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.
Thank you for your interest in the ECE bursary.
Applications will be open December 1, 2025 to January 15, 2026.
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:
- Must be a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident (international students are not eligible)
- Are enrolled in an approved Alberta Early Learning and Child Care Certificate program at an approved institution
- 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
How it works
- Complete the ECE Bursary Program application form
- Once approved for funding you sign a Return of Service Agreement (RSA)
- Receive first payment of $5000
- Successfully complete your ELCC certificate program at an Approved Institution
- Receive second payment of $5000
- 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.
Need help?
Reach out to us with any questions about the bursary at abecebursaries@norquest.ca.