Students who decide to withdraw from college because of the strike will receive a full tuition refund.
The province made this announcement Monday after back-to-work legislation was passed over the weekend that will allow college classes across Ontario to restart after a five-week strike by college faculty.
Apprentices can also apply for a full refund of classroom fees if they are unable to complete their in-school training for reasons related to the strike.
The province has also required colleges to establish dedicated student support funds with net savings from the strike that will assist students who have experienced financial hardship as a result of the strike.
Full-time domestic and international students will be eligible to receive up to $500 for incremental unexpected costs they incurred, such as additional child care fees, rebooked train or bus tickets or January rent.
Ontario expects that students will be able to apply to their college for financial assistance through the fund starting this week. Any strike-related support will not count against a student's OSAP assessment.
These financial supports for students were determined through consultations with student leaders and their provincial associations and colleges.
Cambrian College has published more information about the tuition refunds and hardship fund on its website.
“Over the past month, I have heard from students about hardships they have experienced as a result of this strike,” said Deb Matthews, Deputy Premier, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Development and Minister Responsible for Digital Government, in a press release.
“It is clear that they have borne the brunt of this situation. That’s why we are taking these measures to ensure students have the support they need to complete their studies, and continue working towards an education that will allow them to succeed in a highly-skilled workforce.”
A press release from the College Student Alliance said the group advocated for the tuition refunds.
Students will have a two-week window to return to classes, determine how comfortable they are with a condensed semester, and then have the option to withdraw and receive a full tuition refund.
Apprentices who are unable to complete in-school training are also eligible for a full refund of classroom fees.
In addition to a tuition refund, students will receive Ontario Student Assistance Plan (OSAP) funding for the length of their semester extension.
The Ministry also confirmed OSAP extension payments for students will begin in mid-December, and if students choose to withdraw, their OSAP grants will not be turned into loans.
“Minister Deb Matthews met with our team multiple times over the course of the strike and read student stories submitted to us in determining details of the fund,” said Joel Willett, president.
“We are thankful students finally have a voice after five long weeks of being ignored.”
CSA is also pleased the Student Support Fund, advocated for by CSA, is an option for students to receive some financial compensation due to the strike.
Though CSA specifically advocated for all students at all colleges to receive an equal amount from the fund, the group said it's relieved the ministry has ensured funding is there for students who need it most.
In addition, student associations must be involved with any dispute resolution between a student and their institution regarding the Student Support Fund. This is an important role for student associations to play in protecting the interests of students, especially given the academic, emotional, and financial burdens students are faced with.
“The implementation of the Student Support Fund and the option of a tuition refund are proof student advocacy works,” said Willett. “Ontario’s college students are resilient and we’re proud to represent them.”
