CCO has raised OSAP concerns since 2023. Students now need immediate protection.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CCO has raised OSAP concerns since 2023. Students now need immediate protection.
TORONTO — October 7, 2026 — Career Colleges Ontario is calling on the Ontario government to protect students affected by the blanket pause on OSAP payments and to establish a clear, timely process for compliant colleges to regain eligibility.
In the immediate term, CCO is calling on the government to reinstate OSAP funding for students who have already been approved and are actively attending their programs in-person, on campus, so they can continue their studies without further disruption.
CCO supports the government’s efforts to investigate potential OSAP misuse and take action where concerns are identified. The integrity of the student assistance system must be protected, but students who enrolled in good faith and are attending legitimate programs must be protected too.
Many career college students are adult learners, including sole-support parents and individuals pursuing training for in-demand occupations. They rely on OSAP not only to pay tuition, but also to cover essential living expenses. Some were approved for funding and began their studies months ago. They now face uncertainty about whether they can continue their education while the review process unfolds.
Since 2023, CCO has repeatedly raised concerns with the ministry about potential OSAP misuse and proposed measures that would address those concerns while minimizing disruption for legitimate students. Despite those repeated warnings and requests, concerns continued. The government has now paused OSAP payments across private postsecondary institutions, affecting students regardless of whether concerns have been identified at their college.
CCO is seeking clarification on the review process and next steps, including when the pause may be lifted and the specific criteria institutions must meet to regain access to OSAP. Institutions that can demonstrate compliance should have a clear and timely pathway back to OSAP while investigations continue.
Protecting public funds and protecting students should go hand in hand. Targeted action can address potential misuse without disrupting the education of students who have followed the rules and relied on funding that had already been approved.
About Career Colleges Ontario
Career Colleges Ontario represents approximately 280 registered career college campuses operating in more than 90 communities across Ontario. Career colleges serve many non-traditional learners, including mature students, parents, newcomers, and working adults seeking flexible, employment-focused training pathways aligned with labour market needs.
Media Contact:
Taylor Buck
Email: taylorbuck@careercollegesontario.ca
