International Students at USask Face Tuition Hikes, Express Concerns

International students at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) are raising alarms over significant tuition increases that have nearly doubled since their enrollment. Some students report that their tuition has surged from $21,000 when they first started their studies four years ago, leading to fears that they may not complete their degrees.

Isheanesu Nhiwatiwa, a third-year student, articulated the concern many share: “I may not be able to finish my degree here. From first to second year, my tuition increased by about $10,000, and from second year to this year, it rose another $5,000. I’m not sure what it will look like for next year.”

Nganminen Kwashi highlighted the impact of these rising costs, noting that he has witnessed friends leave the university because they can no longer afford to continue their education. “I remember one of my first friends who I was in university with; he hasn’t been in school for the whole year. I think that’s a huge problem,” Kwashi said.

Students like Allison Ochigbo have also observed peers dropping out or transferring to other institutions. “It’s a very, very sad thing,” she remarked. The situation is not just affecting individual students; the University of Saskatchewan Students’ Union (USSU) emphasizes that rising tuition is leading to broader challenges, including housing instability and food insecurity.

Chidera Nwobodo, social media manager of the Pan-African Students Association, expressed the financial strain felt by families back home who have made sacrifices to fund their children’s education abroad. “When your parents send you abroad, they calculate the costs expecting a certain amount for four years. But when you are spending that money in just a year and a half, what happens to the remaining three and a half years?” Nwobodo asked.

Nathaniel Aubynn added that this burden creates stress not just for students but for their families as well. Ochigbo noted that the financial pressure has taken a significant toll on students’ mental health, stating, “It’s been very difficult. I’ve managed to secure income for myself, but last year I had a mental breakdown.”

The struggle to balance work and academic responsibilities is palpable. Emily Hubick, vice-president of student affairs at the USSU, commented on how students working multiple jobs to meet tuition costs often find their studies sidelined. “More work and stress take time away from their studies and ability to participate in academic life,” she said.

In contrast, some Canadian institutions, such as the University of Alberta, have policies guaranteeing tuition rates for international students throughout their program duration. Pamino Akinjide, a USask student, advocates for similar measures at USask, which would provide students with financial predictability.

Marjorie Delbaere, interim vice-provost for students and learning at USask, acknowledged the concerns raised by international students. “The University of Saskatchewan is committed to providing predictability and support,” she stated. Delbaere highlighted a renewed multi-year funding agreement with the Government of Saskatchewan that sets tuition limits for the next four years, aimed at ensuring stability for students while supporting sustainable education initiatives.

Despite these assurances, students feel that financial support from the university remains insufficient. Aubynn conveyed the sentiment of many students, stating, “We’re not asking for special treatment; we’re just asking for transparency and that you consider our needs.”

Kwashi pointed out that a lack of information about tuition increases affects both domestic and international students, warning that this could lead to greater issues in the future.

In a statement, Saskatchewan’s Minister of Education, Ken Cheveldayoff, noted that this year, “international graduate student tuition fees in Saskatchewan were among the lowest in Canada.”

The ongoing conversation highlights a critical need for dialogue and action to address the financial challenges faced by international students at USask, as they navigate their academic journeys amidst rising costs.