Canada Student Grants and Loans

FederalStudentsChecked October 2, 2026

The federal government gives grants and loans to help pay for college or university. Grants don't need to be paid back, but loans do.

How much

Depends on your financial need, family situation and province. Grants do not need to be repaid; loans are repaid after you finish school.

When it's paid

Funding is released for each study period after your application is approved and enrolment is confirmed.

Who qualifies

Students with low to middle incomes
Students with dependants
Students with disabilities
Enrolled at an eligible school (most private for-profit schools lost full-time grant eligibility from August 1, 2026)

How to apply

Apply through your province or territory's student aid office
One application is usually assessed for both federal and provincial aid
Confirm your enrolment with your school
Re-apply each school year

What to have ready

Social Insurance Number
Income information (yours, and parents' or spouse's if required)
School and program details
Proof of disability if applying for disability supports

Common mistakes to avoid

Missing provincial deadlines
Forgetting to re-apply each year
Choosing a private for-profit school without checking eligibility

Still being confirmed: 2026-27 grant maximums, residency/status rules, interest and repayment-assistance details were not confirmed; amounts described qualitatively. Students already funded at affected private schools may continue until July 31, 2029. Check the official page for the latest details.

Official sources

Canada Student Grants and Loans ↗

Last checked against these pages on October 2, 2026.

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BenefitCanada is independent and not affiliated with any government. This guide summarizes official sources in plain language; rules and amounts change, so always confirm on the official page before applying.