As part of its ongoing efforts to support students during the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Guelph will reduce University student compulsory fees for the fall semester by between 30 to 40 per cent.
U of G is coming up with new, innovative ways to continue to provide student services, either on-line or through alternative platforms, that support academic success and students’ physical and mental health and well-being.
Programs and supports for new and returning students will include student health services, academic support (library and student experience), financial aid, counselling career services, recreation and more.
University compulsory fees for students on the Guelph and Ridgetown campuses will be reduced or not charged in areas where services have been decreased or are not being offered in the fall.
“We recognize that the global pandemic and the dynamic, ever-evolving higher education landscape are causing difficulties and uncertainty for students, financial and otherwise,” said Carrie Chassels, vice-provost (student affairs).
“As such, we have taken deliberate steps to reduce our University compulsory student fees during this difficult time, while continuing to offer the important student services and well-being supports for which U of G is known.”
Reduced compulsory student fees include those for the Athletics building, the University Centre building, Athletics programs, orientation, and visual and performing arts.
U of G, like most universities, is planning for a hybrid fall semester, with only a small percentage of courses and activities offered face-to-face.
To meet physical distancing requirements, the University will significantly limit the number of students living on campus in the fall; only domestic and international students with special housing accommodation circumstances will be eligible.
“We are disappointed that we will not be able to physically welcome most of our students back and that we have to limit the number of students living in our residences due to COVID-19,” Chassels said.
“But we are confident these are the right decisions to protect health and safety. We remain committed to delivering a high-quality, innovative and engaging fall semester for all students.”
Chassels added “We have been excited to see the way that thousands of our new and continuing students are actively participating in the many virtual initiatives that we have offered this summer.”
The University recognizes that students need to make important decisions in the coming months about where they plan to live and learn, she said.
“We want to assure everyone that there will be plenty of opportunities this fall for students to be supported, to get involved and to stay connected,” she said.
This includes moving U of G’s legendary O-Week and many other orientation activities online, and offering virtual student experiences, clubs and recreation activities, wellness services, counselling and academic advising.
Some student fees are administered by the Central Student Association (CSA), including the student bus pass and health and dental plans. The CSA plans to cancel the fall bus pass fee and is negotiating with the City of Guelph to allow U of G students to purchase monthly bus passes at the youth/high school rate. A decision is expected to be made July 15.
Course registration for undergraduate students began this week. Students should plan to receive fall semester fee and tuition bills in August.
Listings of University compulsory fees for undergraduate students and graduate students are available on the Student Financial Services website.