If you’re planning to study in a high‑demand field and stay in Ontario after graduation, the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant can cover most — and sometimes all — of your education costs. For the 2025–2026 school year, this provincial grant supports students who commit to working in the same Ontario region where they study. The application runs through OSAP, and funding is limited to approved programs and locations.
The Ontario Learn and Stay Grant is a provincial grant designed to address workforce shortages in key sectors like health care. Unlike a loan, this funding does not need to be repaid as long as you meet the service commitment after graduation.
Here’s how it works for 2025–2026:
The grant is tied to specific programs and institutions, mainly in Northern, Eastern, and Southwestern Ontario, where skilled workers are most needed.
To qualify for the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant in 2025–2026, you must meet all of the following conditions:
You apply for the grant through your OSAP application, not as a separate form. New students must create an OSAP account. Returning students use their existing login.
For eligible students, the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant can be worth thousands of dollars per year. The grant may cover:
The exact amount depends on your program and assessed costs. Funding is paid directly through OSAP as part of your aid package.
Timing matters with the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant. Key dates to know:
If you miss the OSAP deadline, you miss the grant — even if you’re otherwise eligible.
The “stay” part of the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant is critical.
After you graduate, you must:
If you do not meet this commitment, the grant may be converted into a loan that must be repaid.
Applying too late through OSAP
If you apply within 60 days of finishing your program, your application will be rejected.
Assuming all programs qualify
Only specific programs and institutions are eligible. Always confirm before accepting an offer.
Planning to move regions after graduation
Moving to another province or Ontario region can trigger repayment.
Not tracking your service obligation
Failing to document your employment after graduation can cause issues later.
Q: Is the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant a loan?
No. It’s a grant, not a loan, as long as you meet the post‑graduation work requirement.
Q: Do I apply separately from OSAP?
No. You apply for the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant directly through your OSAP application.
Q: How much funding can I get?
The grant can cover most or all of your eligible education costs, including tuition and books. The exact amount depends on your assessed expenses.
Q: What happens if I don’t stay in the region after graduating?
If you don’t meet the work requirement, the grant may be converted into a repayable loan.
Q: Is the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant available for 2026–2027?
As of now, confirmed details are available for the 2025–2026 cycle only. Future years are announced by the province.
The Ontario Learn and Stay Grant focuses on education and workforce needs. If you’re also looking at broader funding options, you may want to explore:
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter funding programs by province, sector, and stage in seconds — especially useful if your plans extend beyond school into business or self‑employment.
If you’re planning to study in Ontario and build your career in the same region, the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant can significantly reduce your education costs. Start by confirming your program eligibility and applying early through OSAP.
GrantHub tracks 2,500+ active grant programs across Canada — check which ones match your education, career, or business plans as your next step.
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