When Does Child Support Stop in Ontario for a Child in University or College?

Child support in Ontario does not stop automatically when your child turns 18 and can continue while they study full time. Under the Family Law Act, every parent must support an unmarried minor or full-time student, to the extent they can pay, but not a child 16 or older who has withdrawn from parental control.

If you are divorcing, the Divorce Act's "child of the marriage" includes a child at or over the age of majority who is still under their charge but cannot withdraw or obtain the necessaries of life because of illness, disability or other cause. If you were never married, or are separating without divorcing, the Ontario guidelines apply instead. Under them, for a child at or over the age of majority, such as one at college or university, the amount is set by applying the guidelines as if the child were a minor, unless the court finds that inappropriate and sets an amount that suits the child's circumstances and each parent's ability to contribute.

An order or agreement can set an end date, and if it is silent, both parents must agree to end payments or a judge decides. Whether an adult student is still dependent depends on the facts, so confirm your situation with a lawyer.