Early Childhood Education (ECE) Grants
Effective August 1, 2002, the Province implemented a debt reduction grant
program for students in ECE programs.
You qualify if:
- you graduate from an approved ECE program within the Province;
- you have applied and been deemed eligible for assistance for at least
half of the required length of the program;
- you borrow in excess of $165 per borrowing week during a given semester;
- you completed the program within the normal length of the program plus a
grace period of up to one academic year (two semesters); and,
- you obtain full-time employment (at least 30 hours per week) in a
licensed family home or childcare centre within the Province for a period of
at least 24 months.
You do not have to fill out an application form. The Student Financial
Services Division will notify you if you meet the eligibility requirements. If
you qualify, the outstanding balance of your provincial loan will be adjusted
upon confirmation that you have met all requirements.
Questions and Answers
What if a graduate can not find employment “in the field”?
While this would be unfortunate, the student would be deemed ineligible to
receive the grant, as one of the conditions is proving employment status prior
to issue.
What is considered “full time” employment?
Employed on average for 30 hours per week.
Is there an appeals mechanism for those deemed ineligible?
Yes. Those deemed ineligible will have access to an appeals process. Deadline
dates do apply.
What is the value of the grant? Will it equal the full PSL borrowed by a
candidate for an ECE program?
The value of the grant will depend on the amount of weekly need. In all cases
the Grant will not exceed $140 per week of study.
What if a person does not maintain employment for 24 months immediately after
graduation?
In such cases students may be required to repay a portion of the grant they
received.