Course Load Requirements

The post-secondary educational institution determines the student’s course load percentage based on the number of courses a student is taking compared to the standard number of courses for the program of study. If attending university, the school typically considers five courses to be 100% of a full course load.

To receive funding for full-time studies, students must register for the following course load percentages:

  • Provincial Funding: at least 80% of a full course load
  • Federal Funding: at least 60% of a full course load
  • Students with Disabilities: at least 40% of a full course load to be eligible for both provincial and federal funding.

Students without a verified disability completing 60% of a full course load may be eligible to receive provincial funding for full-time studies with a Reduced Course Load Request Form if they are:

  1. A single parent who has a child (or children) under 12 years of age and who:
    • are enrolled in at least 60% of a full course load that includes at least one university credit course requiring lab time in addition to regular classroom time; or
    • has a child (or children) with special needs; or
    • has other personal circumstances that merit special consideration.
  2. A student who has:
    • a severe medical condition; or
    • recently experienced a trauma that merits special consideration; or
    • other documented extenuating circumstances.

Note: There is part-time student financial assistance available for students taking less than 60% of a full course load (less than 40% for students with a verified disability).

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