Phase 1: Application
Submit your application via the National Student Loans Service Centre (NSLSC). Timing is critical; applications should be submitted as soon as your 6-month grace period ends.
View Process REPAYMENT
ASSISTANCE.
Protecting the financial future of Canadian graduates. Sustainable debt management through the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP). Simple. Fair. Necessary.
0$
Minimum Payment
Qualifying applicants may have their monthly payments reduced to zero based on current income levels.
6mo
Standard Term
Assistance is granted in six-month blocks, providing a structured window for financial stabilization.
15yr
Max Duration
The government ensures that no student debt lasts longer than 15 years through targeted intervention.
Eligibility Criteria
Accessing the Repayment Assistance Plan requires meeting specific federal and provincial standards. This program is designed for those whose debt load is disproportionate to their current gross income. We focus on ensuring that essential living costs are prioritized over debt servicing.
Eligibility is not a one-time assessment. It is a reflection of your current economic reality. Whether you are navigating Federal and Provincial Loans or seeking specialized support, understanding these thresholds is the first step toward stability.
- Residency in Canada is mandatory for standard RAP.
- Loans must be in good standing (not in default).
- Income must fall below the established threshold.
"Financial stability is not a luxury; it is the foundation of a contributing society."
Monthly Income Thresholds
The following table outlines the gross monthly income levels required to qualify for a $0 payment. If your income exceeds these amounts, you may still qualify for a reduced payment.
| Family Size | Gross Monthly Income |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $3,333+ |
| 2 Persons | $4,714+ |
| 3 Persons | $5,773+ |
| 4 Persons | $6,666+ |
*Figures are subject to annual adjustments by the Government of Canada. Always verify through official portals.
Management Strategies
Status Maintenance
Assistance is not permanent. You must re-apply every six months to maintain your status. Failure to re-apply results in immediate reversion to standard monthly payments.
Stay CompliantDisability Access
The RAP-D (Permanent Disability) plan offers additional considerations for medical expenses and specialized equipment, further reducing the repayment burden.
Explore RAP-DThe Philosophy of Responsibility
Repayment assistance is more than a financial tool; it is a commitment to the mental and economic well-veing of our graduates. When individuals are crushed by debt, innovation and community participation suffer. By utilizing the RAP, you are choosing a path of responsible management that respects both your current limitations and your future potential.
It is essential to understand that during the first stage of RAP, the government covers the interest that your monthly payment does not cover. In the second stage—after you have received RAP for 60 months or have been out of school for 10 years—the government begins to cover both principal and interest. This ensures that your loan balance actually decreases over time.
We encourage all graduates in Ottawa and across Canada to integrate this plan into their Financial Literacy Basics. Understanding the mechanics of debt reduction is the only way to ensure long-term freedom from student obligations.
Take Control of Your Future Today
Do not wait for debt to become unmanageable. Review your eligibility for the Repayment Assistance Plan and secure your financial peace of mind.