Financial aid For Canadian Students

Embarking on your university journey is exciting, but figuring out how to finance it can feel a bit daunting. Don't worry, we have got you covered! You may have access to financial aid options like provincial or territorial programs, as well as UTAPS and our Awards Profile, which are all designed to make your U of T experience more affordable.

Financial aid options

There are several resources and support options for Canadian students to help your finance your education.

Step-by-step guide

Navigating financial aid can seem overwhelming, but this guide will simplify the process for you. Follow these steps to understand costs, explore funding options, and ensure you're financially prepared for your university journey. 

  • May-Sep Understand the costs of going to university

    Get an idea about how much tuition and fees will cost. Determine whether you plan on living in residence or off-campus. 

    Understand university fees 

    Review residence and housing costs 

    Budget your year 

  • Sep-Nov Research your options

    Explore the financial aid programs, scholarships, grants, and bursaries that may be available to you.

    Review provincial and territorial student aid programs

  • Nov-Jan Apply to university

    Submit your application to U of T through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC). After your application is received and processed, you will gain access to the Join U of T applicant portal or the Engineering applicant portal, where you will find other next steps.

    How to apply

  • Nov-Jan Complete the Awards Profile

    You will be able to access the Awards Profile on the Join U of T applicant portal or the Engineering Applicant Portal. The deadline to submit the profile is typically early February, but check the Awards Profile for the exact deadline.

    Find out more about the Awards Profile

  • Mar-Apr Apply for UTAPS on the Need Navigator

    You can access the UTAPS application on Need Navigator, which typically opens in mid-March. You will be able to access it through the Join U of T applicant portal or the Engineering Applicant Portal. We encourage you to submit the application early.

    Find out more about UTAPS

  • May-Jun Apply for provincial or territorial financial aid

    Provincial and territorial financial aid applications typically become available around May of each year, but this can vary by province and territory.

    Apply for student aid

  • May Get details on your application for UTAPS

    If you applied for UTAPS by the deadline, you will get an estimate of how much funding you may get by mid-May. The final amount will be confirmed later in the fall after your provincial or territorial financial aid is finalized.

  • Jul-Aug Pay your tuition

    Fee billing starts in mid-July, but the specific deadline can vary by area. If you are receiving provincial or territorial financial aid, you can defer the payment until it is available to you. Keep a close eye on your email inbox for details.

    Fee payment deadlines

    Details on deferring your fees

  • Aug-Sep Begin your journey with us!


    You are all set! If you run into any financial issues throughout the year, contact your registrar's office for help.

    Learn about grants for financial emergencies

Frequently asked questions