Ontario Announces Tuition Support for PSWs and Practical Nurses

Want to sharpen your skills to become a registered nurse? You could get up to $10,000 in funding to become an RN!

In an effort to address shortcomings in Ontario's long-term care system, which have been exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic, the Ontario government will spend $100 million over the next few years to train personal support workers (PSW) and licensed practical nurses.

If you've got some training already, this could be a great chance for you to build your skill set, take on a more demanding role, and care for Canada's growing elderly population.

New funding over the next four years

Aspiring PSWs got a leg up in March, 2021, when the government announced tuition-free training for personal support workers. The program bolstered PSW ranks across the country, and led to many students' first jobs in the healthcare sector.

$6,000 per year for personal support workers

Now, PSWs will be eligible for $6,000 per year in tuition support to "level up" and become a registered practical nurse (RPN). Practical nurses assist patients in routine matters — if you've ever had your blood drawn, you've probably met an RPN!

$10,000 per year for practical nurse

If you're already trained as a practical nurse, and you want to make the leap to become a registered nurse (RN), you could get up to $10,000 per year in tuition funding to help you realize your dreams. Becoming an RN typically means completing a four-year bachelor's degree, where you'll develop a wide suite of skills that will let you work in a wide array of healthcare environments.

Funding for internationally trained nurses

If you've already been trained as a nurse in a jurisdiction outside Canada, you may be eligible for up to $6,000 per year to help you shore up your credentials so you can work in Ontario! This could be just the ticket you need to earn a stable living in the healthcare field here in Canada.

Legislation still to come

Of course, announcements are easy — implementation is more difficult. The legislation needed to make these programs real is currently up for debate in the Ontario legislature. We'll bring you more information when it's available.

We hope these programs will help address the shortage of nurses practicing in Canada, and help provide a better quality of life for some of the country's most vulnerable people.