A step backwards in NB student financial aid

On April 3rd, the Government of New Brunswick (GNB) announced changes to provincial student financial aid, including the replacement of the Free Tuition Program & Tuition Relief for the Middle Class (FTP & TRMC) with a program called the “Renewed Tuition Bursary”.

There are several implications of this new program that will negatively affect UNB students. The Renewed Tuition Bursary will supplement the federally funded Canada Student Grant (CSG) to a maximum of $3,000, instead of the $10,000 maximum that was previously provided by FTP & TRMC, changing the total possible financial aid grant from $13,000 to $6,000.

The UNB Student Union strongly advocates for improved access to UNB education for low-income students and these recent changes hurt this accessibility.

Send a petition letter to the Minister of PETL

We are advocating against these changes with other provincial Student Unions through the New Brunswick Student Alliance to the Minister of Post-Secondary Education, Training, and Labour (PETL).

Voice your concern by emailing the Minister of Postsecondary Education. Click the button below to be brought to a prepared email, sign your name, and share your concern to explain why these changes are #NotFairAtAll.

#MakesNoCents

Makes No Cents is a series of quotes and short stories submitted by UNB students who will suffer from the Government of New Brunswick’s decision to cut student financial aid and debt relief programs such as the Free Tuition Program, Tuition Relief for the Middle Class, and Timely Completion Benefit. The UNBSU stands in solidarity with the students negatively impacted and condemns these devastating changes. Opportunities to pursue post-secondary education should be equally accessible for every student. Removal of these vital financial aid programs makes no sense.

If you are one of these students by the Government’s detrimental changes and would like to share your story, then please fill out the following form.

Wilfred Langmaid
Student Advocate
langmaid@unb.ca | (506) 453-4527

Counselling Services
Free and confidential support services to full- and part-time students
2nd floor, C.C. Jones Student Centre | (506) 453-4820

Student Financial Aid
Provides assistance, advice, and financial aid to students regarding post-secondary education finaid@unb.ca | (506) 453-4796