2026 provincial budget response: Protecting Ontario must also mean protecting students

TORONTO - The College Student Alliance (CSA) again acknowledges the Government of Ontario’s $6.4 billion investment in post-secondary education over the next four years. Today’s provincial budget reaffirms previously announced measures to increase institutional funding, restructure the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP), and direct new investments toward high-demand fields of study.

Originally announced in February, the investment into Ontario institutions represents an important step toward a more sustainable post-secondary funding model. CSA, alongside many others across the sector, has consistently called for action to address the significant financial pressures facing institutions, particularly as those pressures increasingly affected student services, supports, and the quality of the student experience.

Recent OSAP Changes

However, those same changes will leave students navigating a new period of greater financial pressure. Rising costs of living, including housing, food, tuition, and essential academic expenses, will continue to place growing strain on students across the province. In this context, a restructured loan heavy OSAP program is likely to represent a significant shift in how many students will be expected to finance their education.

This shift will place more financial responsibility on students and families, especially as Ontario remains one of only two provinces that still charges interest on the provincial portion of student loans. While broader fiscal pressures are understood, it is important to recognize the real impact this will have on students’ financial well-being and choices. For many students, greater reliance on loans means more concern about debt, repayment, and their ability to complete their studies and move into jobs that Ontario’s labour market will continue to need.

Leaving No Student Behind

CSA remains committed to advocating for a post-secondary system that is accessible to all students, regardless of financial background. We are particularly concerned about the potential disproportionate impacts of these changes on equity-deserving groups, including Indigenous students, mature learners, students from low-income backgrounds, and students with disabilities. Ensuring that these students are not left behind will be critical to maintaining both fairness and participation within Ontario’s post-secondary system.

In response to these changes, CSA has engaged directly with Minister Quinn’s office to share student perspectives and identify constructive paths forward. We have encouraged the government to reconsider measures CSA has previously advocated for, such as introducing interest-free student loans and strengthening equity-based monitoring frameworks, to better understand how changes to OSAP will affect access, affordability, and student success. Ongoing evaluation will be essential to ensuring no unintended consequences occur and if they do, policy adjustments can be made where needed to support students effectively.

Sector-Specific Investments

In addition, CSA recognizes the government’s targeted investments in programs that address labour market needs, including construction, research, nursing and STEM programs. Supporting students in entering high-demand sectors is an important step toward strengthening Ontario’s workforce and economy. At the same time, it is equally important that Ontario continues to foster a diverse and adaptable talent pipeline. Students should be supported in pursuing a wide range of educational pathways that reflect their skills, interests, and the broader needs of society.

Ontario’s students are eager to contribute to the province’s economic and social future. Ensuring that post-secondary education remains accessible, affordable, and responsive to student needs will be key to achieving this shared goal. CSA looks forward to continuing to work collaboratively with the government and all elected officials to support policies that enable all students to succeed.

For media inquiries:

contact1@collegestudentalliance.ca