RESP Calculator Canada — Maximize CESG and Education Savings
Calculate RESP growth with Canada Education Savings Grant matching. Plan your child education fund with up to $7200 in free government grants in 2026.
The Registered Education Savings Plan is Canada best tool for saving for your child post-secondary education. The federal government matches 20% of your contributions through the Canada Education Savings Grant up to $500 per year or $7200 lifetime per child. That is essentially free money for your child education. Combined with tax-sheltered investment growth an RESP started at birth can easily grow to $50000-80000 by the time your child turns 18 covering most or all of Canadian university costs.
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Key Information
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| CESG Match Rate | 20% of contributions |
| Maximum Annual CESG | $500 per year |
| Lifetime CESG Limit | $7200 per child |
| Annual Contribution Limit | $2500 for full CESG |
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Use Calculator NowFrequently Asked Questions
How much should I contribute to an RESP?
To maximize the Canada Education Savings Grant contribute $2500 per year per child. This triggers the full $500 annual CESG match. Contributing more than $2500 is allowed up to $50000 lifetime per child but amounts above $2500 do not receive additional CESG matching. If you cannot afford $2500 per year any amount helps and still gets 20% matched.
What if my child does not go to university?
If your child decides not to pursue post-secondary education you have several options. You can transfer the RESP to another child or keep it open for up to 35 years in case they change their mind. The CESG grant money must be returned to the government. The investment growth can be transferred to your RRSP if you have room up to $50000 though it will be taxed. Your original contributions are returned to you tax-free.
When should I start an RESP?
Start an RESP as soon as possible after your child is born. With 18 years of compounding and CESG matching early contributions grow significantly more than later ones. A $2500 annual contribution started at birth grows to approximately $75000-90000 by age 18 assuming 6% returns. Starting at age 5 with the same contribution only reaches $45000-55000.
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Last updated: 24 March 2026