Paying for school in Ontario is expensive. Tuition, books, and living costs add up fast. The good news is that Ontario education grants can cover a large share of those costs for eligible students in the 2025–2026 school year—and many do not need to be repaid. The main entry point is OSAP, which assesses you for both provincial and federal grants in one application.
Below is a clear breakdown of the most important Ontario education grants, who they are for, and how much support you can expect.
These programs make up the backbone of education funding for Ontario students. Most are assessed automatically when you apply through OSAP.
OSAP is not a single grant, but one application that determines your eligibility for multiple Ontario and Canada education grants and loans.
You apply once, and OSAP calculates which grants you qualify for automatically.
This is one of the largest and most common education grants in Ontario.
You are assessed automatically when you apply through OSAP.
If you are studying part-time, you may still qualify for grant funding.
Many students assume grants are only for full-time studies. That is not true.
Ontario education grants include strong support for students with disabilities.
Through OSAP, eligible students may receive:
You must provide documentation of a permanent or persistent disability, but funding does not need to be repaid.
If you have children or other dependants, your grant support can increase.
This grant is designed to reduce financial pressure on student parents.
This is a targeted Ontario education grant for high-demand fields.
If you meet the work commitment, the funding does not need to be repaid.
Graduate students also have access to Ontario-specific education grants.
OGS is one of the most competitive Ontario education grants at the graduate level.
Tip: Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter Ontario education grants by study level, income range, and personal circumstances in seconds.
Assuming you won’t qualify because of income
Many grants are for middle-income families, not just low-income households.
Skipping OSAP because you don’t want loans
You can accept grants only and decline the loan portion after approval.
Missing disability or dependant declarations
Not reporting these can mean thousands of dollars in lost grant funding.
Ignoring regional programs like Learn and Stay
These can cover most education costs if your program is eligible.
Q: Are Ontario education grants free money?
Yes. Grants do not need to be repaid as long as you meet the eligibility and study requirements.
Q: Do I have to apply separately for each grant?
No. One OSAP application assesses you for most Ontario and Canada education grants automatically.
Q: Can mature or returning students get Ontario education grants?
Yes. Age does not disqualify you. Eligibility is based on income, program type, and course load.
Q: Are Ontario education grants available for online programs?
Some online and distance programs qualify, as long as the institution and program are OSAP-approved.
Q: Can I work while receiving education grants?
Yes. Employment income is allowed, but high earnings may reduce grant amounts.
Education grants are often part of a bigger funding picture. Depending on your path, you may also want to explore:
Ontario education grants can cover thousands of dollars each year—but only if you know which ones fit your profile. GrantHub tracks 2,500+ active grant programs across Canada, including education funding. Checking which Ontario education grants match your situation is the easiest way to make sure you do not miss money you are entitled to.
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