Ontario Learn and Stay Grant

Pursue your studies for free when you learn and work in the North!

The Ontario Learn and Stay Grant is available to eligible students in our Practical Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and Paramedic programs.

This funding is available to cover most of the tuition, books and other direct educational expenses for these programs in underserved and growing communities, including Northern Ontario.

This important funding opportunity is helping our communities meet the region’s healthcare needs.

About the Grant & Eligibility

Student Eligibility

successfully apply to and enrol in the first year of an eligible program
be an Ontario resident
be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or protected person
commit to working in the same region where you studied after you graduate
not be receiving funding from any of the following government programs: The BEGIN Initiative: Bridging Educational Grant in Nursing, Better Jobs Ontario, or the Skills Development Fund

Please note that your funding will be converted to a repayable loan if you do not meet the required conditions.

Learn More About the Grant

Service Commitment Requirements

Eligible students must commit to working in the field of their program in the North Region within 6 months of completing their program and be employed in their field for at least 6 months (180 days) for every full year of study funded by the grant.

North Region includes the following regions and health units:

Thunder Bay
Sudbury
North Bay-Parry Sound
Northwestern
Timiskaming
Porcupine
Algoma

For more information on regions, please see the regional map.

Eligible Programs at Northern College

The Ontario Learn and Stay Grant covers the costs of tuition, books, and other direct educational expenses for these programs.

Need more reasons to pursue a career in these programs? Hospitals in the region often offer signing bonuses to new hires!

How To Apply

You will need an OSAP account to apply for the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant.

Students starting in upcoming academic year can submit applications in the spring before the start of the first year of studies.

Students starting in previous academic year can apply up to 60 days before the end of their study period if they are enrolled in an eligible program at an approved institution.

Create an account or log in with your existing OSAP credentials to start your application.

Apply with OSAP Account