BCPA Diversity Student Bursary

2026 Applications are Open!


The British Columbia Psychological Association is honoured to offer the BCPA Diversity Student Bursary, an annual award supporting graduate students from equity-deserving communities who are pursuing studies in psychology or related fields in British Columbia.


This bursary recognizes the strength, leadership, and lived experiences that students from underrepresented communities bring to the profession of psychology. Through this support, BCPA aims to walk alongside students on their educational journeys and help foster future leaders in mental health who bring diverse perspectives, cultural knowledge, and inclusive practices into the field.


Award Amount: $2,000 annually
Number of Awards: 1


Vision | Guiding Principles |  Eligibility | Application Materials | Key Dates | Selection Process | Application Form 

Vision


To support and uplift diverse future leaders in psychology whose lived experiences, cultural knowledge, and commitment to equity strengthen mental health care for all communities.
 

Guiding Principles

This bursary is grounded in the following principles:
 

Respect
Honouring the value of diverse identities, experiences, and contributions of all equity-deserving groups.

Relationship
Building and maintaining meaningful connections with Indigenous students, as well as with students, communities, and organizations representing other underrepresented groups—fostering trust, learning, and collaboration.

Reciprocity
Supporting students who may, in turn, bring knowledge, healing, inclusive care, and safety to individuals, families, and communities.

Reconciliation in Action
Aligning with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action #23 and #24, which call for increased Indigenous representation in health professions and culturally informed education.
 

Eligibility

Applicants are welcome to apply if they:

  • Demonstrate financial need, as described in their personal statement.
  • Self-identify as Indigenous, a person with a disability, and/or a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ or a racialized community.
  • Live in British Columbia.
  • Are enrolled full-time in a recognized graduate psychology program (Master’s or PhD).
  • Have a clear vision for supporting underserved communities or advancing inclusive mental health care.
     

Application Materials

 

A complete application includes the following:

  1. Application form (available online or as a downloadable document)
    Proof of residency in British Columbia (e.g., driver’s license, utility bill, lease agreement, or other official document).
     
  2. Proof of enrollment in a Master’s or Doctoral psychology program.
     
  3. Personal statement (up to 750 words) addressing: 
    - Educational goals and aspirations
    - Career vision related to supporting underserved communities or advancing inclusive mental health care- - - Connection to community and/or culture. 
    - A clear demonstration of financial need, including: Current financial situation and barriers to continuing studies and a ny extraordinary circumstances (e.g., family responsibilities, health-related costs, relocation expenses).
     
  4. One letter of support from either:
    - An academic reference (e.g., instructor, supervisor, advisor), or
    - A community reference (e.g., Elder, Knowledge Keeper, mentor, or community leader)
     

Key Dates
 

  • Applications Open: April 1, 2026
  • Applications Close: May 15, 2026
  • Award Announcement: July 2026
     

Selection Process

Applications will be reviewed with attention to:

  • Demonstrated financial need.
  • Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
  • Alignment with the bursary’s purpose and guiding principles.
  • Vision for contributing to inclusive mental health care and underserved communities.
     

Apply Now

 

Apply Now!