Financial aid For Ontario 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 OSAP, UTAPS and the Awards Profile, which are designed to make your U of T experience more affordable.
Financial aid options
There are several financial resources and support options for Ontario students to help your finance your education. These options become available after you apply to the university.
OSAP: Ontario Student Assistance Program
The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is a government-funded student aid program. Funding consists of a mix of grants and loans.
UTAPS: University of Toronto Advanced Planning for Students
UTAPS is the university's largest need-based support program. Through UTAPS, the university provides grants to students to help cover this financial need gap.
Awards Profile
The Awards Profile makes it possible for applicants to be considered for a wide range of admission awards, including awards based on financial need.
Within reach
Financing a university education takes planning, and may involve a combination of resources, like student awards, loans, government grants or part-time employment. Our Within Reach guide is a great resource to help you understand the different options available to you.
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, off-campus, or commuting from home.
Look up tuition fees for your area of study
Sep-Nov Research your options
Explore the financial aid programs, scholarships, grants, and bursaries that may be available to you.
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.
Nov-Jan Complete the Awards Profile
You will be able to access the Awards Profile on the Join U of T applicant portal. The deadline to complete it is February 1.
Mar-Apr Apply for UTAPS on the Need Navigator
The UTAPS application on Need Navigator typically opens in mid-March. You will be able to access it through the Join U of T applicant portal or Engineering Applicant Portal. The deadline to apply will be listed on Need Navigator, but we encourage you to submit it early.
May-Jun Apply for OSAP
The application for OSAP typically opens in May for the upcoming school year. After you submit your OSAP application and all required documents—and if you qualify—it usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks to receive an estimate of how much funding you're eligible to receive.
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 OSAP, you can defer the payment until your OSAP is available. Keep a close eye on your email inbox for details.
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.