Resources >>
We help you understand how best to fund your education.
Financial aid
College Student Alliance Financial Planning Tool
This College Student Alliance toolkit is the ideal guide for students who want to better understand their finances and how to manage them efficiently. From understanding credit to budgeting nickels and dimes and everything in between, this guide has you covered. You must be a member of the alliance to get access.
The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) helps Ontario students pay for their education.
OSAP offers financial aid through scholarships and bursaries, and loans. Scholarships and bursaries provide money you don’t have to repay. Loans are money you borrow from the government and pay back after you graduate.
Learn more by visiting OSAP on the Ministry of Colleges and Universities’ website
Budgeting tips
There are many ways to save money. One is to cut costs with everyday expenses by creating a budget that helps you deal with financial issues throughout the school year. To prepare a budget that’s effective, you should:
- Avoid using credit cards on a regular basis
- Be realistic with your spending
- Keep track of your spending habits
- Keep an accurate record of your bank accounts
- Plan your budget at the start of the school year
- Review your budget regularly, allowing for possible changes in your life.
Use these budget calculators to estimate your expenses and income:
Durham College Online Budget Calculator
University of Western Ontario Financial Calculator
Knowing how much money you will need and learning how to manage your money is key to your success as a student!
Other funding options
Lines of Credit
In addition to loans and grants, students can also apply for a line of credit from most major Canadian financial institutions.
Better Jobs Ontario (formerly Second Career)
This organization provides laid-off workers with financial support and skills training to find jobs that are in high demand.
Apprenticeships
Need financial help to pay for your training and get started in your career? This site lists programs you should know about.
The Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP)
This plan lets you withdraw from RRSPs to finance training or education for you, your spouse or common-law partner
Registered Education Savings Plans (RESPs)
These are special savings accounts that can help you save for your post-secondary education.
Job-Applications.ca Working Parent College Scholarship Program
This offers a college scholarship designed to help working parents in Canada who are pursuing post-secondary education.
