Author Archives: TechNut

The Pros and Cons of Distance Learning

Distance learning, which is an education model that allows students to attend courses either entirely online, or partially online, has been gaining attention in the past few months. Students and educators have had to adjust to this form of education in response to stay-at-home orders during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

And while there is evidence that distance learning can be just as effective and engaging as traditional in-person learning, you may be wondering what distance learning looks like and whether it’s right for you long-term. And it may not be. There are many advantages to distance learning, as well as inevitable drawbacks. This article will touch on three major characteristics of distance learning as they relate to the student experience: access, flexibility, and social interaction. 

Access

Pros: Distance learning can be a godsend for students who, for whatever reason cannot, or would prefer not to attend classes in person. Because distance learning programs use technology like, teleconferencing apps, video recordings of lectures, messaging apps, and online drop boxes, students are able to attend lectures and complete coursework from wherever they are — as long as they have a strong internet connection. 

This is great for students who already have careers and families and would benefit from a program that doesn’t require them to be physically present. Students with disabilities that limit mobility may also prefer programs that require little to no travel. 

Cons: Technology does sometimes break down. Apps experience bugs and internet connections go down occasionally. Nontraditional students in an older age group also may not find this kind of technology as user-friendly as their younger counterparts. And the reality is, that internet (and computer ownership) is still very much a luxury — not every student has consistent access to reliable, high speed internet or a PC of their own. 

Students who are not as tech savvy or who rely on school Wi-Fi or computers may benefit more from on-campus courses. 

Flexibility 

Pros: Online courses often allow students to complete coursework on their own schedules. While some courses require attendance for livestreamed lectures, students can access and complete homework and quizzes on their own time. And some programs are completely asynchronous, meaning all work and lecture viewing is done at the student’s pace. 

This is great for students who require more flexibility because of work and family obligations. Students who are disciplined and can complete work on their own also do well with programs like this. 

Cons: Flexibility is not always a blessing and not every student handles this much autonomy well. Freshman-level students, with little understanding of expectations and students who are not accustomed to regulating their own schoolwork may fail in this scenario.  

Communication

Pros: Technology has made it easier than ever to connect with peers and professors without ever seeing them face-to-face. Messaging apps and teleconferencing programs and online forums mean that asking a question or receiving feedback can happen almost instantly. And studies have showed that this kind of communication can actually increase engagement. It’s never been easier to get in touch. 

Cons: Not everyone appreciates communicating using technology and there are students who prefer face-to-face interaction. Also, face-to-face interaction isn’t reliant on the Wi-fi and can still take place if an app is down. Miscommunication is also less likely to happen when you can hear the tone of a person’s voice and see their facial expressions — things missing from messaging. 

A good fit for many, but maybe not all

Distance learning solves many problems when it comes to access, flexibility, and ease of communication, which makes it a great option for many students. Students who already lead busy lives or who need accommodation for a disability may find distance learning to be the better option. 

But there are also still students who are better served by the traditional education experience. Students who may not be as into the tech scene or able to access the technology required to participate in distance learning may benefit from on-campus courses. 

Before you commit to a distance learning program, it’s important to evaluate what it’s going to require of you and whether you can reasonably meet those requirements. When researching programs get in touch with department heads and current students and ask questions about the experience and where they see success and where they see pitfalls. The good news is you have options.

Impact of Coronavirus on Education System

The world is terrified by a horrible epidemic of coronavirus, which began at the end of December and remains relevant even after March is over. It’s a serious challenge for every kid and adult. No matter where you live, in the city or village, it may get you everywhere. People discuss the most efficient measures to properly take care of their health, how long to wash hands, what meal to consume, etc. every day. Educational systems of all countries greatly suffer as well. The impact of coronavirus on the education system is one of the most currently relevant topics discussed by educators, students, parents, and politicians.

As people cannot gather in great masses and must stay at home, it’s impossible to learn. What to undertake in this situation? As every school, college and university are closed, students cannot receive education, enlarge their knowledge, and develop skills. They have to stay at home and the most obvious solution is to learn there. Otherwise, every child and the adult student will miss several crucial months. It may create a great gap in knowledge and so, youngsters will remain incompetent. This will be a huge impact on any educational system with multiple negative consequences.

The governments of every country try to support their educational systems. It seems that online or distance learning is the best solution. Governments have to close educational institutions that offer a traditional on-campus way of learning. They all should move on to the Internet. It’s a pretty long and complex process and education will suffer because of it. Nonetheless, every school/college superintendent will say that it’s much better than simply wasting time in isolation.

Potential Benefits from eLearning

The experts shed some light on the benefits of online learning. What are positive aspects of distance learning via the Internet? Consider the following benefits:

  • More time to learn;
  • Access to all kinds of learning importation;
  • New efficient ways to learn;
  • The flexibility of learning methods;
  • Active collaboration with parents to make them closer to their children.

Thanks to the speed of the Internet, students can access useful information sources to solve their problems. Teachers and professors provide online lessons and consultations. It’s possible to receive instant answers and help.

Students are welcome to join any special community, which is busy with the issues of eLearning. Such communities likewise shed more light on various learning aspects. Students can choose different learning methods, which perfectly suit their learning styles. This benefit solves the “eternal” problem of the lack of flexibility of the standard curriculum. There are almost no restrictions and students are free to plan their learning schedules and write a paper according to their needs and possibilities.

We’d like to add that parents should be active participators too. Every family should actively participate in eLearning to make this process efficient. Parents should be close at hand to help their children because many of them don’t know how to study online.

8 WAYS STUDENTS CAN EFFECTIVELY DE-STRESS DURING EXAM PERIODS

It goes without saying that being a student can be an incredibly stressful experience. This is especially true during exam periods. And while having the access and opportunity to indulge in education is also incredibly rewarding, the stress is what can send even the most capable students into a crumbling mess. Thankfully, there are many effective ways that students can de-stress during these challenging times throughout the semester. So, of all these different ways to de-stress, which are the most effective and the most popular?

1. Allowing yourself personal time

Believe it or not, one of the best things you can do for your academic performance is to take a step back from the books every once in a while. Of course, maintaining your studies is the aim of the game in education, but it is just as important to take the time to take care of yourself. Your mental health is more important than getting top marks – and it always will be. This is a lesson for your years as a student, but it is a lesson that will continue to be important throughout the rest of your life. Having adequate personal time allows you to relax and replenish.

2. CBD use for anxiety and stress during the semester

There are over 400 chemicals in cannabis, and CBD is just one of the many. Controversial to begin with, multiple studies now prove that CBD can relieve the symptoms of not only stress, but anxiety, depression, and physical pain (among other beneficial uses). From finding the best CBD oil for pain, to using CBD oil as a de-stressor during exam periods, students are finding this to be a viable solution across the board, resulting in CBD becoming more and more popular all the time, for students (and individuals in general, for that matter) across the entire globe.

3. Create a study schedule at the beginning of the semester

Taking the time to sit down and create a study schedule before the semester starts when you have your finalised timetable will allow you to structure your semester ahead of time. While it might seem a little too organised and too much effort for some to begin with, this can be a key strategy to allow you to de-stress later; having a structure (even if you do not stick to it entirely) ahead of time means you are more motivated and on target. Additionally, have the entire semester laid out on a whiteboard in your study area, and carry a diary with it copied down, or have it all structured as a layer in your Google Calendar, to stay on top of it.

4. Create study playlists

Sometimes, having complete silent while studying can actually be deafening and lead to distractions. Having a study playlist, a focus playlist, a calm playlist, and a motivation playlist (to name a few possible examples) can help you to get into the zone, and create a relaxing atmosphere for you to buckle down and get it done. When you are listening to calming music, it makes the process a lot more harmonious and far less stressful to endure – not to mention more enjoyable along the way as well.

5. Establish a growth mindset

growth mindset effectively ensures that you are always willing and able to elevate and improve. It is easy to get into a stressful pattern when you are always feeling like you are stagnant and trying to push through the chaos. When you enable and encompass a growth mindset, you essentially put yourself in the position of always working to be better and get better. This helps you to maintain a focused mindset, rather than a frantic one. Structure is key, and mindset is the core of any structure.

6. Form trusted study groups to share the load

Especially when you are studying away from home, being removed from your usual support group can be (sometimes inevitably) stressful. Forming a support group on campus that can double as a trusted and reliable study group can and often goes help to bridge that gap and put you in a more relaxed mindset. Additionally, having a reliable group of friends to study with takes the edge off; you can exchange ideas and views on the material, expanding your perspective and alleviating the stress of studying in one go.

7. Get enough sleep

Believe it or not, your quality of sleep can have a distinct impact on your stress levels. This is especially true during periods of high intensity (such as exam periods, for one). Getting enough sleep can and often does allow you to de-stress because when your body and mind is well rested, you are better able to focus and shift your entire perspective and mentality. Improving the quality of your sleep will improve your quality of life, and in turn create a more distinct and impressionable level of calm that effectively alleviates stress.

8. Spend time with your loved ones

Going home to spend time with your family, having quality time with your pets, or even just heading out with your partner or best friends on a night out (to name a few examples) are great ways to give your body and mind the rest it needs to replenish. When you get to spend time with those you love most, you give yourself the chance to de-stress and get back to feeling 150% yourself. To function at your peak, you need to feel your healthiest, and what better medicine is there than quality time with those who mean the most to you?

What College Students Should Consider When Looking At Banks

Going off to college comes with many responsibilities — including the responsibility of monitoring finances more closely. Those that are moving onto college right after high school may not have any previous experience monitoring their own bank accounts.

However, now is the time to learn! If you’re going off to college and are trying to figure out what you need to do, make sure to add getting a bank account to your list.

Getting a bank account is your first step to independently organizing and managing your money. This is essential as you start taking on responsibilities such as having an on-campus job, paying for books, and taking out student loans.

If you’re just getting started with opening a bank account, keep the following tips in mind.

Where the bank is located

The first thing you’re going to want to consider is whether or not the bank has a branch that is located near your campus.

You may occasionally need to go to the bank in-person, so choosing a bank that has locations near your hometown and near your college is recommended.

It is possible your college already has an affiliation with a particular bank and may have ATMS from that bank on campus. And while it is good to consider that particular bank as an option, don’t make your decision based solely on that affiliation. You want to make sure that the bank can meet your needs.

Focus on features

When it comes time to narrow down your choices of a bank, look at what features they offer to students. Most banks will offer bank accounts specifically for students that come with some free features.

For example, some banks charge monthly maintenance fees or require a minimum deposit amount each month. These features are usually waived for student accounts, because students have limited amounts of money and because they might not be in a position to make monthly deposits.

Whenever you are considering a bank, ask them if they have student-specific bank accounts and what the benefits come with one of those accounts. Compare several different banks before making a decision.

Know about interest rates

Over time, bank accounts and saving accounts will accumulate interest. Interest rates vary, but higher interest rates result in a higher yield.

Ideally, you’ll have a savings account in addition to your main bank account. This is because you’ll generally earn more interest on savings accounts. Because of this, savings accounts have higher annual percentage yields (APY) than banking accounts do. You can use an APY calculator to get a sense of how much interest your savings account will accumulate.

Understanding interest rates can be confusing at first. If you’re struggling to understand interest, you should sit down with a bank representative to learn what options are available to you.

Check out the app

Mobile banking has become popular. Mobile apps grant you constant access to your bank and saving accounts, allowing you to see how much you have available, as well as withdrawals you have made. Gone are the days of having to balance checkbooks.

Each bank uses a slightly different mobile app. You may find some apps easier to use than others. To get a sense of what apps are available to you, start looking at online reviews from other users.

Some banks will have apps that are specific to students. These apps tend to be designed in a way that allows you to learn how to use a mobile banking app.

Accounts after college

If you choose a bank that uses student accounts, ask them how easy it is to transfer your account into a regular account after college. Most banks will expect you to get rid of your student account after graduation.

However, even if they make you get rid of it, most banks will help you open up a new non-student account. Most of the time, this transfer doesn’t cost you a thing and can be done within a matter of minutes.

Whenever you transfer, ask your bank about any differences with your new account. Generally, there will be an expectation for you to have a minimum balance and to make deposits several times a month.

Final thoughts

If you’re heading off to college and don’t yet have a bank account, now is the time to start doing your research. Even if you already have an account, you should double-check that there is a branch of your bank located near your college. Making good financial decisions now can help you become financially secure in the future.

 

The Consistent Practice of Responsible Gaming

There are millions of individuals around the globe who consider gambling to be one of their most enjoyable hobbies. For so many individuals, that is all that it is. However, for others, it can prove to be quite the uphill battle, a slippery slope that becomes more addictive as time goes on. This is the unfortunate reality for so many individuals around the globe, and it is a reality that cannot and should not ever be overlooked. Further, the decidedly toxic stigma that surrounds gaming addiction is one that has created an ongoing air of discomfort and pain. It is a stigma that we must work harder to eliminate.

Here’s the thing. Like any other addiction, gaming is one of those practices that can be not only risky business for the affected individual themselves, but potentially dangerous if they are unable or unwilling to take the steps to remove themselves from the environment that forms the basis of such a toxic culture for individuals that are prone to addictive habits. To work towards understanding and carrying out a responsible approach to gaming, one must first form a strong understanding of addiction. As is always the case when discussing or otherwise covering addictions in any way, this is where the conversation must start.

Understanding the addiction

The fact is that gaming can be addictive for some individuals while it proves to simply be an uncomplicated past time for others. The distinction between which side of the coin one falls under is sometimes quite thin. It can be challenging to approach the discussion and honest and open understanding of it all, which is exactly why breaking down the barriers is so important in finding a healthy and positive way to move forward and work towards remedying the solution. Sure, it may not be the more comfortable situation, but nonetheless it is a situation that is important to work through and strive towards positive reinforcement.

Consistency is key

Consistency is the most important part – and it is interestingly also one of the most challenging parts to navigate one’s way through if you are battling gaming addiction. This is why it is so incredibly important to practice the art of responsible gaming. It takes a lot of determination and hard work, but it is determination and hard work that ultimately makes all the difference in the world. Consistency is key. At the end of the day, responsible gaming starts with the consistent practice that affected individuals are willing and able to put into working towards positive and viable ongoing solutions.

Practicing responsible gaming

The art of practicing responsible gaming ultimately comes down to knowing that there is a way out and a healthy and positive way forward to a healthier future – even when it can be challenging to navigate one’s way through it. Realistically, this is the biggest pivotal point that can go one way or the other. Companies like Ladylucks.co.uk openly encourage and embody the concepts and ideals that form the healthy framework of responsible gaming. At the end of the day, it is companies like this that are shaking up the stigma and leading the way to a healthier future for gaming on a global scale.

Making the Most of Bali, the Island Paradise

Known all over the world for its fun-loving culture, beautiful landscapes, and kind people, Bali is one of those places that effortlessly steals a piece of the heart of anyone who goes there. Literally a little island paradise, Bali is like something out of a storybook; with lush forests, stunning coastlines, top diving spots, rich history, and vibrant culture, this is one of the world’s most beloved travel destinations, and it is not difficult to see why.

The world is full of many wondrous destinations, all of them with their own unique quirks, sights, and experiences to be had. There is a reason that this infamous holiday destination is so hugely popular year in and year out…but you should go and experience it for yourself. When you go to Bali (or anywhere in the world, really), there are three key ideas that you should ideally stick to. Everything outside of these three main points rarely matters.

Roll your clothes, make more room

It all starts with the bags. When you are packing for Bali, try rolling each piece of clothing instead of folding them as usual. The idea is that, in rolling your clothing into your bags, you make more room to add in those extra pairs of shoes or underwear. This packing technique is especially handy when you are coming back from your trip in Bali.

I say this because Bali is one of those destinations that is abundant with markets at which you can purchase various beautiful handmade items. You will want to take things back home with you, so you best have the room to do so.

Explore the highlights of Bali

When travelling, one of the biggest reasons to land on a specific destination is the photos you have seen floating around social media, as well as through word of mouth. Bali is a visually stunning destination, and the whole world knows it. With a near-constant influx of tourists (especially during peak season), Bali tends to be an island that constantly bustles with life, even down little alleyways and well into the early hours of the morning.

Make time to see the highlights, but try to visit them throughout the week – as with anywhere else in the world, the tourist attractions are most crowded on the weekends, and can make for an unpleasant experience.

…But venture off the beaten track, too

From the Balinese forest to the stunning sunsets by the beach, Bali truly is an island paradise. While the ‘must-dos’ that pepper the island and its surrounding waters (snorkelling, anyone?) are hugely popular for obvious reasons.

Taking a scooter out of the main town to explore the surrounding forests and areas of Bali’s central cities is almost certain to guarantee you a unique experience – even if that unique experience is just getting to ride through the mountains all day in the sun with your loved ones. The highlights are wonderful, but the hidden gems you will find if you break away from the norm are stunning, and often make for the best adventures and the best stories.

Understanding the Different Cuts for Engagement Ring Stones

Getting engaged is one of the most exciting times in any person’s life. It is even more exciting when you are trying to pick out the engagement ring itself. There are, of course, a lot of moving pieces to sift through when you are trying to choose the ultimate engagement ring for your partner, and it can be overwhelming to see the choices laid out in front of you. It certainly is useful to have some assistance to know where to begin and what to expect.

Whether you are looking at choosing between a traditional round solitaire or a radiant cut engagement ring, or have no idea where to even start looking for your engagement ring inspiration, it pays to understand the different cuts for engagement ring stones. There are five mainstream cuts of engagement ring stones, and each of them is special and unique in their own distinct way. So, what are these five main types of engagement rings, and what is so special about each of them? Why are they so beloved around the globe?

Cushion cut

The cushion-cut shape is one that sits on the hand exceptionally well. Crafted into a romantic, gentle shape that is essentially a square cut that has been gently rounded out along its corners, a cushion cut engagement ring is one of the most popular choices among couples around the globe. As one of the most classic engagement ring stone cuts, the cushion is perfect for the elegant bride (or groom).

Emerald cut

A rectangular shape with slightly rounded out corners, the emerald cut is a “renowned Art Deco-inspired choice” for an engagement ring stone. The perfect choice for the timeless contemporary bride (again, or groom), the emerald cut engagement ring is becoming more and more popular all the time.

Oval cut

One of the most classic and stunning engagement ring cuts, the oval cut is one that is both highly coveted and rare. Highly coveted, because of the obvious beauty of the cut, and rare because oval stones are not as easily found as other shapes, making them rarer to behold and even rarer again to obtain.

Pear cut

The pear cut is an exceptional shape that is not just an engagement ring centrepiece, but a statement piece for the ages. Becoming more and more popular around the globe, the pear cut engagement ring is one that exudes unique beauty and pristine elegance. This makes it the ultimate engagement ring style for many couples – and no doubt many more to come.

Round cut

The traditional round solitaire is the world’s most popular engagement ring and the round cut of the stone has always been one of the most popular types of diamond shapes. There is a classic timeless elegance that comes hand in hand with the brilliant round cut engagement ring stone, and it is something truly wondrous to behold, a classic if there ever was one.

Attracting New Members to Your Campus Club or Organization

Post-secondary school is a time for learning and growth. Whether you are attending school for a single term or multiple years, it is extremely beneficial to join a club or organization. Joining a club gives you the opportunity to meet people with similar interests and learn new things Additionally, joining a club can teach you important life skills, like how to be productive with your time.

Even if the club already has over 100 members, you most likely want to see it continue to grow. If you want the club or organization to grow, you need to entice prospective members. However, when there is a long list of clubs and organizations on campus, it can be difficult to make yours stand out.

If you want to recruit new club members but don’t know where to start, don’t be afraid to try these helpful tips.

1 – Design Eye-Catching T-Shirts for Club Members

Every good club needs to have customized t-shirts and garments. Having eye-catching clothing makes it easier for students to learn about the club. As an example, if you wear a shirt with “Chess Club” printed on it in a large, clear font, it creates an opportunity for potential members to learn about the group. 

When designing custom clothing for your club, you always work with screen printing experts – this will ensure that the quality of the garments meets (or exceeds) your standards.

Similarly, it is extremely beneficial if the printer has in-house designers. By having professional designers at your disposal, you’ll be able to design garments that can be noticed from across campus.

If you want to save some money on your garments, you should order them in bulk. If you order over 100 garments, you generally receive a generous bulk-discount. You can save even more money by ordering from a print shop that offers free deliveries and setups. 

2 – Host a Fundraiser

If you want to spread the word around campus about your club or organization, you should consider hosting a fundraiser. By throwing a fundraiser, you can teach people about your club while supporting a good cause.

You can post flyers, posters and pamphlets around campus to let people know about the fundraising event. You can also hand out some of your custom tees, sweaters and garments to help spread the word even more.

If you need ideas for your event, you can give these a try:

  • Carwash
  • Bottle Drive
  • BBQ
  • Movie Night

3 – Create a Fun Culture

It can be difficult to attract students to a club or organization if they don’t think that they will have a good time. Students are extremely busy with classes and assignments, so if they are going to give up their spare time, you need to make the club fun and exciting for everyone.

Although this is easier said than done, there are a handful of simple things that you can do. For starters, members shouldn’t take themselves too seriously; this will have a negative impact on the club’s reputation. Additionally, you can do things like play music during meetings and host fun team-building events for club members.

Protecting And Preserving Strong Family Law Is So Important

It is no secret that law is one of the most controversial yet respectable industries in the world. In different parts of the world different areas of law inevitably have different rulings. What is most interesting, however, is that certain branches of law are often held in both high and low regard at the same exact time. Why? Because while it is undeniable that the law industry gets a lot of things wrong, it also gets a lot of things absolutely right.

Think of family law, for instance. Family law is one of the most important facets of the law industry because it deals with families who are experiencing their own hardships. There is something undeniably heartbreaking about the reality that sometimes, no matter if you do everything right, it can all be taken away from you at any moment because of some law that is not necessarily held in place for the right (or reasonable) reasons. 

The sensitive nature of family law

Look, at the end of the day, family law is one of the more sensitive areas of law to deal with in any regard and from any perspective. The law systems in different parts of the world handle any branch of law in their own way. In the case of family law, there are real people who are being torn apart in the eyes and hands of a legal system that does not necessarily equate to justice being brought to the table each and every time. It is a sad truth, but it is a truth nonetheless.

Protecting and preserving strong family law

When family law does get it right, it is of the utmost importance, and is in the best interest of everyone, to protect and preserve that strong example of family law. Whether it is helping to find family lawyers to assist in fighting a legal battle in the court room, or heading a campaign to keep laws surrounding child abuse in effect (to name a few of the many examples out there), protecting and preserving the strong family laws is so important always. These are genuinely real families and real lives that can be greatly impacted, so it is more important than ever to make the right choices for the right parties. 

The tides continue to push and pull

What is truer than true, now more than ever, is that while there are more and more positive examples of strong family law out there, it is a shifting tide. Some days, it all goes right, and others it all goes wrong. The tides continue to push and pull, but ultimately what makes the most difference in all the world is the legal systems that are currently in place surrounding family law. There is something delicate about handling matters involving family law, and so it takes more of an ongoing effort to try to ensure that the efforts are going in the right direction and that the desired outcome are being met. If they are not, then changes are to be made in effect and on an ongoing basis, until said desired outcome is met.

A Knowledge First Financial Guide on How to Use RESP Money

At the start of a new academic year, students may feel financial prepared for the year ahead. Your bank account is still looking good, even after paying for the basics like tuition and books, but in the coming months, as your savings start to dip, you may start to worry if you have enough to cover day-to-day or any unexpected expenses that come with university life.

The good news?

If someone put aside money in a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) for you, funds can be withdrawn to cover expenses while you are in school. All you need to do is get a proof of enrolment and contact your RESP company for more information on how to withdraw money.

The bad news?

A little knowledge about how RESPs work can help you make efficient use of the money. In this article, we’ll give you an overview of the right way to withdraw RESP money so you minimize the tax you pay as a student. We’ll also talk about how to withdraw money if you are NOT in school. As always, it’s always best to talk to an RESP expert for the best advice so you can go about withdrawing your funds in a way that works best for your situation.

Withdrawing Money from an RESP: Rules for Different Categories of Funds

RESP money falls into one of three categories: contributions (money your parents saved); government education grants which are added to RESP savings through programs like the Canada Education Savings Program; and interest earned on the money while it stays in the plan. The last two categories are the most important for students to know about. You’ll see why as you read on.

Withdrawing RESP Contribution Amounts

Contributions are funds that are put into an RESP and can be withdrawn tax-free at any time tax-free, as long as you (as a beneficiary of an RESP) are in a post-secondary program. In Canada, this means:

A program that is at least 3 consecutive weeks’ duration

10 hours of instruction per week

– Full- or part-time

Post-secondary studies includes very broad range of educational options after high school – college, university, trade schools, apprenticeships – the list is very extensive. You can also use RESP money to fund international full- or part-time post-secondary programs, although there may be slightly different criteria.

Contribution money withdrawn from an RESP while you are in school are called ‘Post-Secondary Withdrawals’ and most RESPs allow you to choose how much and how often to take funds out. PSE Withdrawals can be made to the person who opened the plan, or to the student, but in either case, no tax is paid. This is good for students to keep in mind who want to minimize their tax payments or unexpectedly need extra funds while in school.

Why RESPs Are Unique

To encourage education savings, the government of Canada offers incentives that can only be accessed through an RESP. These incentives come in the form of government grants and tax-deferred growth on all the money in the RESP.

Grants and income are withdrawn as Educational Assistance Payments (EAPs). EAPs are taxable to the student, which usually means there is minimal tax to pay. We will explain the best way to withdraw EAPs but first, let’s cover the grants.

Government Grants

First, here are the grants:

The Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG)

– The Canada Learning Bond (CLB)

– Provincial government grants, which exist in British Columbia and Quebec

Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG): The CESG pays 20% on the first $2,500 deposited into an RESP up to a maximum of $500 per year and $7,200 lifetime per child. Depending on net family income with Additional CESG a child may receive the $7,200 sooner.

Canada Learning Bond (CLB): The CLB makes it easier for lower income families to save by depositing an initial contribution of $500 in a child’s RESP and $100 per hear from age 1 to 15, to a maximum of $2,000. No RESP contributions are required to receive the CLB. Eligibility is based in part on family income and number of children.

Provincial Grants (British Columbia and Quebec)

Currently the only two provinces that offer education savings grants are British Columbia and Quebec. Saskatchewan had one (SAGES) but it’s been suspended; Alberta also had the Alberta Centennial Education Savings plan, which was closed in 2015.

In the case of Quebec’s RESP grant (QESI), the amount of money you receive depends on your contributions.

In BC, on the other hand, the British Columbia Training and Education Savings Grant (BCTESG) is a one-time grant worth $1,200. No contributions are required but BCTESG is only paid into an RESP when a child is between 6 and 9 years of age.

Investment Gains (Interest)

While money is in the RESP, they will earn interest or returns. The amount will depend on the type of RESP investment vehicle chosen and there is a wide range of choice available to meet different investment styles.

Educational Assistance Payments (EAP) – Withdrawing Grants & Interest While in School

You can only receive an EAP if you are enrolled in a post-secondary program. This money includes the grants received and all interest earned within an RESP. A flexible RESP gives you the most choice in the amount and timing of withdrawing EAPs – RESP companies may have slightly different rules or forms – but the most important tip on withdrawing grants and income is this:

EAPs amounts are added to a student’s taxable income the year they are paid. If you aren’t working during school, you’ll likely have little or no tax to pay.

Not in School But Want to Withdraw RESP Money?

Life happens. Whether things may not go according to plan or you feel your path may lead you in a completely different direction. Before a decision is made to close an RESP – you can keep it open for up to 35 years from the start date, so if might be some form of schooling in the future – you can leave the money there to help you take that step when you’re ready.

But what happens if you want to use your RESP money today?

Contributions can be withdrawn tax-free from an RESP as a non-PSE withdrawal but let’s take a look at what happens to each government grant when it comes to contribution withdrawals for non-post-secondary use.

The Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG)

Because CESG amounts are based on how much you put into an RESP, you have to return this money proportional to how much of your contributions you withdraw.

It goes like this.

The government will give you 20% in CESG for the first $2,500 in RESP contributions, every year, per beneficiary, and up to a lifetime total of $7,200 per beneficiary.

So if you withdraw $2,500 in contributions that you received the 20% CESG grant for, you will need to return $500 to the government.

For example: If $5,000 in contributions are withdrawn as a Non-Post-secondary Withdrawal, the RESP provider must return the CESG amount received (20% or $1,000) to the government.

If all contributions are withdrawn and the RESP is closed, all CESG money remaining in the RESP must be returned to the government.

Keep in mind that you won’t have received these CESG amounts if you didn’t apply for them. Obviously, if you didn’t receive the grant, you won’t have to return it.

CLB and Provincial Grants

Like the CESG, the Canada Learning Bond and provincial education savings grants may be returned to the government when RESP money is withdrawn for non-educational purposes. It’s always best to talk with an RESP expert to discuss your specific situation.

Withdrawing Investment Gains (Interest)

Say $5,000 was contributed to an RESP and the provider invested the money wisely, netting a $200 gain.

In this case, the $200 interest can be withdrawn for non-educational purposes once:

– The RESP has been open for at least 10 years and all beneficiaries are 21 years of age or above and are not currently pursuing education after high school; or

– All previous and current beneficiaries on the account have unfortunately passed away; or

The plan has been open for 35 years (RESPs can only stay open for 36 years, per the government)

If the above criteria are met and interest in an RESP withdrawn for non-educational purposes, you will be taxed on them at whatever your tax rate for the year is — plus an additional 20% penalty. Interest can also be rolled into an RESP, if there is room.

In other words, the government really doesn’t want you cashing out these profits for non-educational purposes. Understandably, however, life circumstances may leave you with no choice — and thankfully, the option does exist.

How to Request an RESP Withdrawal

Ok, so now you know the rules regarding withdrawing different types of money from an RESP.

How do you, practically speaking, go about requesting a withdrawal of contributions for emergency, non-educational purposes.

The process is actually quite straightforward.

In the case of Knowledge First Financial’s Flex First and Family Single Student plans, simply fill out their RESP withdrawal form and select Option 2, which allows the withdraw contributions for emergency, non-educational purposes.

Other RESP providers will have similar forms to trigger a withdrawal.

Keep in mind that only the RESP’s “subscriber” (typically a parent) can do this. The student (or the “beneficiary” of the RESP) cannot trigger a withdrawal; unlike conventional, penalty-free withdrawals for educational purposes, what you do with your contributions in an emergency withdrawal situation is up to you.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are rules surrounding how you withdraw money from an RESP for non-educational, emergency purposes.

Thankfully, these rules do allow tax-free withdrawals of contributions to an RESP. Things get stricter and taxes are applied when interest earned is withdrawn.

Further, government grant amounts cannot be withdrawn for non-educational purposes — and contribution withdrawals for non-educational purposes may trigger a grant repayment, depending on how much is withdraws in contributions.

In many cases, requesting a withdrawal is as simple as filling out a form with your RESP provider. Be sure to discuss your financial situation with them for personalized advice.