What is OSAP?
OSAP (Ontario Student Assistance Program) is Ontario's student assistance program, managed by the provincial government, helping eligible students pay for college or university. OSAP provides two types of funding: loans (which must be repaid) and grants (which typically do not need to be repaid).
Who is eligible?
According to the official page, to qualify for OSAP, you must meet certain eligibility criteria, including:
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person
- Reside in Ontario
- Be enrolled in an approved school (full-time, part-time, or micro-credential program)
- Meet academic progress requirements
The page also notes that Indigenous students, youth in extended society care, first-generation students, students with disabilities, and students who are Deaf or hard of hearing may have additional support.
How much can you get?
The official OSAP Aid Estimator helps you estimate your funding. The amount depends on your financial situation, tuition, and living costs. The official page does not list specific maximum amounts; please use the estimator for details.
Do grants need to be repaid?
The official page explains that OSAP includes both loans and grants. Grants generally do not need to be repaid, but loans must be repaid after graduation. Refer to your funding agreement for specific terms.
How to apply?
- Create or log in to your OSAP account on the official website.
- Complete the information module if you are a first-time applicant for the 2025–2026 or 2026–2027 academic year (full-time or micro-credential). The module takes about 15 minutes and explains how OSAP works, your responsibilities, and basic financial literacy.
- Fill out the application after completing the module. You can save your progress.
- Submit your application.
Application timing: The official page states that online applications for 2025–2026 and 2026–2027 are open. Check the official website for specific deadlines.
After you apply
- Check your application status by logging into your OSAP account.
- Contact your school's Financial Aid Office if you have questions (for students at Ontario schools).
- Loan repayment: After graduation, loans are managed by the National Student Loans Service Centre (NSLSC). Specific repayment start dates and interest rates are not listed on the official page; refer to NSLSC notifications.
Other funding
The official page also mentions other loans, grants, scholarships, and bursaries, as well as the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant.
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