BC Access Grant
The BC Access Grant for Students with Disabilities helps full-time post-secondary students with a permanent, persistent, or prolonged disability cover education costs. It can replace up to $1,560 per year of student loan with grant money that does not need to be repaid, reducing debt for students with disabilities.
Complete disability verification early so the grant is ready when classes start. If you have a learning disability, a recent learning disability assessment is required. Ask your school's disability services office about other supports you can combine with this grant, such as assistive technology and note-takers.
You may qualify if you are a BC resident, a full-time student at a designated post-secondary institution, have a permanent, persistent, or prolonged disability confirmed by a qualified professional, and demonstrate financial need.
A completed disability verification form signed by a qualified medical professional (for a permanent, persistent, or prolonged disability), proof of enrollment in a designated post-secondary program, and your StudentAid BC application.
Apply through StudentAid BC as part of your student loan application, and complete the disability verification process so you are approved as a student with a disability.
A common mistake is applying for student aid without completing disability verification, which means the grant is not added. Another is not knowing the grant replaces loan money rather than adding to it, which actually lowers your debt. Students also miss related supports such as the Assistance Program for Students with Disabilities and the BC Access Grant for Deaf Students.
The Application Helper walks you through each question on this benefit's form in plain language.
Fair PharmaCare
Income-based help with the cost of eligible prescription drugs and medical supplies for BC residents. Everyone with MSP is registered; lower income means more coverage sooner.
View detailsBC Family Benefit
A tax-free monthly payment that helps eligible BC families with the cost of raising children under 18.
View detailsAt Home Program (BC)
Provides medical and respite supports for eligible BC children with severe disabilities so they can live at home with their families rather than in care.
View detailsFree disability-benefits navigation services are available if you'd like help understanding or applying for this benefit.
Vancouver, BC
DABC is a provincial cross-disability organization that supports British Columbians with disabilities through advocacy, public education, and direct assistance. Its Advocacy Access program provides one-to-one help applying for provincial and federal disability benefits.
National
Plan Institute is a Canadian non-profit and registered charity that helps people with disabilities and their families plan for a good life. Its free national Disability Planning Helpline offers one-on-one support with the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP), the Canada Disability Benefit, wills and trusts, and future and financial planning. Plan Institute also offers free webinars and online courses on the RDSP, DTC, and building personal support networks. The helpline is free, confidential, and available across Canada by phone, email, and online request form.
Languages: English, Interpretation in ASL and other languages on request
National
The GAIN Program (Guidance & Assistance in Navigating Disability Support) is a free service offered by Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada (VLRC). VLRC's Disability Benefit Navigators provide one-to-one support to help people with disabilities understand and apply for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB), and other federal, provincial and territorial credits and benefits, including help with appeals. Although operated by VLRC, the GAIN Program assists people with all disabilities, not only vision loss.
Languages: English, French
Application denied?
If your application is turned down, the Appeals Guide explains filing deadlines, escalation levels, and where to find free legal and advocate help.
Provides augmentative and alternative communication assessment, equipment and support for eligible adults with communication disabilities.
View detailsOffers programs, equipment subsidies, camp funding, recreation and support for people with cerebral palsy.
View detailsProvides peer support, information, advocacy and community resources for people with spinal cord injuries and related physical disabilities.
View detailsAccessible Compass is an independent guide — we are not a government agency and do not process applications or approve benefits. We provide general information only, not legal, medical, or financial advice. Program rules may change. Always confirm with official government sources.
