If you’re studying in Ontario, grants can cover a large share of your education costs — and unlike loans, you don’t pay them back. For the 2025–2026 academic year, most Ontario students access grants through OSAP, with additional provincial and federal programs layered on top. Some students can receive thousands of dollars per year in non‑repayable funding depending on income, program, and personal situation.
How this hub is different: GrantHub already has an article titled “Grants for Students Ontario.” This page goes further. It’s updated for 2025–2026, breaks down exact grant amounts, and explains who qualifies for what, all in one place — making it easier to see which grants apply to you.
Below are the core grants Ontario students should check first, grouped by how funding is delivered.
OSAP is the main entry point for student grants in Ontario. You submit one OSAP application, and the province automatically assesses you for both Ontario and federal grants, plus loans if needed.
Key facts for 2025–2026:
OSAP grants are needs-based, meaning funding depends on:
Ontario students receive federal Canada Student Grants automatically through OSAP. For the 2025–2026 school year, maximum amounts include:
These grants do not need to be repaid and are among the largest grants for students in Ontario.
If you’re studying part-time, there are still meaningful grant options available in 2025–2026:
Many part-time students assume they don’t qualify for grants — that’s often not true.
The Ontario Learn and Stay Grant is a full-cost grant, covering:
It’s available to students enrolled in eligible health and human services programs, such as nursing and other in-demand roles.
Important conditions:
For eligible students, this is one of the most generous grants for students in Ontario.
Graduate students (master’s and PhD) should look beyond OSAP to merit-based funding like the Ontario Graduate Scholarship.
OGS funding amounts:
Key notes:
Depending on your situation, total grant funding can add up quickly.
Examples:
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs by province, study level, and personal factors in seconds.
Assuming OSAP is only loans
OSAP includes large grant components. Many students receive more grants than loans.
Missing OSAP deadlines
Applying late can reduce or cancel your grant eligibility for the year.
Not reporting dependants or disability status
These details directly increase your grant amounts.
Ignoring non-OSAP grants
Programs like OGS and Learn and Stay are not automatic unless you apply.
Q: Are there grants for students in Ontario that don’t need to be repaid?
Yes. All OSAP grants, Canada Student Grants, the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant, and OGS funding are non‑repayable.
Q: Can international students get Ontario student grants?
Most Ontario and federal grants are limited to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or protected persons. International students usually need institutional or private scholarships.
Q: Do mature students qualify for grants in Ontario?
Yes. Age does not disqualify you. Eligibility is based on income, course load, and program type.
Q: Is OSAP worth applying for if I think I earn too much?
Often, yes. Many middle-income students still qualify for partial grants, especially if tuition is high.
Q: Can I get grants if I’m in a co-op program?
Yes. Funding rules depend on whether your co-op term is considered full-time study. See related options like Co-op Student Funding in Ontario.
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