Eighteen public post-secondary institutions are receiving a total of $6.9 million in one-time funding that will give them an opportunity to plan changes that would be needed if they decide to move to a tuition-based model.

The funding will allow public post-secondary institutions to continue to provide Adult Basic Education (ABE)  to all students for 2015-16.

Government announced in December 2014 that public post-secondary institutions have the option to charge tuition fees for Adult Upgrading programs beginning Jan. 1, 2015. Charging tuition will help ensure these post-secondary programs remain sustainable.

Low-income students will be eligible for up front, non-repayable grants. These adult upgrading grants cover the cost of tuition, textbooks, supplies, child care and transportation. In anticipation of greater demand, the grant budget is being increased 33% to $7.6 million annually. Students in need will not be left behind. A more flexible approach means students who are 10% above the income threshold are now eligible for a grant to cover half their tuition costs.

Approximately 25,000 students accessed ABE programs at 18 public post-secondary institutions in 2013-14. Many of these learners face unique challenges accessing the labour market. Adult Upgrading in post-secondary education focuses on literacy, basic education and upgrading, and prepares learners for employment.

Learn more:

Factsheet on adult upgrading courses:
www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/ministries/advanced-education/factsheets/factsheet-adult-upgrading-courses-and-grants.html

Adult Upgrading Grant: studentaidbc.ca/explore/grants-scholarships/adult-upgrading-grant

Public post-secondary institutions that deliver adult basic education in B.C.:

• British Columbia Institute of Technology
• Capilano University
• Camosun College
• College of New Caledonia
• College of the Rockies
• Douglas College
• Kwantlen Polytechnic University
• Langara College
• Nicola Valley Institute of Technology
• North Island College
• Northern Lights College
• Northwest Community College
• Okanagan College
• Selkirk College
• Thompson Rivers University
• University of the Fraser Valley
• Vancouver Island University
• Vancouver Community College

Media Contacts:

Stacey McGaghey Jones
Communications Manager
Ministry of Advanced Education
250 952-6400