New documents released by the Ontario government show that the majority of growth in the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) over the past several years has come from students attending career colleges, rather than public universities or colleges.
Key findings from the documents
The data, obtained by The Canadian Press through a freedom of information request, indicates that OSAP spending on career college students increased by more than 40% between 2020 and 2025, while spending on public post-secondary students grew by only 12% over the same period.
Career colleges are private institutions that offer specialized training in fields such as healthcare, technology, and trades. Critics argue that these schools often charge higher tuition fees and have lower graduation rates compared to public institutions, raising concerns about whether taxpayer money is being used effectively.
Government response
Ontario's Minister of Colleges and Universities defended the spending, stating that career colleges play a vital role in preparing students for in-demand jobs. However, opposition parties have called for greater oversight and transparency in how OSAP funds are allocated.
The documents also reveal that the number of career college students receiving OSAP has nearly doubled since 2020, while the average loan amount per student has increased significantly.
Student advocacy groups have expressed alarm over the findings, warning that many career college graduates struggle to find employment that allows them to repay their loans. They are urging the government to implement stricter regulations on the sector.
