Starting today (Jan 5), Ontario students can apply to get 30% off the cost of their tuition. 

Premier Dalton McGuinty launched the new, 30% Off Ontario Tuition grant at Wilfrid Laurier University today — meaning that eligible university or college degree students will receive $800 while college diploma and certificate students will receive $365 for this semester. 

This September the permanent 30% off tuition grant will apply to the full school year. Students in a university or college degree program will save $1,600, while students in college diploma and certificate programs will save $730.  

Because the grant is calculated to be 30% off the average Ontario tuition, the amount of the grant will keep pace with any increased future costs — meaning it will always be 30% off the price of tuition.  

More than 300,000 students are eligible to receive the grant this year. Students who already receive OSAP will have their applications submitted automatically. 

Helping Ontario students with the price of tuition is part of the McGuinty government’s plan to help keep postsecondary education within the reach of all families while building the best-educated workforce in the world.

“Investing in education is one of the smartest things we can do in an uncertain economy. And this grant means more money in the pockets of Ontario students and their families at a time when they need it most,” said McGuinty.

Students will have to meet some criteria in order to qualify:

•   Students must be less than four years out of high school and their parents’ gross income must be $160,000 or less to qualify for the grant

• Students must be registered full-time in post-secondary education and maintain satisfactory academic standing

•   Students with disabilities may receive the grant for up to six years of study