OSAP combines federal and Ontario grants and loans. The federal part of your loan is interest-free; the Ontario part charges interest. Estimate your monthly payment below.
How OSAP works
Grants and loans: OSAP assesses your costs and family income, then offers a mix. Grants don't need repaying; loans do.
Applying: apply on the OSAP website each academic year, ideally before your term starts so funds arrive on time.
Grace period: repayment starts six months after you finish or leave full-time study.
Interest: the Canada Student Loan portion no longer charges interest. The Ontario portion charges interest, usually tied to prime.
Help repaying: if payments are hard to afford, apply for the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP), which can lower or pause payments based on your income.
Students in other provinces have their own programs (for example StudentAid BC, Alberta Student Aid) which also include the federal Canada Student Loan.
Frequently asked questions
Does OSAP have to be paid back?
Grants don't. Loans do, starting six months after you finish full-time studies.
Is OSAP interest-free?
The federal Canada Student Loan portion is interest-free. The Ontario portion charges interest.
Can international students get OSAP?
No. OSAP is for Canadian citizens, permanent residents and protected persons who live in Ontario.