Grants Not Loans

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Federal Funding for Post-Secondary Education
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Grants Not Loans


Newfoundland and Labrador students are the most indebted in Canada – nearly 60 percent of undergraduates, as compared to a national average of 42 percent require student financial assistance to attend university and college.

Prior to 1994, the provincial government operated a grants system: students in this province were provided with non-repayable assistance when they enrolled in university and college. When the program was eliminated, student debt increased 100% in one year.

Currently, students who graduate from a university or college program that is at least 80 weeks in duration are eligible for Debt Reduction Grants, provided they meet specific criteria. Unfortunately, because the grants are awarded at the end of studies they do very little to encourage students to initially enroll in post-secondary education.

The international and Canadian evidence is clear: the best form of student financial assistance to encourage enrollment in universities and colleges is up-front grants. Such grants would reduce the financial barriers that travel and living expenses often represent for students whose family doesn't live near a post-secondary institution.

To get involved in the campaigns, contact Director of Campaigns
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Contact: Meghan McCarthy, Director of Campaigns
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campaigns@munsu.ca
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709.737.7633 ext. 208