BoG candidates focus on tuition challenges for international students

On February 27, the Board of Governor (BoG) undergraduate representative candidates spoke about their plans for addressing the concerns of international students. Each candidate put forth a strong vision to address the cultural and financial pressures of international student life at the International Students’ Association (ISA) forum.

Angelina Raina and Karina Banerji noted concerns about sudden increases in tuition and the instalment schedule. While increasing tuition is a concern for all students at the University of Alberta, it remains a specific stressor for international students. The U of A is proposing a 10 per cent increase to undergraduate international students’ tuition for those starting their degrees after fall 2026. 

Raina and Banerji hit similar points when it comes to the financial challenges that international students face. Both plan to advocate for transparency when it comes to unexpected tuition increases. Raina was firm in her desire to make tuition payments more accessible for international students. She would achieve this by advocating for access to work visas and challenging the tuition instalment plan. Better access to work visas has the potential to make it easier for international students looking to make extra money or participate in co-ops off campus. International students currently pay tuition in four instalments. However, as international tuition has only been increasing over time, this instalment schedule could become less financially feasible. The current vice-president (student life) (VPSL) has begun working on making changes to the instalment plan.

Banerji acknowledged the importance of international students’ unique financial challenges. Like her opponent, she plans to use the BoG seat to continue advocacy for a change in tuition instalments. Banerji further set herself apart by speaking of the emotional impact that students may face when leaving their home countries. She hopes to build a cohesive international student community by consolidating separate registered cultural groups. The combination of cultural sensitivity and continuing to work on a new tuition instalment plan could make her a strong candidate for international students next month. 

Both candidates are knowledgeable on the unique challenges that international students face. Raina continues to be laser focused on finding tangible solutions if elected. International students could financially benefit from her advocacy for work visas and a change in tuition instalments.

Yet, Banerji’s plan for creating a robust cultural support system would undoubtedly be helpful for incoming international students. Homesickness and navigating life in a different country are challenges which cannot be understated. Given the similar financial goals of both platforms, Banerji might be just what international students are looking for in their BoG representative.