June 26, 2023

Learn & Stay Grant applications underway in Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound

The Government of Ontario recently launched the newly expanded Learn and Stay Grant applications for 2023-24. The grant provides full, upfront funding for tuition, books and other costs for students who enrol in an eligible program and agree to stay in the Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound region to work after graduation. The program is designed to encourage students to learn and stay locally, helping to bring in-demand health care workers to communities that need them most across the province.

As of June 16, Owen Sound’s Georgian College has received applications from future students for the following programs for the 2023-24 school year:

• Bachelor or Bachelor of Science in Nursing – 24 applicants
• Practical Nursing – 35 applicants

“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,” said Jill Dunlop, Minister of Colleges and Universities.

“The Ontario Learn and Stay Grant not only offers a sizable financial contribution for students, but also has the power to make a significant impact in our community,” said Rick Byers, MPP for Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound. “After these students graduate, the additional nursing staff will make a huge difference in our local hospitals and long-term care homes”.

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.

 

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