A self-directed RESP is a type of RESP where the subscriber (the person who opens the plan) has the freedom to choose and manage the investments within the plan, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, etc. A self-directed RESP can have one or more beneficiaries (the children who will use the funds for their education) and can be individual or family plans. A self-directed RESP is eligible for the Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG), which is a 20% matching grant on the first $2,500 of annual contributions per beneficiary, up to a lifetime limit of $7,200. Additionally, low income families who qualify may receive an extra 10% or 20% on the first $500 of annual contributions per beneficiary, depending on their net family income. This is called the Additional CESG. Educational Assistance Payments (EAPs) are the payments made from the RESP to the beneficiary when they enroll in a qualifying post-secondary program. EAPs consist of the CESG, the Additional CESG, and any income or growth earned within the plan. EAPs may be used for any education-related expenses, such as tuition, books, transportation, accommodation, etc. EAPs are taxable in the hands of the beneficiary, who usually has a lower tax rate than the subscriber.

Canadian Investment Funds Course, Chapter 5: Registered Plans1