UPEI tuition rates second lowest in the Maritimes

The following news release is courtesy of the University of Prince Edward Island

Tuition rates at the University of Prince Edward Island remain among the lowest in the Maritime provinces according to reports released by the Maritime Provinces Higher Education Council (MPHEC) and Statistics Canada.

The MPHEC report indicates that 2016–17 tuition fees paid by undergraduate arts and science students range between $5,716 (Université de Moncton) and $7,944 (Acadia University). Tuition at UPEI sits in the second lowest position, at $5,860 for the current academic year.

Compared to last year, tuition fees in the region have increased between 2.00 (Université de Moncton) and 11.60 per cent (Nova Scotia College of Art and Design). UPEI’s Board of Governors approved a 3.00 per cent tuition increase in May, also the second lowest increase in the Maritimes.

Statistics Canada reported that UPEI’s tuition remains under the national weighted average of $6,373.

“We recognize that the cost of post-secondary education is rising for our students and we work hard to minimize any increase,” said Dr. Alaa Abd-El-Aziz, UPEI President and Vice-Chancellor. “Even with a three per cent increase, we are pleased that our undergraduate tuition rate remains one of the lowest in the region, especially given that fees vary by more than $2,000.”

UPEI is third lowest in terms of its international student fees in the MPHEC study. Though tuition for graduate students vary by program, PEI’s only degree granting institution features the lowest rate among all Maritime provinces universities, at $3,933, for graduate studies in Arts, Science, and Nursing.

MPHEC also reported that each provincial government provides either rebates or bursaries to entice students to remain “at home” to study, but that the programs differ greatly. Prince Edward Island offers resident students the $2,200 George Coles Bursary when they first enter postsecondary education. Students in their second, third, and fourth years are eligible for Island Student Awards in the amounts of $400, $600, and $600 respectively; graduating students are awarded an additional $1,400 George Coles Graduate Scholarship.

“The Province of Prince Edward Island recognizes the importance of education and is pleased to offer several support services to students,” said Workforce and Advanced Learning Minister Richard Brown. “Providing young people who are studying in the province with the tools they need to succeed in their chosen careers is a valuable contribution to a diverse and skilled Island workforce.”

“UPEI thanks the provincial government for continuing to place a priority on post-secondary education,” added President Abd-El-Aziz. “PEI’s investment in UPEI, whether it be through the core operating grant, George Coles Bursary, or program development, contributes to the success of our students, faculty, and researchers and helps us make a positive impact on the Island, Atlantic Canada, and around the world.”

The University of Prince Edward Island prides itself on people, excellence, and impact and is committed to assisting students to reach their full potential in both the classroom and community. With roots stemming from two founding institutions—Prince of Wales College and Saint Dunstan’s University—UPEI has a reputation for academic excellence, research innovation, and creating positive impacts locally, nationally, and internationally. UPEI is the only degree granting institution in the province and is proud to be a key contributor to the growth and prosperity of Prince Edward Island.

Media contact:
Sheila Kerry
Senior Communications Officer
Department of Workforce and Advanced Learning
(902) 620-3688
slkerry@gov.pe.ca