Project your child's RESP growth with CESG grants, Additional CESG, Canada Learning Bond, and Quebec QESI — 2025.
CESG Rate
20%
on first $2,500/yr
CESG Max/Year
$500
$7,200 lifetime
CLB (low income)
$2,000
no contribution needed
Lifetime Limit
$50,000
per beneficiary
Contribute $2,500/yr to maximize the $500 CESG — that's just $208/month
Typical range: 4–5% (conservative) to 7–9% (growth ETF)
Enter your child's age and contribution above
Your RESP projection will appear here instantly.
The Registered Education Savings Plan is Canada's most powerful tool for saving for a child's education. The federal government adds a 20% grant on top of your contributions — free money that compounds for years before your child heads to university or college.
You can only carry forward one year of unused CESG room. If you open an RESP late (say at age 10), you can't go back and claim grants for years 0–9. Starting at birth and contributing $2,500/year captures the full $7,200 lifetime CESG. Starting at age 10 caps you at roughly $4,000 in CESG.
Grants (CESG, CLB, QESI) must be returned to the government. Your original contributions can be withdrawn tax-free. The accumulated investment income (growth) can be transferred to your RRSP (up to $50,000 if you have room), or withdrawn as income — taxed plus a 20% penalty. Family RESP plans let you redirect funds to a sibling who does attend.
Education Assistance Payments (EAPs) — the growth and grants portion of withdrawals — are taxable income to the student, not the subscriber. Since most full-time students have little other income, they pay little or no tax on these withdrawals, making the RESP extremely tax-efficient.
Grant amounts and income thresholds are for 2025 and subject to annual adjustment. QESI rates are current as of 2025. CLB eligibility is based on family net income and number of children — thresholds shown are for families with 1–3 children. Not financial advice — consult a financial advisor for a personalized plan.