Update: the program has now closed

The tuition-free PSW program in Ontario has now been closed. Students were able to enter the accelerated personal support worker program back in April, May, and June 2021.

If you’re interested in this career, then make sure you browse personal support worker programs!

Previously:

The Ontario government has announced a $115 million investment to help students studying to become personal support workers (PSW) for in-demand roles in health and long-term care.

Accelerated PSW training

Each of Ontario's 24 public colleges — including Algonquin, Cambrian, and George Brown, will offer a new, accelerated program for PSWs, totally tuition free.

Not only will this give an opportunity to 6,000 new students to pursue a dynamic career in a thriving industry, the Accelerated PSW Training can be completed in only six months, rather than the usual eight.

Students will pursue three months of coursework and experiential learning in a clinical environment. The final three months will consist of paid, onsite training in a community setting or long-term care home.

Registration for this exciting tuition-free program will open soon through the Ontario Colleges Application Service. The program begins in April and is fully funded by government support.

$2,000 in tuition support for current PSW students

Students currently working towards a PSW diploma at Ontario colleges are also getting support. 2,200 current students will get a $2,000 tuition grant to help them finish their program.

They'll also receive a stipend to support them during their clinical placement.

Healthcare support during the pandemic and beyond

This investment is part of Ontario's plan to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic and support the residents of long-term care homes.

If you're interested in a rewarding career in healthcare, keep your eyes open for the opening of the Accelerated PSW training pathway. To stay in the loop, you can email ask-us@ontariocolleges.ca, and you'll be notified when the application process begins.