Applications Open! Sign Up Today for Ontario’s Learn and Stay Grant

Students enrolled in eligible nursing and paramedic programs could receive free tuition, books and other supplies

KENORA – RAINY RIVER  — Beginning today, students can apply for the newly-expanded Learn and Stay Grant. The grant provides full, upfront funding for tuition, books and other costs for students who enrol in an eligible nursing and paramedic programs and agree to stay in the Kenora – Rainy River region to work after graduation. The program is designed to encourage students to learn and stay locally, bringing in-demand health care workers to communities that need them most.

For the 2023-24 school year, the grant will be open to eligible students entering their first year in the following programs in Kenora-Rainy River:

“The Ontario Learn and Stay Grant program is a great opportunity for young people to grow their career in northern communities, ”said Greg Rickford, Member of Provincial Parliament for Kenora – Rainy River. “Our government is taking action to address health human resource challenges across the North. We are confident that this program will lead to better health outcomes for all.”

“Applications are now open for the Learn and Stay grant, marking an exciting milestone in our government’s plan to deliver more convenient and connected care for people in every corner of the province,” said Jill Dunlop, Minister of Colleges and Universities. “This grant is a win-win for postsecondary students and communities across Ontario, ensuring our future health care workers get the world-class training they need to give a much-needed boost to local health care facilities in the communities that need it most.”

Quick Facts

  • The government has dedicated $61 million over the next three years for the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant.
  • Students can apply up to 60 days before the end of their study period, meaning they can apply for the grant well after they’ve started their eligible 2023-24 program.
  • To be eligible for the grant, students must:
    • be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or protected person and live in Ontario
    • enrol in the first year of an eligible diploma, advanced diploma, undergraduate, masters or post-graduate program in a priority region
    • commit to work in the region where they studied for a minimum of six months for every year of study funded by the grant.
  • For the 2023-24 academic year, only first year students may apply. After 2023-24, the grant will continue to be available to these students as they move into their second year and beyond.
  • Students can also apply for the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) to help pay for other costs, such as living expenses.

Additional Resources