U of A waives 2022-23 tuition for Ukrainian Study Permit holders ‘suffering financial hardship due to the war’

The University of Alberta released a statement detailing supports for Ukrainian community members in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine — including waiving tuition fees for students affected by the conflict.

In a statement issued by Bill Flanagan, president and vice-chancellor of the U of A, on March 8 the university condemned Russia’s actions against Ukraine. Additionally, the institution highlighted the U of A’s efforts dedicated “to responding and supporting those affected.” To support “students and scholars [that] need our assistance,” the university has established an emergency fund to collect donations.

The statement began by acknowledging hardships many Ukrainian community members are going through.

“We know that universities, students, and academic partners in Ukraine are under attack and in grave danger,” the statement said. “Some have been forced to join the million-plus refugees fleeing the conflict, while others who remain in place face the loss of their homes and increasingly limited access to food and other daily necessities.”

“In addition to threats to life, we are also aware that research institutes, historical collections, and archives are at risk from digital and physical attacks.”

Flanagan drew attention to supports currently being offered by the university. The U of A has waived 2022-2023 tuition fees for any Ukrainian Study Permit holders who are “suffering financial hardship due to the war.” The university will also provide funding to “support living costs for all incoming Ukrainian students and current Ukrainian students in need during the 2022-23 academic year.”

Additionally, this includes expedited applications for admission in the upcoming year.

“We are working to extend help to applicants, students, and scholars from Ukraine whose lives are being affected. In the case of undergraduate applicants from Ukraine, we have expedited applications for admission in 2022-23 and are simplifying documentation requirements,” the statement said.

“Graduate applications are being evaluated by the departments with similar prioritization and simplification where possible.”

The statement concluded by putting a spotlight on U of A events and efforts that have also shown their support for the Ukrainian community. This included the Ukrainian Students’ Society’s organized rally on February 28, and the departments of music and modern languages and cultural studies’ upcoming concert, at which Flanagan will be speaking.