“Student minimum wage” sounds like a special rate for anyone in college or university. In Ontario, that’s usually not the case. Most students are covered by the general minimum wage—the same wage floor as other workers doing the same job.
Ontario does have a student minimum wage, but it’s mainly an under-18 rule with specific conditions. This guide explains which rate applies, the few exceptions that matter, and a quick way to confirm your pay using your pay stub.
The short answer most students need
If you’re 18 or older, don’t assume there’s a separate “student wage.” In most part-time jobs (retail, food service, grocery, warehouse, campus jobs), you should be paid at least the general minimum wage.
If you’re under 18, the student minimum wage may apply—but only if you also meet the hours and school-timing conditions below.
When the student minimum wage applies
The student minimum wage is meant for students under 18 who:
- work 28 hours/week or less when school is in session, or
- work during a school break (including summer holidays).
If you’re missing any part of that (age, student status, hours/school timing), the student rate usually isn’t the right category.
If you go over 28 hours in a school week
This is where payroll mistakes happen. If you’re under 18 and pick up extra shifts, ask payroll which minimum wage category they applied for that pay period/week, and have them correct it if the wrong category was used. (Don’t rely on a verbal “it’s fine”—get the rate confirmed in writing.)
Current minimum wage rates students see most often
These are the Ontario minimum wage rates that come up in student paychecks most often (rates effective October 1, 2025, and still current as of January 2026):
| Category | Who it’s for | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| General minimum wage | Most employees (including most students 18+) | $17.60/hour |
| Student minimum wage | Students under 18 who meet the 28-hour + school rule | $16.60/hour |
| Homeworkers | Employees paid to work from their own home (rare for most students) | $19.35/hour |
One key nuance: if you’re a student of any age and you’re classified as a homeworker employee, the homeworker rate applies.
A one-minute pay-stub check (the part that catches real problems)
Pay stubs vary by employer, but Ontario workers should receive a wage statement that shows the basics clearly. Here’s the fast check that finds most underpayments:
1) Find your hourly rate
Look for “Rate,” “Hourly,” or “Regular rate.”
- If you’re 18+, that rate should usually be $17.60/hour or higher.
- If you’re under 18, confirm whether you meet the student minimum wage conditions.
2) Verify the math
Do one quick calculation:
Gross pay = hours × hourly rate (plus any premiums/holiday pay if listed)
Example: 24 hours × $17.60 = $422.40 gross.
If your gross pay doesn’t roughly match, it’s often one of three things: wrong hours, wrong rate, or unpaid time.
3) Check the “required basics”
Your pay stub should include:
- pay period
- gross and net pay
- wage rate (if applicable)
- deductions (tax/CPP/EI, etc.)
If your stub is missing key info, ask payroll for a clearer statement (paper or electronic).
Situations that trip students up
“My employer says training doesn’t count”
If training is required by the employer (or required by law for the job), it’s generally treated as work time, with some exceptions. If you’re being told to show up unpaid, that’s a red flag worth checking.
“I’m in a placement—does minimum wage apply?”
Some approved college/university placement programs can be treated differently. If it’s not clearly an approved placement and you’re doing regular work like other staff, you may still be treated as an employee. Keep everything in writing and ask your school program coordinator if the placement is formally approved.
“I’m an international student”
Minimum wage rules are the same. The separate issue is your study-permit work conditions. For job ideas that fit typical student schedules, link this to part-time jobs for international students in Ontario and your guide on working while studying in Ontario.
If you think you’re being paid the wrong rate
- Save proof: pay stubs, schedules, time-clock screenshots.
- Ask one clear question (in writing): “What minimum wage category and hourly rate did you apply for this pay period?”
- Request a correction if the category or rate doesn’t match the Ontario rules.
- If the employer won’t fix it, contact Ontario’s Employment Standards Information Centre for next steps.
To double-check what your take-home pay should look like, you can compare your hours/rate using your Ontario paycheque calculator. And if you’re trying to keep rent/phone/transit predictable, your student budget planner can help you spot “short pay” weeks early—without turning this into a stressful surprise.
Student minimum wage Ontario FAQs
Is there a separate minimum wage just because I’m in college/university?
Usually no. Most post-secondary students are covered by the general minimum wage.
Who qualifies for the student minimum wage in Ontario?
Generally, students under 18 who work 28 hours/week or less when school is in session, or who work during a school break.
Can my employer pay me less because I earn tips?
Tips aren’t a substitute for minimum wage. Your base hourly pay still has to meet the minimum wage that applies to your category.
How often does minimum wage change in Ontario?
Ontario typically updates minimum wage by regulation (often around October). Before you rely on any rate for budgeting, confirm the “effective date” on an official or reputable update.
