What is OSAP?
OSAP (Ontario Student Assistance Program) is a government financial-aid program that helps students pay for university or college. It can help cover:
- Tuition (the cost of your classes)
- Textbooks and school supplies
- Living expenses (for full-time students)
- Childcare costs
- Some disability-related education costs
- Micro-credentials and short programs at approved institutions
When you apply for OSAP, you are automatically considered for both:
Grants — free money you do not have to pay back
Loans — money you must repay later
What You Need to Apply
- Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Your tax information (T4 slips, etc.)
- Your school and program details
- Any additional documents OSAP requests
- Your banking information for direct deposit
OSAP applications are online and updated yearly. They take 4–6 weeks to process. Each school has its own application deadline — check your financial aid office.
Indigenous Student Supports
- Indigenous-specific bursaries
- Programs from the Métis Nation of Ontario
- Ontario First Generation Bursary
Learn more about OSAP supports here: Ontario OSAP Website