Loyalist College has distributed a record $1.1 million in donor-supported bursaries and scholarships for the 2025 to 26 academic year, the highest total in the college’s history.
The milestone was made possible through community donations and interest earned on endowment funds managed by The Loyalist College Foundation. College officials say the funding directly supports students facing increased financial pressures tied to tuition, housing and living costs.
Demand for financial assistance has risen sharply. Loyalist reports receiving 1,804 applications for support last year, 50 percent more than the previous year and three times the number recorded in 2022 to 23.
In response, the college has significantly expanded its awards program. In 2022 to 23, Loyalist distributed just over $602,000 in bursaries. That figure climbed to more than $1 million last year and now stands at $1.1 million for the current academic year. The average bursary amount has more than doubled since 2020.
Officials say the increased funding helps students stay focused on their studies while balancing work and family responsibilities.
Loyalist College operates campuses and learning sites in Belleville, Bancroft, Port Hope, Tyendinaga and Toronto.
The college says continued donor support remains essential to reducing financial barriers and expanding access to post-secondary education across the region.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)