Ontario students face tuition increases and reduced OSAP after funding change

Ontario announced $6.4 billion in new post-secondary funding and ended an eight-year tuition freeze, allowing up to 2% annual tuition increases starting 2026-27; the province also reduced OSAP grant support from 85% to a maximum of 25% for eligible students.

Ontario's Colleges and Universities Minister Nolan Quinn announced $6.4 billion in new post-secondary funding and an end to an eight-year tuition freeze. The province will allow publicly-assisted colleges and universities to raise tuition by up to two per cent per year beginning in the 2026-2027 school year. The allocation of Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) funding will change so that grants for eligible students are capped at a maximum of 25 per cent, down from 85 per cent. Officials said the measures respond to longer-term funding shortfalls and lower international student numbers. What officials announced: - $6.4 billion in new funding for post-secondary education announced by the minister. - End of an eight-year tuition freeze and permission for up to 2% annual tuition increases for the next three years, then capped at 2% or the average inflation rate, whichever is lower. - OSAP grant support for eligible students reduced from 85% to a maximum of 25%. - For context, the article cites average university tuition of $8,958 (a possible first increase of about $179) and an average college diploma cost of $2,400 (a possible increase of about $50). - The changes are scheduled to begin in the 2026-2027 academic year. Summary: Officials described the funding and policy changes as a response to funding shortfalls and a drop in international student numbers. The announcement is in effect and the tuition and OSAP adjustments are set to begin with the 2026-27 school year. Reactions from students and some university representatives noted increased financial pressure as the immediate effect.