Nova Scotia Student Assistance (Disability Grants)
NS Student Aid
Nova Scotia Student Assistance provides loans and grants for post-secondary students. Students with disabilities are automatically assessed for the Canada Student Grant for Students with Disabilities (up to $2,800 per year until the end of the 2026 to 2027 school year) and can apply for the Canada Student Grant for Services and Equipment (up to $20,000 per year) for items such as tutors, note-takers, learning strategists, and assistive technology.
Last reviewed: October 2026
Useful Tips for Applying
Submit the Verification of Disability form early so your grants are ready when classes start. Apply for the services and equipment grant separately in MyPATH, since it is not automatic. Work with your school's accessibility services office to identify the equipment and services that would help you most.
Required Documents
A completed Verification of Disability form signed by a qualified professional, proof of enrollment in a designated post-secondary program, and your Nova Scotia Student Assistance application.
How to Apply
Apply through Nova Scotia Student Assistance online; you are automatically assessed for the disability grant when you apply if you meet the disability criteria. Apply separately for the services and equipment grant through your MyPATH account with a Verification of Disability form.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is not submitting the Verification of Disability form, which is needed for both grants. Another is not applying separately for the services and equipment grant, which requires its own application. Students also miss that the grants do not need to be repaid, unlike loans.
Looking for help with disability equipment?
Explore our Canada-wide guide to assistive technology and disability equipment funding, including provincial programs, workplace supports, tax considerations, and community resources.
Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador)
Independent Living Nova Scotia (ILNS) operates a federally funded Disability Benefits Navigation service. ILNS DTC Navigators provide free, bilingual, one-to-one support to help people with disabilities and their families across Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador) apply for the Disability Tax Credit and related federal and provincial benefits.
Plan Institute is a Canadian non-profit and registered charity that helps people with disabilities and their families plan for a good life. Its free national Disability Planning Helpline offers one-on-one support with the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP), the Canada Disability Benefit, wills and trusts, and future and financial planning. Plan Institute also offers free webinars and online courses on the RDSP, DTC, and building personal support networks. The helpline is free, confidential, and available across Canada by phone, email, and online request form.
Languages: English, Interpretation in ASL and other languages on request
The GAIN Program (Guidance & Assistance in Navigating Disability Support) is a free service offered by Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada (VLRC). VLRC's Disability Benefit Navigators provide one-to-one support to help people with disabilities understand and apply for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB), and other federal, provincial and territorial credits and benefits, including help with appeals. Although operated by VLRC, the GAIN Program assists people with all disabilities, not only vision loss.
Accessible Compass is an independent guide — we are not a government agency and do not process applications or approve benefits. We provide general information only, not legal, medical, or financial advice. Program rules may change. Always confirm with official government sources.
