In a major move to improve educational access and ease financial stress, the Government of Canada has introduced a new monthly Canada Pension Plan (CPP) benefit of $150.89 for part-time post-secondary students. Starting June 1, 2025, this benefit targets students aged 18 to 24 who have lost a parent or whose parent is living with a CPP-recognized disability. It’s a first-of-its-kind update that recognizes the financial challenges faced by non-traditional learners and offers much-needed support.
Whether you’re juggling work, family responsibilities, or recovering from personal hardship, this benefit could offer a monthly financial cushion to help you stay in school and succeed.
Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Amount | $150.89 |
| Start Date | June 1, 2025 |
| Age Range | 18 to 24 years old |
| School Requirement | Enrolled part-time in a recognized post-secondary institution |
| Parent’s Status | Must be deceased or receiving CPP disability benefits |
| Application Form | Form ISP1402 (Student over 18 Declaration) |
| Apply via | Online, mail, or in person at Service Canada |
| Renewal | Required each semester or school year |
| Info Source | Canada.ca – CPP Children’s Benefit |
This isn’t just a policy change—it’s a meaningful way to help students who often get left out of traditional financial aid programs.
CPP Children’s Benefit
The CPP Children’s Benefit has long supported full-time students whose parents are deceased or disabled under CPP guidelines. But until now, part-time students weren’t eligible.
In 2025, that changes. The new part-time benefit provides $150.89 per month—half of the full-time student benefit amount—to eligible youth who are enrolled part-time and facing family hardships. It’s a clear acknowledgment that many students can’t commit to full-time study due to caregiving duties, health concerns, or financial pressure.
Who’s Eligible?
To qualify for this new benefit, you must meet all of the following:
Age
- Be between 18 and 24 years old
School Enrollment
- Enrolled part-time in an accredited Canadian college, university, trade school, or vocational program
Parent’s Status
- Your parent is either:
- Receiving CPP disability benefits, or
- Deceased and had contributed to the CPP
Documents Needed
- Proof of enrollment (letter or transcript)
- Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Bank info for direct deposit
- Confirmation of your parent’s status via Service Canada
Why This Matters
This benefit is more than just a monthly top-up—it’s a lifeline for students under pressure.
Example 1:
Emma, 19, is a part-time nursing student in Nova Scotia and helps care for her younger siblings. Her father receives CPP disability benefits. With this benefit, Emma receives $150.89/month—money she uses for textbooks and groceries.
Example 2:
Jason, 22, studies part-time in BC while working evenings. His mother passed away two years ago. With this new support, Jason can cover bills without overloading his work hours, giving him more time to focus on school.
Over a year, the benefit adds up to more than $1,800—a significant sum that can reduce reliance on debt and part-time jobs.
How to Apply
The process is straightforward. Follow these steps:
Step 1
- Proof of part-time enrollment
- SIN
- Parent’s CPP disability or death certificate (if applicable)
- Bank details for deposit
Step 2
This is the Declaration of a Student Over 18. Download it from the Canada.ca website.
Step 3
You can send your completed form and documents:
- Online via My Service Canada Account (MSCA)
- By mail to your regional Service Canada office
- In person at a Service Canada location
Step 4
- Processing time: 6 to 8 weeks
- Payments are backdated to your application date if eligible
- Direct deposits are issued monthly
How Long Does It Last?
Once approved, you’ll receive payments as long as:
- You remain part-time enrolled
- You are under 25 years old
- You submit renewals on time
Renewal is required each semester or school year, depending on your school’s format. Miss a renewal? Payments stop—so keep your paperwork up to date.
Tips to Keep Receiving the Benefit
- Set reminders to renew each semester
- Check your MSCA inbox for updates or renewal requests
- Report school or personal changes (like dropping courses or switching programs)
- Keep your bank details and address updated
FAQs
Who can get the $150 CPP student benefit?
Part-time students aged 18–24 with a deceased or disabled parent.
How much is the monthly payment?
You can receive $150.89 each month, paid by direct deposit.
Do I need to reapply every year?
Yes, you must renew each semester or academic year.
Where do I apply for this benefit?
Apply online via MSCA, or by mail/in person at Service Canada.
What form do I need to submit?
Form ISP1402 – Declaration of a Student Over 18.
