To apply for Canada Access Grants, an individual must be attending, or planning to attend, a recognized post-secondary establishment. Students must apply for government funding prior to consideration by CAGs. Each respective province and territory has a distinct funding operation to which students apply for loans. Once such application is received, the student is automatically assessed for CAGs. Upon successful consideration, the student may receive either or both funding options--loan or CAG.
There are two different types of CAGs available for students, as of July 2010. The first is available to first-time, first-year dependent students from low-income families. The low-income families grant is given to individuals based on family income which is determined by income tax statements. The low-income CAG will award the eligible student with up to half of her tuition payment for the first year of studies.
The alternative CAG is for students with permanent disabilities. The permanent disabilities CAG is funding awarded to eligible students in the amount of up to $2000CAD, as of 2010. Eligibility for this CAG is based on disability status as well as financial need. This grant replaces the former Canada Study Grant for High-need Students with Permanent Disabilities.