It’s deeply disappointing that students won’t be able to attend classes on campus this fall. Many of us were genuinely excited to begin a new chapter—walking into lecture halls, meeting our professors and classmates, joining clubs, and building a sense of community. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, a significant part of that experience has been lost.

For new students especially, university or college was something we pictured as an exciting transition—a place to learn, connect, and grow. Now, those opportunities to explore campus life, engage in face-to-face learning, and meet new people are no longer available. Despite this, we’re still being asked to pay full tuition for an experience that has been dramatically changed.

We understand that the pandemic has affected everyone, including institutions. However, it has also placed a serious financial strain on students and their families. Many have lost jobs or are struggling to find work, making it incredibly difficult to afford tuition. Paying full fees for an experience that lacks access to in-person lectures, labs, campus resources, and student services feels unreasonable.

We respectfully urge Ontario’s post-secondary institutions to reconsider the cost of tuition during this time. Online learning does not offer the same value for every student, and continuing to charge full fees places an unfair burden on many who are already struggling.

Please consider the students and families doing their best to navigate this difficult situation. A temporary reduction in tuition would show understanding, fairness, and true support for the academic success and well-being of students.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Students Across Ontario