U of S releases 2016/17 tuition rates

University tuition rates slated to increase by an average of 2.5 per cent

SASKATOON - Following Board of Governors' approval in December, the University of Saskatchewan (U of S) has released tuition rates and fees for the next academic year.

Both undergraduate and graduate programs will see increases ranging from zero to five per cent.

"We know the cost of a post-secondary education is top of mind for students and their families, and we try to manage tuition rates with that in mind," said Greg Smith, chair of the U of S Board of Governors. "In most programs, the total cost of tuition and fees will continue to be lower than the median cost of similar programs at other Canadian medical-doctoral universities."

Tuition rates in the College of Arts and Science, where nearly half of students are enrolled, will change by 2.7 per cent on average. The average arts and science student will pay $6,773 in 2016/17 for tuition and fees, including health and dental insurance.

"Students expect to see value for the investment they make in their education, and meeting those expectations is very important to us," said John Rigby, interim associate provost, Institutional Planning and Assessment. "It is essential for the university to strike a balance between keeping any necessary increases at a manageable increment, while at the same time ensuring the quality of our programs and services stays high."

Tuition rates are reviewed annually by the board and based on the principles of comparability, affordability and accessibility, and enabling quality. Tuition revenue comprises close to 25 per cent of the university's operating budget and is used to ensure ongoing program offerings; fund specific enhancements in programs, student services and the student experience; and to set aside needs-based assistance for students who have modest financial resources. The balance of the university's operating revenue comes from the Government of Saskatchewan, interprovincial funding, investments and other sources.

More information about tuition at the U of S, including specifics about next year's rates, is available at usask.ca/tuition.

University spokesperson John Rigby is available for media interviews on Wednesday, Jan. 13 from 9:30 - 11:30 am and 1:30 - 3 pm.

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For more information, contact:
James Shewaga
Media Relations Specialist
University of Saskatchewan
306-966-1851
james.shewaga@usask.ca