University students in Saskatchewan are paying more for tuition this fall, with domestic tuition increasing 2.8 per cent at the University of Saskatchewan, and three per cent at the University of Regina. The increases amount to more than $200 a year for some students. “The tuition at the university is just too high. I believe they raised it by the maximum amount they could over the last few years, and now we’re paying some of the highest tuition in all of Canada,” said Michael Stevenson, a university student. “If it weren’t for me winning scholarships it would be a lot worse than it is, so I am thankful everyday for scholarships ,” added student Abigail Sadowski. The provincial government has capped annual tuition increases at three per cent. “Statistics Canada reported that undergraduate students in Saskatchewan pay the second highest tuition fees in the country,” said NDP MLA Sally Housser. “Our undergrads pay roughly $2,200 more annually on tuition than the Canadian average.” Annual tuition is now $8000 a year or more, depending on the program and the number of classes taken. Still, most students feel they’re getting good value for their money. “I would say it’s money well spent. It’s also putting the time in the right places, and I feel like I’m getting my money’s worth here,” said student Kahilil David. In a written statement, the provincial government refuted suggestions that Saskatchewan university tuition is among the highest in Canada, saying it’s actually among the lowest. The NDP cited Statistics Canada as the source of its numbers. The provincial government did not cite the source of its counter claim.
