In September, preliminary proposals for tuition and fee increases for the 2024-2025 academic year were made by the university sharing a 2% proposed increase to domestic tuition, a 10% proposed increase to international tuition, and a 2% increase to all mandatory non-instructional fees (MNIFs).
This fall, we have been working hard to push UCalgary admin to incorporate student feedback into their proposal for the next round of tuition and fee increases. Thankfully, this year’s new process has allowed more meaningful consultation and more opportunity to voice student needs and concerns.
International students have already endured exorbitant tuition increases over the last four years, some even as high as 40%. And we have concerns about MNIFs – students should have confidence in the transparency of these fees and see value in what they receive in return.
Here are our asks instead:
Tuition
- Align international and domestic tuition increases at 2%
- Provide international students with a 4-year and 5-year tuition guarantee when accepted
- Assemble an Affordability Task Force to be vigilant with this escalating issue
Fees
- Freeze all fee increases until there is more transparent reporting on where fees are going
- This includes the university providing companion documents to better clarify current Mandatory Non-Instructional Fee reports by Nov. 15
- Commit to improving the value students receive from the Athletics Fee in a meaningful way before it can be increased
Re-invest in Academics and Mental Health
- Expand academic advising capacity so students can access a quality appointment in a timely manner
- Expand and improve the professional capacity of Student Wellness and Accessibility Services
International Student Supports
- Establish an International Student Advisory Committee to address the urgent needs of international students at UCalgary
- Invest in programs and services that international students need, such as:
- More transition and program support advisors
- More immigration support advisors
- More funding for programming
- Hiring someone to be a dedicated wellness service staff member to support international students
Ancillary
- Reduce proposed increases for residences to 1.0-5.0%
- Prioritize student satisfaction with meal plans and increase the quality of food
What’s happening next?
On Tuesday, October 31st, UCalgary admin will attend a second Students’ Legislative Council (SLC) meeting, where a proposal will be presented for tuition and fee increases for the 2024-2025 academic year, following the student consultation that has occurred. If you’d like to submit a question or comment to be addressed at the SLC meeting, please submit it here.
Our work in addressing these proposed tuition raises all lead up to a vote at the UCalgary Board of Governors’ meeting on December 8. There, we learn if these changes are approved. Student engagement is essential to make sure that the proposal reflects what students want.
I hope that we can count on your support.
Your Students’ Union President,
Shaziah Jinnah Morsette