Fund for students

The 2013-14 student loan year is in full swing. Students can begin submitting their applications for student financial assistance for academic programs beginning on or after August 1, 2013.

"Our government understands the importance of post-secondary education," Advanced Education Minister Don Morgan said. "That's why we've provided record funding in student supports to ensure our students can excel in their post-secondary studies."

The 2013-14 provincial budget provides $117 million in student supports, a 20 per cent increase from last year's budget. That includes programs such as student loans, bursaries, grants and scholarships.

Last year, the provincial government launched the Saskatchewan Advantage Scholarship which provides up to $2,000 for new high school graduates who pursue a post-secondary education in our province.

"The Saskatchewan Plan for Growth aims to provide a better quality of life for all Saskatchewan residents with a target of adding 60,000 more people to our workforce by 2020," Morgan said. "Programs such as the Graduate Retention Program will help us reach that goal."

In the 2012-13 loan year, about 57 per cent of overall Saskatchewan financial assistance to students is non-repayable.

Students are encouraged to fill in their applications early. More information on Saskatchewan student supports can be found at www.gov.sk.ca/studentloans or by calling 1-800-597-8278.