Severe Permanent Disability Benefit
SPDB
May cancel the repayment of federal and provincial student loans for borrowers whose severe permanent disability prevents them from studying and working.
Useful Tips for Applying
If approved, this cancels the loan entirely — it is not a deferral. Make sure your medical professional completes the specific SPDB assessment form.
Who May Qualify
Borrowers whose severe permanent disability means they cannot take part in post-secondary studies or the labour market, confirmed by an approved medical assessment.
Required Documents
A medical assessment confirming the severe permanent disability, completed by an approved medical professional, and the application form.
How to Apply
Apply through the National Student Loans Service Centre (NSLSC) with the completed medical assessment form.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Confusing this with RAP-D, which defers or reduces payments; the SPDB cancels them. Not using the correct medical assessment format.
Preparing an application?
The Application Helper walks you through each question on this benefit's form in plain language.
You may also be eligible for…
Repayment Assistance Plan for Borrowers with Disabilities
Helps student loan borrowers with disabilities who are struggling to repay by reducing or pausing monthly payments based on income and family size, with an extended eligibility period.
View detailsCanada Student Grant for Services and Equipment for Students with Disabilities
Up to $20,000 per school year for disability-related services and equipment needed to take part in post-secondary education, such as assistive technology, tutors, note-takers, and sign language interpreters.
View detailsCanada Student Grant for Students with Disabilities
Up to $2,800 per school year (until the end of the 2026 to 2027 school year) to help students with disabilities cover education costs such as tuition, books, and living expenses. This grant does not need to be repaid.
View detailsApplication denied?
If your application is turned down, the Appeals Guide explains filing deadlines, escalation levels, and where to find free legal and advocate help.
National resources
HealStroke: Stroke Recovery — Stroke Technology, Inc.
HealStroke is a mobile app for adults after stroke and adult caregivers. Publisher-described features include daily recovery organization, reminders, guided practice and progress records. Free download with in-app purchases. It supports education and self-management alongside professional care; no independent clinical-effectiveness or accessibility certification is claimed.
View detailsStepSafe Technologies Inc.
StepSafe makes a matchbox-sized cellular GPS tracker for children with autism, ADHD or Down syndrome who are prone to wandering (elopement). Parents see live location in an app, get alerts when a child leaves a safe zone, and the microphone is permanently disabled for privacy. Locking wristband and waistband wearables are in development. Devices ship to families in Canada and the US starting February 2027. We also offer a free wandering Safety Kit for parents (printable ID card, safety plan and checklists) at stepsafetech.com/resources.
View detailsFind A Doctor Canada
Find A Doctor Canada is a free, independent online search tool for exploring family-doctor, walk-in clinic and other primary-care options across Canada. Searching for a family doctor can add another burden for people already managing a disability or supporting a loved one — this tool lets users search by location and care type, review reported availability and source notes, and contact clinics directly. It is a navigation tool, not a clinic or medical service; current intake, eligibility and accessibility arrangements must be confirmed with each provider, and acceptance is not guaranteed.
View detailsAccessible 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.
