Students in Newfoundland and Labrador can access comprehensive financial support through the province’s integrated Student Financial Assistance Program. This system provides specific grants to help cover the extra costs associated with a permanent disability while pursuing post-secondary education.
Core Disability Funding Programs
Newfoundland and Labrador’s integrated funding program administers both provincial and federal aid through a single application process.
Grant for Services and Equipment for Students with Permanent Disabilities (CSG-PDSE)
- This crucial grant offers up to $20,000 per academic year (from August 1 to July 31) to help offset education-related service and equipment expenses. It is available for both full-time and part-time studies at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
- NL Government Disability Information: https://www.gov.nl.ca/education/?s=disability+
- Official Information Page: https://www.gov.nl.ca/education/studentaid/disabilities/
- Application: Submit an online application to StudentAidNL. You will indicate that you are applying as a student with a disability.
- Complete the Verification of Eligibility Form for Students with Disabilities – PDF:
Grant for High Need Students with Permanent Disabilities
- This grant provides additional assistance if your disability-related education costs exceed the maximum available from the CSG-PDSE.
- You will be automatically assessed when you submit the main CSG-PDSE application form.
Key Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the CSG-PDSE and the Grant for High Need Students with Permanent Disabilities, you must meet all the following requirements:
- Have been deemed eligible for the Canada Student Grant for Students with Permanent Disabilities.
- Have identified barriers or limitations that restrict your ability to perform the daily activities necessary to participate in your studies.
- Not be in default of a Canada Student Loan.
- Demonstrate financial need through the Student Aid application for full-time or part-time studies.
- Be enrolled in a post-secondary level program at a designated institution as a full-time or part-time student.
Important Application Details
- When to Apply: You are advised to apply for the Grants for Services and Equipment at the same time as you apply for your general Student Aid.
- Application Deadline: The deadline to apply is eight weeks after the start of classes. For semesters shorter than twelve weeks, the deadline is two weeks after the first day of classes.
Additional Scholarship Opportunity
Beyond provincial aid, students across Canada can also apply for national scholarships.
RE/MAX Quest for Excellence Scholarship
- The RE/MAX Quest for Excellence scholarship program offers another avenue for support. This program recognizes students across Canada (except Québec) for their community contributions and leadership pursuits. It awards 40 scholarships of $1,000 each.
- For more information and to apply for the RE/MAX scholarship, you can visit the official RE/MAX Quest for Excellence page.
Back to Guide to Financial Aid for Canadian Students with Disabilities
