Saskatchewan Student Aid Handbook

Saskatchewan Student Aid Program

Important Steps in Planning and Financing Your Post-Secondary Education
2023-24

[Link]/studentloans | [Link]
Table of Contents
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
New in 2023-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Eligibility Criteria. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Canada Student Loans for Part-Time Studies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Residency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Student Categories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Canada and Saskatchewan Student Grants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Student Aid and Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Canada/Saskatchewan Student Grant for Part-Time Studies.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Canada Student Grant for Part-Time Students with Dependents.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Maximum Weekly Levels of Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Additional Assistance for Low-Income Students with Dependents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Grants for Students with Disabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Applying for Full-Time and Part-Time Student Aid. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Online Application and Upload Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
How Full-Time Student Aid is Calculated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Allowable Expenses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Expected Contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Receiving Your Funds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Your First Student Aid Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Maintaining Your Eligibility While in School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Your Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Keeping Government Student Loans Interest-Free. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Repaying Your Student Loan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Consolidating Your Loan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
 Interest on Canada Student Loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Interest on Saskatchewan Student Loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Maintaining Your Loan While in Repayment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Repayment Assistance Plan – Disability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Revision of Terms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Loan Forgiveness for Nurses and Nurse Practitioners. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Loan Forgiveness for Veterinarians and Veterinary Technicians. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Bankruptcy and Overpayments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Bankruptcy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Overpayments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Falsified Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Scholarships. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Contact Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Glossary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-22
 Introduction 8-month academic year. Canada Student
Grants (CSGs) for all eligible full-time (FT) and
The Government of Canada and the Government part-time (PT) students, as well as the CSGs
of Saskatchewan work together to provide student for Students with Disabilities (D) and Students
aid in Saskatchewan. Loans and grants are available with Dependents (DEP), are increasing by 40
to help full-time and part-time students access and per cent from pre-pandemic levels (temporary
afford post-secondary education. This handbook measure of doubled CSGs has ended).
provides Saskatchewan students with information » CSG-FT is up to a maximum of $525 per
about student aid for the 2023-24 loan year month of study, or $4,200 for a standard
(August 1, 2023 to July 31, 2024). 8-month academic year
Student aid is meant to supplement, not replace, » CSG-PT is up to a maximum of $2,520.
other resources to pay for post-secondary » CSG-FTDEP is up to a maximum of $280 per
education. You may want to look at other options dependent, per month of study, or up to
to help with your costs such as: $2,240 for a standard 8-month loan year
• employment; » CSG-PTDEP is a maximum of $2,688.
• internship or co-op programs offered for your » CSG-D is a maximum of $2,800.
program of study;
• bursaries, grants and scholarships available Eligibility Criteria
through your post-secondary institution;
You are eligible to apply for full-time student aid in
• savings; and
Saskatchewan if:
• funding from parents and relatives.
• you are a Saskatchewan resident, as defined by
Financial literacy is an important part of achieving the program;
success in post-secondary education. Read more
• you are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident
about important topics such as how to save and
or a protected person;
budget for education, what that education will cost,
understanding your loan, as well as money tips • you have financial need according to
and tools, by visiting the National Student Loans program criteria;
Service Centre or the Financial Consumer Agency of • you are enrolled or qualified to enrol at a
Canada. designated school in an approved program
which is at least 12 weeks in length and leads to
New in 2023-24 a degree, diploma or certificate. If your program
has a period or periods of study between six
Effective August 1, 2023, the following changes are and 11 weeks, you may be eligible if the shorter
incorporated in to the Saskatchewan Student Aid periods of study are part of a longer program;
assessment for new and returning students in the • you will be taking at least 60 per cent of a full
2023-24 academic year. course load, or 40 per cent if you are a student
with either a permanent, or a persistent or
• Canada loan and grant amounts are changing prolonged disability;
in the 2023-24 loan year. The maximum weekly
Canada Student Loan amount that can be • your previous student loans are in good
provided to a student is increasing from $210 to standing (i.e., you must not have defaulted on a
$300 per week, or up to $10,200 for a standard previous student loan); and

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 • you have not exhausted the lifetime maximum • are from a low- or middle-income family as
student aid limit: defined by the Canada Student Financial
» 340 weeks (including interest-free status) Assistance Program;
of student aid; • are enrolled in 20 to 59 per cent of a full
» 400 weeks for students in doctoral course load (if you are a student with either
studies; or a permanent, or a persistent or prolonged
disability, and you are taking 40 to 59 per cent
» 520 weeks for students with either a of a full course load, you can choose to be
permanent, or a persistent or considered full-time or part-time);
prolonged disability.
• are enrolled in a degree, diploma, or
Check with your school to ensure it is designated certificate program at a designated
for the purposes of student aid or visit www. post-secondary institution; and
[Link]/student-financial-assistance for a list of • successfully complete all courses for which
designated educational institutions. Your school funding was provided.
must be designated in order for you to receive
funding. If your school is not designated, you must Residency
apply for student aid to initiate the designation
If you have lived in Saskatchewan for at least 12
review. If you have questions regarding a school’s
consecutive months before the first day of your
designation, please contact the Student Service
study period (excluding time spent as a full-time
Centre.
student in a post-secondary education program)
you are considered a Saskatchewan resident.
Canada Student Loans for
Part-Time Studies
DO NOT APPLY TO MORE THAN ONE PROVINCE.
The Government of Canada offers loans and grants
If you apply to more than one province and are
for part-time studies to students taking between 20
funded inadvertently, you must return all loans/
and 59 per cent of a full course load.
grants issued in order to be eligible for the province
As a part-time student you may be eligible to in which you correctly reside.
borrow up to $10,000 in Canada Student Loans.
Canada Student Loans are interest free, and you do Student Categories
not have to begin repaying them until six months
after you graduate or leave school. When you apply for full-time student aid, you
will be classified as belonging to one of the
There is no maximum length of assistance for following four categories. This category will help to
part-time students. However, the maximum loan determine how your financial need is calculated:
amount at any time cannot exceed $10,000. Loan
applications for part-time students are available A Single Dependant Student:
from the Student Service Centre or online at • has no children; and
[Link]/studentloans. Visit www.
• has been out of high school for less than four
[Link]/student-financial-assistance for more
years before the first day of class of the current
information on student aid for
study period; or
part-time students.
• has been in the work force for less than two
You may be eligible for a Canada Student Loan for years (two periods of 12 consecutive months)
Part-Time Studies if you: before the first day of class of the current
study period.

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 A Single Independent Student: access loan funding, you can contact the Student
• has no children; and Service Centre and seek a reassessment to receive
the loan funding you are authorized for.
• has been out of high school for four years or
more before the first day of class of the current The amount of student aid you can receive,
study period; or including any grants, depends on your situation.
• has been in the workforce for at least two years The Assessment Summary Letter you receive after
(two periods of 12 consecutive months) before applying for student aid will outline your eligibility
the first day of class of the current study period. for both provincial and federal student aid. The
Disbursement Schedule outlines your total student
A Married Student: aid. Please note that your Allowable Costs may not
accurately reflect your approval amounts.
• is legally married; or
• is in a common-law relationship (i.e., living with Grants are available to students from low- and
the person you are in a relationship with for a middle-income families, and students with either
minimum of 12 consecutive months before the permanent, or persistent or prolonged disabilities.
first day of class of the current study period). Grants do not need to be paid back provided that
eligibility rules are followed. Students can receive
A Single Parent Student: as many grants as they are eligible for.
• has custody of one or more children at least 50 Loans are available to higher-income students.
per cent of the time; and Saskatchewan Student Loans are interest-free while
• is not married or in a common-law relationship. in school and you don’t have to start repaying them
until six months after you complete your studies.
Keep in mind, interest does accrue during this six-
Student Aid and Benefits month period. Effective April 1, 2023, interest is no
longer being charged on the Canada portion of your
Post-secondary education is a worthwhile
student loans.
investment but it is also a serious commitment.
Being financially prepared means knowing how The Canada Student Grant, Saskatchewan Student
much your education will cost and making decisions Grant and the Canada Student Grant for students
about how you will meet your financial needs. with dependants are progressive grants that are
When planning for your education, you should dependent on family income and family size. The
consider tuition costs, textbooks and learning grants progressively decline as annual income
materials, as well as transportation and living costs increases. Income thresholds are outlined in the
while in school. following table.
When you apply for student aid, you will be
automatically considered for student aid from both
the Government of Canada and the Government
of Saskatchewan. Your application will be assessed
for a combination of non-repayable grants and
repayable loans. In your initial application, you
may request to only receive non-repayable grant
funding and decline repayable loan funding. For
full-time students only, if you choose to receive
only grant funding, and in the future you need to

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 Canada/Saskatchewan Student Grant for children may be eligible for up to $84 per week
Part-Time Studies of study up to a maximum of $2,688. Progressive
grants are dependent on family income and
Part-time students who qualify for a Canada family size.
Student Loan and meet the grant eligibility
requirements may be eligible for a progressive Part-Time students who have graduated from
federal student grant of up to $2,520 and a grade 12 in Saskatchewan (including ABE and
provincial student grant of up to $800 per academic GED®) on or after January 1, 2012 and are enrolled
year. Progressive grants are dependent on family at a Saskatchewan post-secondary institution
income and family size. in a program that is recognized for Canada-
Saskatchewan student aid (certificate, diploma,
Canada Student Grant for Part-Time and degree programs) may be eligible for the
Students with Dependants Saskatchewan Advantage Scholarship of $750 per
year, to a lifetime maximum of $3,000.
Part-time students with up to two children under
12 years of age (or 12 years or older with a
permanent disability) may be eligible for up to $56
per week of study, up to a maximum of $2,688,
and those part-time students with three or more

Family Previous Year’s Gross Annual Family Previous Year’s Gross Annual
size Income for Maximum Grant Amount Family Income for No Grant
1 $35,429 or less $66,942 or more
2 $50,104 or less $93,709 or more
3 $61,365 or less $112,041 or more
4 $70,859 or less $123,676 or more
5 $79,222 or less $134,369 or more
6 $86,784 or less $144,476 or more
7+ $93,737 or less $153,261 or more

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 Maximum Weekly Levels of Assistance
Student aid is pro-rated weekly to accommodate varying program lengths. The tables below outline the
maximum weekly levels of assistance based on family income and type of educational program.

Canada Canada Sask Sask

Low-Income Students
Student Student Student Student Weekly Assistance
(Full grant amount eligible)
Grant Loan Grant Loan
Students in One Year and Graduate Programs $0 $300 $30 $168 $498
Students in Multiple Year Certificate, Diploma or $122 $300 $30 $110 $562
Undergraduate Programs
Medical Students $122 $300 $0 $365 $787

Canada Canada Sask Sask

Middle-Income Students (Progressive Grant
Student Student Student Student Weekly Assistance
Eligible)
Grant Loan Grant Loan
Students in One Year and Graduate Programs $0 $300 Up to $30 Up to $198 Up to $498
Students in Multiple Year Certificate, Diploma or Up to $300 Up to $30 Up to $227 Up to $562
Undergraduate Programs $122
Medical Students Up to $300 $0 $365 Up to $787
$122

Canada Canada Sask Sask

Above Grant Eligible Income Threshold Student Student Student Student Weekly Assistance
Grant Loan Grant Loan
Students in One Year and Graduate Programs $0 $300 $0 $198 $498
Students in Multiple Year Certificate, Diploma or $0 $300 $0 $198 $498
Undergraduate Programs
Medical Students $0 $300 $0 $365 $665

Additional assistance above the weekly maximums listed above include:

Additional Assistance for Low-Income

Canada Student Grant Saskatchewan Student Grant
Students with Dependents
Dependents Under 12 and Dependents over 12 with a Up to $65 per child $0
Permanent Disability
Dependents Between 12 and 18 $0 $0

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 Grants for Students with Disabilities
Canada Sask
Students with Disabilities
Student Grant Student Grant
Canada Grant for Students with Disabilities $2,800 per year
Canada-Saskatchewan Grant for Services and Up to $20,000 Up to $2,000
Equipment for Students with Disabilities per year per year

If you are a student with a either a permanent, or a persistent or prolonged disability that restricts your
physical or mental ability to perform daily activities necessary to participate fully in post-secondary studies
or the work force, you may be eligible for additional student aid.

Canada Grant for Students with Disabilities Equipment for Students with Disabilities
This grant provides $2,800 per year to help cover This federal grant provides up to $20,000 per
living expenses, tuition, and books. Eligibility year for exceptional education-related costs such
for this grant is determined when you apply for as tutors, note-takers, interpreters, braillers, or
student aid. A separate application form is not technical aids. If your need exceeds the amount
required. available from the Canada Grant for Services and
To be considered for the grants, you must apply and Equipment for Students with Disabilities, the
qualify for a student loan (either a full-time or Saskatchewan Grant for Services and Equipment for
part-time loan) and supply documentation verifying Students with Disabilities may provide up to $2,000
your permanent, persistent or prolonged disability. in additional student aid.
You may also be eligible to receive full-time student A separate application is required for this grant.
aid while studying between 40 and 59 per cent of a Your disability advisor at your school can help you
full course load. complete the application.
Canada-Saskatchewan Grant for Services and

Applying for Full-Time and Part-Time Student Aid

Submit your online application early to ensure You can also scan completed forms and upload
that you receive your funds at the start of your them to your Advanced Education Student Portal
school term. account using the upload feature.
Applications for the upcoming loan year are If you do not have an Advanced Education Student
available in June. You only have to fill out one Portal account or need to submit documents on
application to be considered for both federal and behalf of the applicant, you can upload documents
provincial student aid. using the Post-Secondary Document Uploader.
If you have questions or need help with your
Online Application and Upload Features
application contact the Student Service Centre:
You can apply directly online through the Advanced
1-800-597-8278 toll-free within Canada
Education Student Portal by creating a new account
306-787-5620 in the Regina area or outside Canada
or using your existing one.
Email: studentservices@[Link]

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 DISCLAIMER: This timeline is a general overview of the funding and may not reflect the unique application.
Please reference your Assessment Summary Letter when reviewing your timeline to verify the funding for
which you qualify.

Before Classes Begin

Three months before program start date Complete your online application. Submit your required
documents to the Student Service Centre by uploading them
online.
When you receive your Assessment Summary New applicants must complete the two-step online MSFAA with
Letter and, if you are a new applicant, the National Student Loans Service Centre (NSLSC). Your Part-Time
instructions to complete the online Master or Full-Time MSFAA must be completed at least 3 weeks prior to
Student Financial Assistance Agreement your period of study end date to allow for processing time. See
(MSFAA). Your educational institution or any Receiving Your Student Loan section for more information.
third party is not allowed to complete your
MSFAA.
Classes Begin
Start of classes The full amount of your Canada Student Loan and the first half
of your Canada Student Grant will be paid. Your educational
institution may request a portion of your Canada funding
towards your tuition. See Page 14 (in the current handbook) for
more information on Confirming Your Enrollment.
The first half of your Saskatchewan Student Grant will be paid
directly to your bank account.
Second month of classes First monthly payment of Saskatchewan Student Loan is paid.
Payments will continue monthly throughout your study period in
accordance with your disbursement schedule. Your payment will
be deposited directly into your bank account.
Mid-point of classes Second payment of the Canada Student Grants and of the
Saskatchewan Student Grant.
While in school Inform the Student Service Centre immediately of any changes to
course load, income or personal information.

Program Ends
Approximately five months after end date Consolidation Letter is sent from the NSLSC.
(unless NSLSC is notified of return to
full-time studies)

First day of seventh month (unless NSLSC is First loan payment due.
notified of return to full-time studies)

Note: Applications and any changes must be received 30 days before your program
end date to allow time for processing.

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 How Full-Time Student Aid Allowable Expenses
is Calculated Your assistance may cover the following allowable
expenses:
Financial need is the amount you require to help
you meet your financial commitments. Educational Expenses

The formula to calculate the amount of assistance Allowable educational expenses include the actual
you will receive is as follows: costs of tuition and compulsory fees. Books and
supplies will be allowed as an expense up to a
Your Allowable Expenses minus Your Expected maximum of $3,000.
Contributions = Your Financial Need
Living Allowance
Example Scenarios Your living allowance provides funding for
• A student attending a full-time college or shelter, food, miscellaneous items and local
university program can expect to pay between public transportation. If you are a single student
$5,000 and $8,500 per year in tuition. Living living away from home, the shelter allowance
expenses will vary depending on if you live at is based on the expectation that you will share
home with your parents or spouse or relocate accommodations. Your living allowance is
to complete your education. determined by your student category, family
• If you are a single student and live at home size, and province where you are studying. The
while studying, your total expenses should be allowance is a standard allowance for a moderate
about $7,000 to $10,000, depending on your standard of living based on Statistics Canada’s
program of study. If you are single and live away Family Expenditure Survey.
from home, you can expect your expenses to As a single student or a married student living
be $11,000 to $15,000. If you have dependent in a different community than the family home
children, the cost will be higher. (your parents or spouse), an allowance will also be
included for one return trip home for each period
Tip! [Link]/student-financial- of 16 weeks, to a maximum of $600 per trip.
assistance offers a variety of online tools
to help you determine education costs and
budget your finances.

Saskatchewan Monthly Living Allowances

Student Category Approximate monthly living allowance
Single student living at home $591
Single student living away from home $1,352
Married student and spouse with child(ren) $2,622 + $667 for each child
Single parent with child(ren) $1,761 + $667 for each child

Note: These allowances are used to calculate your financial need. They are not the
monthly amount you may receive.

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 Saskatchewan Monthly Daycare Allowances
Number of Children Subsidized Unsubsidized Incidental Maximum
1 $85 $400 $200
2 $170 $540 $270
3 $255 $680 $340
4 or more $340 $820 $410

Daycare Allowance Fixed Student Contribution

If you have dependent children under 12 years of Students are expected to contribute to their
age and you require full-time daycare, you will be educational costs by providing a fixed student
assessed a daycare allowance. The exact amount contribution up to $3,000 per loan year, with the
you qualify for is based on how many children exact amount being calculated based on their gross
you have and whether your daycare costs are family income and family size.
subsidized. A $20 per day incidental rate, up to the
maximums outlined in the table above, may be Students are expected to use their income, assets,
allowed upon a written request for review. and other resources to make a fixed student
contribution to their education costs each year.
Child Support and/or Alimony There is no fixed student contribution for
If you or your spouse are making child support and/ Indigenous students, students with disabilities,
or alimony payments, you can claim this expense up students with children and students who are, or
to a maximum amount of $667 per child per month. were, Crown wards.
Submit an appeal with substantial documentation
to have this claim reviewed by our office. Students with gross family income from the
previous year equal to or below the low-income
threshold will contribute $1,500 for an eight-month
Expected Contributions
academic year.
Student Contribution
Low income thresholds by family size for the
The student contribution is comprised of: 2023-24 loan year are as follows :
• the fixed student contribution up to $3,000 per
loan year (described below): Family Low-income thresholds
• any scholarship or bursary more than $1,800 Size by family size
received in one loan year (e.g., university 1 $35,429
entrance scholarships, doctoral fellowships, and 2 $50,104
private sector scholarship funds); and 3 $61,365
• 100 per cent of all other funding you receive 4 $70,859
specifically to attend school such as training 5 $79,222
allowances from private sector or government 6 $86,784
excluding funding provided by the
Post-Secondary Student Support Program 7+ $93,737
(PSSSP), the Métis Nation Post-Secondary
Education Strategy and the Inuit Post-Secondary
Education Strategy to eligible indigenous
students.

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 • Independent students and single parents: $44 + $5.25/week = $49.25/week
family income is comprised of the student’s
income only (found on Line 150 of the student’s $49.25/week x 34 weeks = $1674.50
previous year’s T1 General Income Tax Form). Therefore, the student is expected to contribute
• Dependant students: family income is $1674.50 for the school year.
comprised of the student’s parental income
only, which is used as a proxy for the dependant Spousal Contribution
student (found on Line 150 of each parent’s The income amount used to determine the fixed
previous year’s T1 General Income Tax Form). spousal contribution is the same as the family
income used to calculate the fixed student
• Married/common-law students: family
contribution. The fixed spousal contribution for
income is comprised of the student’s income
a student with a family income below the low-
and spouse’s or partner’s income (found on
income threshold will be $0. For income above
Line 150 of their respective previous year’s T1
the low-income threshold, the contribution will
General Income Tax Form).
be 10 per cent on the amount of family income
Students with gross family income from the above the low-income threshold. No fixed spousal
previous year above the low-income threshold contributions are expected from spouses who
will contribute $1,500 for an eight-month are students themselves, spouses in receipt
academic year plus an additional 15 per cent of of Employment Insurance benefits or social
income above the threshold to a maximum total assistance, and spouses in receipt of federal or
contribution of $3,000. provincial disability benefits.
The expected fixed contribution will be pro-rated The expected fixed spousal contribution will be
weekly. The minimum weekly contribution is $44 prorated weekly. The number of study weeks used
per week up to the maximum weekly contribution to determine the fixed spousal contribution is
of $87 per week. The number of study weeks used capped at 34 weeks (i.e., an eight-month academic
to determine the fixed student contribution is year) for each loan year. This means that no spousal
capped at 34 weeks (i.e., an eight-month academic contribution will be calculated for more than 34
year) for each loan year. This means that no weeks even if the period of study is longer.
student contribution will be calculated for more
Example: Married student (no children) going to
than 34 weeks even if the period of study is longer.
school from September to April (8 months) with a
Example: Single independent student with previous previous year’s income of $25,000 plus their
year’s gross income of $35,000 going to school spouse’s previous year’s income of $30,000 gives
from September to April (8 months). them a gross family income of $55,000.
Each week, this student is expected to contribute: Each week, this student’s spouse is expected
$44 + 15% x (A - B) x 1/52 to contribute:

• A is the prior year’s gross family income 10% x (A - B) x 1/52

(Line 150 of T1 Income Tax Form); • A is the prior year’s gross family income; and
• B is the low-income threshold by family size • B is the low-income threshold by family size.
• $44 is the minimum weekly contribution 10% x ($55,000-$46,923) x 1/52 week = $15.53/
($87 is maximum weekly contribution) week
15% x ($35,000 - $33,180) x (1/52 week) = $15.53/week x 34 weeks = $528.02
$5.25/week

10 [Link]/studentloans
 Therefore, the spouse is expected to contribute the student applying for student aid), and any
$528.02 for the school year. dependants living in the household are all included
Each week, the student is expected to contribution: to determine family size.
($44 + 15% x ($55,000 - $46,923) x 1/52) x 34 = Completing the Parental Section of the application
$2,288.17 does not mean your parents are co-signing your
Therefore, the student is expected to contribute student loans. You, as the applicant, are solely
$2,288.17 for the school year. responsible for repaying your student loans.

Parental Contribution Use the following charts to estimate your

If you are a single dependant student, your parents parents’ contribution.
are expected to contribute towards your education, To calculate parental net income, refer to the
based on their discretionary income. Discretionary parental contribution example below. Subtract a
income is their combined income in the last Moderate Standard of Living (MSOL) expense to
complete taxation year, after deductions for income determine discretionary income.
tax, Canada Pension Plan, Employment Insurance,
and a moderate standard of living, based on family
size. Parents, their dependant children (including

A Parental Contribution Example

Parent 1 Parent 2
$30,000 Gross Income (Line 150 of tax return) $50,000
$1,169 Less CPP (Line 308 of tax return) $1,744
$514 Less EI (Line 312 of tax return) $670
$1,629 Less taxes payable (Line 435 of tax return) $6,551
$26,688 Net income $41,035
Combined net income $67,723
Less Moderate Standard of Living (family size of 3) $61,085
Discretionary income $6,638
Parental contribution per week of study. $20
For an eight-month (34 week) course, the parental contribution would be $680

The Moderate Standard of Living (MSOL) is based on Statistics Canada’s Family Expenditure Survey.

Family Size Saskatchewan Family Size Saskatchewan

2 $48,770 7 $86,810
3 $61,085 8 $90,863
4 $69,817 9 $94,438
5 $76,592 10 $97,638
6 $82,131
Your parents’ discretionary income is then applied to the Parental Contribution Table.

11 [Link]/studentloans
 Weekly Parental Contribution Table
Annual Weekly Annual Weekly Annual Weekly
discretionary parental discretionary parental discretionary parental
income contribution income contribution income contribution
8,500.01 - 17,000.01 -
0.01 - 500.00 $1 $28 $74
9,000.00 17,500.00
500.01 - 9,000.01 - 17,500.01 -
$3 $30 $78
1,000.00 9,500.00 18,000.00
1,000.01 - 9,500.01 - 18,000.01 -
$4 $32 $82
1,500.00 10,000.00 18,500.00
1,500.01 - 10,000.01 - 18,500.01 -
$6 $34 $86
2,000.00 10,500.00 19,000.00
2,000.01 - 10,500.01 - 19,000.01 -
$7 $36 $89
2,500 00 11,000.00 19,500.00
2,500.01 - 11,000.01 - 19,500.01 -
$9 $38 $93
3,000.00 11,500.00 20,000.00
3,000.01 - 11,500.01 - 20,000.01 -
$10 $39 $97
3,500.00 12,000.00 20,500.00
3,500.01 - 12,000.01 - 20,500.01 -
$12 $41 $101
4,000.00 12,500.00 21,000.00
4,000.01 - 12,500.01 - 21,000.01 -
$13 $43 $105
4,500.00 13,000.00 21,500.00
4,500.01 - 13,000.01 - 21,500.01 -
$14 $45 $109
5,000.00 13,500.00 22,000.00
5,000.01 - 13,500.01 - 22,000.01 -
$16 $47 $113
5,500.00 14,000.00 22,500.00
5,500.01 - 14,000.01 - 22,500.01 -
$17 $51 $116
6,000.00 14,500.00 23,000.00
6,000.01 - 14,500.01 - 23,000.01 -
$19 $55 $120
6,500.00 15,000.00 23,500.00
6,500.01 - 15,000.01 - 23,500.01 -
$20 $59 $124
7,000.00 15,500.00 24,000.00
7,000.01 - 15,500.01 - 24,000.01 -
$22 $63 $128
7,500.00 16,000.00 24,500.00
7,500.01 - 16,000.01 - 24,500.01 -
$24 $66 $132
8,000.00 16,500.00 25,000.00
8,000.01 - 16,500.01 - 25,000.01 -
$26 $70 $136
8,500.00 17,000.00 25,500.00
If your parents have two or more dependant children studying in full-time post-secondary education, the
parental contribution is divided accordingly.

12 [Link]/studentloans
 Receiving Your Funds contract, requiring a one-time signature, that
outlines your responsibilities and terms and
The National Student Loans Service Centre (NSLSC) conditions of accepting and repaying your
administers your loan on behalf of the Government provincial and federal student grants and loans.
of Canada and the Government of Saskatchewan.
This two-step process must be completed in order
to receive your student aid.
Your First Student Aid Application
Once your application has been assessed, first-time To complete this two-step process you will need to
applicants will receive an information package that have the following information:
will be posted to full-time and part-time students’ Your bank account information (Transit, Institution
online accounts. It will include: and Account number);
• an Assessment Summary Letter with • your SIN;
information on the amount of your student • your 10-digit MSFAA number; and
aid including the payment schedule for your
• your date of birth.
student loan and grants.
• your 10-digit Master Student Financial If you have already signed a MSFAA you do not
Assistance Agreement (MSFAA) number; and need to complete the online MSFAA process unless
you leave your study for two years or establish
• instructions on what to do with the MSFAA
residency in a new province or territory. Therefore,
number to get your student aid.
if you are a returning student who does not require
Students who have completed a full-time MSFAA a new MSFAA, NSLSC will send an email from info@
and are applying for part-time student loans [Link] with a subject line of “Important
must complete a new part-time MSFAA. The Update: Check your Mailbox” when the student
part-time MSFAA has different conditions than loan/grant funds are disbursed.
the full-time MSFAA.
If you have questions about the MSFAA process,
please visit [Link]
New applicants must complete a two-step [Link]/en/help for a list of Frequently Asked
online MSFAA process in order to receive their Questions (FAQs).
student aid. Educational institution officials If your information has changed, please contact the
or any third party are not allowed to complete NSLSC to update your account at:
your MSFAA.
Toll Free Telephone (within North America):
1-888-815-4514
Upon receiving your Assessment Summary Letter
and 10-digit MSFAA number, you will receive a Outside North America: 800-2-225-2501
“Welcome Email” from the National Student Loans TTY: 1 888 815-4556
Service Centre (NSLSC). A secure URL in the email
will invite you to use your MSFAA number to: This online MSFAA process must be completed
in order to receive your student aid. Remember,
1. Verify your identity by registering your account by signing the MSFAA you agree to accept
with the NSLSC; and responsibility for all funding you receive from that
2. Complete your MSFAA where you will be asked date forward. You will not have to sign another
to Accept the Terms and Conditions of the agreement for future student aid.
agreement.
The NSLSC will confirm your enrolment
Note: the MSFAA is a multi-year legally binding electronically with your school. If your school does

13 [Link]/studentloans
 not confirm enrolment electronically, the NSLSC will • you withdraw from studies on your own accord;
mail the confirmation of enrolment form to • you change schools during your study period; or
you or your school and the school will return it to
the NSLSC. • you are expelled before the end of your study
period.
Once your enrolment is confirmed, the NSLSC will
electronically deposit funds into the bank account It is your responsibility to contact the school
that you provided on the MSFAA. Please review regarding possible tuition refunds.
your Disbursement Schedule in your Assessment • One discontinuation: Receives a warning but
Summary Letter to determine when your payments remains eligible for student aid.
will be deposited. NOTE: Your educational • Two discontinuations: Lose eligibility for student
institution can choose to remit Federal Loans and aid for 12 months.
a portion of the Federal Grants directly towards
• Three discontinuations: Lose eligibility for
your tuition costs. Any outstanding tuition
student aid for a minimum of 36 months.
amounts are the responsibility of the student.

Maintaining Your Eligibility While Important!

If you withdraw during your first semester
in School or term and plan to attend in the second
semester or term, you must submit a new
Your Responsibilities application to the Student Service Centre.
After you have obtained your funds and are
attending classes, you must do the following to
During these periods of ineligibility you must
keep your interest-free status and stay eligible for
maintain your student loans in good standing to
future funding:
regain future eligibility.
• Continue to be enrolled in 60 per cent or more
• You must complete your studies within the
of a full course load each semester for a full-
required eligibility periods. For each level of
time student (40 per cent for students with
study, you are eligible for student aid for the
a disability). Your school determines what a
normal duration of the program plus one
full course load is for each term or semester
additional year. Students with disabilities are
of each study period. Full-time status must be
exempt from this criteria.
continuous. Periods of study that are less than
full-time cannot be combined and averaged to • You must not exceed the lifetime maximum of
be equivalent to full-time status; 340 weeks of study. The lifetime maximum may
be extended up to an additional 60 weeks (to a
• Achieve successful completion; and
maximum of 400 weeks) for full-time students
• Maintain regular attendance at all times. If enrolled in doctoral studies
your attendance drops below 90 per cent or
you miss more than three consecutive weeks • Students with disabilities may receive student
(21 calendar days), you will be considered aid for up to 520 weeks.
discontinued for student aid purposes. Your
study period will be considered unsuccessful. Important!
The lifetime maximum for assistance includes
You may be considered discontinued if you drop the weeks you received student aid and any
below the minimum required course load for the weeks you did not receive student aid but
following reasons: were in interest-free status.

14 [Link]/studentloans
 Keeping Government Student Loans Prior to your loan(s) entering the repayment phase,
Interest-Free the National Student Loans Service Centre will
send you a Consolidation Letter. It outlines your
Whether you take out a new student loan for
repayment terms and your minimum monthly
upcoming studies or not, your existing loan
payment. You also can negotiate your monthly
holder(s) need to know that you are still in school.
payment amounts with the National Student
If not, you will lose the interest-free status on your
Loans Service Centre, pay in lump sum or pay
existing loans and you will have to start repaying
out your loan early. Contact the National Student
loans earlier than expected.
Loans Service Centre if you have not received your
The NSLSC must receive Confirmation of Enrolment repayment information one month before your
information, completed by your post-secondary loans consolidate.
institution. This proves you have registered for
Even though you are not required to make a
upcoming studies.
payment for six months after completing your
If you are taking out a new loan, your school will studies, interest on Saskatchewan Student Loans
provide Confirmation of Enrolment as part of the will accumulate during this time. Any unpaid
process for full-time students. If you are not taking interest accumulated during this six-month period
out a new loan, you must provide Confirmation of will be capitalized and included in your principal
Enrolment which is available through your NSLSC balance at the time of consolidation. Your first loan
borrower account or at [Link]/student- payment is due:
financial-assistance. • On the first day of the seventh month following
Note: Part-Time loans will NOT defer the date your period of study ends; or
interest and/or payments for Full-Time • The end date you withdraw from studies.
loans
Example
• Period of Study End Date: April 30, 2022
Interest on Loan Payments
• Date six-month non-repayment period begins
Once you are in repayment, any interest (interest starts to accrue): May 1, 2022
you pay may be claimed on your income tax
return. For each year you are in repayment, • Date six-month non-repayment period ends:
you will receive a tax form indicating the October 31, 2022
amount of interest paid during that tax year • First loan payment due date: November 1, 2022
from the National Student Loans Service
Centre (or your financial institution if you have Interest on Canada Student Loans
a loan prior to 2001). As of April 1, 2023, the accrual of interest on
Canada Student Loans has been permanently
eliminated. Borrowers continue to be responsible
Repaying Your Student Loan to pay any interest that may have accrued before
April 1, 2023.
Consolidating Your Loan
Six months after you have completed full-time
study, whether you have graduated, transferred
to part-time studies, withdrawn, or you are taking
time off from your studies, you will need to begin
repaying your student loan. This is called student
loan consolidation.

15 [Link]/studentloans
 Interest on Saskatchewan Student Loans Repayment Assistance Plan
• Fixed Interest Rate (Prime plus 2.5%); or The Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) makes
• Floating Interest Rate (Prime). it easier for you to manage your debt. You can
pay back what you can reasonably afford, based
Your loans will be automatically consolidated with on your family income and family size. Monthly
the floating rate of interest. You will have a payments are limited to 10 per cent or less of a
one-time option of switching to the fixed rate of borrower’s gross family income. No borrower on
interest during your repayment period. RAP will have a repayment period of more than 15
To compare different repayment options, visit years, or 10 years for borrowers with disabilities. If
[Link]/student-financial-assistance to borrowers earn very little income, they may not be
check out the Loan Repayment Estimator. required to make loan payments until their income
increases. To apply, complete the online application
The National Student Loans Service Centre offers through your account with the National Student
online services to keep track of the activity on Loans Service Centre.
your student loan account as well as update your
personal information. Go to [Link]/ Repayment Assistance Plan – Disability
student-financial-assistance to register.
The Repayment Assistance Plan for Borrowers
1
Prime is defined by the Canada Student Financial Assistance Program with a Disability (RAP-D) is available to borrowers
in accordance with The Canada Student Loans Act or The Canada with either a permanent, or a persistent or
Student Financial Assistance Act
prolonged disability who are having difficulty
Note: Full-Time loans will defer interest for repaying their student loan debt. RAP-D makes it
Part-Time loans, however, Part-Time loans easier for you to manage your student debt and
will NOT defer interest and/or payments for will consider additional medical expenses related
Full-Time loans. to your disability. You can pay back what you can
reasonably afford based on your family income and
family size. Monthly payments are limited to 10 per
Maintaining Your Loan While in Repayment cent or less of a borrower’s gross family income
As a borrower, you are required to fulfill your and no borrower will have a repayment period of
obligations and responsibilities of the repayment more than 10 years. If borrowers earn very little
terms and conditions of your loan. Missing income, they may not be required to make any loan
payments could damage your credit rating, and payments until their income increases. To apply,
your student loan could go into default. Contact complete the online application and Disability
the National Student Loans Service Centre before Expense form through your account with the
you miss a payment. There are repayment options National Student Loans Service Centre.
available to help you manage your payments and
If you have a persistent or prolonged disability, you
avoid defaulting on your loan.
are required to confirm your ongoing eligibility
Defaulting on your loan will affect your credit score disability status through attestations and verifications.
and in turn, your ability to purchase something as
Note: If you are a student with a severe permanent
simple as buying a new cell phone.
disability who is prevented from working and going
Visit [Link]/student-financial-assistance to school and who will never be able to repay your
to find out more about repayment assistance and loans, you may benefit from having your loans
how to manage your student loan debt. immediately cancelled under the Severe Permanent
Disability Benefit.

16 [Link]/studentloans
 For more information, please visit [Link]. Bankruptcy and Overpayments
ca/student-financial-assistance or call the National
Student Loans Service Centre. Bankruptcy
Revision of Terms Are you a student loan borrower who:

You may ask the National Student Loans Service • Has filed for bankruptcy?
Centre about reducing your monthly payment • Has filed a consumer proposal?
amount by extending the length of time you take
• Is participating in a provincial arrangement for
to repay your loan. This will lower your monthly
the orderly payment of debts?
payments, but you will pay more interest over time.
Contact the National Student Loans Service Centre If so, contact the Student Service Centre at 1-800-
for more information. 597-8278 or studentservices@[Link] for more
information on student loan eligibility.
Loan Forgiveness for Nurses and Nurse
Practitioners Overpayments
The Saskatchewan Student Loan Forgiveness for An overpayment is assistance you received for
Nurses and Nurse Practitioners program encourages which you are not eligible. An overpayment can
nurses and nurse practitioners to work in smaller occur if your application is reassessed due to a
communities. As a nurse or nurse practitioner, you change in your circumstances.
could receive up to $4,000 per year in Saskatchewan
Student Loan forgiveness to a maximum of $20,000 For example, if you discontinued studies during a
over five years. Please visit [Link]/ study period or if an audit of your application
studentloans for more information. uncovered inaccurate information, the Student
Service Centre may determine that you have
You may also be eligible for federal loan forgiveness been overpaid.
on your Canada student loans. The Canada Student
Financial Assistance Program offers federal loan Overpayment amounts are deducted from future
forgiveness for nurses and nurse practitioners, student aid awarded under the program. It is your
as well as family doctors and family medicine responsibility to contact your school to ensure
residents, serving in rural and remote communities. possible tuition refunds have been processed. This
Please visit [Link]/student-financial- may reduce the amount of your
assistance for more information. outstanding overpayment.
Note: Students can appeal overpayments and
Loan Forgiveness for Veterinarians and grant to loan conversion on the grounds that the
Veterinary Technologists withdrawal or change to part-or full-time status
was the result of unforeseen and unavoidable
This program encourages Veterinarians and circumstances or if the educational institution
Veterinary Technologists to work in smaller made an error in reporting the withdrawal from
communities. You could receive up to $4,000 per full-time studies. Supporting documentation will be
year in Saskatchewan Student Loan forgiveness to a required. Appeals must be made within six months
maximum of $20,000 over five years. Please visit of the date the conversion occurred.
[Link]/studentloans for more information.

17 [Link]/studentloans
 Falsified Information measures specifically refer to the individual being
restricted from Saskatchewan Student Aid, such as
The Saskatchewan Student Aid Program is loans, grants, repayment assistance and in-study
dedicated to providing student aid to support interest-free status, for a period of one to five
students seeking post-secondary education under years.
the terms of federal and provincial student aid
legislation and policy. If you know of someone providing false information
while receiving a financial benefit, please
It is an offence under The Canada Student Financial contact Audit Services, who are responsible for
Assistance Act and The Saskatchewan Student investigating allegations of improper funding.
Assistance and Student Aid Fund Act, 1985 to Allegations are serious and all contacts will be
knowingly give false or misleading information investigated. We assure you that you will remain
on your application or other forms. Offences may anonymous.
also be punishable under the Criminal Code of
Canada. All of the information submitted on your Audit Services Unit
application is subject to audit and verification.
Telephone: 1-800-597-8278 (option 3)
If it is determined that an individual knowingly
Mailing Address: Audit Services
committed fraud or misrepresentation, the Canada
Ministry of Advanced
Student Financial Assistance Program may apply
Education
administrative measures and possibly require
PO Box 2405 STN Main
the individual to immediately repay loans or
Regina, Saskatchewan
grants received through misrepresentation (as
S4P 4L7
per subsection 17.1(1) of The Canada Student
Financial Assistance Act and subsection 18.1(1)
of The Canada Student Loans Act). Administrative E-mail: [Link]@[Link]

18 [Link]/studentloans
 Scholarships
The Ministry of Advanced Education administers Scholarship of Honour
scholarships for students who are entering The Saskatchewan Scholarship of Honour
post-secondary education and individuals in recognizes Saskatchewan men and women who
graduate studies. Visit the Scholarships and Grants have served in a military operation since January
page at [Link] for more information or 2001. The Scholarship is also available to family
an application for the scholarships below. members (spouse and children) of Canadian Forces
members who were permanently disabled or
Studying in French? Federal-Provincial deceased while serving in a designation military
Scholarships for Students in French operation, or as a result of a designated military
The Federal-Provincial Fellowship scholarship is operation. Eligible individuals will receive a $5,000
designed to encourage Saskatchewan students to scholarship to assist with post-secondary
study in French in Saskatchewan or at an out-of- education expenses.
province post-secondary institution when program
of study is not offered in Saskatchewan. Queen Elizabeth II Scholarship
This $20,000 scholarship is awarded annually,
Saskatchewan Advantage Scholarship to support graduate or post-graduate study of
The Saskatchewan Advantage Scholarship provides Saskatchewan politics and government at either
eligible Saskatchewan grade 12 graduates of Saskatchewan’s universities. The scholarship
(2012 and after) who enrol at a Saskatchewan is awarded on the basis of academic excellence
post-secondary institution in a program that is to one student or split equally between
recognized for Canada-Saskatchewan student aid deserving candidates.
(certificate, diploma, and degree programs), with
up to $750 per year to a lifetime maximum of Queen Elizabeth II Centennial Aboriginal
$3,000. Scholarship
Students are required to apply for a student This $20,000 scholarship is to be awarded
loan to be assessed for the scholarship. Through annually to First Nations and Métis students
the student loan assessment, students with who are pursuing graduate studies in any field
demonstrated need will receive the scholarship. at any accredited university in Saskatchewan.
Programs at post-secondary institutions outside of Students must have graduated from a university in
Saskatchewan are not eligible, with the exception Saskatchewan. Preference will be given to students
of both Lakeland College campuses, as well as who have attended or received an undergraduate
specific specialized health program seats. degree from the First Nations University of
Canada. The scholarship is awarded on the basis
Other program details: of academic excellence to one student or split
• Students have up to 10 years to receive the between equally deserving candidates.
maximum of $3,000.
• The scholarship is available to both full-time
and part-time students.

19 [Link]/studentloans
 Contact Information
It is important to keep your file up to date with For questions on receiving your payments or
the National Student Loans Service Centre and the repaying your loan:
Student Service Centre. You must provide them National Student Loans Service Centre
with any changes to your personal information, P.O. Box 4030
including address changes, while you are in school Mississauga, Ontario L5A 4M4
and after graduation.
Telephone within North America: 1-888-815-4514
For questions on the assessment of Outside North America with an international access
your loan: code: 1-800-2-225-2501
Countries outside of North America without
Student Service Centre an international access code: Call the Canadian
Ministry of Advanced Education operator at 800-0800-096-0634; then call collect
1120 - 2010 12th Avenue 905-306-2950
Regina, Saskatchewan S4P 0M3
TTY: 1-888-815-4556
Telephone outside Regina: 1-800-597-8278 Fax: 1-888-815-4657
In the Regina area or outside Canada:
306-787-5620 Website: [Link]/student-financial-
assistance
Email: studentservices@[Link] Vous pouvez obtenir cette publication en français
Website: [Link]/studentloans au à : [Link]/studentloans
For security reasons, do not include your SIN if you
contact us by email.

20 [Link]/studentloans
 Glossary
Academic year: defined by your school, up to a Designated institution: schools where students are
maximum of 12 months. An academic year may eligible to receive student aid.
comprise multiple terms or semesters, including
spring and summer session. Discretionary income: disposable income after
taxes and living expenses.
Allowable expenses: expenses used in the
calculation of your funding amount. Financial need: amount required to supplement
your existing funds to meet your financial commitment.
Assessment Summary Letter: information on
the calculation of your student aid and the Full-time student: enrolled in 60 per cent of a
payment schedule. full course load (or 40 per cent for students with
disabilities) as determined by the school.
Bursary: funding that does not have to be
paid back. Grant: funding that does not have to be paid back
unless you withdraw within 30 of the program start
Capitalization: this happens when you add unpaid date, in which, grant funding will have to
accumulated interest to the principal of a loan. It be paid back. This is referred to as a grant to
increases the total principal outstanding. loan conversion.
Confirmation of Enrolment: confirms that you Independent student: a single student with no
are enrolled in school full-time. Confirmation of children who has been out of high school for more
Enrolment is done electronically between your than four years or in the work force for at least two
school and the National Student Loans periods of 12 consecutive months (two years).
Service Centre.
Interest-free status: while you are in school full-
Consolidation Letter: a letter is sent to you (the time, the Government of Saskatchewan will pay the
borrower) when you enter the repayment phase of interest on your student loans.
your loan, indicating the terms of repayment. The
first loan payment is due on the first day of the 7th Lifetime maximum: the maximum time frame (340
month after classes end in your final term. weeks) you are eligible to receive funding and to
maintain your student loans in interest-free status.
Default: when you are behind on your payments Students in doctoral studies receive 400 weeks and
for nine or more months and collection activities students with a disability receive 520 weeks.
are required. Defaulting on your loan will make
you ineligible from receiving future Saskatchewan Loan Year: defined as beginning August 1st of each
Student Aid or from applying for repayment year and ending July 31st of the following year.
assistance under the Repayment Assistance Plan. Moderate standard of living: amount determined
Dependant student: a single student with no by Statistics Canada that is required to maintain a
children who has been out of high school for less moderate standard of living per family size.
than four years or in the work force for less than National Student Loans Service Centre: the service
two periods of 12 consecutive months (two years). provider responsible for the payment and collection
Designation: process by which schools obtain the of your student loan and grant funds on behalf of
necessary recognition that allows their students to the Government of Canada and the Government of
be eligible for student aid. Saskatchewan.

21 [Link]/studentloans
 Non-Repayment (Grace) Period: the six-month Resident: a person who has resided in the province
period after you graduate or leave school during for 12 consecutive months prior to the first day of
which you are not required to make loan payments. their study period.
However, interest on your loan accumulates (builds
up) during this period and you are responsible for Scholarship: funding which is merit- based, and
paying this interest. You can choose to add it to does not have to be paid back.
your principal (capitalization), but if you do, you will Study period: length of time that a student is
not be able to claim the interest on your income tax enrolled at a designated institution throughout the
return. Please note this is not the same as school year. (September to April, for example).
interest-free status.
Successful completion: passing a minimum of 60
Overpayment: amount of student aid you received per cent of a full course load or 40 per cent of a full
for which you are not eligible. course load for students with a disability.
Permanent disability: any impairment, including Withdrawal: dropping below the required course
physical, mental, intellectual, cognitive, learning, load for the study period/program for which you
communication or sensory impairment – or a have received funding.
functional limitation – that restricts the ability of
a person to perform the daily activities necessary
to pursue studies at a post-secondary school
level or to participate in the labour force and that
is expected to remain with the person for the
person’s expected life.
Persistent or prolonged disability: any impairment,
including a physical, mental, intellectual, cognitive,
learning, communication or sensory impairment –
or a functional limitation – that restricts the ability
of a person to perform the daily activities necessary
to pursue studies at a post-secondary school level
or to participate in the labour force and has lasted,
or is expected to last, for a period of at least 12
months, but is not expected to remain with the
person for the person’s expected life.

22 [Link]/studentloans
Saskatchewan Student Aid Handbook
Saskatchewan Student Aid Program
Important Steps in Planning and Financing Your Post-Secondary Education
2023-24

Need more information?

Telephone: Outside Regina call toll-free: 1-800-597-8278
Regina area (or outside Canada): 306-787-5620
Business Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday
Mailing Address: Student Service Centre
Ministry of Advanced Education
1120 - 2010 12th Avenue
Regina, Saskatchewan S4P 0M3
[Link]/studentloans
[Link]/student-financial-assistance
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