Your medical career starts here — with a $20,000 head start

You’ve worked hard to get where you are. The countless hours of studying, classroom time, and exams are in the rearview and it’s time for the next chapter to begin. And as you dive into your fledgling medical career, there’s something you need to know: Saskatchewan wants to reward you for your effort.

The Graduate Retention Program (GRP) is designed to help new and recent graduates (within the last seven years) kickstart their career in the province of Saskatchewan. If that’s you, you could be eligible for up to $20,000 in tuition rebates through refundable tax credits over the next seven years.

What exactly is the GRP?

The GRP allows eligible grads to claim a lifetime maximum of $20,000 in tax credits. The program has a set amount that can be claimed each year. Here’s the breakdown:

• $2,000 in the first four years
• $4,000 in the next three years

If you have two degrees, you can claim GRPs for both. This means you can double up and claim your credits faster, until you hit the $20,000 maximum.

Should I take advantage?

As you begin building your medical career, whether it’s a residency, starting your own practice, or working in a clinic, financial relief can be exactly that — a relief. These rebates could help you:

• Offset the costs of your education
• Free up funds for your medical licensing fees, exams, or building your own practice
• Spend more time focused on your patients and less time thinking about your finances

Am I eligible to apply?

If you’ve completed an approved post-secondary program in the last seven years or are graduating soon, you’re likely eligible. Here’s the criteria:

• You have graduated, or are about to graduate, from an approved post-secondary program
• You live in Saskatchewan
• You are moving to Saskatchewan
• You’re filing an income tax return in Saskatchewan

Most Saskatchewan post-secondary institutions will apply for the GRP on your behalf, but you have to give your consent for them to do so. After graduation, you’ll have to download your GRP certificate through the Saskatchewan Ministry of Advanced Education. You’ll need this certificate to claim the tax credit when you file your taxes.

What’s my next step?

This program could be a good way to invest in your own career while giving back to the province’s healthcare system. However, eligibility is time sensitive. If you’re unsure of how to apply or want to confirm your eligibility, our advisors are here to help.

Have questions? Reach out to your local advisor today.