**Please review the disclaimer at the end of this document before reading or using this guide.

For new immigrants pursuing post-secondary education in Alberta, Canada, obtaining financial aid can be crucial in managing tuition and other education-related expenses. Alberta Student Aid offers various loans and grants to eligible students. This guide provides information to help new immigrants apply for Alberta Student Aid.

Step 1: Understand Alberta Student Aid

Alberta Student Aid provides financial assistance to help cover the costs of post-secondary education. This aid includes:

• Student Loans: Funds that need to be repaid after graduation.
• Grants: Funds that do not need to be repaid, awarded based on financial need or specific criteria.

Step 2: Determine Eligibility

To qualify for Alberta Student Aid, you must meet the following criteria:

• Canadian Citizenship or Permanent Residency: You must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or have protected person status.
• Alberta Residency: You must be considered an Alberta resident. Generally, you are an Alberta resident if Alberta is the last province you lived in for 12 consecutive months without being a full-time post-secondary student.
• Enrollment in an Approved Program: You must be enrolled in an approved post-secondary institution and program.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Before applying, ensure you have the following documents ready:

• Proof of Identity: Passport, permanent resident card, or other government-issued ID.
• Proof of Alberta Residency: Lease agreement, utility bill, or driver’s license.
• Social Insurance Number (SIN): Required for the application.
• Income Information: Tax returns, pay stubs, or other proof of income for yourself and, if applicable, your parents or spouse.
• Enrollment Verification: Acceptance letter or enrollment confirmation from your educational institution.

Step 4: Create an Account

1. Visit the Alberta Student Aid Website:
   • Go to the Alberta Student Aid website to begin your application process.
2. Create a MyAlberta Digital ID:
   • You will need a MyAlberta Digital ID to access the online application. If you don’t have one, create an account by following the instructions on the website.

Step 5: Complete the Online Application

1. Log In: Use your MyAlberta Digital ID to log in to the Alberta Student Aid portal.
2. Start a New Application: Select the appropriate academic year and start a new application.
3. Fill Out the Form: Provide accurate information about your personal details, financial situation, and educational plans. Ensure all fields are completed correctly.
4. Submit Required Documents: Upload any necessary documents, such as proof of residency, income information, and enrollment verification.

Step 6: Submit the Application

1. Review Your Application: Double-check all the information provided to ensure accuracy.
2. Submit the Application: Once you are confident that all information is correct, submit your application through the portal.
3. Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation email or notification once your application has been successfully submitted.

Step 7: Await Assessment and Notification

1. Application Assessment: Alberta Student Aid will review your application to determine your eligibility and the amount of aid you will receive.
2. Notification: You will receive a notification via email or through your MyAlberta Digital ID account detailing your loan and grant amounts.

Step 8: Sign and Return Loan Agreement

If you are approved for a student loan, you will need to complete and sign a Master Student Financial Assistance Agreement (MSFAA):

1. Review the Agreement: Read the terms and conditions carefully.
2. Sign the Agreement: Sign the MSFAA electronically and submit it as instructed.

Step 9: Receive Your Funds

1. Disbursement: Loan and grant funds will be disbursed to your educational institution to cover tuition and fees first. Any remaining funds will be deposited into your bank account to cover other educational expenses.
2. Monitor Your Account: Regularly check your MyAlberta Digital ID account for updates and ensure funds are being used appropriately.

Step 10: Plan for Repayment

1. Understand Repayment Terms: Familiarize yourself with the repayment terms for your student loan. Repayment typically begins six months after you finish your studies.
2. Budget for Repayment: Start planning your budget to include loan repayment, and consider making payments during the six-month grace period to reduce interest accumulation.

Applying for Alberta Student Aid involves several steps, from determining eligibility to submitting an application and receiving funds. By following this guide and utilizing available resources, new immigrants in Alberta can successfully navigate the process and access the financial support needed to pursue their post-secondary education goals. Welcome to Alberta, and best of luck with your studies!

**DISCLAIMER: This document was prepared based on information gathered from various online sources. While our aim is to provide accurate and helpful information to newcomers in Canada, Active Action cannot be held responsible for any actions, outcomes, or situations that may arise from the use of this document. We strongly recommend that you verify any details with official sources or relevant authorities if you have any doubts or uncertainties about any information provided in this document. If you have any specific questions about the information in this document, or if you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please inform us immediately through the contact form. We will respond to you as soon as possible and/or update the information as necessary.