University of Saskatchewan Board of Governors announces 2014-15 tuition rates

Saskatoon - The University of Saskatchewan's Board of Governors has approved tuition increases for the 2014-15 academic year.

The largest single group of students affected by the increase — those in the College of Arts and Science — will see a 4.15 per cent increase in 2014-2015. This is projected to put tuition for these students at 11 per cent below the median rate of comparable programs in Canada. Depending on the program, undergraduate students will see a change in their tuition rate ranging from zero per cent to a 5.5 per cent increase.

"We are pleased to note that even with this increase, students at the U of S will continue to pay some of the lowest tuition rates when compared to our Canadian peers," said Board of Governors Chair Susan Milburn. "Despite recent budget pressures, our priority continues to be to provide an exceptional educational experience that is affordable for our students."

The approved undergraduate tuition rate changes for specific programs range from zero per cent to 5.5 per cent for domestic students. Graduate students will see an average increase of 4 per cent for standard programs. Tuition rates in the College of Arts and Science, where 40 per cent of students are enrolled, will increase by 4.15 per cent. Tuition in the Colleges of Pharmacy and Nutrition and Education saw an increase of less than four per cent, while Dentistry was not increased.

Tuition rates are reviewed annually by the Board and set in accordance with the principles of comparability, affordability and accessibility, and enabling quality. Tuition rates are not determined based on balancing the university's budget. "We continue to offer high-quality programs that earn high levels of student satisfaction," explained Brett Fairbairn, provost and vice-president academic. "Given that tuition rates also remain below the median of peer programs across Canada, we believe we are offering terrific value to students for their education."

All additional revenue raised by 2014-15 tuition increases will be returned directly to the colleges and schools to enhance the student experience.

Tuition revenue comprises 23 per cent of the university's operating budget. The balance of the university's operating revenue comes largely from the Province of Saskatchewan, along with interprovincial funding, investment and other sources. The university's 2014-15 operating budget will be announced in June.

For more information on tuition at the U of S, including all 2014-15 rates visit www.usask.ca/tuition.

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For more information, contact:


Jennifer Thoma

Media Relations

University of Saskatchewan

306-966-1851

jennifer.thoma@usask.ca
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