University Prep: Applying for OSAP
What is OSAP, who’s eligible for it, how to apply, and more
What’s OSAP?
OSAP is the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP). It’s a financial aid program that helps students fund their college/university education. The program offers funding through two ways: grants, which is money that you don’t have to pay back; and loans, which is money that you do have to pay back once you’re finished school. You’re automatically considered for both grants and loans once you apply for OSAP. You also have the choice of declining loans once your application is approved.
OSAP can help you pay for all your education expenses including tuition, books & supplies, extra school fees, living expenses, child care etc.
Who’s eligible for OSAP?
Ontario residents that are Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or protected persons of any age are eligible.
How to Apply for OSAP?
- If you’re applying for the September–April school year (fall & winter semesters), you’d typically want to get your application in by around the end of June to early of July. This allows for enough time for your school’s financial office to confirm your information, for you to get any documents ready, and for OSAP to process your funding for when tuition is due.
- You can start applying by registering online here to create an OSAP account.
- You will need your Social Insurance Number to create an account
- Now start your online application. You can leave it and come back later if needed. Here’s the information you’ll need to apply:
a. Information about your school & program
b. Your parents’ or spouse’s SIN (if applicable)
c. Your tax information
d. Your parents’ or spouse’s tax information - Make sure you submit your application by the deadline!
I’ve Applied! Now what?
You now should apply for your Master Student Financial Assistance Agreement (MSFAA) if it’s required. In a few weeks, the National Student Loans Service Centre (NSLSC) will send you an email when it’s time for you to register for your online account and complete your MSFAA online.
There will now be a couple forms that you and your parents will need to sign in order to further process your application. These are Signature and Declaration forms that you will need to print, sign, and upload onto your OSAP application.
And then you’re done! All you need to do now is ensure your to-do list on OSAP is all complete and that any required documents are uploaded on time. You’ll receive updates to your application from your school’s financial office or OSAP through your account so be sure to stay up to date.
What if OSAP doesn’t cover my costs?
If you’re a full time student attending a public postsecondary institution, you might also be eligible for the Student Access Guarantee (SAG). SAG is program possible through the collaboration the ministry and Ontario’s public colleges/universities. Through SAG, your school may offer extra financial aid the form of a bursary, scholarship, or work-study/summer-employment program.
About the Author
Jenny Pham is a second-year McMaster Hons. Life Sciences student specializing in Sensory Motor Systems. She is currently working as a tutor and an amateur writer looking to combine her passions for medicine and creative writing. Like others around her, she’s a first-generation student working towards a career in medicine and education, looking to continue advocating for underprivileged communities as a physician, through research, and education. You can connect with her on LinkedIn!
