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Provincial Program · Nova Scotia

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) 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: September 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.

Disability Equipment & Assistive Technology Funding in Canada

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The Application Helper walks you through each question on this benefit's form in plain language.

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Need help from a real person?

Free disability-benefits navigation services are available if you'd like help understanding or applying for this benefit.

Government-funded navigation service

Independent Living Nova Scotia — Disability Benefits Navigation (DTC Navigators)

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.

Languages: English, French

1-902-453-0004 (Option 4) or 1-800-725-6585 (toll-free)Website
Government-funded navigation service

Indigenous Disability Canada / BC Aboriginal Network on Disability Society (BCANDS)

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Indigenous Disability Canada / British Columbia Aboriginal Network on Disability Society (BCANDS) is a national, Indigenous-led charitable organization providing cross-disability support and navigation services to Indigenous (First Nation, Métis, Inuit) peoples in Canada with disabilities. It delivers the National Indigenous Navigation Services to help Indigenous persons with disabilities access the Disability Tax Credit, the Canada Disability Benefit, and other federal, provincial and territorial disability benefits.

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Disability Alliance Canada

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Languages: English, French

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Application denied?

If your application is turned down, the Appeals Guide explains filing deadlines, escalation levels, and where to find free legal and advocate help.

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Resources in this area

Disability Advocacy

Independent Living Nova Scotia — Disability Benefits Navigation (DTC Navigators)

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Nova Scotia League for Equal Opportunities (NSLEO)

NSLEO is a provincial non-profit organization that advances disability rights in Nova Scotia through systems-level advocacy, public education, and policy work. It is a cross-disability coalition working toward a fully accessible and inclusive Nova Scotia.

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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.

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