For many Canadians, the idea of getting paid to pursue education sounds too good to be true. But with an increasing number of programs, scholarships, and grants available, this dream can actually become a reality. Online education has made it even more accessible for people across the country. Whether you’re looking to start a new career, level up in your current one, or return to school after a long break, there are options available.
This guide will break down how you can get paid to go to school online in Canada. We’ll cover funding opportunities such as grants, scholarships, bursaries, government programs, employer benefits, and even innovative ways some Canadians are getting their tuition covered. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to turn your educational goals into an affordable—and even financially rewarding—experience.
Why Online Education?
Online learning has gained massive popularity in recent years—and for good reason. It offers flexibility, allowing you to study anywhere and often on your own time. This means you can balance school with work, parenting, or other responsibilities. It’s especially ideal for Canadians living in rural or remote areas who may not have access to physical campuses.
But beyond the convenience, many online schools and programs have made it possible for students to earn money or avoid significant debt while pursuing education. For Canadians interested in this, the key lies in tapping into the resources available, starting with financial aid.
How to Get Paid to Go to School Online
Here are some practical steps and options that can help Canadian students get paid while studying online:
1. Explore Government Grants and Scholarships
If you’re a Canadian, the government is one of the best places to start looking for financial aid. There are countless programs designed to assist students with paying for school. Many of these don’t even require repayment, which is essentially like getting paid to study.
Examples of Canadian Grants:
- Canada Student Grants for Full-Time and Part-Time Students
These grants provide financial assistance based on your income level. Students from low to middle-income households can qualify for up to $6,000 per year. You can apply through your provincial student aid office. - Canada Apprentice Loan and Grants
If you’re pursuing a trade-related apprenticeship online, you may be eligible for grants designed to cover tuition costs and tools. The Apprenticeship Incentive Grant, for example, offers $1,000 per year to qualified individuals.
Scholarships to Consider:
Scholarships in Canada are abundant and cater to a variety of groups, including Indigenous students, single parents, and those excelling in academics or community service. Some notable ones include:
- The Schulich Leader Scholarship – For students pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) fields.
- Indspire’s Bursaries for Indigenous Students – Covers educational costs for Indigenous learners in Canada.
- RBC Future Launch Scholarship – Up to $1,500 to support students pursuing skills-based learning.
You can search for scholarships online using platforms like ScholarshipsCanada or Yconic, which help match you to opportunities based on your profile.
2. Employer-Sponsored Education Programs
If you’re currently working, check if your employer offers tuition assistance or education reimbursement programs. Many Canadian companies recognize the value of employee education and are willing to finance courses related to your role or professional development.
For example:
- Large banks like TD Bank and Scotiabank in Canada often offer tuition coverage for employees pursuing degrees in fields such as finance, IT, or business.
- Tech companies such as Shopify provide learning stipends that employees can use for online education.
By continuing to work while studying, you’ll not only earn income but also offset education costs directly through these programs.
3. Apply to Tuition-Free or Paid Online Programs
Did you know some online programs allow you to earn money while studying? Certain initiatives provide students with stipends, payments for research, or even tuition-free models.
Examples of Tuition-Free or Affordable Online Schools:
- University of the People – Although based in the U.S., this institution offers tuition-free, accredited online programs. While there are small administrative fees, the total costs are highly affordable, even for international students like Canadians.
- Athabasca University (Based in Alberta, Canada) – While not tuition-free, Athabasca offers many opportunities for financial aid and scholarships for Canadians pursuing distance learning.
Other Ways to Get Paid:
Some programs partner with companies to offer work placements as part of your degree, where you’ll earn money while studying. Look for online co-op programs or internships paired with your online courses.
4. Provincial Financial Aid Programs
Your province of residence may offer additional grants or bursaries specifically for local students. For instance:
- Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP): Provides financial aid to students enrolling in online or in-person programs.
- Alberta Grant for Part-Time Students: Helps cover the cost of part-time education for residents of Alberta.
- British Columbia Training and Education Savings Grant (BCTESG): Offers a lump sum payment of $1,200 towards an eligible Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP).
Each province has its own resources, so it’s essential to research what’s available in your area.
5. Work-Integrated Learning Opportunities
Online degrees don’t have to remove you from the workforce. Many Canadians take advantage of work-integrated programs where schools partner with employers. Co-ops, internships, or apprenticeship-style opportunities allow students to gain experience while being paid.
Consider programs with online components in business, technology, or healthcare—fields where such opportunities are common.
6. Crowdfunding and Alternative Means
This option might surprise you, but many Canadians have successfully turned to crowdfunding to pay for their online education. Platforms like GoFundMe or FundRazr allow you to share your story and ask friends, family, and even strangers to contribute.
Example success story:
- A single mother in Halifax raised over $10,000 through GoFundMe to cover her tuition costs for an online nursing program.
While this approach may not work for everyone, it’s worth considering if you have an inspiring backstory or a strong social support network.
Tips for Applying for Financial Assistance
Applying for funding can feel overwhelming, but remember, every dollar you secure is money you don’t have to pay out-of-pocket. Here are some tips to make the process smoother:
- Start Early – Application deadlines come quickly. Begin researching grants, scholarships, and bursaries well before you enroll.
- Tailor Your Application – Each application is unique. Write personalized essays or include required documents specific to the funding opportunity.
- Focus on Your Strengths – Highlight your achievements, academic records, or unique circumstances that make you a strong candidate.
- Aim for More Than One Opportunity – Don’t stop at one grant or scholarship. Apply to as many as you qualify for to maximize your chances.
Real-Life Success Stories
To inspire you further, here are examples of Canadians who’ve successfully got paid to pursue online school:
- Rebecca from Calgary: Rebecca used grants through Alberta student aid to cover the full cost of her online degree in early childhood education. She also received a $1,000 bursary for excelling academically in her year two courses.
- Julianna from Toronto: A single parent, Julianna applied for and received the RBC Future Launch Scholarship as well as federal support from the Canada Student Grant program. These funds paid for her part-time social work program while she balanced her job and parenting duties.
Final Thoughts
Canadians have more opportunities than ever before to get paid to attend school online. Between government support, employer programs, scholarships, and innovative tuition-free models, there’s something for everyone. By doing the research and taking advantage of these financial aid options, you can focus on achieving your academic and professional goals without the stress of mounting debt.
Remember, education isn’t just an investment in your future—it can also be a way to improve your financial situation right now. Start exploring your options today, and take the first step towards getting paid to learn.
