If you are applying for the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP), you might be asked to provide additional documentation to support your application. One of such documents could be an affidavit.
Whether you are dealing with a special circumstance like estrangement from your parents, unusual income situation, or unreported personal details, an OSAP affidavit can be a key step in getting the support you need.
In this blog post, we break down what an OSAP affidavit is, when you might need one and how to write it correctly.
What is an OSAP Affidavit
An affidavit is a sworn statement of facts made in writing and signed in the presence of a commissioner for taking affidavits, like a lawyer, notary public, or court official.
For OSAP, this document serves as formal proof of a situation that cannot be easily verified through standard paperwork.
When Might You Need an Affidavit for OSAP?
Here are some common situations where an affidavit might be required:
- Parental estrangement: You are unable to provide your parents' financial information due to a breakdown in your relationship.
- Support of minor children: You are (or will be) the primary caregiver for your minor children while studying.
- No income or zero income: You or a family member had no income in a certain period, and OSAP requires verification.
- Lack of documentation: You cannot provide standard documents such as proof of marital status, address, or custody arrangements.
- Unusual family or personal situations: Any non-standard situation that affects your OSAP eligibility or funding calculation.
How to Write an OSAP Affidavit
Before drafting your affidavit, check your OSAP application for the specific reason or requirement prompting the affidavit. This will determine its content.
An OSAP affidavit can take the form of an affidavit or statutory declaration, generally divided into: title, introductions, body paragraphs, conclusion, your signature, the appropriate jurat and the notary's seal and signature.
- 1. Title
Example:
- Affidavit of [Your Full Name] or
- In The Matter of the OSAP Application of [Your Full Name]
- 2. Introduction
Similar to all affidavits or statutory declarations, it should read: I, [Your Full Name], of the City of [City], in the Province of Ontario, make oath and say as follows (or "solemnly declare as follows" if making a statutory declaration):
- 3. Body Paragraphs
This is where you explain your situation with relevant details. Be clear, specific, and truthful. It is numbered consecutively.
Example:
- I have been separated from my spouse, [name of spouse], since [date of separation]
2. Since our separation, I have been solely responsible for the care of my children, namely:
- [name of child], born on [child's birth date]
- [name of child], born on [child's birth date]
3. I will continue to care for and support my children throughout my studies. They shall reside with me at [Your Address]
- 4. Conclusion
The affidavit should be concluded as follows:
4. I make this affidavit in support of my OSAP application for the 2025-2026 academic yea, and for no other or improper purpose.
And I make this Affidavit conscientiously believing it to be true and knowing that it is of the same force and effect as if made under oath and by virtue of the Canada Evidence Act.
- 5. Signature, Jurat and Notary Seal and Signature
The affidavit must be signed in the presence of a notary public or commissioner for oaths. DO NOT sign it in advance. The commissioner will also sign and stamp it with their seal.
⚠️ Disclaimer
The above is provided for informational purposes only and is intended as a general illustration. It should not be copied verbatim or used as a substitute for legal advice. Your affidavit should be tailored to your specific situation and reviewed by a qualified professional or notary, where appropriate.
Final Thoughts
If OSAP asks for an affidavit, it is not to make your life harder: They just need proof that is not available through usual channels. Writing a clear, honest, and properly formatted affidavit can help move your application forward and get you the support you need.
Need Help?
If you're unsure how to write or notarize your affidavit, NotaryServe® is here to help. We have assisted countless students with drafting and notarizing their OSAP affidavits.
📞 Call us at (613) 558-5363
📧 Email us at contact@notaryserve.ca
We are happy to guide you through the process and ensure your affidavit meets OSAP’s requirements.
[This post is intended for information only and does not constitute legal advice.]
