Ontario's seven-year tuition freeze ended in 2026: the province now allows increases of up to 2% per year through 2028-29, and universities applied it. For 2026-27, a U of T Ontario-resident student pays $6,220 for Arts & Science, $11,640 for Computer Science (year 2+), $14,460 for Engineering, and $16,210 for Rotman Commerce.
But tuition is only part of the bill — residence, food, books and transit can double the annual cost. Figures below use published 2026-27 fee schedules.
2026-27 tuition by program (Ontario residents)
| Program | U of T | Brock |
|---|---|---|
| Arts & Science / general | $6,220 | ~$6,100–$8,500 |
| Computer Science | $11,640 (yr 2+) | $8,494.50 flat |
| Engineering | $14,460 | $11,424 flat |
| Business/Commerce | $16,210 (Rotman yr 2+) | ~$10,552.70 |
Tuition only; ancillary fees add roughly $500–$2,000/year. Non-Ontario Canadians pay ~5% more; international students pay $60,000–$75,000+ at U of T.
The true annual cost
- Living at home: tuition + transit + books ≈ $9,000–$18,000/year — the cheapest path by far.
- Residence: add $12,000–$18,000 for residence + meal plan in Toronto/Ottawa.
- Off-campus: rent, food, utilities ≈ $12,000–$20,000/year depending on city and roommates.
- Books & supplies: $1,000–$2,000/year (buy used, rent, or use library reserves).
Paying for it: OSAP and beyond
Ontario's OSAP program combines grants (free money) and loans based on family income — apply even if you think you won't qualify, because the grant portion surprises many families. Co-op programs (Waterloo, etc.) let students earn $15,000–$25,000+ over work terms. And RESPs: the federal government adds a 20% CESG grant (up to $7,200 lifetime) on contributions — free money many families leave on the table.
The 2% rule going forward: Ontario's framework allows up to 2% annual increases through 2028-29. U of T also caps continuing-student increases at 5%/year — a student starting Arts & Science at $6,220 knows fourth year cannot exceed roughly $7,200.
Frequently asked questions
How much is university tuition in Ontario in 2026?
2026-27 Ontario-resident tuition: ~$6,000–$8,500 for arts/science, $11,000–$16,000+ for engineering, CS and business at major universities — up ~2% after the freeze ended.
What is the total cost of university in Ontario per year?
Living at home: $9,000–$18,000/year. Away from home: $20,000–$35,000/year including residence/food. Four-year total: roughly $75,000–$150,000.
Can tuition increase while I am enrolled?
Ontario allows up to 2%/year through 2028-29; U of T caps continuing-student increases at 5%/year for the normal program length.
How do families pay for university in Ontario?
OSAP grants and loans, RESP savings (with 20% federal CESG grants up to $7,200 lifetime), co-op earnings, and part-time work. Apply for OSAP even if unsure of eligibility.
Sources and methodology
- Lodavo: How Much Does University of Toronto Cost Per Year? (2026-27)
- Brock University: 2026 Undergraduate Fall/Winter Tuition and Fees
- U of T Planning & Budget: 2026-27 Tuition Fee Report (PDF)
This article provides general information for planning purposes, not professional advice or a quote. Cost figures are NorthPeak planning estimates unless a source is named; confirm current prices with licensed local contractors and professionals before making decisions.