Heres my problem, sadly last year (2008-2009) I was put on academic
probation. It was my first year of uni but this year (2009-2010) I have
passed all my classes and have achieved a pretty good GPA compared to last
year. I spoke to a financial aid councellor and he told me I was in good
standing now.. I want to apply for OSAP this year because I’m having a
financial crisis…both of my parents are out of work, I have used all of my
RESP and am currently in the west coast trying to find a job to help fund my
school year.
In addition, after reading most of the forums, I found that most people sent
OSAP letters explaining why they weren’t as successful as they hoped during
their semesters. I, did not do this because I wasn’t aware that I had to.
The letter that I receieved from OSAP in 2009 basically stated I was on
academic probation and needed to pull up my grades in order to receieve
financial assistance. Will this affect me recieving OSAP? Should I send a
letter now stating I’ve done much better in my classes and explain my
financial situation??
Other than sending a letter, is there anything specific I would have to do
in order to apply for osap again this year? I have tried calling the OSAP
office but due to the 3 hour difference I either get a hold of them and get
hung up on or the line is busy. Their phone line isn’t very helpful. I am is
great need for financial assistance and do not want to consider taking a
year off
????????????????
At the risk of sounding like old perv who gets off on people talking about their financial need, are you an OSAP virgin? According to our financial counselor here at the Innis Registrar’s office, if this is your first time applying for OSAP – there is no need to present a letter about your previous year on academic probation. The letters you’ve read in past forums (ours?) are from students who’ve been on OSAP before and had to justify taking another loan for a year that produced failing grades.
But that doesn’t apply to you, right?
I understand that you are in West Coast right now, and are seeking the advice of like, me, so the first thing you should do is contact your college registrar about the business of applying for OSAP. The OSAP website is somewhat straightforward about how to apply and the specific information you’ll need to fill out. But if you have additional questions, call your registrar and ask to speak to someone there.
OSAP recommends that you apply 10 weeks before the study period starts. Here is the eligibility requirements.
Hope that helps!
xoxo, Askastudent