OSAP (Ontario Student Assistance Program) is Ontario's government-funded financial aid system helping eligible domestic students fund their post-secondary education through grants (free money) and loans (repayable). For Canadian students studying at Ontario universities, OSAP is typically the primary source of government financial support outside of family contributions and scholarships. This guide explains how OSAP works in 2026. While OSAP is for domestic students, StudentBuddy also helps international students find alternative scholarships and affordable student accommodation in Canada.
OSAP provides eligible Ontario students with grants (no repayment) and loans (repayable). Average OSAP award for 2024-25 was approximately $5,800/year. Students from lower-income families (under $50,000 household income) can receive up to $16,000+ in combined grants and loans annually. Apply at ontario.ca/osap — ideally from June 1 for the upcoming September term.
OSAP grants vs loans
| OSAP component | Repayment? | Based on | Maximum available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario Student Grant | No repayment | Financial need, family income | Varies, up to full tuition |
| Canada Student Grant (federal) | No repayment | Financial need, disability status | Varies by category |
| Ontario Student Loan | Must repay | Financial need after grants | Assessed individually |
| Canada Student Loan | Must repay | Financial need after grants | Assessed individually |
Who qualifies for OSAP?
Eligibility requirements: Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person; Ontario resident for financial aid purposes; enrolled full-time at an approved Ontario institution; demonstrable financial need; and not in default on any prior government student loan. International students are not eligible for OSAP — this programme is for domestic students only.
How to apply
- Open the OSAP application at ontario.ca/osap from June 1
The earliest applications process first and funding arrives earliest. Don't wait.
- Complete with accurate income information
Report your income and your parents' income accurately. OSAP verifies with CRA tax data. Misrepresentation can result in repayment demands and permanent exclusion.
- Your institution verifies your enrolment
After submission, your school confirms your programme and enrolment — this usually happens automatically.
- Review your Notice of Assessment
OSAP issues an assessment showing your specific grants and loans breakdown. Review carefully and contact your financial aid office with any questions.
- Accept your funding formally
Log into OSAP and formally accept — funding is sent directly to your institution for tuition, with remaining funds deposited to your bank account.
Ontario student sorting your budget? Find affordable accommodation near your campus.
Accommodation is your biggest non-tuition expense. Browse StudentBuddy for verified, affordable student housing near Ontario universities — filter by price to find what works with your OSAP budget.
Find student accommodation in Canada →Frequently asked questions
OSAP calculates your award based on total assessed costs including accommodation and living expenses, using standardised allowances by region. It doesn't guarantee covering actual accommodation costs, but they are factored into the needs assessment.
Yes. Canadian permanent residents studying in Ontario are eligible for OSAP on the same terms as Canadian citizens.
You have 6 months after leaving school (graduating, withdrawing, or dropping below full-time) before repayment begins. Interest on Ontario loans does not accumulate during this grace period.
Yes. OSAP covers eligible programmes at both Ontario colleges and universities, including many certificate, diploma, and graduate programmes.
Yes. OSAP requires satisfactory academic progress. If your academic performance falls below the satisfactory threshold (varies by institution), your OSAP may be restricted or cancelled. Contact your financial aid office early if you are struggling academically.
