Awards and student loans are not the only options to help pay for your schooling - there are program-specific funding options and alternative resources available to help fund your education.  

Apprentice

Apprentice students are eligible to apply for both provincial student loans and Canada Apprentice Loans. Provincial student loans often award grants, which are non-repayable funds, while the Canada Apprentice Loan provides only loans.  

Employment Insurance (EI) may also be available for apprentices while in school.  

Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) also offer awards and scholarships for apprentices.  

Academic Upgrading

Students in Academic Upgrading may be eligible for Foundational Learning Assistance (FLA) which provides grant funding to adult learners enrolled in high school level upgrading courses.  To see if you are eligible and application instructions, click here. Full-time FLA funding provides funds for tuition, books, and a living allowance, and requires students to be enroled in at least 18 credits (3 courses) of upgrading courses. 

To maintain your FLA eligibility, you must attend class and make successful academic progress. Poor attendance, lack of engagement, dropping to part-time status, or withdrawing from all classes will result in the termination and repayment of funding.  

RESPs

A Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) is a long-term savings plan usually set up by parents, grandparents, or other adults to save for a child’s post-secondary education.  

Any RESP questions should be directed to your provider as they can provide details of your plan, such as how much you have and the process for withdrawing the funds. Most providers require a confirmation of enrolment, which can be requested through Self-Service.  

General information about RESPs can be found here, including how to open one, benefits that you can receive, program eligibility, eligible expenses, how to pay for education with the RESP, and taxes implications.  

FAQs

Can I apply for student loans if I will be on EI during my training period as an apprentice?

Yes – make sure to enter your monthly EI income on the loan application.

Can I receive FLA funding if I am taking both upgrading and post-secondary courses?

FLA is only available for upgrading courses. Depending on your program and the number of post-secondary courses you are taking, you may be eligible for provincial part-time or full-time loans.

What if I change schools after being approved for FLA funding?

You will need to contact the FLA program to notify them of the change, and you may have to return any funding you've already received. 

When do I ask for or receive my RESP money?

Every provider is different so we recommend reaching out to them as early as you can.