If you’re planning to study nursing in Ontario, tuition and living costs can feel overwhelming. The good news is that several nursing grants Ontario students can use in 2025–2026 can cover a large share of your education costs—sometimes all of it. Some grants are needs‑based. Others cover full tuition if you agree to work in an underserviced region after graduation.
Below is a clear breakdown of the main Ontario nursing grants, how much they pay, and how to apply—using current 2025–2026 program details from provincial and federal sources.
These programs apply to students in RN, RPN, and Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs at eligible Ontario colleges and universities.
The Ontario Learn and Stay Grant is the most generous nursing grant in the province.
What it covers
Who it’s for
Service commitment
How to apply
This program alone makes Ontario one of the best provinces for nursing students who are open to working outside major urban centres.
The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is the main gateway to most nursing grants.
What OSAP provides
Good to know
OSAP applications for 2025–2026 are now open.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you quickly see how OSAP-based funding fits alongside other nursing grants in Ontario.
If you qualify for OSAP, you may also receive the Canada Student Grant, which does not need to be repaid.
Funding amount
Eligibility
How to apply
Nursing students with children may qualify for extra support.
Funding amount
Who qualifies
This lesser-known Ontario program helps address nursing shortages in rural and remote areas.
What it provides
Eligibility highlights
This program can be combined with other nursing grants Ontario students receive during school.
Skipping OSAP because you “don’t want loans”
Many OSAP recipients receive grants only. You must apply to access most nursing grants.
Missing service commitments
Learn and Stay funding turns into a loan if you don’t meet post‑grad work requirements.
Assuming part-time students aren’t eligible
Some federal grants still apply to part-time studies, depending on income.
Not updating income or family status
Changes can increase your grant amount if reported early.
Q: Can nursing grants fully cover tuition in Ontario?
Yes. The Ontario Learn and Stay Grant can cover 100% of tuition and books if you study and work in an eligible region.
Q: Do I need good grades to qualify for nursing grants?
Most grants are based on financial need, not grades. You do need to remain in good academic standing.
Q: Are international students eligible for nursing grants in Ontario?
No. Most Ontario and federal nursing grants are limited to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or protected persons.
Q: Can I receive more than one nursing grant at the same time?
Yes. OSAP can combine Ontario grants, Canada Student Grants, and targeted programs like Learn and Stay.
Q: Do nursing grants need to be repaid?
Grants do not need to be repaid unless you fail to meet service or enrolment conditions.
If you’re planning your education financing, these resources can help:
Nursing grants in Ontario change by year, region, and program type. The fastest way to see what applies to you is to check all active options at once. GrantHub tracks 2,500+ active grant programs across Canada — check which ones match your nursing program, location, and financial profile.
Was this guide helpful?
Rate it so we can improve our content.
Canada Proactive Disclosure Data
The Canadian government has funded over 400,000 businesses through 1.27 million grants and contributions. Check your eligibility in 60 seconds.