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The University of Saskatchewan is increasing tuition again, and it’s a bigger jump than last year.
The institution’s board of governors have agreed to hike rates by an average of 4.8 per cent for the 2018-19 academic year, representing about $300 in higher tuition for arts and science students.
This increase is more than double the hike put in place for students last spring, when fees went up by an average of 2.3 per cent.
“These rates were determined through broad consultation across campus and with our students,” Provost Tony Vanelli said in a statement.
“Setting tuition is a complex process, but as is always the case at our university, that process is guided by principles of comparability, affordability and accessibility for our students and their families, and to ensure the quality of our programs.”
He noted the vote on tuition rates was shifted from December to March to allow for more input from the student body at the university.
Vanelli said tuition revenues are projected to reach $137.3 million in 2018-19 — representing 25 per cent of the U of S operating budget.
The statement adds the money will go towards maintaining and enhancing programs and course offerings, along with improving student services.
“We know this is a significant investment for our students and so we work to ensure the programs are of very good quality and that a U of S education sets our graduates up for a lifetime of success,” Vanelli said.
Students resigned to increases
Students at the university’s main campus reacted to news of the hikes on Wednesday with mixed feelings.
“My tuition is already fairly high, so $300 isn’t going to make much of a difference,” Victoria Carroll said. “My education is my priority, so I can’t be too mad about it.”
Some students were surprised by the news, given they already saw a rate increase for the 2017-18 year.
“They keep going up,” graduating student Cris Laidlaw said.
“I haven’t really seen much improvement … I see new buildings popping up but that’s about it.”
Students like Kacey Hogan just want the hikes to stop.
“We’re poor enough already.”
