OSAP for Micro-credentials

Micro-credentials are rapid training programs offered by colleges, universities, and Indigenous Institutes across Ontario that can help students acquire the skills that employers need. 

The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) for Micro-credentials provides eligible students with Ontario grant and loan assistance for ministry-approved, quality-assured micro-credential programs.

To find a list of approved micro-credentials offered at the University of Toronto, visit the approved micro-credentials list on the OSAP website. 

Am I Eligible for OSAP for Micro-credentials?

OSAP for Micro-credentials is available for eligible students taking a ministry-approved micro-credential that is less than 12 weeks. 

To be eligible for OSAP for Micro-credentials, a student must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or a protected person; and, be a resident of Ontario.  

Ontario residency requirements for the purposes of OSAP for Micro-credentials are consistent with Full-Time OSAP residency criteria. 

  • they do not meet the Ontario residency requirement 
  • their family income threshold is above the income threshold to qualify for funding (i.e., $80,000 for a family of one person; $100,000 for a family of two or more people) 
  • they are restricted from OSAP for Micro-credentials (e.g., have defaulted on a previous OSAP loan, they have a failed credit check on file, they have a bursary overpayment)

The amount of OSAP for Micro-credentials funding a student may receive is based on several factors, including:  

  • Financial need  
  • Household income: (single independent student with income of $80,000 or less, dependent/married students with income of $100,000 or less)  
  • Family size  
  • Micro-credential program hours 

How Do I Apply for an OSAP approved Micro-credential program?

Step 1: Confirm that the University of Toronto micro-credential course you want to take is OSAP-approved.

Step 2: Log into your OSAP account. If this is your first time applying, you will need to create an OSAP account. 

Step 3: Select and complete the OSAP for Micro-credentials application. You can only receive OSAP for Micro-credentials funding for one course at a time. 

Step 4: Complete the Micro-credential Program Information form (PDF) to have your application processed by the University of Toronto. Please contact your department of study to have the form completed before the last day of your micro-credential course. 

Step 5: Both your OSAP for Micro-credentials application and the Micro-credential Program Information form (PDF) must be submitted before the last day of your micro-credential course. 

Step 6: Scan, upload, and submit all required supporting documentation to your OSAP account.

Step 7: Enrol in and pay for the micro-credential course you want to take (if you have not already done so). 

I Applied – Now What?

OSAP for Micro-credentials funding is received after the OSAP application has been reviewed, information has been verified, required supporting documentation has been approved, and the University of Toronto has confirmed your enrollment. 

The University Registrar’s Office will process and verify all OSAP for Micro-credentials applications and release any eligible funding. Students receive the funding in one installment, typically within 5 days after enrollment is confirmed. Students are responsible for paying fees directly to the school.

Resources

If you have further questions, please see these resources: