Ontario Regulation 82/23, enacted under the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities Act, introduces the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant program. The regulation governs the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant and includes various definitions critical to its implementation. 

To apply for the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant, individuals must submit an application to the Minister, specifying the period of study, the approved institution, and the program. Applications must adhere to a format approved by the Minister. Each application can cover only one study period, necessitating new applications for additional periods of study.

Eligibility for the grant is contingent upon several factors:

• • • Citizenship or Residency: Applicants must be Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or protected persons under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada).
    • Residency Requirement: Applicants must have resided in Ontario for at least 12 consecutive months preceding the start of their study period. Special provisions apply for those who have studied full-time outside Ontario.
    • Enrollment in Approved Programs: The grant is available for programs that last between 12 and 52 weeks and culminate in a certificate, degree, or diploma from an approved institution.
    • Minimum Course Load: Students must undertake at least 60% of a full course load if they do not have a disability, or at least 40% if they do.
      

Eligible institutions include Ontario universities, colleges of applied arts and technology, certain private institutions, and Indigenous Institutes. Programs must meet the Minister’s criteria regarding duration and certification.

The regulation outlines several conditions that could result in the refusal of a grant:

• • • Financial Assistance: Eligibility may be denied if an applicant is receiving other student financial assistance or is assessed as unable to repay existing loans.
    • Previous Grants and Loans: Individuals with unresolved debts or excessive funding from prior periods may be ineligible.
    • Conduct: Failure to repay loans, provide required documentation, or adhere to other regulatory requirements can lead to ineligibility.
      

Future eligibility for the grant may be restricted under certain conditions. Individuals who fail to meet specified requirements or who have unresolved issues related to previous grants or loans may face a ban from receiving future grants for up to five years. This includes cases involving the provision of incorrect information or criminal offenses related to student assistance.

Source: Ontario 82/23 May 20, 2023