FIX OSAP – ASAP!

WHEREAS The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) was established to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent students from pursuing post-secondary education; and

WHEREAS The Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security and the Minister of Finance announced major changes to the Ontario Student Assistance Program

(OSAP), changing the loan minimum to 75% and lowering the grant maximum to 25%, substantially reducing the proportion of non-repayable grants available to students, increasing

reliance on repayable loans; and

WHEREAS This change will negatively affect Ontario post-secondary students who are receiving or may need to receive OSAP. At a time when young people across the province are

struggling with rising unemployment, cost of living, and housing challenges, this change hurts young Ontarians by burdening them with more debt; and

WHEREAS Increasing student debt risks declining enrollment, increases dropout rates, and hinders workforce development;

THEREFORE, We, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario as follows:

●Immediately reverse the announced changes to OSAP that reduce non-repayable grant funding and increase student reliance on loans;

● Conduct comprehensive consultations with students, institutions, financial aid offices, and advocacy groups before implementing any future changes to student financial assistance;

● Uphold Ontario's commitment to accessible, affordable, and quality post-secondary education for all.

*By submitting this form you will be added to our MPP e-newsletter