If you want to become a personal support worker (PSW) in Ontario, education costs may be a barrier, with many full-time diploma programs ranging from $1,500 to over $10,000 in tuition. The good news is that Hart College offers several government funding options for PSW 2024 programs to lower the financial burden for aspiring students across Ontario.
Government Assistance for PSW Skills Training
One of the main initiatives is the Ontario Skills Advance Grant, which provides up to $5,000 in education financial assistance for unemployed, underemployed and new graduate adults seeking in-demand skills like PSW training (Ontario Government, 2023). As of 2024, funding support from this grant is still available and can be put towards covering tuition fees for PSW programs at approved colleges and institutions.
Free Online PSW Courses
If interested in training as a PSW, another government-funded option is taking the free online courses offered through Employment Ontario (Employment Ontario, 2023). While they do not lead to formal PSW certification, these free online courses teach foundational skills needed for roles assisting clients with daily living activities in-home care or long-term care settings.
Apprenticeship and Pre-apprenticeship Supports
The provincial government additionally provides grant funding of up to $5,000 for females looking at careers in skilled trades and technology through Women in Skilled Trades micro-credential programs (Ontario Government, 2023). Some of these initiatives offer introductions to PSW responsibilities like patient mobility, lifting and transfers, and personal care assistance for those considering a PSW apprenticeship pathway.
As a personal support worker (PSW), you’ll make a big difference in the lives of long-term care residents by helping with daily activities, providing companionship, and improving quality of life.
Quick Facts
- 24,000 new PSWs needed by 2026
- Train in as little as 5 months
- Up to $25,400 in incentives for new and current students since April 1, 2023
Government Incentives
Ontario offers incentives of up to $25,400 for new PSW students and graduates.
Placement Stipend: Up to $5,400 while completing clinical placement in long-term care or home/community care.
Commitment Incentives: Commit to 12 months in long-term care for $10,000, plus another $10,000 if in a rural/remote/northern location. Payments at 6 and 12 months.
So in 2024, Ontario will continue providing financial aid options including skills training grants, free introductory courses, and targeted support to get more individuals trained for and working in the high-demand PSW field.
At Hart College, we offer Financial Aid options. To determine which program you are eligible for, simply fill out the ‘Information Request’ form, and one of our Hart College Financial Aid Officers will reach out to you
Reference: Become a personal support worker https://www.ontario.ca/page/become-personal-support-worker