Eligible post-secondary students to get one-time COVID-19 grant

Around 11,000 students will find an extra $875 in their bank accounts next month

CITYnews halifax \ Meghan Groff

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Thousands of post-secondary students will be getting some extra cash in their bank accounts next month.

The province says a one-time COVID-19 grant of $875 is to help them pay their bills.

“We know the pandemic has been very difficult in many ways for post-secondary students. We also know many students haven’t been able to access part-time employment to help pay for school due to COVID measures,” said Advanced Education Minister Brian Wong in a news release.

“I am committed to reducing barriers and finding solutions to help post-secondary students be successful. This investment provides immediate relief for thousands of Nova Scotia students with the highest need while we continue to work with our partners to assist students.”

To be eligible, they must be Nova Scotia residents and qualify for and receive Nova Scotia Student Assistance.

There’s no need to apply for the money as it will automatically be deposited, and it will not need to be repaid.

The chair of Students Nova Scotia said this funding is coming at a critical time.

“One of the biggest challenges that students are facing right now is the rising cost of expenses for things like food and housing,” Ben Fairhurst said.

“This extra money will help many students focus on their studies instead of wondering how they will pay the next bill.”

The province says this $9.8-million investment will help around 11,000 students.