Financial Aid - Columbia Bible College
Source: https://columbiabc.edu/financial-aid
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:23
Financial Aid - Columbia Bible College
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FINANCIAL AID
New Student Awards are now open!
New Student Awards
NEW STUDENTS
Awards and entrance scholarships
CONTINUING STUDENTS
Scholarships and bursaries for continuing and graduating students
PARTNER GRANTS
Receive funding from outside organizations or donors
OTHER OPTIONS
Explore additional financial aid opportunities
Let's Make a Plan
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
Financial Aid
is here to answer all your questions and to help you make a plan for attending Columbia.
Need help with scholarship applications?
We’ve compiled a list of helpful tips to help you write a successful scholarship application.
Download the List
Need a Confirmation of Enrollment letter?
Students can request a Confirmation of Enrollment by completing a request form. Please
contact Student Accounts
if you have any questions.
Request Form
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
New Students
Scholarships, bursaries, and entrance scholarships
Apply for Bursaries
Apply for Scholarships
Timeline for New Student Awards
Fall 2026 Semester
Winter 2027 Semester
Applications Open
March 15, 2026
Oct 1, 2026
Application Deadline
May 15, 2026
Nov 22, 2026
Recipients Notified
May 31, 2026
Dec 16, 2026
New Student Scholarships
New Student Bursaries
Entrance Scholarships
New Student Scholarships
Awards based on grades and/or community & church involvement
Fall Semester
Columbia Service Scholarship | $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 | $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.
*Student Development Discipleship Scholarship | $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 »
The LEE, Ching Ping Memorial Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,000
Awarded to new students who has demonstrated excellence in academics (as displayed in their GPA).
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.
Winter Semester
* Reference required
New Student Bursaries
Awards based on demonstrated financial need
* Reference required
Fall Semester
Camp Ministries Award | 2 awards at $250
Student must have been involved working in a Christian camp for the summer. Same eligibility requirements for all bursaries, be enrolled in 12+ credits and Minimum GPA 2.0.
New Student Bursary | $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.
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.
Freshman Single Parent Family Encouragement Bursary | 1 Award at $500
Awarded to an entering freshman student coming from a single parent family. The recipient will be a sincere student, able to demonstrate financial need and have a minimum high school GPA of 2.5.
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.
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 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.
The Yeung, Shoo Lan - Memorial Bursary | 1 Award at $1,000
Awarded to one new student with a minimum GPA of 2.0, who has demonstrated excellence in service.
Winter Semester
New Student Bursary | 3 Awards at $1,000
Awarded to students with a minimum GPA of 2.0 (63%+) who show financial need. Amount of bursary will depend on need.
Entrance Scholarships
Entrance Scholarships
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. 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.
To qualify, be sure to be accepted and deposited by
March 15th
for Fall or
November 1st
for Winter.
$2,000 Award for GPA of 90% and up
$1,500 Award for GPA of 85 - 89.9%
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%.
Continuing Students
Scholarships and bursaries for continuing and graduating students
Timeline for Continuing Student Awards
Fall 2026 Semester
Winter 2027 Semester
Applications Open
Jan 24, 2026
Oct 1, 2026
Application Deadline
Feb 13, 2026
Nov 22, 2026
Recipients Notified
Mar 1, 2026
Dec 16, 2026
Graduating Student Award applications
open on March 1 and close on March 31 each year.
Continuing Student Scholarships
Continuing Student Bursaries
Graduating Student Awards
Continuing Student Scholarships
Awards based on grades and/or community & church involvement
* Reference required
Fall Semester
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
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
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
Don & Orilyn Pasiuk Gifting Scholarship | 1 award at $5000
Awarded to an Indo-Canadian Student pursuing a degree in the Psychology program who displays admirable Christian character and is involved in the Columbia community. Min. GPA of 3.5
Dr. Nick & Betty Willems Scholarship | 1 award at $1000
Awarded to a student in third or fourth year of a Bachelor’s 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 global setting.
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
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
Inez Lutz Memorial Scholarship | 1 Award at $500
Awarded to a Bachelor degree or Diploma student active in a touring musical ensemble at Columbia. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0
J & L Block Christian Ministry Scholarship | 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
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
Norbert Grabowski Memorial Fund | 1 Award at $2,400
Awarded to the second year student who attained the highest mark in the first year. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0.
Pastoral Ministry Scholarship | 2 Awards at $1,500
In preparation for church-based ministry, awarded to a 2nd- or 3rd-year student in a Church Ministry Degree Program, who currently attend a MB church in BC, are making significant positive contributions at CBC and in the church community, demonstrating commitment to the church and its mission.
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
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
Winter Semester
Continuing Student Bursaries
Awards based on demonstrated financial need
* Reference required
Fall Semester
David and Stella Manuel Leadership Bursary | 1 Award at $1,000
Awarded to a 3rd or 4th year student who demonstrates a sincere and devout love for Jesus and a desire to follow him. They must demonstrate evangelism qualities as displayed through service with the local church and community. Preference will be given to an individual from or ministering to the Indo-Canadian community of Abbotsford.
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
Psychology Bursary | 1 Award at $500
Awarded to a returning student pursuing a BA with a Major in Psychology and intending to pursue a Master’s degree in Counselling.
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
Victor and Helen Dick Memorial Bursary | 1 Award at $2,500
Awarded to a returning student interested in missions, who demonstrates a desire to ‘make disciples.’ Applicant must demonstrate how they apply the call of Jesus in Matthew 28:18-20 in their daily lives. Preference will be given to a student who is in a Bachelor program and have demonstrated love for people who have not been exposed to the Good News of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, and who intend on serving full-time abroad.
Winter Semester
Camp Bursary | 2 Awards at $250
Awarded to a student who has spent their previous summer working at a Christian camp. Preference will be given to a student who spent their whole summer working for the camp.
Graduating Student Awards
* Reference required
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.
*Jake & Katy Goossen Award for Excellence - BA student | 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. Two references shall be provided by leaders who have observed the student. The letters should demonstrate and provide evidence of the student’s character, leadership achievements and goals. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.5.
*Jake & Katy Goossen Award for Excellence - Diploma student | 1 Award at $2,500
The Jake & Katy Goossen Award for Excellence is a $2,500 scholarship, awarded to a graduating Diploma student who has displayed a sincere and devout love for Jesus, exceptional leadership qualities as displayed at Columbia and/or ministry/business contexts and a capacity to be a future difference maker. Two references shall be provided by leaders who have observed the student. The letters should demonstrate and provide evidence of the student’s character, leadership achievements and goals. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.5.
Partner Grants
Receive funding from outside organizations or donors
MDS Canada Service Scholarship
Scholarship Details
The MDS Canada Service Scholarship was established to encourage post-secondary students to serve with MDS, while also offering financial support for their education.
A total of up to eight scholarships are available each year to students enrolled at the following schools: Canadian Mennonite University (CMU), Columbia Bible College (CBC), Conrad Grebel University College, Steinbach Bible College (SBC).
Amount:
$4,500 flat rate per scholarship
Eligibility Criteria:
Students must meet the MDS criteria for long-term volunteers. This includes being at least 19 years old, a Christian, willing to abide by MDS Core Values and affirm the Mennonite World Conference Statement of Shared Convictions while serving with MDS.
Must be a full-time returning student in a degree program.
Must be in good academic standing with their school.
Must be eligible to volunteer at both Canadian and US projects. (MDS does not provide assistance with visas.)
Evaluation Criteria:
MDS is looking for students who are service-oriented, self-motivated, flexible, willing to work with a team, willing to do hard physical work, and are aligned with MDS values. A full list of criteria can be found on the MDS application form.
What is covered by MDS
MDS will cover the travel costs of students to and from their place of service, as per MDS Long-Term Volunteer Travel Reimbursement Policy.
MDS will seek to provide an orientation (or sufficient materials) to prepare the students for their time serving with MDS.
While on project, all food and lodging costs will be covered by MDS.
Note – Volunteers are responsible for their own medical/travel insurance.
For more information,
download the MDS Canada Service Scholarship Information sheet
.
How to Apply
Submit
MDS Service Scholarship application
by January 15 to
Financial Aid
.
Selected applicants will be invited for interviews with MDS (via zoom or in-person) and may be asked for two references (including one from a professor or staff person at their school).
MDS will inform students if they have been accepted for the scholarship by early March and seek to provide more specific placement information by the end of March or early April. Due to the nature of MDS’s work (responding to disasters), these timelines are subject to minor changes.
Service placements will be at least four weeks, between late April and August.
Upon completion of the student’s service, submission of their reflection, and verification of their enrollment, MDS shall forward the scholarship directly to the Finance Department at the school with instructions to apply these funds to the student’s tuition fees.
Requirements if accepted:
Complete at least four weeks of service with MDS.
Submit a 500-word reflection on the experience of serving with MDS.
Tabor Village Service Experience Scholarship
Scholarship Details
The Tabor Village Service Experience Scholarship supports Columbia Bible College students pursuing vocational ministry preparation through hands-on experience in caring hospitality settings.
Amount:
$3,000 for one student
Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants must:
Be enrolled full-time in a Columbia Bible College program that includes a required practicum or internship component as part of the curriculum.
Be in good academic standing (minimum 2.5 GPA).
Be willing to attend the Internship Orientation and have completed all prerequisites to the Internship course, including successful completion of 75 credit hours.
Demonstrate a genuine interest in exploring a Christian ministry in the context of care and hospitality.
Be willing and able to complete their program-required practicum at Tabor Village during the scholarship period
Be eligible to complete their program-required practicum during the scholarship period.
Selection Criteria:
Demonstrated alignment with Tabor Village’s mission and values:
https://taborvillage.org/who-we-are/#mission
Articulated sense of calling to care and hospitality ministry among vulnerable people groups
Academic performance and faculty references
Personal statement addressing interest in chaplaincy ministry
How to Apply
Students may apply at any time. To apply for this scholarship,
contact the Director of Integrated Learning
.
Church Match Bursary
Grant Details
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
Financial Aid
How to Apply
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:
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.) Share this
Church Match Info Sheet
with them to get the conversation started.
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.
How to Apply:
Student must submit the
Student Application Form
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.
Once the application package is approved, the Director of Financial Aid will notify the student and contact the church with payment details.
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.
Once the church’s contribution has arrived, Columbia will apply their match to the student’s account.
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.
Forms & Application Dates
Application Dates
May 1
Applications Open
November 15
Deadline for Full-Year and Fall Semester Applications
March 15
Deadline for Winter Semester Applications
Camp Match Bursary
Grant Details
Amount:
Columbia will match up to $500 in funding
Camp Match Bursaries are available to Columbia students who serve at a Bible camp during the summer. Columbia will match up to $500 in funding. Bursaries are given out to eligible students on a first-come, first-served basis.
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 for a 3-way match are Camp Likely, Camp Bob, Gardom Lake Bible Camp, Stillwood, Camp Squeah, and Pines Bible Camp.
How to Apply
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.
Ask the camp 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.) Share this
Camp Match Info Sheet
with them to get the conversation started.
Submit the
Student Application Form
.
Have the camp submit the
Camp Agreement Form
.
Bursaries are given out to eligible students on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s best to apply early.
Forms & Application Dates
Application Dates
May 1
Applications Open
November 15
Bursaries Close.
Leadership Training Matching Grant
Grant Details
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
.
Additional Financial Aid
Explore other options for 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,
Canadian student loans
and grants, and are still needing some financial help, please email
Financial Aid.
Our team 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 About Additional Aid
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Apply!
Donate
Contact Us
myCBC
FINANCIAL AID
New Student Awards are now open!
New Student Awards
NEW STUDENTS
Awards and entrance scholarships
CONTINUING STUDENTS
Scholarships and bursaries for continuing and graduating students
PARTNER GRANTS
Receive funding from outside organizations or donors
OTHER OPTIONS
Explore additional financial aid opportunities
Let's Make a Plan
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
Financial Aid
is here to answer all your questions and to help you make a plan for attending Columbia.
Need help with scholarship applications?
We’ve compiled a list of helpful tips to help you write a successful scholarship application.
Download the List
Need a Confirmation of Enrollment letter?
Students can request a Confirmation of Enrollment by completing a request form. Please
contact Student Accounts
if you have any questions.
Request Form
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
New Students
Scholarships, bursaries, and entrance scholarships
Apply for Bursaries
Apply for Scholarships
Timeline for New Student Awards
Fall 2026 Semester
Winter 2027 Semester
Applications Open
March 15, 2026
Oct 1, 2026
Application Deadline
May 15, 2026
Nov 22, 2026
Recipients Notified
May 31, 2026
Dec 16, 2026
New Student Scholarships
New Student Bursaries
Entrance Scholarships
New Student Scholarships
Awards based on grades and/or community & church involvement
Fall Semester
Columbia Service Scholarship | $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 | $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.
*Student Development Discipleship Scholarship | $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 »
The LEE, Ching Ping Memorial Scholarship | 1 Award at $1,000
Awarded to new students who has demonstrated excellence in academics (as displayed in their GPA).
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.
Winter Semester
* Reference required
New Student Bursaries
Awards based on demonstrated financial need
* Reference required
Fall Semester
Camp Ministries Award | 2 awards at $250
Student must have been involved working in a Christian camp for the summer. Same eligibility requirements for all bursaries, be enrolled in 12+ credits and Minimum GPA 2.0.
New Student Bursary | $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.
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.
Freshman Single Parent Family Encouragement Bursary | 1 Award at $500
Awarded to an entering freshman student coming from a single parent family. The recipient will be a sincere student, able to demonstrate financial need and have a minimum high school GPA of 2.5.
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.
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 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.
The Yeung, Shoo Lan - Memorial Bursary | 1 Award at $1,000
Awarded to one new student with a minimum GPA of 2.0, who has demonstrated excellence in service.
Winter Semester
New Student Bursary | 3 Awards at $1,000
Awarded to students with a minimum GPA of 2.0 (63%+) who show financial need. Amount of bursary will depend on need.
Entrance Scholarships
Entrance Scholarships
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. 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.
To qualify, be sure to be accepted and deposited by
March 15th
for Fall or
November 1st
for Winter.
$2,000 Award for GPA of 90% and up
$1,500 Award for GPA of 85 - 89.9%
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%.
Continuing Students
Scholarships and bursaries for continuing and graduating students
Timeline for Continuing Student Awards
Fall 2026 Semester
Winter 2027 Semester
Applications Open
Jan 24, 2026
Oct 1, 2026
Application Deadline
Feb 13, 2026
Nov 22, 2026
Recipients Notified
Mar 1, 2026
Dec 16, 2026
Graduating Student Award applications
open on March 1 and close on March 31 each year.
Continuing Student Scholarships
Continuing Student Bursaries
Graduating Student Awards
Continuing Student Scholarships
Awards based on grades and/or community & church involvement
* Reference required
Fall Semester
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
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
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
Don & Orilyn Pasiuk Gifting Scholarship | 1 award at $5000
Awarded to an Indo-Canadian Student pursuing a degree in the Psychology program who displays admirable Christian character and is involved in the Columbia community. Min. GPA of 3.5
Dr. Nick & Betty Willems Scholarship | 1 award at $1000
Awarded to a student in third or fourth year of a Bachelor’s 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 global setting.
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
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
Inez Lutz Memorial Scholarship | 1 Award at $500
Awarded to a Bachelor degree or Diploma student active in a touring musical ensemble at Columbia. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0
J & L Block Christian Ministry Scholarship | 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
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
Norbert Grabowski Memorial Fund | 1 Award at $2,400
Awarded to the second year student who attained the highest mark in the first year. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0.
Pastoral Ministry Scholarship | 2 Awards at $1,500
In preparation for church-based ministry, awarded to a 2nd- or 3rd-year student in a Church Ministry Degree Program, who currently attend a MB church in BC, are making significant positive contributions at CBC and in the church community, demonstrating commitment to the church and its mission.
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
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
Winter Semester
Continuing Student Bursaries
Awards based on demonstrated financial need
* Reference required
Fall Semester
David and Stella Manuel Leadership Bursary | 1 Award at $1,000
Awarded to a 3rd or 4th year student who demonstrates a sincere and devout love for Jesus and a desire to follow him. They must demonstrate evangelism qualities as displayed through service with the local church and community. Preference will be given to an individual from or ministering to the Indo-Canadian community of Abbotsford.
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
Psychology Bursary | 1 Award at $500
Awarded to a returning student pursuing a BA with a Major in Psychology and intending to pursue a Master’s degree in Counselling.
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
Victor and Helen Dick Memorial Bursary | 1 Award at $2,500
Awarded to a returning student interested in missions, who demonstrates a desire to ‘make disciples.’ Applicant must demonstrate how they apply the call of Jesus in Matthew 28:18-20 in their daily lives. Preference will be given to a student who is in a Bachelor program and have demonstrated love for people who have not been exposed to the Good News of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, and who intend on serving full-time abroad.
Winter Semester
Camp Bursary | 2 Awards at $250
Awarded to a student who has spent their previous summer working at a Christian camp. Preference will be given to a student who spent their whole summer working for the camp.
Graduating Student Awards
* Reference required
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.
*Jake & Katy Goossen Award for Excellence - BA student | 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. Two references shall be provided by leaders who have observed the student. The letters should demonstrate and provide evidence of the student’s character, leadership achievements and goals. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.5.
*Jake & Katy Goossen Award for Excellence - Diploma student | 1 Award at $2,500
The Jake & Katy Goossen Award for Excellence is a $2,500 scholarship, awarded to a graduating Diploma student who has displayed a sincere and devout love for Jesus, exceptional leadership qualities as displayed at Columbia and/or ministry/business contexts and a capacity to be a future difference maker. Two references shall be provided by leaders who have observed the student. The letters should demonstrate and provide evidence of the student’s character, leadership achievements and goals. Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.5.
Partner Grants
Receive funding from outside organizations or donors
MDS Canada Service Scholarship
Scholarship Details
The MDS Canada Service Scholarship was established to encourage post-secondary students to serve with MDS, while also offering financial support for their education.
A total of up to eight scholarships are available each year to students enrolled at the following schools: Canadian Mennonite University (CMU), Columbia Bible College (CBC), Conrad Grebel University College, Steinbach Bible College (SBC).
Amount:
$4,500 flat rate per scholarship
Eligibility Criteria:
Students must meet the MDS criteria for long-term volunteers. This includes being at least 19 years old, a Christian, willing to abide by MDS Core Values and affirm the Mennonite World Conference Statement of Shared Convictions while serving with MDS.
Must be a full-time returning student in a degree program.
Must be in good academic standing with their school.
Must be eligible to volunteer at both Canadian and US projects. (MDS does not provide assistance with visas.)
Evaluation Criteria:
MDS is looking for students who are service-oriented, self-motivated, flexible, willing to work with a team, willing to do hard physical work, and are aligned with MDS values. A full list of criteria can be found on the MDS application form.
What is covered by MDS
MDS will cover the travel costs of students to and from their place of service, as per MDS Long-Term Volunteer Travel Reimbursement Policy.
MDS will seek to provide an orientation (or sufficient materials) to prepare the students for their time serving with MDS.
While on project, all food and lodging costs will be covered by MDS.
Note – Volunteers are responsible for their own medical/travel insurance.
For more information,
download the MDS Canada Service Scholarship Information sheet
.
How to Apply
Submit
MDS Service Scholarship application
by January 15 to
Financial Aid
.
Selected applicants will be invited for interviews with MDS (via zoom or in-person) and may be asked for two references (including one from a professor or staff person at their school).
MDS will inform students if they have been accepted for the scholarship by early March and seek to provide more specific placement information by the end of March or early April. Due to the nature of MDS’s work (responding to disasters), these timelines are subject to minor changes.
Service placements will be at least four weeks, between late April and August.
Upon completion of the student’s service, submission of their reflection, and verification of their enrollment, MDS shall forward the scholarship directly to the Finance Department at the school with instructions to apply these funds to the student’s tuition fees.
Requirements if accepted:
Complete at least four weeks of service with MDS.
Submit a 500-word reflection on the experience of serving with MDS.
Tabor Village Service Experience Scholarship
Scholarship Details
The Tabor Village Service Experience Scholarship supports Columbia Bible College students pursuing vocational ministry preparation through hands-on experience in caring hospitality settings.
Amount:
$3,000 for one student
Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants must:
Be enrolled full-time in a Columbia Bible College program that includes a required practicum or internship component as part of the curriculum.
Be in good academic standing (minimum 2.5 GPA).
Be willing to attend the Internship Orientation and have completed all prerequisites to the Internship course, including successful completion of 75 credit hours.
Demonstrate a genuine interest in exploring a Christian ministry in the context of care and hospitality.
Be willing and able to complete their program-required practicum at Tabor Village during the scholarship period
Be eligible to complete their program-required practicum during the scholarship period.
Selection Criteria:
Demonstrated alignment with Tabor Village’s mission and values:
https://taborvillage.org/who-we-are/#mission
Articulated sense of calling to care and hospitality ministry among vulnerable people groups
Academic performance and faculty references
Personal statement addressing interest in chaplaincy ministry
How to Apply
Students may apply at any time. To apply for this scholarship,
contact the Director of Integrated Learning
.
Church Match Bursary
Grant Details
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
Financial Aid
How to Apply
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:
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.) Share this
Church Match Info Sheet
with them to get the conversation started.
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.
How to Apply:
Student must submit the
Student Application Form
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.
Once the application package is approved, the Director of Financial Aid will notify the student and contact the church with payment details.
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.
Once the church’s contribution has arrived, Columbia will apply their match to the student’s account.
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.
Forms & Application Dates
Application Dates
May 1
Applications Open
November 15
Deadline for Full-Year and Fall Semester Applications
March 15
Deadline for Winter Semester Applications
Camp Match Bursary
Grant Details
Amount:
Columbia will match up to $500 in funding
Camp Match Bursaries are available to Columbia students who serve at a Bible camp during the summer. Columbia will match up to $500 in funding. Bursaries are given out to eligible students on a first-come, first-served basis.
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 for a 3-way match are Camp Likely, Camp Bob, Gardom Lake Bible Camp, Stillwood, Camp Squeah, and Pines Bible Camp.
How to Apply
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.
Ask the camp 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.) Share this
Camp Match Info Sheet
with them to get the conversation started.
Submit the
Student Application Form
.
Have the camp submit the
Camp Agreement Form
.
Bursaries are given out to eligible students on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s best to apply early.
Forms & Application Dates
Application Dates
May 1
Applications Open
November 15
Bursaries Close.
Leadership Training Matching Grant
Grant Details
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
.
Additional Financial Aid
Explore other options for 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,
Canadian student loans
and grants, and are still needing some financial help, please email
Financial Aid.
Our team 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 About Additional Aid