Changes to the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) are drawing responses from post-secondary institutions as the province shifts its student aid model toward more loans and fewer grants beginning this fall.
Under the revised framework, students will receive a maximum of 25 per cent of their OSAP funding as non-repayable grants, with the remainder provided as loans.
The province says the changes are part of broader post-secondary reforms that include new funding for colleges and universities and the end of a multi-year tuition freeze.
While provincial officials have defended the overall package as financially necessary, student groups have raised concerns about increased debt loads and affordability.
At Fanshawe College, officials were asked to comment on how the OSAP changes could impact students across its campuses, including communities in the region served by our stations.
In response, the college declined an interview, stating that OSAP policies and funding decisions are determined by the provincial government.
However, Fanshawe provided a written statement emphasizing its commitment to supporting students financially.
“We believe that financial support is a crucial part of student success. That’s why Fanshawe is proud to distribute over $5 million in bursaries and scholarships annually to help students pay for college.
Our priority is to support our students by providing the tools and resources they need to navigate tuition costs, apply for scholarships, budget and otherwise take control of their finances so they can focus on their education.
We understand that the recent changes to OSAP may create uncertainty for students and their families. We encourage students to connect with our Financial Aid Office for individualized support and assistance.”