Mature Student Grants Available in Ontario
Pursuing higher education as a mature student is a transformative experience, offering individuals the chance to achieve personal and professional goals. In Ontario, various grants and financial aid options exist that encompass mature students. Financial aid, whether provided by the school, government, or a third-party, makes post-secondary more affordable for millions of students every year. This article explores the grants and scholarships available to support mature students in their academic journey.
Who Are Mature Students?
Mature students are individuals who choose to pursue higher education later in life, typically defined as those who are 21 years of age or older when they begin their studies. Unlike traditional students, who often transition directly from high school to college or university, mature students may have significant life experience. This includes prior work experience, family responsibilities, or alternative educational paths
Why Do Mature Students Return to Education?
- Career Advancement: Many mature students seek additional qualifications to improve their job prospects or pursue new career paths.
- Personal Fulfillment: A desire to learn something new, explore personal interests, or achieve long-held educational goals can drive individuals back into the classroom.
- Changing Circumstances: Life events such as job loss, a career shift, or the need to update skills due to industry changes can prompt returning to education.
- Family Influence: Many mature students are inspired to study by the educational aspirations of their children or siblings, leading them to set an example.
Challenges Faced by Mature Students
While returning to education is a rewarding venture, mature students often face unique challenges, such as:
- Balancing Responsibilities: Many have to juggle studies with work, family obligations, and personal commitments. It’s a challenging balancing act.
- Academic Confidence: Some feel apprehensive about returning to an academic environment after a long break, especially if they are not familiar with modern technology or teaching methods.
- Social Dynamics: Mature students might find it difficult to connect with younger classmates, which impacts their overall experience and sense of belonging.
- Financial Challenges: Financial aid is frequently harder to access for mature students, as students coming out of high school are prioritized.
Government Grants For Mature Students
The following are grants supplied by the Canadian government that supports students of varying ages. Grants do not have to be repaid, making them a valuable source of funding for students across Canada.
Canada Student Grant for Full-Time Students
Grant Amount: $525 per month of study, up to $4,200 per year
The Canada Student Grant is offered by the federal government for students who demonstrate financial need. Your financial need is assessed based on your family income, which, depending on your age and circumstances, will either be your parent/guardian’s income or your own income. Students of all ages are eligible for the grant.
Apply for Canada Student Grant for Full-Time Students
The government doesn’t solely offer grants to full-time students. There are also individual grants available for part-time students, students with dependents, and students with disabilities. Be sure to apply for the grant that best suits your situation. Other grants can be found in the links below:
- Apply for Canada Student Grant for Part-Time Students
- Canada Student Grant for Full-Time Students with Dependants
- Canada Student Grant for Part-Time Students with Dependants
- Canada Student Grant for Students with Disabilities
- Canada Student Grant for Services and Equipment – Students with Disabilities
Ontario Special Bursary Program (OSBP)
A student bursary is a form of financial assistance awarded to students to help cover their education-related expenses, such as tuition fees, books, and living costs. Bursaries are typically based on financial need, although some may also consider academic merit or other criteria.
The Ontario Special Bursary Program is offered to students who attend college or university part-time because they are unable to attend full-time or cannot afford it. The bursary is open to students of all ages and does not have to be repaid if the student completes all the courses they are registered for.
Ask your college or university about applying for the Ontario Special Bursary Program.
First Generation Bursary
The First Generation Bursary provides financial assistance to students of any age who are the first in their family to pursue post-secondary education. You can apply for this bursary if your parents did not attend post-secondary school.
Ask your college or university about applying for the First Generation Bursary.
Scholarships For Mature Students
While the majority of financial aid offered by the government is broad, many third-party financial aid programs can provide more comprehensive coverage for mature students. Every year, thousands of Canadian corporations offer scholarships for post-secondary students.
A scholarship is a financial award given to students to help cover the costs of their education, such as tuition, fees, books, and sometimes even living expenses. Scholarships are awarded based on various criteria, which includes:
- Academic achievement
- Athletic talent
- Extracurricular involvement
- Specific circumstances such as financial need or demographic background.
Browse Applicable Mature Student Scholarships:
Online Professional Development with Pathways
If you’re a mature student looking to expand your knowledge, Pathways works with various organizations to offer free online professional development courses. Develop skills like leadership, customer service, accounting, sign language, communication, and much more. The professional development courses on our website can enhance your understanding of any subject.
Explore Free Online Professional Development Courses Now!
Mature students in Ontario have access to various grants and financial aid options that ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education. While they face unique challenges on their educational journey, the support available through government grants and scholarships can help them achieve their academic and career goals. By understanding the resources available to them, mature students can take confident steps toward a successful return to learning and personal development.