Ontario — Bridge Training Program (OBPAP bursary)

About this award

Ontario's Bridge Training Program is a network of 40+ approved bridging programs that help internationally trained skilled newcomers get their credentials recognized and find work in Ontario in their field. The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development funds it because Ontario absorbs more skilled-worker permanent residents than any other province, and matching their existing training to local licensing is faster and cheaper than retraining from scratch. Programs run across healthcare, STEM, skilled trades, education, business, and aerospace — delivered by partners like ACCES Employment, McMaster University, George Brown College, and other public colleges and universities. Tied to the bridging programs is the Ontario Bridging Participant Assistance Program (OBPAP) — a one-time bursary of up to $5,000 that helps with direct training costs like tuition, books, and equipment. OBPAP is needs-based, not first-come-first-served, so you have to demonstrate financial need on the application form. For the 2026-27 cycle, bursary support covers eligible programs commencing between April 1, 2026 and March 31, 2027. The bursary is one-time per applicant, not renewable across multiple programs. To qualify you must live in Ontario, hold relevant international training and work experience in a high-skilled occupation, and meet Canadian Language Benchmark 6 or higher. Eligible immigration statuses include permanent resident, naturalized citizen, Ontario provincial nominee (excluding the International Student Stream), refugee claimant with a 900-series SIN and open work permit, and certain temporary work permit holders confirmed by IRCC. Apply by selecting an approved program from ontario.ca and registering directly with that delivery organization.

Who qualifies

Internationally trained skilled newcomer; Ontario resident. CLB 6+ language proficiency. Eligible status: permanent resident, citizen, provincial nominee, or refugee claimant with an open work permit.

This is what the award's own page said when we last checked. Rules change, so confirm with the provider before you apply.

• ✓ Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person or refugee
• ✓ Open to certificate, professional, college or graduate students
• ✓ Resident of Ontario
• ✓ Studying health medicine, trades, engineering, information technology or education

How to apply

1. 1

   Read the award's own page

   Check you meet every requirement, and note each document they ask for.

2. 2

   Apply when you're ready

   This one takes applications all year.

More details