Official Guidelines Updated: January 2026
Wondering how to afford college in Ontario?
The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) helps eligible students cover education costs through a mix of grants and loans. OSAP is designed to make postsecondary education more affordable by providing financial support for students who demonstrate financial need.
Your funding is based on several factors, including your program costs, course load, income, and personal circumstances. Some students qualify for substantial financial support, especially those with higher need, dependants, or higher program-related expenses.
Let’s delve deep into OSAP and understand how it can financially aid your education.
What is the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)?
The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is a government-funded financial aid program that helps students pay for:
- Tuition fees
- Books and supplies
- Living expenses
- Child care (if applicable)
OSAP funding comes from both the Government of Ontario and the Government of Canada.
When you apply, you are automatically considered for:
- Grants (money you don’t repay)
- Loans (money you repay after school)
In many cases, students receive a combination of both.
Who is Eligible for OSAP?
To qualify for OSAP, you must meet eligibility requirements. In general:
- You must either be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident living in Ontario. OSAP is also available to protected persons such as refugees who are allowed in the country based on humanitarian grounds.
- You must be living in Ontario and meet residency requirements before starting your studies.
- You must be enrolled in an OSAP-approved postsecondary program.
- You must maintain the required course load (full-time or part-time).
- You must not be in default on previous student loans.
OSAP is intended for Ontario residents, so international students typically do not qualify unless they meet residency criteria.
Pro Tip:
Call your school’s guidance counsellor to know if your college or course is applicable to receive funding from OSAP. Their expertise could lead you to explore other avenues of student financial aid as well.
OSAP Grants and Loans: What’s the Difference?
OSAP support is provided through two main types of funding:
OSAP Grants
Grants are essentially “free money” you do not need to pay back, as long as you remain eligible.
Grants are usually awarded based on:
- Household income
- Financial need
- Special circumstances (such as disability or dependants)
OSAP Loans
Loans are repayable funds that help cover additional education costs.
Repayment begins only after you finish school or drop below full-time studies, typically following a grace period.
Types of OSAP Funding and Program Support
OSAP offers more than one type of support depending on your situation. When you apply, you may be considered for different categories of funding based on your course load, program type, and personal circumstances.
Full-time students enrolled in eligible college or university programs may qualify for a combination of grants and loans to help cover tuition and living expenses.
Part-time OSAP is available for students taking a reduced course load. Funding amounts and eligibility rules differ from full-time assistance.
Students with permanent disabilities may qualify for additional grants, modified course load requirements, and specialized financial support.
In some cases, OSAP funding may be available for approved micro-credential programs or shorter skills-based training options.
Because each category has different requirements, students are encouraged to review their options carefully when applying.
How Much Funding Can You Receive Through OSAP?
Many students wonder how much OSAP will cover.
The truth is: OSAP does not provide one fixed amount for every student.
Your OSAP funding depends on factors such as:
- Tuition and mandatory fees
- Living expenses while studying
- Family income
- Family size and dependants
- Program length and course load
Ontario calculates maximum aid using weekly funding limits, rather than flat lump sums. The best way to understand what you may qualify for is to complete an OSAP application and review your personalized assessment.
When Should You Apply?
Applications typically open in the spring or early summer for the upcoming school year.
To avoid delays, students are encouraged to apply as early as possible, especially if funding is needed for tuition deposits or living costs.
Repaying OSAP Loans
OSAP loans do not need to be repaid while you are in school full-time.
After graduation or leaving school, repayment begins following a grace period. This gives graduates time to transition into work before monthly payments start.
Students who experience financial hardship may qualify for repayment assistance programs.
Final Thoughts: How OSAP Can Help You Afford School
The Ontario Student Assistance Program remains one of the most important financial aid resources available for students in Ontario.
OSAP has helped thousands of Ontario students access education and build better career opportunities, even when upfront costs feel out of reach.
Whether you qualify for grants, loans, or both, OSAP can significantly reduce the cost of postsecondary education and help make college or university more affordable.
Next Steps
Reach out today! Contact any school for the most up-to-date information and guidance on the OSAP application process.
Schools can help you understand:
- Available training programs
- Entry requirements
- Application timelines
- How OSAP funding fits into your education plan
Career counsellors and school advisors are trained to assist prospective students at no additional cost, helping you think through the skills you want to develop and how they fit into today’s job market.
If you’re considering postsecondary education in Ontario, speaking with an advisor is one of the best next steps you can take.
