Social Insurance Number (SIN)

What is a SIN?

SIN stands for Social Insurance Number. It’s a 9-digit number that you need to work in Canada or to have access to certain enrolment and financial programs and benefits.

Don’t know your SIN?

You can request to apply for a SIN at any Service Canada Centre, it’s free!

The Government of Canada has instructions on how to apply.

How do I provide my SIN?

Log in to Mosaic > Update SIN tile or check your personal information to make sure yours is correct. If you are unable to update your SIN, please contact the registrar’s office through our chat.

Why do you need my SIN?

Tax Forms

The most important part of your tax form is your SIN, needed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). If you claim an education deduction and your T2202A doesn’t include your SIN, the CRA may deny your deduction.

  • T2202A Tuition and Enrolment Certificate
  • T4A Statement of Pension, Retirement, Annuity, and Other Income

Note: The address on your tax slips does not affect your filing or return.

Need more information on tax forms? Please find further information on our detailed Tax Section.

Awards, Scholarships and Bursaries

McMaster is required to provide a T4A for any student who has been issued an award, scholarship, or bursary.

Curious about Scholarships and Bursaries? Learn how they work.

Ontario Student Assistant Program (OSAP)

Your SIN is required to process OSAP applications and for the distribution of OSAP funding.

McMaster uses your SIN to identify your account when communicating with the National Student Loan Centre (NSLSC).

Not sure about how OSAP works or if it applies to you? Visit our OSAP guide.

CHECK OUT WHAT’S GOING ON!

Online Webinar: How to apply for OSAP

Online Webinar: How to apply for OSAP Event

Join Student Services for an online webinar that offers new students and their families, information and guidance on how to...

Applying to OSAP for the first time

Applying to OSAP for the first time Event

View our video tutorial above for the common practices on applying to OSAP. To calculate your course load, you can...

How to complete and submit the OSAP Extension Form

How to complete and submit the OSAP Extension Form Event

View our video tutorial above on how to complete and submit the OSAP Extension Form. Please note: A fully completed...

McMaster University sign on campus

Admission deferrals

Admission deferrals Event

Applications for deferrals will open in mid-July. McMaster will normally only grant deferrals on offers of admission when there are...