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Guide to Financial Aid, Incentives & Job Placement: Your Path to a PSW Career

Financial Aid

The role of a Personal Support Worker (PSW) is one of the most essential, in-demand, and recession-proof professions across Canada (Statistics Canada, 2023). Our PSW Student Advisor, Money, has seen this firsthand through her experience in the field and wants you to understand the incredible opportunities available through this Guide to Financial Aid, Incentives & Job Placement: Your Path to a PSW Career. With Canada’s aging population and rising demand for healthcare services, the PSW field offers job security, stability, and rewarding career growth (Canadian Institute for Health Information, 2022). Graduates of a PSW program are well-prepared to work in hospitals, long-term care homes, community health agencies, and private care settings, making this one of the most versatile healthcare careers in the country.


Financial Aid Options to Make Education Affordable

We understand that pursuing education is an important investment. Fortunately, there are several financial aid options available for eligible students in Ontario to help them retrain for stable, in-demand fields like healthcare. Some of these options include:

  • Better Jobs Ontario: This program provides financial support to help cover tuition, books, and living costs for individuals who are unemployed, underemployed, or have been laid off (Government of Ontario, n.d.).
  • Grants & Incentives for Healthcare Training: The Ontario government offers several incentives to encourage individuals to pursue a career as a PSW. These include:
    • A clinical placement stipend of up to $5,440 for students completing their placement in a long-term care home or home and community care setting.
    • A $10,000 bonus for new graduates who commit to working for one year in a long-term care home or with a home and community care provider.
    • An additional $10,000 for those who choose to work in a rural, remote, or northern location, with another $10,000 available for relocation costs if the move is over 100km (Government of Ontario, 2023).

Incentives for PSW Training & Employment

To encourage more people to join the healthcare workforce, the Ontario government and healthcare employers often provide additional incentives such as:

  • Placements or Training Support: Certain healthcare facilities may cover part of training costs or provide stipends during placement.
  • Signing Bonuses & Return-of-Service Agreements: Graduates working in priority communities may be eligible for bonuses or incentives.
  • Career Advancement Pathways: Many PSWs use this diploma as a stepping stone toward becoming a nurse or pursuing other healthcare careers.

Job Placement Opportunities After Graduation

One of the key strengths of becoming a PSW is the immediate employability after graduation. Demand is strong across multiple sectors, including:

  • Hospitals & Long-Term Care Facilities: Supporting nurses and providing direct patient care.
  • Community Health Organizations: Assisting clients in their homes with daily living tasks.
  • Retirement Homes & Assisted Living Residences: Helping residents maintain quality of life.
  • Private Home Care: Offering one-on-one personalized support.

With healthcare employers across Ontario actively recruiting PSWs, graduates can transition smoothly into the workforce.


How A1 Global College Supports You

At A1 Global College, we don’t just provide education—we prepare you for success in Ontario’s healthcare system. We take care of you from admissions to getting a job.

  • Practical Training & Placements: Gain hands-on experience in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community settings to build real-world confidence.
  • Flexible Learning Formats: Choose day, evening, or online classes to balance studies with work and personal commitments.
  • Resume & Interview Guidance: Get personalized support to create strong resumes and practice interviews, helping you stand out to employers.
  • Job Fairs for PSW Students: We host regular job fairs connecting our students with top healthcare employers in the region.
  • Advising on Financial Aid: Our team guides you through financial aid options, making education more affordable.

Take the First Step Toward Your PSW Career

Becoming a PSW is more than just starting a job—it’s joining a profession that makes a meaningful difference in people’s lives. With strong demand, financial aid options, and career incentives, there has never been a better time to step into this field.

📅 Book a 30-minute Free Career Counseling Session Today – Speak with a Career Counselor to explore program details and financial aid options.


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