I am an international student going to Toronto Metropolitan University for engineering. My tuition fees is already almost 10 times more than the average domestic student in my class. Yet, when it came to pay my semester fees, I was struck with an unexpected increase of $1000. As if juggling part time jobs (with a new rule that limits us to working only 20 hours a week) with school and responsibilities of adulthood was not enough, we now also have to wonder why the tuition fees is significantly higher that what we had mapped out. This sudden unjustified rise in cost presented a significant struggle in my ability to secure the necessary funds. This story is not exclusive to me. Thousands of international students in our education system face this issue annually, causing undue financial disruption and stress. 

Universities are cornerstone institutions and they have a responsibility to be upfront about any amendments in tuition fees. Current practices, however, leave many international students in the dark about tuition increases until the bill arrives. We believe it’s crucial for academic institutions to provide clear, timely explanations about these hikes.

According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, the annual cost of attending colleges has increased by more than 100% in the last three decades (Source: NBER). The lack of transparency for such changes breeds uncertainty and anxiety among students, particularly those who are bearing the financial weight of their education.

We, therefore, call on the Department of Education and universities nationwide to adopt a standardized practice that provides complete transparency about tuition fee increases for all students, but especially international students. By doing so, students can have a clear understanding of the financial requirements associated with their academic journey, allowing them to plan and prepare better.

Moreover, this petition demands that universities should not drastically increase their tuition fees for international students. Across-the-board cost hikes without regard for the economic circumstances of this demographic can put international students' education at serious risk, increasing drop-out rates.

Please sign this petition and join the movement towards tuition transparency in our universities. We deserve to have a clear picture of our financial obligations. Education is a right, not a mystery. 

Raise your voice to limit sudden and significant fee increases that disproportionately affect international students. Let's ensure everyone, regardless of their international status, can access and afford higher education.