If you’re a student in Canada, 2025 might be the year your education gets more affordable. With the CRA Student Grants & Loans program, eligible full-time students can receive up to $4,200 per year — that’s $525 per month — to help cover the rising costs of tuition and living expenses. And that’s just the start. There are also student loans, tax credits, and even loan forgiveness options for certain professions.
Here’s a full breakdown of what’s available, who qualifies, and how you can make the most of these financial support options.
Table of Contents
Grants
The Canada Student Grant for Full-Time Students offers direct, non-repayable financial aid to students who meet specific criteria. If you’re struggling to pay for school, this grant could be a game-changer.
Here’s what you could get:
| Benefit | Amount |
|---|---|
| Monthly Grant | $525 |
| Annual Grant (Max) | $4,200 |
To qualify, students must:
- Be enrolled full-time at a recognized post-secondary institution.
- Show financial need based on income and family size.
- Stay in good academic standing (depending on institution policies).
For example, a single student from a family earning less than $36,811 per year could be eligible for the maximum grant amount.
Loans
On top of grants, students can apply for government-backed student loans. These are interest-free while you’re in school and come with flexible repayment options after graduation.
A major update for 2025: the weekly student loan limit has been temporarily increased to $300.
| Loan Detail | 2025 Update |
|---|---|
| Weekly Loan Limit | Up to $300/week |
| Interest While in School | 0% (deferred) |
This increase aims to help students manage rising education costs, especially those attending out-of-province or high-cost programs.
Forgiveness
Now here’s some excellent news — if you’re studying in a field that serves rural or underserved communities, you may be eligible for loan forgiveness after graduation.
Professions that qualify:
- Family doctors
- Dentists
- Nurses
- Pharmacists
- Psychologists
- Social workers
- Educators
- Personal support workers
Eligible professionals could receive up to:
| Profession | Max Forgiveness |
|---|---|
| Family physicians, dentists | Up to $16,000 |
| Nurses, educators, others | Varies |
This is a great incentive for grads willing to serve in remote areas while reducing their debt.
Eligibility
Before applying, make sure you meet the CRA Student Grants & Loans eligibility criteria:
- Financial Need: You must demonstrate need based on your family income and dependents.
- Enrollment: You must be enrolled full-time in a recognized program.
- Income Threshold: Lower-income families qualify for more support.
Here’s a quick glance:
| Eligibility Factor | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | Full-time in designated school |
| Income Threshold (Single) | Below $36,811 for full support |
| Academic Standing | Must maintain school eligibility |
Benefits
Beyond grants and loans, students in 2025 can also tap into several tax and education benefits. These perks help reduce your tax bill and education-related expenses:
- Tuition Tax Credit
Claim up to $5,000 in eligible tuition fees to lower your tax payable. - Student Loan Interest Deduction
Deduct interest paid on student loans from your taxable income. - Canada Training Credit (CTC)
A refundable credit of $250/year, up to $5,000 lifetime, for job training expenses. - Moving Expenses Deduction
If you move 40 km or more for full-time studies, you can deduct relocation costs. - Student Tax-Free Threshold
Students earning under $15,000 may not need to pay federal income tax. - Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP)
A government-backed savings plan with matching contributions and tax-sheltered growth.
Here’s a summary table of the top student tax benefits:
| Benefit | Max Value |
|---|---|
| Tuition Tax Credit | $5,000 |
| Canada Training Credit (CTC) | $250/year, up to $5,000 |
| Student Loan Interest Deduction | Based on loan interest |
| Moving Expenses | Varies |
| Tax-Free Threshold | $15,000/year |
These extra benefits are especially valuable if you’re working part-time or planning to transition into the workforce.
With tuition and living expenses on the rise, the CRA’s Student Grants & Loans program in 2025 offers a much-needed financial lifeline. Whether you’re just starting your education journey or returning to school, the mix of grants, tax breaks, and loan support can make a real difference. And if you plan to serve in a rural community after graduation? Even better — you could see a big chunk of your loan wiped clean.
FAQs
How much is the 2025 student grant?
Up to $4,200 per year or $525 per month.
What is the weekly loan limit in 2025?
It’s temporarily increased to $300 per week.
Who qualifies for loan forgiveness?
Doctors, nurses, teachers in rural or underserved areas.
Can I deduct tuition from taxes?
Yes, up to $5,000 as a tuition tax credit.
What’s the student tax-free threshold?
Students earning under $15,000 pay no federal tax.
