Update 26: April 22, 5 p.m.
Federal government proposes support for students and new grads affected by COVID-19
On April 22 the Government of Canada proposed comprehensive support of nearly $9 billion for post-secondary students and recent graduates. This plan will provide students with financial support this summer, help them continue their studies in the fall, and provide opportunities for many to get the experience they need to start their careers.
These measures include launching:
- The proposed Canada Emergency Student Benefit, which would support students and new graduates who are not eligible for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit. This benefit would provide $1,250 per month for eligible students or $1,750 per month for eligible students with dependents or disabilities. The benefit would be available from May to August 2020.
- The new Canada Student Service Grant, which will help students gain valuable work experience and skills while they help their communities during the COVID‑19 pandemic. Through this grant, students who choose to do national service and serve their communities will receive up to $5,000 for their education in the fall.
In addition, the government announced plans to:
- Double the Canada Student Grants for all eligible full-time students to up to $6,000, and up to $3,600 for part-time students in 2020-2021. The Canada Student Grants for Students with Permanent Disabilities and Students with Dependents would also be doubled.
- Broaden eligibility for student financial assistance, and enhance the Canada Student Loans Program by raising the maximum weekly amount that can be provided to a student in 2020-2021 from $210 to $350.
- Increase support for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation students pursuing post-secondary education.
- Extend expiring federal graduate research scholarships and postdoctoral fellowships, and supplement existing federal research grants, to support students and postdoctoral fellows. In addition, the government intends to enhance work opportunities for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows through the National Research Council of Canada.
As part of this initiative, the Government of Canada will introduce legislation to be considered by Parliament.
