Teach in Northern B.C: Learn More About Financial Awards for Educators

For teachers seeking purpose, growth and awards, Northern British Columbia delivers.

Northern communities offer tight-knit schools, outdoor adventure and the chance to make a lasting impact. They also provide three opportunities for financial awards for teachers who move north:

Northern B.C. Return of Service Award: Up to $18,000 Toward Tuition 

The Northern B.C. Return of Service Award helps future teachers' pay for their education and gain experience in northern schools. 

Teacher candidates who commit to teaching in a participating northern school district after graduation can receive up to $18,000 applied directly toward tuition in their final year of study. 

You may qualify if you: 

  • Are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident 
  • Are enrolled full-time in an approved teacher education program in B.C. 
  • Are in the final year of your teacher education program 
  • Application timeline 
  • Application deadline: Oct. 17, 2025 
  • Review period: Oct. 17–31, 2025 
  • Notifications sent: Nov. 3–14, 2025 

Submit your completed application form, transcript, written responses and a reference letter to Workforce.Development@gov.bc.ca by Oct. 17. Please note that late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted. 

Participating School Districts

Northern B.C. Relocation Award: Financial Help to Move for Teacher Education 

If you live in Northern B.C. and need to relocate for in-person teacher education coursework, the Northern B.C. Relocation Award can help cover moving costs. 

This Ministry of Education and Child Care–funded program supports students attending teacher education programs delivered in Northern B.C. 

What You Can Receive 

Eligible candidates can receive $800 per week, up to a maximum of $8,000 in relocation support. 

To qualify, you must: 

  • Currently live in Northern B.C. 
  • Be enrolled in a teacher education program offered in Northern B.C. 
  • Need to relocate to attend in-person coursework 

Participating Universities

  • University of British Columbia (UBC) 
  • University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) 
  • Simon Fraser University (SFU) 

This award is administered by each teacher education program, so application deadlines may vary. Contact your university program office for more information. 

Northern B.C. Practicum Award: $8,000 for Rural or Remote Placements 

Want to experience teaching in a northern community during your practicum? The Northern B.C. Practicum Award provides up to $8,000 to support relocation and living expenses for teacher candidates completing their final practicum in a rural or remote northern school. 

This program encourages future teachers to explore rural placements and build long-term connections with schools and communities in Northern B.C. 

You may be eligible if you: 

  • Are enrolled in a public post-secondary teacher education program in B.C. 
  • Are eligible for your final practicum placement this year 
  • Have an interest in teaching and living in a rural or remote community 
  • Accept a practicum placement in one of the participating northern school districts 

Teacher candidates completing practicums in the following northern districts may qualify: 

This award is also administered by teacher education programs. Contact your program office for specific application details. 

Why Teach in Northern British Columbia? 

Teaching in Northern B.C. offers more than career experience; it's a lifestyle. From mountain trails and lakes to culturally rich, tight-knit communities, the region is full of opportunity and adventure. 

With programs like the Return of Service, Relocation and Practicum Awards, it's never been easier to start your career where you can truly make a difference. 

Learn More and Apply 

Learn more about Northern B.C. school districts and life in the naturally gorgeous region.

Start your journey north and start your teaching career with purpose.