Starting post-secondary can feel like a lot, but with a bit of prep and planning, you can totally make the transition smoother. Here are some tips and strategies to help you get ready for this exciting new chapter in your life.

1. Take Your Time Deciding

Before even submitting your applications, take time to research potential schools and programs. Start by creating an OUAC account and developing a list of schools that match  with your interests and goals.

How to Develop a List of Schools that Align with Your Interests

1. Identify Your Academic and Career Interests
   • Start by reflecting on your favourite subjects in high school and any extracurricular activities that interest you. Think about the type of career you envision for yourself.
   • Ask yourself important questions:
     • What subjects excite you the most?
     • What type of work environment do you see yourself in (e.g., corporate, creative, non-profit)?
     • Do you want to pursue a specific profession like engineering, nursing, law, or teaching?
   • Having a clear understanding of your academic and career interests will help you filter schools that offer strong programs in those fields.
2. Research Post-Secondary Programs
   • Visit school websites or use search tools like OUAC (Ontario Universities’ Application Centre) for universities, or OCAS (Ontario Colleges Application Service) for colleges.
   • Search for programs related to your interests. For instance, if you’re interested in science, search for schools that offer a wide range of science programs, such as biology, chemistry, environmental science, or biotechnology.
   • Explore details about the programs, including curriculum, course options, and faculty expertise.
3. Consider School Size and Campus Atmosphere
   • Do you prefer a large, bustling campus with diverse activities and people, or a smaller, more intimate school where you can receive personalized attention?
   • Look for schools that offer the type of environment you prefer. Some students thrive in a large, urban university setting, while others feel more comfortable in a smaller, rural college.
   • Review campus life activities such as clubs, organizations, and sports that align with your interests. A school’s social and extracurricular environment is just as important as its academic offerings.
4. Evaluate Location
   • Decide if you want to stay close to home or if you’re willing to move to a different city or province. Factors like climate, distance from family, and accessibility to internships or work placements in specific fields may influence your decision.
   • Research the cities or towns where the schools are located. Consider the cost of living, transportation, and local amenities.
5. Review Admissions Requirements
   • Every school has its own admissions criteria. Look at the requirements for your programs of interest to ensure you meet or exceed them.
   • Check whether you’ll need specific high school courses, a certain grade point average (GPA), or standardized test scores (e.g., SAT or ACT for some international schools).
   • This step will help you narrow down your list to schools where you realistically have a strong chance of acceptance.
6. Consider Financial Factors
   • Review tuition fees, living costs, and available financial aid or scholarships at each school. Some schools may offer better financial packages or scholarships based on your academic performance, extracurricular activities, or background.
   • Compare the cost of attending each school and consider how this aligns with your budget or financial aid options.
7. Talk to Your Guidance Counselor or Trusted Adults
   • Schedule a meeting with your high school guidance counselor to discuss your list. They can provide insights on the strengths of certain programs and schools.
   • Seek advice from family members, mentors, or professionals in the field you are interested in. People with experience can offer valuable advice about specific schools and programs that might be the best fit for your goals.
8. Attend Virtual or In-Person Campus Tours
   • Many schools offer virtual or in-person tours where you can get a sense of the campus atmosphere, meet faculty, and hear from current students.
   • Take note of how you feel about the campus, facilities, and student services. Does the environment inspire you and make you feel excited about studying there?
   • Attending open houses or informational sessions can also give you a clearer picture of what each school has to offer.
9. Make a Preliminary List and Narrow It Down
   • After researching and evaluating all these factors, create a list of 8-12 schools that align with your academic and personal interests.
   • From there, narrow it down to a final list of 4-6 schools:
     • Dream Schools: The ones you would love to attend, but may be more competitive or have higher entry requirements.
     • Target Schools: These are schools where you meet or slightly exceed the admissions criteria.
     • Safety Schools: These are schools where you are confident you will be accepted based on their admissions requirements.
10. Stay Open to Changes

• As you continue your research and hear from counselors or admissions advisors, your interests and priorities may change. Be open to revisiting your list and making adjustments as needed.

2. Challenge Yourself Academically

It might be tempting to pick easier classes in your senior year to boost your grades, but keeping some tough courses in the mix is actually a smart move for getting ready for post-secondary. Schools like seeing students challenge themselves, and it helps you build study habits and skills that’ll make things easier when you get there. Plus, it shows you’re ready for the next level.

Essential Skills and Study Habits for Post-Secondary Education

1. Time Management
   • Develop the ability to prioritize tasks, set deadlines, and create a study schedule.
   • Use tools like planners, digital calendars, or time management apps to stay organized.
2. Critical Thinking
   • Practice analyzing and evaluating information rather than just memorizing facts.
   • Engage in debates, discussions, and problem-solving activities to sharpen your analytical skills.
3. Effective Note-Taking
   • Learn to take clear, concise, and organized notes during lectures.
   • Experiment with different methods, such as the Cornell method, outlining, or mind mapping, to find what works best for you.
4. Active Reading
   • Focus on understanding the material rather than just skimming. Annotate texts, highlight key points, and summarize important concepts in your own words.
   • Engage with challenging texts to improve comprehension and retention.
5. Research Skills
   • Develop the ability to find credible sources, evaluate the validity of information, and cite resources correctly.
   • Familiarize yourself with your institution’s library and academic databases.
6. Collaboration and Teamwork
   • Learn to work effectively in group settings, whether through study groups or collaborative assignments.
   • Share ideas, delegate tasks, and respect others’ opinions while maintaining accountability.
7. Self-Motivation and Discipline
   • Cultivate a strong work ethic and maintain motivation, even without external deadlines or reminders.
   • Set personal goals and establish a routine that encourages consistent progress.
8. Adaptability
   • Be open to new learning environments, teaching styles, and subjects. Adapt quickly to different course structures and expectations.
   • Learn to navigate changes in academic demands, such as transitioning from high school to university-level coursework.
9. Effective Study Techniques
   • Use methods like spaced repetition, active recall, and summarizing to enhance memory retention.
   • Break large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks, and avoid cramming by studying consistently over time.
10. Stress Management

• Develop strategies to manage academic pressure, such as deep breathing exercises, physical activity, or mindfulness practices.
• Know when to take breaks and recharge to avoid burnout.

1. Communication Skills

• Improve written and verbal communication, as these will be essential in essays, presentations, and group work.
• Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification from professors, mentors, or peers when needed.

1. Independence

• Learn to be proactive and take initiative in managing your academic responsibilities.
• Develop the ability to solve problems independently and seek resources on your own.

 

3. Develop Time Management Skills

One big difference between high school and post-secondary is how much more independent you have to be. In high school, teachers check in on you a lot, but in college or university, it’s up to you to manage your time and stay on top of things. Start getting used to it now by making study schedules, using calendars, and breaking big tasks into smaller, easier steps. It’ll make the transition a lot smoother.

How to Master Time Management for Post-Secondary Education

University can be hectic at times. In order to help you get ahead of the curve, effective time management can be really important. Effective time management can come into hand to succeed in post-secondary education. Start practicing now by making study schedules, using calendars (digital or paper), and breaking big tasks into smaller chunks. Here are some tips and tools to help you stay organized and manage your workload.

1. Create a Study Schedule

• Set aside specific times each day or week dedicated solely to studying (your dog needs walking too). This helps create a routine and prevents last-minute cramming.
• Block off hours for different subjects based on how challenging or time-consuming they are. For example, allocate more time for subjects that require intense reading or complex problem-solving.
• Use time-blocking techniques to allocate fixed periods for study sessions, breaks, meals, and extracurricular activities.

2. Use a Calendar or Planner

• Digital Calendars (Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, etc)
  • Digital calendars allow you to schedule tasks, assignments, and deadlines with automatic reminders. Sync them across devices so you can access your schedule anytime.
  • Set recurring events for classes, study sessions, and exams to ensure you never miss important dates.
  • Color-code different types of activities (e.g., study time, personal activities, or deadlines) to easily differentiate between them at a glance.
• Physical Planners
  • If you prefer paper, use a physical planner to write down daily tasks and assignments. Many students find this method more tactile and satisfying.
  • Create weekly or monthly layouts to visualize upcoming tasks and deadlines. This helps you see the bigger picture and stay on track.
  • Use highlighters, stickers, or different colored pens to keep your planner engaging and organized.

3. Task Management Apps (Notion, Todoist, Asana, Trello)

• Notion
  • Notion is an all-in-one workspace where you can create calendars, to-do lists, and detailed project pages. Use it to track assignments, organize class notes, and set deadlines for each project.
  • Create custom templates for weekly study plans, course outlines, or personal goals, and adjust them as needed. Notion allows for great flexibility in organizing your workload.
• Todoist
  • Todoist is a task management app that helps you break down your projects into smaller tasks. You can assign due dates, set priorities, and track your progress.
  • It’s ideal for organizing daily study tasks and long-term projects, making sure you never miss a deadline.
• Asana
  • Asana is great for organizing group projects. It allows you to assign tasks to different people and track the progress of the entire project in real time.
  • Use it for large assignments or group activities where collaboration and deadlines are key.
• Trello
  • Trello uses boards, lists, and cards to help you visualize your tasks. You can move tasks through different stages of completion (e.g., “To Do,” “In Progress,” and “Done”).
  • Trello is helpful for managing larger projects and breaking them down into smaller, actionable steps.

4. Prioritize Tasks

• Start by listing all your assignments and ranking them by priority. Use methods like the Eisenhower Matrix to categorize tasks based on urgency and importance.
  • Important and Urgent: Tasks that need immediate attention (e.g., assignment due tomorrow).
  • Important but Not Urgent: Long-term goals that require consistent work (e.g., an essay due in two weeks).
  • Not Important but Urgent: Tasks that can be done quickly but aren’t crucial (e.g., responding to an email).
  • Not Important and Not Urgent: Low-priority tasks (e.g., browsing social media).
• Focus first on tasks that are both important and urgent, and work your way through the list.

5. Break Down Large Tasks

• Large assignments or projects can be overwhelming. Break them down into smaller, more manageable tasks to avoid procrastination.
• For example, if you have a 10-page research paper due, break it into steps like:
  • Day 1: Choose a topic
  • Day 2: Research and gather sources
  • Day 3: Create an outline
  • Day 4: Write the introduction and first draft of sections
  • Day 5: Edit and finalize the paper
• Track your progress as you complete each small task to maintain momentum and stay motivated.

6. Set Reminders and Notifications

• Use apps like Google Calendar, Todoist, or even phone alarms to set reminders for important deadlines, study sessions, or meetings.
• Notifications can serve as a gentle nudge to start working or review your schedule for the day. Be sure to use them wisely so they don’t become overwhelming.

7. Reflect and Adjust Weekly

• At the end of each week, take a few moments to reflect on what worked and what didn’t. Adjust your study plan and schedule based on your productivity and workload.
• Use tools like Notion or Google Sheets to create a habit tracker that allows you to monitor how effectively you’re managing your time and make improvements.

8. Utilize Campus Resources

• Many post-secondary institutions offer resources such as time management workshops, counseling services, and study strategy sessions. Be sure to take advantage of these services early on.

4. Perfect Your Note-Taking Techniques

In post-secondary education, lectures are a common method of instruction, especially in your first and second years. To a lot of people, note taking can be an amazing way to succeed in a course. If you don’t feel that note taking is a strategic way for you, then continue reading to explore new note taking methods. Whether it’s outlining, mapping, or Cornell notes, find a style that suits your learning needs. Good note-taking will be invaluable as you start navigating more complex topics and longer lectures.

Effective Note-Taking Methods for Complex Topics and Long Lectures

1. Outlining Method
   • How it Works: This is a structured method where you create a hierarchical structure with main points, sub-points, and supporting details. It’s great for subjects with clear, logical divisions like history, literature, or social sciences.
   • How to Use:
     • Start with the main topic as a heading.
     • Underneath, list the subtopics using bullet points or numbers.
     • For each subtopic, add supporting details, explanations, or examples, indented underneath.
   • Advantages:
     • Keeps notes organized and easy to review.
     • Helps you break down large concepts into smaller, digestible sections.
     • Useful for creating summaries and seeing how ideas relate.
   • Best For: Lectures with lots of detailed information and topics that need to be broken down logically (e.g., law, history).
2. Mind Mapping (Concept Mapping)
   • How it Works: A visual method where you start with a central idea and branch out with connected subtopics. This is helpful for visual learners or when dealing with interconnected ideas.
   • How to Use:
     • Start with the central topic in the middle of the page.
     • Branch out with subtopics, drawing lines from the center to different bubbles or nodes.
     • For each subtopic, continue branching out to include supporting details, concepts, or examples.
   • Advantages:
     • Encourages creativity and connections between ideas.
     • Helps with understanding complex relationships between concepts.
     • Visualizes the flow of information, making it easier to recall during study sessions.
   • Best For: Subjects that require you to connect multiple concepts or ideas, such as science, philosophy, or brainstorming sessions.
3. Example:
   • Central concept: “Ecosystems”
   • Branches: “Food Chains,” “Energy Flow,” “Human Impact”
   • Sub-branches: Details like “Producers,” “Consumers,” “Carbon Cycle”
4. Cornell Method
   • How it Works: The Cornell Method divides your page into three sections: Notes, Cues, and a Summary. This method encourages reflection and revision, making it a powerful study tool.
   • How to Use:
     • Divide the page into three sections: a large Notes section on the right, a Cues section on the left, and a Summary at the bottom.
     • During the lecture, take detailed notes in the Notes section.
     • After the lecture, write Cues on the left-hand side to create key questions or highlight important terms.
     • Write a brief Summary at the bottom of the page, condensing the main ideas.
   • Advantages:
     • Encourages active listening and note-taking during the lecture.
     • Helps with review and self-testing by using the cues to prompt recall.
     • The summary reinforces understanding after the lecture.
   • Best For: Any subject that involves a lot of facts or detailed information (e.g., biology, medicine, business).
5. Charting Method
   • How it Works: This method uses a table to organize information into columns based on categories, which works well when comparing multiple topics or sets of data.
   • How to Use:
     • Draw a table or chart with several columns.
     • Label each column with the relevant categories or subjects.
     • As you take notes, place the information into the appropriate column.
   • Advantages:
     • Easy to compare and contrast information.
     • Helpful for lectures that include data, dates, or side-by-side comparisons.
   • Best For: Subjects like history, comparative politics, or science courses where you need to compare concepts or data sets.

7. Sentence Method

• How it Works: The simplest method, where you write each new thought or idea on a separate line. This method is fast and good for lectures that cover lots of information rapidly.
• How to Use:
  • Write down key points in sentence form, one after the other, each on a new line.
  • When reviewing your notes, highlight or underline key concepts.
• Advantages:
  • Fast and flexible for jotting down ideas quickly.
  • Great for fast-paced lectures where information is presented in quick bursts.
• Best For: Fast-paced or discussion-based classes where you need to capture lots of information without worrying too much about structure (e.g., humanities or social sciences).

5. Master Your Study Techniques

Sometimes, you can look back and brainstorm. Look back on your past year and think… What went well? What could I have improved on? Whether you prefer flashcards, group study sessions, or repetitive review, it’s essential to establish an efficient study routine. Test different methods and stick to the ones that allow you to retain information and perform well on exams.

6. Practice Self-Discipline

It’s a common myth that grades don’t matter after you’ve been accepted to college or university. In reality, post-secondary institutions review your final high school grades, and poor performance can lead to revoked acceptances. More importantly, maintaining a strong work ethic will help you avoid the temptation to slack off once you’re in university or college, setting the stage for continued academic success.

 

7. Reflect on Your Career Goals

Getting ready for post-secondary isn’t just about hitting the books—it’s also about thinking ahead to your future career. Take some time to think about what you want to do, but don’t freak out if you’re not 100% sure right now. You’ve got plenty of time to change your mind (probably more than once!). It’s all part of the process, most people don’t have it all figured out right away.

1. Explore Your Interests and Strengths

• Self-Assessment: Start by taking time to evaluate your personal interests, strengths, and passions. What subjects do you enjoy most in school? What activities make you feel energized and excited? This can provide clues about potential career paths.
• Personality and Aptitude Tests: Use tools like Career Cruising, Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), or StrengthsFinder to help you understand your personality type, strengths, and possible careers that align with them.
• Journaling: Consider keeping a journal to track your thoughts about different subjects, projects, or experiences. Reflect on what excites or motivates you, which can provide valuable insights into future career paths.

2. Research Potential Career Fields

• Explore Different Industries: Start by researching a wide range of careers that match your interests. Websites like CareerOneStop, or LinkedIn can provide detailed descriptions of various jobs, including daily responsibilities, required qualifications, and salary expectations.
• Job Shadowing and Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in your areas of interest for informational interviews or job shadowing opportunities. These experiences give you first-hand insight into what it’s like to work in a particular field and help you decide whether it aligns with your aspirations.
• Career Fairs: Attend career fairs, both in-person or virtual, where you can meet representatives from different industries. Ask questions, collect information, and get a feel for the diversity of career options available.

3. Set Flexible Career and Academic Goals

• Short-Term and Long-Term Goals: Set short-term goals that will help you explore various fields (e.g., enrolling in relevant courses, joining clubs, or internships), while also thinking about broader long-term goals. For instance, “I want to explore healthcare careers by volunteering in a hospital” is a short-term goal that can help you decide if a medical career might be for you.
• Stay Open to Change: Don’t feel pressured to lock into a specific career path immediately. Recognize that your interests may evolve as you gain new experiences in university or college. Set goals that are flexible enough to adapt to these changes as you grow.

4. Take Advantage of Career Counseling Resources

• Career Counseling Services: Many schools and universities offer career counseling services where you can receive guidance on choosing a career path, creating a resume, or preparing for interviews. Take advantage of these resources early to help map out your options.
• Guidance Counsellors and Advisors: High school guidance counselors or college advisors can offer valuable advice about course selection, program opportunities, and how they tie into various career paths.

5. Pursue Extracurricular Activities and Internships

• Get Involved in Clubs and Organizations: Join clubs, student organizations, or extracurricular activities related to your interests. If you’re passionate about technology, consider joining a coding club. If you’re interested in social justice, join a group that focuses on advocacy work. These activities can give you hands-on experience that helps clarify your interests.
• Seek Internships or Part-Time Work: Part-time jobs or internships during high school or your early post-secondary years offer valuable real-world experience. Working in different fields will give you practical insights and help you determine if a particular career aligns with your goals.

6. Learn from Mentors and Role Models

• Seek Out Mentors: Mentors can provide guidance, encouragement, and advice on career development. Look for mentors in your community, school, or through professional networking groups. These could be teachers, family members, or professionals in your desired field.
• Follow Role Models: Study the career paths of people you admire, whether they’re leaders in your field of interest, entrepreneurs, or public figures. Learn about their education, the challenges they faced, and how they achieved success. This can inspire you and provide valuable lessons for your own career planning.

7. Stay Informed About the Job Market

• Track Industry Trends: Keep an eye on trends in various industries to understand where job growth is happening. For example, fields like technology, renewable energy, and healthcare are rapidly expanding. Understanding which sectors are in demand can help you make informed decisions about your career.
• Understand Educational Requirements: Different careers require different levels of education or certification. Make sure to research the academic paths necessary for your desired career. For example, becoming a lawyer or doctor requires a longer educational commitment compared to careers in trades or technology.

8. Embrace Exploration in Post-Secondary

• Take Diverse Courses: In your first year of college or university, enroll in a variety of courses that appeal to your interests, even if they are outside your intended major. Exposure to new subjects may ignite a passion for a field you hadn’t previously considered.
• Undecided Majors are OK: Don’t worry if you don’t have everything figured out before starting post-secondary. Many students change their majors once or twice as they discover new interests. It’s completely normal to explore and make adjustments along the way.

9. Set Personal Values and Life Goals

• Reflect on What Success Means to You: Think about your personal values and what you want out of life. Does success mean financial stability, making a difference in society, or pursuing a passion regardless of income? Aligning your career path with your personal values will lead to greater fulfillment.
• Work-Life Balance: Consider what kind of work-life balance is important to you. Some careers are more demanding in terms of time and stress, while others may offer more flexibility. Understanding your priorities will help guide your career decisions.

10. Document and Reflect on Your Journey

• Maintain a Career Journal: Keep track of the experiences and insights you gain as you explore different fields. Document your thoughts on internships, job shadowing, or interactions with professionals. This will help you reflect on what resonates with you and what doesn’t, guiding your decision-making process.
• Reassess Regularly: As you progress through your studies and career exploration, take time to periodically reassess your goals. Are you still passionate about your chosen path? Have new opportunities or interests emerged? Staying open to reassessment ensures that your goals evolve as you do.

8. Prepare for Post-Secondary Applications

When it’s time to apply for college or university, staying organized is key. Whether you’re looking at apprenticeships, college, or university, make sure to do your research and know your options. And don’t miss those deadlines—platforms like OCAS and OUAC, don’t mess around! Keep an eye on financial support options, because a little extra cash for school never hurts. Staying on top of all this will save you a lot of stress later on!

9. Plan Your Finances

Financial planning is a crucial part of preparing for post-secondary education. Whether you’re applying for scholarships, bursaries, or student loans, it’s important to create a realistic budget. Factor in tuition, housing, books, and living expenses, and don’t forget to explore other sources of funding, such as part-time work or savings.

How to Create a Financial Plan for Post-Secondary Education

1. Research Tuition and Program Costs

• Tuition Fees: Start by researching the exact tuition costs for the programs you’re applying to. Each school and program may have different fees, especially if you’re considering out-of-province or international institutions.
• Additional Program Costs: Some programs may have extra fees for lab materials, field trips, or special equipment. Be sure to include these in your budget.
• Student Fees: Don’t forget to factor in mandatory student fees such as technology fees, student union dues, or health services, which may not be included in the base tuition cost.

Example: University of Toronto Tuition and Fees

• OUAC/OCAS for Ontario Students: Ontario students can use the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) and Ontario Colleges Application Service (OCAS) to research fees for university and college programs.
  • OUAC Undergraduate – Fees
  • OCAS Paying for College: Tuition and Financial Assistance

2. Calculate Housing and Living Expenses

• On-Campus Housing: If you plan to live in a dorm or residence hall, check the school’s housing fees, which often include utilities, meal plans, and internet.

Example: McGill University Housing & Meal Plan Costs

• Off-Campus Housing: For students renting apartments, you’ll need to account for rent, utilities (electricity, water, gas), and internet. Be sure to research average rental costs in the city or town where you plan to study.

Example: University of British Columbia Off-Campus Housing

• Food and Groceries: Whether you’re cooking your own meals or buying a campus meal plan, estimate your monthly food expenses. If you’re using a meal plan, factor in its cost for the academic year.

You can estimate your food costs using grocery budget calculators like Numbeo Cost of Living or local grocery store flyers.

• Transportation: Include transportation costs such as bus passes, fuel for your car, or train fares, depending on how far you live from campus. If living on-campus, you may need occasional transportation for off-campus errands.

 

• Personal Expenses: Consider everyday costs such as toiletries, laundry, entertainment, and clothing. These costs may fluctuate month-to-month, so create a buffer for unexpected expenses.

 

3. Estimate Costs for Books and Supplies

• Textbooks: The cost of textbooks can add up quickly. Research whether your program requires expensive textbooks, and look for ways to save, such as purchasing second-hand books, renting textbooks, or using eBooks.
• Course Supplies: Some programs may require specific materials or equipment. For example, art students may need to purchase supplies like paints and brushes, while engineering students may need tools or specialized software.
• Technology: Factor in the cost of a laptop, calculator, or any other tech you’ll need for your studies. Some schools offer discounts on technology purchases for students, so check for student deals.

Textbook Shopping Platforms:

Amazon, Chegg offer discounted or used textbooks.

• SlugBooks: Compares textbook prices from multiple retailers.
• Chegg Textbooks

Library Resources: Some universities provide free access to eBooks or textbooks through their libraries. Check with your school’s library to see what materials are available for free.

4. Explore Scholarships, Bursaries, and Grants

• Apply for Scholarships: Many organizations, schools, and private foundations offer scholarships based on academic merit, extracurricular involvement, or other criteria. Research available scholarships through your school, local community, or websites like ScholarshipsCanada or Fastweb.
• Bursaries: Bursaries are typically awarded based on financial need. Check if your school offers bursaries or other financial aid programs that do not need to be repaid.
• Grants: Government grants, like those offered through the Canada Student Grants Program are available to students with demonstrated financial need. These are a great resource as they don’t need to be repaid.
• Application Tips: Start early, and make sure to apply for as many scholarships and bursaries as possible. Tailor your applications to the specific requirements of each award, and don’t be afraid to seek guidance from your school’s financial aid office or mentors.

5. Consider Student Loans

• Government Loans: If scholarships and bursaries aren’t enough to cover your costs, you may need to consider student loans. Government student loans, such as those offered through OSAP (Ontario Student Assistance Program), generally offer lower interest rates and more favorable repayment terms than private loans.
• Private Loans: If you need additional funds, private loans are another option, though they often come with higher interest rates. Make sure you fully understand the repayment terms before committing to a private loan.
• Loan Repayment: Be aware of when and how you will need to repay your loans. Government loans typically don’t require repayment until after graduation, and some offer grace periods or income-based repayment plans.

6. Create a Budget

• Track Income and Expenses: List all sources of income, including scholarships, bursaries, loans, family contributions, savings, and any income from part-time work. Then, list all expenses—tuition, housing, books, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
• Monthly Breakdown: Break your budget down into monthly expenses so you can allocate funds effectively. Be sure to include a section for unexpected expenses, such as emergency medical costs or unforeseen educational supplies.

7. Explore Part-Time Work Opportunities

• Campus Jobs: Many schools offer on-campus job opportunities that are flexible for students, such as working in the library, tutoring, or assisting in academic departments. These jobs are often convenient as they’re close to your classes and tend to be more understanding of your academic schedule.
• Work-Study Programs: Some universities offer work-study programs that provide part-time jobs to students with financial need. These jobs can help you offset educational costs while also building valuable work experience.
• Off-Campus Jobs: If on-campus jobs are limited, consider finding part-time work off-campus. Look for jobs that offer flexible hours to balance work and school responsibilities.

8. Build a Savings Plan

• Summer Jobs: If you plan to work during the summer, try to save as much as possible for your upcoming school year. Set a target savings goal and put aside a portion of each paycheck.
• Set Up a Savings Account: Open a student-friendly savings account, ideally one with no fees or a low minimum balance. Set automatic transfers from your checking account to help you build up savings without thinking about it.
• Emergency Fund: Set aside a portion of your income or savings for emergencies, such as medical expenses or unexpected school fees. This will provide you with a financial safety net if any unplanned expenses arise.

9. Look for Additional Funding Resources

• Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP): If your family has been contributing to an RESP, now is the time to use it. The RESP provides tax-free growth on contributions and government incentives.
• Co-op Programs: Some programs offer co-operative education (co-op) options, which allow you to alternate academic study with paid work terms. This can help you gain valuable experience while also earning money to fund your education.

10. Review and Adjust Your Budget Regularly

• Monthly Check-ins: Review your budget at the end of each month to see if you’re on track. Did you overspend in certain areas? Can you cut back on non-essential expenses like eating out or entertainment?
• Reassess Annually: Each year, your financial situation may change—new scholarships, increases in tuition, or different living arrangements. Be sure to reassess and adjust your budget accordingly.

10. Stay Open to New Experiences

Finally, go into your post-secondary experience with an open mind. It’s totally normal to feel nervous, everyone’s in the same boat, even if they don’t show it. Stay positive and embrace all the new experiences, you’ll get way more out of college or university. It’s a time to grow, learn, and have fun (yes, fun too!). So, take it all in and enjoy the ride!