Alberta Early Childhood
Educator Bursary

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Supporting Alberta’s Early Childhood Educators

The Early Childhood Educator Bursary Program (ECE) provides financial support to help students complete their Early Learning and Child Care certificate at an Alberta-approved institution and get certified as a Level 2 Child Care Educator.

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Thank you for your interest in the ECE bursary.

Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are now full. Only successful candidates will be contacted. If you were unsuccessful, your application will be deleted and you will need to re-apply for the next intake period.

The next intake period will begin in the summer of 2026. Keep an eye on this page for a specific date announcement!

Alberta needs more qualified Early Childhood Educators.

To support this demand, the Government of Alberta is offering a bursary program to help cover the cost of your education. Eligible applicants will receive $10,000 in funding toward their certification in Early Child Care education.

Who can apply

The bursary is open to students who:

  • Are enrolled in an approved Alberta Early Learning and Child Care Certificate program at an approved institution
  • Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (international students are not eligible)
  • Will begin their program between July 15, 2025 and January 15, 2028
  • Are interested in getting your Level 2 Early Childhood Education certification.
  • Can commit to working at a licensed Childcare program or dayhome in Alberta after graduation for a minimum duration of 2000 hours over two years.

Read our frequently asked questions

How it works

  1. Complete the ECE Bursary Program application form
  2. Once approved for funding you sign a Return of Service Agreement (RSA)
  3. Receive first payment of $5000
  4. Successfully complete your ELCC certificate program at an Approved Institution
  5. Receive second payment of $5000
  6. Complete your service agreement term of employment

Note: If you do not meet the terms of your service agreement, you will be required to repay the bursary.

Learn how to apply to the bursary

Need help?

Reach out to us with any questions about the bursary at abecebursaries@norquest.ca.