In this section . . . 

• What is the Explore program all about?
• Application procedures for Ontario residents
• Application deadline
• When you will hear from us
• Help

What is the Explore program all about?

The Explore program offers a five-week intensive language-learning course in the spring or summer for students interested in learning their second language. Participants in Explore receive a $2,000 bursary. Detailed program information, including eligibility requirements is available in the "Explore - Learn French . . et l'aventure" brochure or visit the Explore Website

Application procedures for Ontario residents

Ontario residents should use the interactive Explore application that is available online on this website. .

We strongly urge you to apply online. Just look at the benefits:

• The online application on the OSAP website is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 
• It is quick and easy to use. 
• Your information is secure. 
• It has built-in "smarts" to help you to avoid making entry errors. 
• It will help you determine which institutions you may attend as some have specific admission requirements
• You can print your personalized Explore application to submit with your supporting documentation.

How to apply online

Because the Explore application is an interactive application where you provide personal information, it is important that you do so in a secure environment. That means before you can apply, you must first log into the "secure" section of  the OSAP website. This section of the website uses encryption and security protocols to ensure the maximum level of security in order to keep your personal information kept strictly confidential.

Two ways to log in:

1. If you have applied to OSAP previously, please go to the OSAP main page and click on "Apply Online". On this log in page enter your Social Insurance Number or your OSAP Access Number and your OSAP password. On the next page you will then choose the Explore program.
2. If you have not applied to OSAP, go to the OSAP main page and click on "Apply Online". On this page, click on New Student? Click here.. Enter your Social Insurance Number and password. You should also set up two Challenge Questions and Answers to use in the future in case you forget your password. On the next page you will then choose the Explore program.

It is extremely important that you keep your password in a secure place, that you do not give it out to others, and that you change it periodically. Do not forget or misplace your password because considerable time and effort is required to have it replaced. See Request to have OSAP Access Restored for details. You can change your password periodically by going to Update Your File found on the OSAP main page.

Computer technical requirements

It is important that your computer be set up properly in order to use the online Explore application and to print your personalized application. You must be using Windows ME, 2000 or XP. If you are using Windows 95 or 98 you must upgrade your system. Go to Technical Requirements for details. 

In order to print your Explore application you need to have Adobe Acrobat Reader 5.0 or higher  installed on your computer. Go to Technical Requirements for details. 

2008 Explore Application deadline

Please note that the deadline to submit your application for the 2008 Explore program has been extended to March 9, 2008 at midnight. 

All required supporting documentation must be received by the ministry by March 21, 2008.  Log into the OSAP website and go to your Explore Online Services Page and click on the "Check Status" link for a list of your outstanding supporting documentation. You may also go to the "Your Explore Application Package" section under the "View Summary" link found on your Explore Online Services Page. This section has a complete list of supporting documentation that you must provide.

When you'll hear from us

For 2008 Explore, in late March 2008, you will be notified on this website (go to your Explore Online Services Page and click on the "Check Status" link) and by letter of the status of your application. If you are on the waiting list, don't despair! Every year bursaries are awarded throughout the spring and summer to replace people who have decided not to participate. Usually, all awards are offered by early July 2008.

Help

Questions should be directed to:

Student Support Branch
Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities
PO Box 4500
189 Red River Rd, 4th floor
Thunder Bay ON P7B 6G9

Telephone: (807) 343-7260
Toll-free: 1-800-465-3957
Telephone Device for the Deaf: 1-800-465-3958