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If you are searching for RBC scholarships, you are likely looking for financial support to take the next step in your education or career. RBC offers a comprehensive suite of funding opportunities known as the RBC Next Step Scholarships, designed specifically for Canadian learners. Whether you need money for a quick certification, a full university degree, or to change careers entirely, there is likely an RBC scholarship for you. These RBC scholarships are administered by Universities Canada, and applications are currently open for the cycles . Understanding which RBC scholarship fits your profile is the first step to securing funding.
What Are the RBC Next Step Scholarships?
The RBC Next Step Scholarships represent a major annual commitment of over $1.5 million to help Canadians access education and training . Launched in collaboration with Universities Canada, these scholarships aim to address Canada’s skills gap and support learners at every stage of life . Instead of a single award, RBC offers three distinct streams designed to match where you are in your career journey, ensuring that the RBC scholarships program remains accessible to everyone from teenagers to seasoned professionals looking for a change.
The 3 Types of RBC Scholarships
1. RBC Ignite Scholarship (Skills & Certifications)
This is the entry point for young Canadians looking to land their first job. It focuses on short-term training rather than full degrees.
- Award Value: Up to $1,500 each.
- Number Awarded: 500 scholarships annually .
- Target Audience: Youth aged 16-20.
- What it covers: Job-ready certifications (e.g., lifeguarding, First Aid/CPR), skills-building courses (coding bootcamps, graphic design), and hands-on vocational training (culinary arts, automotive repair) .
- Restrictions: Courses must be 12 months or less in length. Funds cannot be used for equipment or tools .
2. RBC Elevate Scholarship (Post-Secondary)
Designed for those ready to enter a traditional college or university program.
- Award Value: Up to $15,000 each.
- Number Awarded: 40 scholarships annually .
- Target Audience: Individuals aged 17-29.
- What it covers: Full-time studies leading to a recognized degree, certificate, or diploma at an accredited Canadian institution. Programs must be at least 2 years in duration .
3. RBC Reimagine Scholarship (Upskilling & Reskilling)
Tailored for adult learners who have been out of school and are looking to grow in their career or pivot to a new industry.
- Award Value: Up to $5,000 each.
- Number Awarded: 100 scholarships annually .
- Target Audience: Individuals 25 years or older who have been out of school for 3+ years.
- What it covers: Diplomas, post-graduate certificates, trade certifications (CPA, PMP, Electrician), and stackable micro-credentials that lead to a recognized credential .
Eligibility Requirements for RBC Scholarships
To apply for any of the RBC scholarships, you must meet specific core criteria. It is crucial to note that RBC employees or dependents of RBC employees are NOT eligible for these awards .
General Requirements for All Applicants:
- Citizenship: Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or have Protected Person/Convention Refugee status .
- Financial Need: All scholarships require you to demonstrate a need for financial assistance .
How to Apply for RBC Scholarships
All applications for the RBC Next Step Scholarships are managed through Universities Canada.
- Visit the Portal: Go to the official RBC Scholarships page (rbc.com/scholarships).
- Create a Profile: You will need to register on the Scholarship Partners Canada platform .
- Select Your Stream: Choose between Ignite, Elevate, or Reimagine based on your age and educational goals.
- Submit Documentation: You will need proof of enrollment or acceptance, proof of citizenship, and details about your learning opportunity.
Important Deadlines & Application Caps
Because these are highly competitive RBC scholarships, it is vital to apply early. Unlike traditional scholarships that stay open until a date, these programs close early once a specific number of applications are received.
| Scholarship | Application Window | Cap / Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Ignite Cycle 1 | Jan 27 – Mar 31 | May close early if funds are exhausted |
| Ignite Cycle 2 | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | May close early if funds are exhausted |
| Elevate | Feb 2 – Mar 26 | Closes after 500 applications received |
| Reimagine Cycle 1 | Apr 13 – Jun 4 | Closes after 500 applications received |
| Reimagine Cycle 2 | Aug 31 – Oct 8 | Closes after 500 applications received |
Additional RBC-Funded Opportunities
Beyond the standard “Next Step” suite, RBC partners with specific universities and organizations to fund niche scholarships. If you do not fit the above categories, check these out:
- RBC Tech Scholars (University of Toronto): A $1.38 million gift funds scholarships for third-year students in AI Engineering and Computer Science, valued at approximately $25,480 .
- RBC Wealth Management Scholarship (U.S. Residents): A $5,000 award for female high school seniors in the U.S. planning to attend a 2 or 4-year institution .
- STU x RBC Internship Scholarship: A $9,000 award for Bachelor of Arts students at St. Thomas University in Atlantic Canada to create their own summer internship placements .
- RBC Graduate Scholarship (University of Waterloo): Valued at up to $20,000 for graduate students researching sustainability and financial management .
Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)
1. Are RBC scholarships only for university students?
No. The RBC Ignite Scholarship specifically supports non-university learning, such as trade schools, certification programs, and bootcamps .
2. Can I apply for an RBC scholarship if I am an international student?
Generally, no. The main RBC scholarships require Canadian citizenship or permanent residency. However, some university-specific awards (like the Waterloo Graduate Scholarship) may be open to international students .
3. What is the hardest RBC scholarship to get?
The RBC Elevate Scholarship is highly competitive due to the high value ($15,000) and the cap of only 500 applications accepted for review .
4. Can I apply for more than one RBC scholarship?
Yes, you can apply for the scholarship that fits your profile. However, you cannot apply for the Elevate scholarship if you are 16, or the Ignite scholarship if you are 25. Choose the one that aligns with your age and study path.
5. What happens if I miss the application cap?
If the portal closes early because the cap is reached (e.g., 500 applications for Elevate), you will have to wait until the next cycle (if applicable) or the following year .
Which RBC Scholarship is Right for You?
To help you decide which of the RBC scholarships fits your situation, review the comparison below:
| Feature | RBC Ignite | RBC Elevate | RBC Reimagine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Range | 16 – 20 | 17 – 29 | 25+ (out of school 3+ years) |
| Award Value | Up to $1,500 | Up to $15,000 | Up to $5,000 |
| Number Awarded | 500 | 40 | 100 |
| Best For | Short courses, certifications, first job | Full-time college/university degree | Career change, upskilling, micro-credentials |
| Program Length | Less than 12 months | 2 – 4 years | 16 weeks to 3 years |
| Application Strategy | Apply early in either cycle | Apply immediately when portal opens (Feb 2) | Apply early in Cycle 1 or 2 |
Conclusion
The RBC scholarships program offers one of the most flexible funding opportunities in Canada. Whether you are 16 years old looking to become a lifeguard, 22 years old entering university, or 35 years old pivoting into tech, RBC has designed a scholarship to support your journey. Remember that these scholarships operate on a first-come, first-served basis regarding application caps. Therefore, marking your calendar for the opening dates is essential to securing your funding.
For more guidance on applying for financial aid and managing your student finances, check out our related guides:
