Programs: PDP / CSGP-SEPD

What is the PDP/CSGP-SEPD?

The Permanent Disability Programs (PDP; formerly called Technology and Services Support Program (TSSP)) for students with permanent disabilities are designed to help students overcome educational barriers that are caused by their disability. There are several PDP grants available to students: students who have permanent disabilities or chronic disabling medical conditions that create barriers to their post-secondary education may be eligible to receive the Canada Student Grant for Services and Equipment for Persons with Permanent Disabilities (CSGP-SEPD) . The CSGP-SEPD can provide funding of up to $8,000 for services and/or equipment for each year an eligible student is enrolled in an approved academic program. The purpose of this grant is to enable students with disabilities to purchase assistive technology (equipment) and to pay for support services (such as tutoring or note-taking) that help them to access their studies in a way that reduces the impact of their disability.

Who is Eligible?

You may be eligible for the CSGP-SEPD if you meet the following criteria:

• You are a resident of British Columbia.
• You are currently enrolled in a public or private post-secondary institution.
• You have a permanent disability or a chronic medical condition that significantly restricts your ability to perform the daily activities required to participate fully in post-secondary studies.
• You have demonstrated financial need for full-time or part-time studies.

How to Apply

1. Download the PDP Application forms from the StudentAid BC website.
2. Contact the office supporting students with disabilities or the financial aid officer at your post-secondary institution for guidance completing the PDP application. A school official must sign the form.
3. Be sure to include proof of course registration.
4. Be sure to include medical documentation detailing your permanent disability and its impact on your schooling. If you do not already have medical documentation that is less than five years old, have your doctor complete a Verification of Permanent Disability (VOPD) form and include this with your application.
5. If you are applying for assistive technology, send the completed application and supporting documentation to Assistive Technology BC, who will work with you and the office supporting students with disabilities at your institution to develop a technology plan to assist you.

Be sure to visit the StudentAid BC website for more information on program eligibility requirements, application instructions, and to download the required forms .

Application Forms

Application forms for the PDP are available for download from the StudentAid BC website.