 15, 2021 - July 15, 2021) HCA Bursary Application »
Awarded to a new student with a minimum GPA of 2.0 (63%+ high school average) who is from a single parent family or is a single parent themselves.

Psalm 23 Bursary | 1 Award at $2,000

Awarded to a new student with a minimum GPA of 2.0 (63%+ high school average) who demonstrates significant financial need. Preference will be given to a student who comes from a single-parent home.

QUEST Bursary | 2 Awards at $500 each

Awarded to a new student in the Quest program with a GPA of 2.0 (63%+ high school average). The Quest bursary is funded through the donations of Quest Alumni and their families and has 2 awards at $500 each. The recipients will be chosen at discretion of the Financial Aid Advisor, the Quest department and the Admission department. The candidates must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester. The bursary will awarded on the basis of level of financial need, an alumni endorsement, stated reasons for choosing Quest, and above average academic history.

Thiessen Foundation Bursary |1 Award at $1,500

Awarded to a new student from the the Chilliwack area who is a first-generation Christian and demonstrates financial need. A minimum GPA of 2.0 (high school or college) is required, and candidates must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester. Preference will be given to a first-generation Christian who is from the Chilliwack (or Fraser Valley) area.

New Student Bursaries | Winter Semester

New Student Bursary | 3 Awards between $500 - $1,000

Awarded to students with a minimum GPA of 2.0 (63%+) who show financial need. Amount of bursary will depend on need.

 

 

Timeline

    Fall 2021 Semester   Winter 2022 Semester
Applications Open   March 15, 2021   Oct 31, 2021
Application Deadline   May 15, 2021   Dec 15, 2021
Recipients Notified   May 31, 2021   Dec 22, 2021

 

 

Apply for New Student Awards

 

 

 

UFV Track

Entrance Scholarships

 

When you are accepted to Columbia (before March 15 for Fall semester or November 1 for Winter), you are automatically considered for an Entrance Scholarship.

$2,000 Award for GPA of 90% and up

$1,500 Award for GPA of 85 - 89.9%

Entrance Scholarships are open to incoming students who have graduated high school in the past five years and have completed no more than 30 credits at another post-secondary institution. To keep your scholarship for the full academic year, you must maintain a full-time course load (12+credits/semester) with a minimum 1st-year GPA of 3.0.

How is my incoming grade point average calculated?

Columbia calculates a student’s incoming grade average using their grade 12 English (academic) course, 2 other grade 12 academic courses, and 2 grade 12 elective courses. Please note that all 5 of these courses must be different grade 12 courses (i.e. Psychology 1 & Psychology 2 would not count as two separate courses).

Students who have “in-process” grade 12 classes will be evaluated based on grade 11 marks. All required classes must be either completed or “in-process” during your final high school semester/term and you must be offered accepted before March 15th. The offer of an entrance scholarship to “Conditionally Admitted” students is itself conditional upon their successful completion of all required grade 12 courses, and a final grade average of at least 85%.

 

To qualify, be sure to be accepted by:

March 15 for Fall or Nov 1 for Winter

Scholarships & Bursaries for Continuing Students

Continuing Student Scholarships

Awards based on grades and/or community & church involvement
* Reference or nomination required

Continuing Student Scholarships | Awarded for Fall only

40s & 50s Alumni Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to an outstanding student who demonstrates maturity, strong Christian character, leadership qualities, and a commitment to Christian ministry. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

Academic Endeavour Award (Mitsuru Shimbara) | 1 Award at $1,500

Awarded to a continuing student whose lifestyle reflects a lively faith and hard work. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

AJ & Betty Klassen Scholarship | 1 Award at $750

In honor of AJ Klassen, and his wife Betty, who was an advocate and teacher of the Inductive Method of Biblical study, in service of God’s Kingdom. This scholarship is established in order to equip future pastors/leaders with a thorough Biblical worldview. Awarded to a continuing student enrolled in the Biblical Studies program. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

BCMB Church Ministry Scholarship | 2 Awards at $1,035

Awarded to Bachelor degree or Diploma students from MB Churches in BC who have demonstrated a commitment to the church and its mission, and have served the MB church during their service practicum. Preference will be given to students in the Biblical Studies, Youth Work, or Worship Arts programs. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

Blackwood Music Scholarship | 1 Award at $500

Awarded to a deserving student displaying strong motivation and potential towards excellence in music. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

Byron Richert Memorial Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,200

Awarded to a deserving Bachelor degree or Diploma student exhibiting a keen interest in pursuing pastoral ministry. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

Columbia Senior Student Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,200

Awarded to a continuing student entering year 4 of their Bachelor degree who has been making a significant contribution in the Columbia community and demonstrates a strong commitment to the church and its mission. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

Cornelius & Katherine Funk 2nd Year ICS Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a student entering their 2nd year of the ICS program who has demonstrated strong Christian character and active engagement in evangelism/mission. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.3

*Cornelius & Katherine Funk ICS Internship | 4 Awards at $1,500

Awarded to students going on their ICS internship. Recipients will have demonstrated exemplary Christian character, a clear committment to Christian witness, and active engagement within their home church. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

A reference from a Columbia Bible College staff, faculty or student leader, as well as a reference from the applicant's home church pastor will be required.

Reference Required »

Counselling Program Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a continuing student, who is in the Counselling & Services Program who plans on pursuing a Master Degree in Counselling. Minimum cumulative GPA 3.0

Dr. Nick & Betty Willems Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a 3rd or 4th year student in a Bachelor degree program who has a passion for ministry and intends to devote their life to full-time service to the church either in a local or a global setting. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

Dr. Walter Unger Leadership Award | 1 Award at $1,500

Awarded to a continuing 3rd or 4th year student who has been growing as a leader and continues to demonstrate leadership skills at Columbia. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

ENCOMPASS Benefits & HR Solutions Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a continuing 2nd or 3rd year student who has demonstrated above average leadership skills at Columbia and who has a desire to work in the secular business workforce following graduation. Preference given to students enrolled within the following (in order of priority) Social Entrepreneurship diploma, Social Entrepreneurship minor, Applied Leadership diploma/BA. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

Erin Konrad Memorial Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a deserving student who has served in summer ministry or music ministry at Columbia. Preference will be given to a student from Northern British Columbia. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

GAMA - Biblical Studies Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,500

Awarded to a Bachelor degree or Diploma student who demonstrates a keen interest in Biblical Studies. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

George & Karen Schmidt Leadership Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a Bachelor degree student entering their final year of study who has a significant record of leadership in Student Development and/or Student Council. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

Grace Rempel Memorial Scholarship | 2 Awards at $1,000

Awarded to students entering their final year of a Bachelor degree who have demonstrated academic excellence and a commitment to vocational pastoral ministry. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

Helen Dirksen Memorial Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a 3rd or 4th year Bachelor degree student with a focus on full-time ministry who exhibits academic excellence and admirable Christian character. The recipient will have made a significant positive contribution to the Columbia community and demonstrates a commitment to the church and its mission. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

Henry & Esther Born Memorial Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a Bachelor degree student entering their 3rd or 4th year majoring in Biblical Studies with a future goal of full time church ministry. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

Hildi Sawatzky Memorial Scholarship | 1 Award at $750

Awarded to a student with financial need in their 2nd or 3rd year of the Intercultural Studies program. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

Inez Lutz Memorial Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a Bachelor degree or Diploma student active in a touring musical ensemble at Columbia. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

J & L Scholarship for Ministry | 1 Award at $5,000

Awarded to a 3rd or 4th year Bachelor degree student who has a mind for ministry in either the local church or a para-church organization. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

Jacob & Helena Janzen Memorial Scholarship | 1 Award at $5,000

Awarded to a student entering their 2nd or 3rd year of study who intends to pursue further ministry. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

*JB Toews Historical Commission College Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a 3rd or 4th year student who is an active member of a Mennonite Brethren church and is able to describe how an Anabaptist perspective, and its approach to Scripture, is shaping their life and world-view. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

A reference from a Columbia Bible College faculty member will be required.

Reference Required »

John & Anne Esau Memorial Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,500

Awarded to a student entering their 3rd or 4th year of a Biblical Studies Bachelor degree who has demonstrated academic giftedness, admirable Christian character and has made a positive contribution at Columbia and in the larger community. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.5

Kim Manchip Memorial Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a student in the Outdoor Leadership program who has a strong love of sports; a strong belief in God and demonstrates this in everyday life, illustrating a love for people; strong sense of stewardship toward the earth; living an action-centered life in relation to God rather than a word-centered one; willing to step beyond his/her fears and his/her comfort zone. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

Marilyn Cadwell Memorial Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,500

Awarded to a student who comes from a single parent family or is a single parent themselves. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

Peter Friesen Memorial Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a deserving international student or to a student whose parents are overseas missionaries. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

*President's Leadership Scholarship | 3 Awards at $9,000 ($3,000/year for 3 years)

Awarded to students entering their second year who are pursuing a Bachelor degree and who have shown remarkable leadership potential at Columbia and/or in their church and community. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.5 Applicants must submit the online application and provide a reference form from a mentor/teacher who has worked with them in a leadership capacity. An application is not considered complete until the reference form has been received. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed by the President of Columbia and Director of Financial Aid. Recipients will be expected to participate in a mentoring group with the President of the College. Reference Required »

Ricarda & Herbert Grabowski Family Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a returning student who maintains a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0

Shayn Rempel Memorial Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a deserving student from Saskatchewan who has exhibited leadership in student government or athletics. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

*Spirit of Generosity Award | 1 Award at $700 ($350 to recipient, $350 to charity of recipient's choice)

Awarded to a full-time student who has displayed a personal spirit of generosity and has demonstrated this spirit in identifiable and practical ways (by using their time, skills, and/or money to benefit others).

PLEASE NOTE: This award is by nomination by a fellow student and/or faculty or staff. Students do not complete an application form for this award. Nomination Required »

*Student Association Scholarship | 1 Award at $750

Awarded to a 2nd year student with the minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference will be given to a student who has the intention to pursue a Bachelor degree and is actively involved in campus life whose involvement is worthy of recognition. 

PLEASE NOTE: This award is by nomination by a fellow student and/or faculty or staff. Students do not complete an application form for this award. Nomination Required »

Wayne & Gwen Reese Ministry Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,300

Awarded to a student entering their 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year of a Bachelor degree program who is intending to pursue full-time career ministry. Preference will be given to a married student who has financial need. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0

 

 

Continuing Student Bursaries

Awards based on demonstrated financial need
* Reference or nomination required

Continuing Student Bursaries | Fall Semester

Camp Ministry Bursary | 2 Awards at $500

The Camp Bursary was created with the intention of helping two students who serve at camp for the summer. Awarded to two continuing students. May be combined with the Camp Match Bursary. Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.0.

G & K Letkeman Memorial Bursary | 2 Awards at $2,000

Awarded to a returning student. Preference shall be given to a student who is studying for a vocation in Ministry. Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.0

Henry & Selma Epp Memorial Bursary | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a married student in a Bachelor degree program who is preparing for pastoral ministry in the local church. Preference will be given to a student in the Biblical Studies, Youth Work, or Worship Arts program. Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.0.

John Schmidt Memorial Bursary | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a student entering their 3rd year who intends to pursue full-time vocational Christian ministry. They must demonstrate financial need and be showing strong effort in their studies. Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.0

Katie Janzen Memorial Bursary | 1 Award at $1,000

Awarded to a student with financial need, entering their 3rd or 4th year, who actively demonstrates their desire to influence people with the gospel of Jesus. Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.0

Pacific Grace MB Church Mission Bursary | 2 Awards at $3,000

Awarded to an Intercultural Studies student entering their 3rd-year internship, with a love for Jesus and the Great Commission. Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.0

Philippians Four19 Award | 1 Award at $2,500

Awarded to a returning student enrolled fulltime at the College who is making every effort to complete their education without the use of government or private debt. It is the intention of the donors to help students experience financial freedom in order that they might serve God unhindered. Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.5

Schellenberg Family Bursary | 1 Award at $2,000

Awarded to a returning student who has experienced a significant life or family hardship, and who, without financial support, would otherwise be unable to continue studies at Columbia Bible College. Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.0

Continuing Student Bursaries | Winter Semester

Continuing Student Bursary | 25 Awards between $500 - $1,000

Awarded to students with a minimum GPA of 2.0 (63%+) who show financial need. Amount will depend on financial need.

 

 

Timeline

    Fall 2021   Winter 2022
Applications Open   Jan 23, 2021   Oct 2, 2021
Application Deadline   Feb 13, 2021   Oct 19, 2021
Recipients Notified   Mar 1, 2021   Nov 2, 2021
 

 

 

Apply for continuing Student Awards

 

 

Graduating Student Bursaries

The following are awarded to a graduating student, with applications opening in March of every spring semester

Graduating Student Bursaries

Katie Janzen Memorial Graduation Bursary | 1 Award at $1,000

This $1,000 bursary has been designed to help students graduate with less financial debt. It is awarded to a student who qualifies for financial need and who is entering into ministry helping others. Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.0.

Apply for this award >

Jake & Katy Goossen Award for Excellence | 1 Award at $5,000

The Jake & Katy Goossen Award for Excellence is a $5,000 scholarship, awarded to a graduating BA student who has displayed exceptional leadership qualities in ministry, personal faith, academics and in the Columbia community and beyond. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.5.

Apply for this award >

 

 

Financial Aid How-Tos

 

Apply Today

Need help writing
scholarship applications?

 

We've compiled a list of helpful tips to help you write a successful scholarship application. Download the list »

 

Checklist

If you need a reference...

 

Some scholarship and bursary applications require an accompanying reference or nomination. Please send this link to your reference, with plenty of time to spare: Reference Form »

 

Chantelle Ramage

Questions?

 

Get in touch with Chantelle Ramage, our friendly Financial Aid Advisor.

Phone: 604.853.3567 ext 327

Book an Appointment with Financial Aid

 

Partner Grants

With partner grants, students receive funding for their Bible college education from outside organizations or donors.  Your home church, your denomination, or your Christian summer camp are often on the lookout for students who want to grow in their ministry and leadership skills.  They want to invest in students like you!

In some cases, Columbia will match the funding, which doubles your grant.  There's a little legwork involved, but the help you could receive is worth your while.

"The Sheep & the Goats" MDS Service Scholarship

Amount: 100% of tuition per academic year ($10,050 for a 30-credit-hour load; $8,040 for a 24-credit-hour load; to be awarded in two equal installments after the Add/Drop deadline each semester.)  Up to 5 awards are available.

Why is it called "The Sheep & the Goats" Scholarship?

The intention of the MDS Service Scholarship, sponsored by Lorraine & Walter Wiebe, is to encourage young adults to further their Christian studies and to respond to Jesus' grace towards them by becoming disciples who follow Jesus' teaching in the Gospels, in particular, His teaching of showing compassion to fellow human beings. Serving with Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) provides young adults with the opportunity to begin a life-long practice of doing so.

The name, "Sheep & the Goats" comes from Jesus' famous parable in Matthew 25 about the importance of living compassionately:

"When he finally arrives, blazing in beauty and all his angels with him, Jesus will take his place on his glorious throne. Then all the nations will be arranged before him and he will sort the people out, much as a shepherd sorts out sheep and goats, putting sheep to his right and goats to his left.

Then Jesus will say to those on his right, ‘Enter, you who are blessed by my Father! Take what’s coming to you in this kingdom. It’s been ready for you since the world’s foundation. And here’s why:

I was hungry and you fed me,
I was thirsty and you gave me a drink,
I was homeless and you gave me a room,
I was shivering and you gave me clothes,
I was sick and you stopped to visit,
I was in prison and you came to me.’

Then those ‘sheep’ are going to say, ‘Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you?’ Then Jesus will say, ‘I’m telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.’

Then he will turn to the ‘goats,’ the ones on his left, and say, ‘Get out, worthless goats! You’re good for nothing but the fires of hell. And why? Because—
I was hungry and you gave me no meal,
I was thirsty and you gave me no drink,
I was homeless and you gave me no bed,
I was shivering and you gave me no clothes,
Sick and in prison, and you never visited.’

Then those ‘goats’ are going to say, ‘Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry or thirsty or homeless or shivering or sick or in prison and didn’t help?’ He will answer them, ‘I’m telling the solemn truth: Whenever you failed to do one of these things to someone who was being overlooked or ignored, that was me—you failed to do it to me. Then those ‘goats’ will be herded to their eternal doom, but the ‘sheep’ to their eternal reward.” (From Matthew 25:31-46, The Message)

 

To receive the MDS Service Scholarship, the student must:

  • Be a Canadian or American citizen.
    • Note that MDS is not able to assist students with visa arrangements, if these are required.
  • Be at least 19 years old
  • Serve as a volunteer in the field with Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) for 8 weeks.
  • Enroll in the Biblical Studies, Worship Arts, Intercultural Studies, or Youth Work Program with a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester. Students must have completed one full semester (at least 12 credit hours) and be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours for the semester in which they apply.
  • Have a minimum GPA of 2.0 each semester.
  • Submit a 500-word description of their experience at MDS, to be read by the awards' donors. Ideally, this account will explain personal transformation, lessons learned, and feedback/recommendations for MDS.
How It Works:
  • Step 1: Contact Kelsey Friesen at Mennonite Disaster Services. Explain that you'll be studying at Columbia Bible College in the fall and you're hoping to receive "The Sheep & the Goats" MDS Service Bursary. With Kelsey's help, start exploring a 8 week volunteer placement with MDS.
  • Step 2: Submit the 'Student Application' form to ensure that funding is available.
  • Step 3: Ask Kelsey Friesen to submit the 'MDS Agreement Form' on your behalf (before you head off to volunteer!). This will ensure that Columbia Bible College and MDS are working together to make sure you complete all the necessary requirements to receive your funding.
  • Step 4: After you finish your volunteer field-work, ask the MDS office to send Columbia Bible College a signed letter confirming the length of your service.
  • Step 5: Write a 500-word essay about your experience with MDS and submit it to the Financial Aid Office.

 

STUDENT
APPLICATION FORM


 

MDS
AGREEMENT FORM

 Application Dates

Up to 5 bursaries/year will be awarded. Applications open January 23, and will be accepted until February 13.

The Extraordinary Circumstance Financial Bursary

Amount: $1000 to 25 credits of tuition per academic year; to be awarded in two equal installments after the Add/Drop deadline each semester.)   Award amount varies depending on need & circumstance.

The intention of the award is to provide an opportunity to a student who, due to extraordinary circumstance(s), would otherwise be hindered from attending Columbia Bible College. Preference will be given to students who have no or minimal access to other forms of financial support or aid (i.e. international students outside of Canada and the USA).

 

To receive the Extraordinary Circumstance Bursary, the student must:

  • Be a new or returning student, enrolled in a Columbia program (certificate, diploma, or degree) and be taking at least 9.0 credits per semester. Educational Assistant students are eligible so long as in addition to their program courses they take 3.0 credits of RELS courses per semester.
  • Demonstrate significant financial need due to extraordinary circumstance(s).
    • Preference given to those without access to financial assistance or social safety nets (i.e international students outside of America and Canada who do not have access to government assistance, student loans, etc)
    • Additional examples could include those who have come from a recovery program, or who have experienced a recent tragedy.
  • Submit an essay with their application (200-300 words) explaining their extraordinary circumstances.
  • Provide a character reference from a spiritual director or pastor who has known them for at least one year.
  • Show evidence of a financial plan, or financial support from a local partner of Columbia Bible College describing the ability to cover other related expenses such as: housing, food, travel, books, etc.
    • Columbia Bible College believes that students succeed when supported by additional people and/or organizations; therefore, it is Columbia’s desire to partner with other groups in the support of students.
    • Partners may include, but are not limited to: MCC, ICOMB, Multiply, local Church, a local family, etc.

 

STUDENT
APPLICATION FORM


 

BURSARY
REFERENCE FORM

 Application Dates

Applications for the Fall 2020 semester open January 23, and will be accepted until May 15.

Church Match Bursary

Amount: Up to $1000/year from Columbia plus up to $1000/year from your home church.

**For questions regarding church match bursary availability, please contact Chantelle Ramage, Director of Financial Aid
 
Open To:

To receive a Church Match Bursary, the student must:

  •  Be a full-time student (12 credits +) each semester.
  •  Have a minimum GPA of 2.0 each semester.
  •  Submit the online application and have their church submit an agreement form.
How It Works:
  • You approach your home church and ask if they'd be willing to help fund your education at Columbia. (Your youth pastor is usually a great place to start.)
  • Columbia will match the church's contribution up to $500/semester ($1000/year).
  • Applications can be submitted for the whole year or each semester individually. 
  • Bursaries are given out to eligible students on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's best to apply early, for the whole year.

 

DOWNLOAD THE
CHURCH MATCH INFO SHEET


 

STUDENT
APPLICATION FORM


 

CHURCH
AGREEMENT FORM

 Application Dates

May 1   Applications Open
November 15   Deadline for Full-Year and Fall Semester Applications
March 15   Deadline for Winter Semester Applications


How to Apply: 

  1. Student must submit the Student Application Form
  2. The student's church must submit the Church Agreement Form
    Please note: The Church Agreement Form should be completed by a member of the church staff (pastor or secretary) or leadership/elder council and must NOT be completed by a member of the student's family. 
  3. Once the application package is approved, the Director of Financial Aid will notify the student and contact the church with payment details.
  4. The student's church must send their contribution directly to the school.
    Please note: Money must come directly to the school to be applied to the student's account. Money sent directly to the student will not be considered for the Church Match Bursary program.
  5. Once the church's contribution has arrived, Columbia will apply their match to the student's account.
  6. Columbia will be responsible for issuing a T4A to the student for Columbia's portion of the bursary if the amount exceeds $500. The church is responsible to issue a T4A for their portion of the bursary if their contribution exceeds $500.

Leadership Training Matching Grant

Amount: Up to $2,000/year from the Canadian MB Conference plus up to $2,000 from your home church.

Open To: Third- and fourth-year students at Columbia who meet the following requirements:

  • A member of an MB church in Canada for at least six months prior to the date of the application
  • Active in volunteer or paid ministry in a local church
  • Achieve a passing grade in all courses funded and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5
  • Intend to pursue pastoral ministry, cross-cultural ministry, or professional Christian service with the Mennonite Brethren upon graduation
  • Complete a discernment process with local church pastor

How to Apply: Application instructions and forms are available at: MB Leadership Training Matching Grant.

MC Canada Ministry Inquiry Bursary

Amount: Two $1500 bursaries are available.  This bursary is a three-way match between Columbia Bible College, Mennonite Church BC and Mennonite Church Canada.

Open to: Students from Mennonite Church BC churches who

  • complete their internship credits in another Mennonite Church BC church.
  • maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0

How to Apply: Please connect with Columbia’s Director of Service Learning first to finalize an eligible internship placement, after which an application form will be made available to you.

Camp Match Bursary

Amount: Camp Match Bursaries are available to Columbia students who serve at a Christian summer camp. Columbia will match up to $500 in funding, for a total award of $1000.  Students serving at a camp owned by Columbia’s supporting denominations, Mennonite Church BC and BCMB, may be eligible to receive a three-way match ($500 from the denomination, $500 from the camp, and $500 from Columbia.) The eligible camps are Camp Squeah, Camp Likely, Camp Bob, Gardom Lake Bible Camp, Stillwood, and Pines Bible Camp.

 

 
Open To:

To receive a Camp Match Bursary, the student must:

  • Attend Columbia as a full-time student (12+ credits/semester) for the academic year following your summer at camp
  • Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
  • Serve for the summer at camp
If you are the student:
  • Work at camp for the summer.
  • Give or send the Camp Match info sheet to your camp director and ask them to consider participating in the camp match program to help fund your Columbia Bible College education. (Columbia will match up to $500 for the year.)
  • Submit the student application.
  • Bursaries are given out to eligible students on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's best to apply early.

 

DOWNLOAD THE
CAMP MATCH INFO SHEET


 

STUDENT
APPLICATION FORM


 

CAMP
AGREEMENT FORM

 Application Dates

May 1   Applications Open
November 15   Bursaries Close.

 

 

The Sheppard's Foundation Grant

Amount: Varies by year, depending on funding.

Open to: committed Christians who are seeking to futher their education at Bible school, college, or university.

How to apply: For more info and to apply, visit the Sheppards Foundation webpage.

Discounts

Columbia offers three discounts on tuition and/or housing costs.

Things to keep in mind:

  • You may need to re-apply for discounts every semester.
  • Applications are accepted until the last day of Add/Drop Week each semester.
  • Applications received after Add/Drop Week will not be processed.

BC Mennonite Brethren/Mennonite Church BC Discount

Amount: Discount of $5/credit hour.  (This adds up to $630 over a four-year degree.)

Open to: Students from either of Columbia Bible College's supporting conferences, BC Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches and Mennonite Church BC.

To be eligible for this discount, students must be:

  • an active member or adherent of one of the supporting denominational churches over the last six months.
  • a dependant whose parents(s) are active members of one of the supporting denominational churches over the last six months.

How to apply: Ask your pastor to complete the Conference Discount Application Form.

Spouse of Student Discount

Amount: 100% off audit tuition, 50% off full-credit tuition

Open to: Married students who are both students at Columbia, with at least one spouse enrolled in 12 or more credit hours

The spouse taking fewer credit hours may take audit courses at no charge and credit courses at 50% of the regular cost. This discount only applies to basic tuition and excludes any class fees, external training costs, etc.

How to apply:  Apply for the Spouse of Student Discount.

MK ('Missionary Kid') Housing Discount

Amount: 100% discount on junior housing, for a total of $1200 per semester (meal plan not included)

Open to: Students age 21 or younger whose parents are active missionaries with MB Mission or MC Canada Witness.

To be eligible, students must be enrolled full-time (12+ credits/semester) and maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.

How to apply: Ask a staff member from your parents' mission agency to complete this form before the Fall semester payment due date: Apply for the MK Housing Discount.

 

Mennonite Church Canada

Amount: 50% of tuition fees

Open to: Supports the training of pastors for the congregation of the Mennonite Church Canada. 

How to apply: Apply online here

ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL AID

Here at Columbia, we understand that no matter how much you plan, changes can and do happen to your financial situation. We are happy to work with you, and we have amazingly generous donors who want to make Columbia a possibility for students.

If you have explored other options like our scholarships & bursaries, government student loans and grants, and are still needing some financial help, please connect with Chantelle Ramage. She will provide you with an application and will walk you through your next steps.

Please note, you will be required to demonstrate your financial preparedness and previous avenues you’ve explored before we will make a decision. The number of awards and amount of funding varies depending on need.

 

Ask us about additional aid