CSA’s Newsletter from July 25th – August 5th

What are people saying about post-secondary education this week? CSA offers members an exclusive look into the sector! Access each article by clicking the hyper-linked title. Where access may be restricted, acquire using your college library database.

Doug Ford’s changes to OSAP are now in effect. Students say this will make post-secondary education ‘less accessible’ August 1st — CTV News, Alex Arsenych

Ontario’s OSAP changes are creating financial uncertainty for students, including Cambrian College student Celina Marsolais, whose grants are expected to drop significantly. A preliminary survey by the College Student Alliance (CSA) and OUSA found that 65% of students rely primarily on OSAP, while nearly half worry about increased long-term debt. CSA is calling for a no-interest student loan program to reduce immediate financial pressure, alongside stronger repayment supports, as students face rising tuition and living costs.

Sweeping work permit refusals draw student protests in Canada August 5th – PIE News, Polly Nash

International students are protesting widespread refusals of post-graduation work permits (PGWPs), with hundreds of Portage College graduates affected after IRCC clarified that most non-credit programs are not eligible. Students say they were previously told they qualified. Immigration experts are calling for clearer communication and mandatory immigration advising for institutions enrolling international students. The situation highlights growing uncertainty for international students as federal immigration policies continue to change, potentially affecting their ability to work and remain in Canada after graduation.

Unions demand transparency on proposed St. Lawrence College merger July 29th, 2026 — The Seaway

Faculty and support staff unions at St. Lawrence College are calling for greater transparency as the college prepares to integrate with Fleming College. OPSEU/SEFPO Locals 417 and 418 say employees have not received enough information about how the proposed merger could affect jobs, programs, campuses and student services. The unions are seeking access to merger-related documents, impact analyses and a clear consultation timeline. St. Lawrence says the integration remains in its early stages and further planning will follow as details are confirmed.

Canada tightens financial checks for study permits July 29th, 2026 —  CIC News, Derek Shank

Canada has introduced tougher financial checks for international students applying for study permits. Immigration officers are now instructed to more closely assess applicants’ funding sources and may request additional financial and employment documents, including up to six months of bank statements. While the required proof-of-funds amount remains unchanged, the stricter process adds another layer of scrutiny for prospective international students amid Canada’s broader efforts to reduce and regulate international student numbers.

Fleming partners with Skills Ontario for youth summer camps July 5th, 2026 — The Peterborough Examiner

Fleming College and Skills Ontario are giving Grades 7–9 students hands-on exposure to skilled trades through a summer camp running Aug. 10–14. Hosted at Fleming’s Peterborough and Lindsay campuses, the program introduces students to fields including construction, plumbing, electrical, welding, heavy equipment, blasting and natural resources. Participants gain practical skills using industry tools and materials, while activities aim to spark early interest in trades careers and help address Ontario’s growing demand for skilled workers.

Sault College’s Corporate Training Institute launches FREE “Understanding Cannabis and Your Career” micro-credential July 23rd, 2026 — The SooToday

Sault College has launched a free, self-paced micro-credential on cannabis and the workplace. The Understanding Cannabis and Your Career course covers cannabis’ effects, workplace rights and responsibilities, legal considerations, and impacts on job performance and safety. Designed with industry input, the course helps students, job seekers, employees and employers better understand cannabis in today’s workplace.