Use the checks below to confirm whether the answer fits the family, provider, and school situation.
Prepare documents and questions before requesting RESP withdrawals for school.
Yes, but only in the subscriber sense. A parent controls an RESP when the parent is the subscriber or joint subscriber on the plan. The provider will look to the account documents, not just the parent-child relationship.
A parent subscriber can usually choose the provider, make or stop contributions, give investment instructions within the provider's options, request transfers, request withdrawals, and discuss plan details with the promoter.
That control is limited by RESP rules. Grants, the Canada Learning Bond, provincial incentives, and earnings are not general parent cash. EAPs are meant to help the beneficiary with qualifying post-secondary education.
How to check this rule
Details that matter
Subscriber status controls
Being a parent is not enough if someone else opened the RESP.
Contributions are different
Subscriber contributions are more flexible than grants and earnings.
EAP limits apply
Education payments need the beneficiary to meet school and program conditions.
Provider process matters
The promoter may require forms, signatures, proof of enrolment, and processing time.
Example
Example: A parent opened the RESP and is the only subscriber. They can request a school withdrawal when the student qualifies, but the provider will still ask whether the withdrawal is an EAP, contribution refund, or a mix.
Questions to ask your provider
Am I listed as subscriber or joint subscriber?
What can I authorize without the beneficiary's signature?
Which payments can go to me, to the student, or to the school?
Would any withdrawal trigger grant repayment?
What happens if another family member has a second RESP for this child?
Read next
Parent control over an RESP explains the broader decision and links to related tools.
Tool next step
RESP Withdrawal Checklist can help estimate the practical contribution choices before you confirm eligibility with the promoter.
Provider next step
RESP Provider Checklist helps you compare promoters on grant support, fees, and withdrawal process before opening or moving an RESP.