As the 2025–26 academic year approaches, the federal government has made a permanent 20% increase to Canada Student Grants, offering significantly more non-repayable aid to students.
This boost follows the temporary 40% uplift introduced in 2024 and aims to expand support for low- and middle-income learners across the country.
What Is the Grant Increase and Why It Matters
In 2024, grants were temporarily increased by 40%, raising the annual maximum for full-time students to $4,200. That increase is now made permanent, allowing eligible students to receive up to $5,040 per academic year starting August 2025.
This non-repayable support helps cover tuition, living costs, textbooks, and other essentials, offering genuine relief amid rising educational expenses.
Eligibility: Who Qualifies?
Grant eligibility includes:
- Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person
- Enrolled in a designated post‑secondary program lasting at least 12 weeks
- Household income must be below relevant thresholds (sliding scale up to ~$90,000)
- Additional eligibility for students with disabilities or dependents
Students with disabilities or dependents may receive extra funding, ensuring broader access and support.
How Much Can You Receive?
The grant amounts are tiered based on full- or part-time status, household income, and additional needs:
| Student Type | Maximum Annual Grant |
|---|---|
| Full-time, low-income | $5,040 |
| Full-time, mid-income | $3,000–$4,000 |
| Part-time | $2,000–$2,520 |
| Full-time with disability | $2,800/year |
| Full-time with dependents | $280/month per dependent (up to limit) |
The base grant for full-time students is $525/month (up to $4,200 annually), extended through 2025–26. Students with disabilities may receive $2,800 annually, and those with dependents may get an extra $280/month per dependent
How to Apply
- Applications open in May 2025 for the 2025–26 academic year
- Apply through the provincial or territorial student aid office, or via the NSLSC portal
- Submit income, enrolment, and dependents/disability documentation
- Deadlines vary (e.g., Ontario: August 31, 2025)
- Processing takes approximately 4–6 weeks post-approval
How Does the New Funding Compare?
This permanent increase makes the Canada Student Grant one of the most generous student aid programs in Canada:
- Transforms pre‑pandemic aid levels into long-term support
- Extends benefits year-to-year rather than temporary or pilot-based initiatives
- Designed to ease financial stress and reduce reliance on student loans
Historic data showed the previous 40% boost aided around 680,000 students; the permanent version is expected to reach 700,000+
Program Highlights
- Grant Categories: Full-time, Part-time, Students with Disabilities, Students with Dependents
- Maximum Monthly Award: $525 for full-time students
- Disability Top-Up: $2,800 per year
- Dependents Top-Up: $280/month per dependent
- Assessment: Based on gross family income and family size
- Provincial Differences: Some provinces impose separate requirements or additional bursaries
Why This Matters
- Rising tuition and living costs: Tuition averages $7,000–$10,000/year, and the grant helps close the gap
- Equity and access: Supports underserved and vulnerable student groups (dependents, disabilities, low income)
- Decreased debt burden: Reducing reliance on loans and making post-secondary more inclusive
The Canada Student Grant Increase 2025 marks a significant shift in educational support—from temporary boosts to permanent, enhanced funding. Families can now plan ahead knowing full-time students may receive up to $5,040 annually, with added assistance for dependents and disabilities.
This comprehensive financial aid initiative—delivered via CRA and provincial partners—aims to ease tuition burdens, reduce debt reliance, and ensure more Canadians can afford quality post-secondary education. With applications opening in May 2025, students are encouraged to apply early, gather necessary documents, and enjoy more peace of mind heading into the new academic year.
Education shouldn’t be out of reach—and with this grant increase, Canada is helping ensure it’s not.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the maximum grant amount?
Students in low-income households with gross incomes below the threshold for their family size are eligible for the maximum $5,040 if enrolled full-time.
Are part-time students still eligible?
Yes. Part-time students may receive up to $2,520 annually, with additional support for dependents or disabilities included.
Do disability or dependent top-ups increase loan eligibility?
No. These top-ups are non-repayable grants and do not affect loan amounts or repayment terms.