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 in to your OSAP account. If this is your first time applying, you will need to create an OSAP account. 

Step 3: From the options listed, 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: Once you have completed your application, you will receive communication through your OSAP account, which will guide you in completing a supplementary form on the Service Portal. 

The form requires the following information: 

  • Full Name 
  • Date of Birth 
  • Name of Program 
  • Program Study Period – start and end dates 

This must be completed by the end of the study period. *Programs have not yet been approved for 2024-25 by the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. Once the approvals are completed, your application will be processed.*

Step 5: Your division will confirm the information that you have submitted is correct and confirm your registration status. 

Step 6: The University Registrar’s Office will update the OSAP for Micro-credentials Application with the information provided by both you and your division and process your confirmation of enrolment.

Step 7: If you have not already done so, enrol and pay for the micro-credential course you would like to take.

Note: you must be registered in an OSAP approved micro-credential program before OSAP funding will be issued/released. 

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: