The Ontario government is increasing funding for the province's postsecondary education sector and ending a six-year tuition freeze, creating new opportunities for McMaster and other universities and colleges to better support students' education, well-being and careers.
The changes to tuition and funding models, which take effect starting in Fall 2026, will bring an additional $6.4 billion into higher education across the province over four years, Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security, announced Thursday.
McMaster President Susan Tighe said the vital funding demonstrates that the government recognizes the urgent need to create a long-term, sustainable financial framework for higher education.
"Today's significant and important announcement from the Ontario government will provide McMaster with essential tools to enhance the quality of education we deliver to students, while supporting research and innovation that strengthen Hamilton's, Ontario's and Canada's economies," Tighe said.
She said the university welcomes the landmark investment in higher education, which will strengthen McMaster's financial foundation so it can deliver high-quality education and student support.
"We remain committed to supporting our students and their families and will continue to prioritize access to higher education."
"The unprecedented announcement also recognizes the longstanding tuition freeze, sustained demand for university education, and the need for increased spaces so more students can attend McMaster," Tighe said.
Across Ontario, over the next four years, there will be:
- increased funding for enrolment adding 70,000 seats for in-demand programs
- increased funding by changing the base program weights for high-priority programs, and
- a 6 per cent increase in base funding for all students enrolled, which replaces the sustainability funding, which was set to expire next year.
The new funding will also allow universities to further improve core programs and services for students beyond academic and research programs, said Steve Orsini, president of the Council of Ontario Universities. These include mental-health supports, career services, and expanded co-op, experiential and work-integrated learning opportunities that meet labour-market needs and prepare graduates for the rapidly evolving workforce.
"Today's funding announcement comes at a critical time and will help ensure Ontario's universities continue to protect and grow the province by delivering the talent and innovation needed to remain competitive and position Ontario for the future," Orsini said.
The additional funding will help institutions equip students with the skills they need to find rewarding careers, Quinn said, while continuing to keep education accessible and keep costs down for students and their families.
"In order to protect our province, it is imperative that we continue to train a strong, highly skilled workforce for Ontario for decades to come," Quinn said.
Please find answers to further questions below
Now that the tuition freeze is lifted, will McMaster raise tuition?
The university is reviewing the details of the entire announcement and will share information as soon as we can. Any change would be within the provincial framework, which allows increases of up to 2 per cent. This will be one of the lowest rates of increase in the country.
How much is McMaster receiving in operating funds? How will it be used?
Details of how this funding will be distributed among universities and colleges are still being finalized.
It is too early to determine how funds would be allocated. Any decisions will be made with a focus on supporting students, academic excellence, and research strength.
What financial support is in place for students?
There are several avenues available for students who may need financial assistance to support their university education, such as bursaries, scholarships, and other options. The university will continue to look for ways to support students who need help accessing higher education.
