What is an OSAP Affidavit?

An OSAP Affidavit is a sworn document that must be signed before an authorized official, like a notary public, commissioner of oaths, or lawyer. It contains a written statement of facts provided by the person making the Affidavit (called the deponent or affiant). An Affidavit must be notarized, meaning the affiant affirms that the contents of their Affidavit are true before the authorized official.

If you lack the documents required to prove certain personal facts, OSAP may ask you to submit an Affidavit with your application. An OSAP Affidavit enables you to complete the OSAP application process and secure financial assistance for your studies. 

Once your Affidavit is notarized, it has the same effect as swearing to tell the truth under oath in court. Therefore, your OSAP Affidavit must be completed accurately and truthfully. In Canada, intentionally affirming false information in your Affidavit is considered perjury. According to Canada’s Criminal Code, perjury is an indictable offence and can result in significant consequences.

Does My OSAP Affidavit Need to be Notarized?

In Canada, all Affidavits (including your OSAP Affidavit) must be notarized to be considered valid. Your OSAP Affidavit needs to be notarized by a notary public, lawyer, paralegal, or commissioner of oaths. 

You can get your OSAP Affidavit notarized online by uploading your OSAP Affidavit and booking a virtual notary appointment. A notary will confirm your identity and ensure you understand what you’re signing. Once you affirm that the contents of your OSAP Affidavit are true before the notary, they’ll witness your signature. Next, they’ll sign your OSAP Affidavit and stamp it with an official notary seal. Book an appointment to get your OSAP Affidavit notarized online, in under 7 minutes with NotaryPro!

What Information Should My OSAP Affidavit of Indigenous Identity Contain?

All students who apply for OSAP assistance are expected to contribute $3,600 toward post-secondary studies. If you identify as Indigenous and provide acceptable documentation to confirm your Indigenous identity, you are exempt from the student fixed contribution. You may also qualify for additional grant and loan funding for Indigenous students.

If you don’t have one of the documents OSAP requires to confirm Indigenous identity, OSAP may ask that you submit an Affidavit. Your Affidavit of Indigenous Identity should include the following information:

• Personal information, including your full name and current permanent address

• A declaration of their Indigenous identity

• The category of Indigenous Peoples you self-identify as (e.g., Inuk, First Nation, Métis, or an alternative term to describe your Indigenous ancestry and/or identity)