If you’re a parent in British Columbia and your child is between the ages of six and nine, there’s a good chance you can secure an easy $1,200 boost to their education fund without spending a dollar of your own money.
This is thanks to the B.C. Training and Education Savings Grant (BCTESG), a provincial initiative designed to help families start saving for post-secondary studies. While some parents assume the “$1,200 per child” payment is a nationwide benefit, the reality is that it’s exclusive to B.C. residents and tied directly to a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP).
What Exactly Is the BCTESG?
The BCTESG is a one-time $1,200 grant deposited into an RESP for eligible children. You don’t need to contribute any money yourself simply open an RESP and apply within the required age window.
Eligibility rules are simple:
- Your child must have been born in 2006 or later.
- Applications must be made after their 6th birthday but before their 9th birthday.
- Both the child and parent/guardian must be residents of British Columbia at the time of application.
How to Apply for the $1,200 BCTESG
- Open an RESP if you haven’t already. Most banks, credit unions, and investment firms offer them.
- Ask your RESP provider about applying for the BCTESG. They’ll provide the official form.
- Submit proof of eligibility you’ll need SINs for both you and your child, along with ID.
- Wait for the deposit once approved, the $1,200 will be added to your RESP.
Why You Should Apply as Soon as Possible
The application period is strict if your child turns nine and you haven’t applied, you lose the grant permanently. That’s $1,200 you’ll never get back, even if you open an RESP later.
Stack It with Other Federal Programs for Bigger Savings
While the BCTESG is a provincial grant, Canadian families can combine it with federal RESP incentives such as:
- Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG):
- 20% match on annual contributions up to $500 a year.
- Lifetime maximum of $7,200 per child.
- Canada Learning Bond (CLB):
- For lower-income families.
- $500 in the first year plus $100 annually until age 15 (up to $2,000).
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB):
- Monthly, tax-free payments to help with the cost of raising children.
- Maximum annual amounts for July 2025 – June 2026:
- $7,997 for children under 6.
- $6,748 for children aged 6–17.
By combining these programs, a single $1,200 grant can grow significantly by the time your child graduates high school.
Common Mistakes Parents Make
- Missing the deadline: The age window is non-negotiable apply before your child turns nine.
- Not opening an RESP: Without it, you can’t access BCTESG, CESG, or CLB.
- Assuming it’s automatic: You must apply through your RESP provider.
Final Takeaway
If you’re in British Columbia, the $1,200 BCTESG is one of the easiest education savings opportunities you’ll find. It’s free money, requires no personal contribution, and can be paired with federal programs for an even bigger impact. The key is timing apply before your child’s ninth birthday, and let compound growth work in your favour.
A few minutes of paperwork today could mean thousands of extra dollars for your child’s future education.