Overview of Financial Support Available to Students
Dear students,
I hope this message finds you, and all those close to you, healthy and safe.
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has presented a number of unforeseen challenges for many. In particular, you have had to deal with a lot of necessary changes as the circumstances surrounding the virus have evolved.
The unpredictable nature of this situation is undoubtedly stressful. Of course, we recognize that your opportunities for work have become limited and know that you’ve been doing your best to find solutions with Ryerson’s help.
Government Student-Aid Package
Last week, the government’s proposed $9-billion student-aid package was approved and we’d like to ensure that you’re well supported in accessing these funds. Ryerson’s Student Financial Assistance (SFA) office has created a high-level summary of the various offerings. I encourage you to review the information to see how it applies to you, and to contact our SFA experts if you have questions about your eligibility or the application process. You can reach out to them using the following links:
- Visit Ask Ryerson (external link) for instant answers. This tool is available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
- If you can’t find what you're looking for, contact the ServiceHub for additional support.
- During the university's reduced services throughout the COVID-19 outbreak, you can also request a phone call or email from the SFA office by filling out the (google form) ServiceHub Help Form (external link) .
Ryerson Relief Funds and Career Opportunities
Specific Relief Funds across various faculties are being distributed through the Student Awards and Scholarships Office. If you have not done so already, please create an AwardSpring (external link) profile to explore the different funding opportunities available through Ryerson.
Also, Ryerson’s on-campus employment program, Career Boost, is a great option for full-time undergraduate students seeking employment with the university. Please visit the Career Boost website for information on eligibility, application deadlines and job opportunities.
Counselling Resources
Worrying about work, bills and your education can take its toll. A reminder that Ryerson recommends a number of mental health resources to help you through this time. For example, the university recently partnered with keep.meSAFE, an external provider of virtual counselling, mental health and crisis management services for all students. The temporary addition to Ryerson’s existing student wellbeing offerings is available in conjunction with services provided by the Centre for Student Development and Counselling (CSDC) and Ryerson’s Medical Centre. Please don’t hesitate to explore all of your options if you’re in need.
The measures above have been put in place to help you manage the obstacles that have arisen due to COVID-19. While they may not resolve every challenge you currently face, our hope is that they do provide some relief and that you feel comfortable reaching out for guidance, if necessary.
To learn more about any additional changes that may affect you, as well as the many offices and resources across campus that are available to you, please visit ryerson.ca/covid-19.
Take care,
Jen McMillen
Vice-Provost, Students