CSA’s Newsletter from September 5th – September 17th

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.

Where students live affects their grades, study finds September 11th — Canadian Affairs, Meagan Gillmore

A new study from Toronto Metropolitan University examined records from more than 750,000 students and found that where students live may affect their academic performance. Students living on campus had higher grades on average, while longer commutes were associated with lower grades. The article features Maryam Zahid, CSA Vice-President and a second-year nursing student at Humber College, who shares her experience commuting four hours a day from Ingersoll to campus and the trade-offs between affordable housing and the full student experience.

How different is OSAP funding this year in the wake of provincial grant cuts? Returning students weigh in September 8th — CBC News, Alina Snisarenko

Ontario students are seeing changes to their OSAP funding this school year, with the provincial grant portion dropping from a maximum of 85% to 25%. CBC spoke with five students about how the changes are affecting their finances. Several reported receiving thousands less in grants and more in loans, while others said the changes could mean working more, taking on additional debt, or reconsidering future education plans.

Ontario students brace for ‘vast amount’ of debt amid OSAP changes, tuition increases September 9th – Toronto Star, Kristin Rushow

Ontario is adding 40,000 new spots at colleges and universities, with about 27,000 available this fall and another 13,000 planned for next fall. The new spaces are focused on areas including STEM, health care, education and skilled trades, with schools required to consult local businesses and communities when developing their proposals. In total, the province is funding 70,000 new spaces in these priority areas, with the goal of addressing local workforce needs and supporting Ontario’s economy.

Ontario universities attracted more than $1-billion in private-sector investment in three years, report finds September 14th, 2026 — The Globe and Mail, Kelly Grant

Ontario universities attracted $1.02 billion in private-sector investment between 2023–24 and 2025–26, according to a new report from the Council of Ontario Universities. During the same period, universities established more than 7,500 corporate partnerships, while 2,840 startups and spinoff companies were created in 2024–25 alone. The report highlights how post-secondary institutions are working with industry to support research, innovation and career opportunities in areas such as technology, engineering and science.

The 10 Highest Paying College Pathways in Canada Right Now September 8th, 2026 —  Macleans, Claire Sibonney

With rising living costs and a competitive job market, students are paying closer attention to career paths and potential earnings. A new Maclean’s report highlights 10 college pathways connected to some of Canada’s highest-paying industries, using recent Statistics Canada employment income data. The list includes energy systems, engineering technology, aviation, skilled trades, finance, computer systems and allied health, with average employment incomes ranging from $82,300 to $115,000.

Fleming College announces $120,000 in entrance scholarships for 54 incoming students September 9th, 2026 — KawarthaNOW

Fleming College is providing $120,000 in entrance scholarships to 54 incoming students this fall. Fifty students will receive $2,000 awards through the college’s new entrance scholarship program, supporting mature learners, skilled trades, applied health, diagnostic cardiac sonography, and returning Fleming graduates. Four environmental science students will also receive $5,000 scholarships from The Pick Family Foundation. The scholarships aim to help reduce financial barriers and support students entering priority programs.