# hi finance at The King's University Student aid, awards, and budgeting help for The King's University students — real numbers for a small Edmonton campus. --- King's is small, and that works in your budget's favour: flat residence rates, free parking, and awards fewer students compete for. This is what paying for a King's degree actually looks like, from Alberta Student Aid to the meal plan decision. ## Student aid program The King's University uses [Alberta Student Aid](https://studentaid.alberta.ca/). ## The numbers at The King's University - **~880** — Students at King's A 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio across 32 academic programs on one Edmonton campus. Source: https://www.kingsu.ca/about-us/about-kings - **$21,300** — Estimated first-year costs 2026–27 estimate for a domestic student in residence: two terms of tuition and fees (~$18,100), textbooks, a double residence room, and the Limited meal plan. Source: https://www.kingsu.ca/services/financial-aid/tuition-and-fees - **$660,000** — Awarded in student awards each year Entrance scholarships are automatic: $2,000 for an 80–89% admission average, $3,000 for 90% or higher. Source: https://www.kingsu.ca/services/financial-aid/scholarships ## Key deadlines ### Apply to Alberta Student Aid (60 days ahead) There's no single opening date. Alberta Student Aid recommends applying at least 60 days before your study period starts, because processing time is what makes people late, not eligibility. King's is a designated institution, so your aid applies here directly. [More](https://studentaid.alberta.ca/apply/what-s-new/) ### Residence deposit for first-year priority (Jun 15) Priority for Tower Rooms goes to applicants who have paid the $300 deposit by June 15. Miss it and you're choosing from what's left, which usually means a pricier room type or a later waitlist. [More](https://www.kingsu.ca/services/residence) ### Fall Retreat registration closes (Sep 11) The first-year retreat (September 16–18) is included in your $160 orientation fee, but you have to register for it as a course (UNIV065) by September 11. Unregistered means paying for something you don't attend. [More](https://www.kingsu.ca/admissions/orientation) ### Health plan opt-out (Early in term) The student healthcare plan is $322.56 once a year. If you're covered under a parent's plan, opt out with proof of coverage early in the term, before the window closes. That's $322.56 back. [More](https://www.kingsu.ca/services/financial-aid/tuition-and-fees) ## FAQs ### How does Alberta Student Aid work for King's students? King's is a designated institution, so Alberta Student Aid funding applies here directly. Apply at studentaid.alberta.ca at least 60 days before your study period starts. The maximum combined Alberta and Canada loan is $8,500 per semester, and the Canada Student Grant adds up to $525 a month for full-time students. ### Is King's part of the Edmonton U-Pass program? No. King's students pay regular ETS fares, about $3 per 90-minute trip. Since parking on campus is free in the east lot, many students find driving costs less than a semester of transit. ### Do I have to apply for King's entrance scholarships? No. The $2,000 Honours and $3,000 Academic Distinction awards are automatic based on your admission average, split 50/50 between fall and winter terms as long as you take at least 12 credits per term. King's other awards, like the Métis Scholar Awards (up to $10,000, apply by May 31), need an application. ### Is residence cheaper than renting off campus? Usually for first year. A double Tower Room at $538.25 a month includes utilities, internet, and a mandatory meal plan. A shared basement suite around Capilano runs $600 to $850 plus utilities and groceries, and adds an ETS commute. The suite wins if you cook consistently; the room wins if you don't. ### Do I need to file taxes as a King's student with no income? Yes. Filing is how you claim your T2202 tuition credit and carry it forward, and it registers you for benefits like the GST/HST credit. Skipping a year leaves money unclaimed.