The 2024 Survey of Canadian Students, conducted by Abacus Data for the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations (CASA), has unmasked escalating pressures on cost of living and quality of life. 

In the midst of this affordability crisis, student living expenses and cost of education have surged this year all across Canada. Rent rose over 20% and other living expenses (such as groceries) rose over 70%. 40% of students skipped meals last semester to save money, 24% struggled to pay rent, and many are experiencing homelessness or turning more often to food banks. 

"The UASU has raised these issues for years from our own data and experiences," says UASU Vice President (External) Abdul Abbasi. "We hope the new national report will get through to the people who need to hear it. We are urging the government to make stronger student financial aid commitments for those of us who need it the most."

With 1 in 3 students ranking their mental health as poor, and even worse outcomes for low-income students, it is clear these escalating pressures have been dire. The innovators and leaders of tomorrow need more support. 

Walking The Tightrope: Students Struggle for Balance in Canada's Precarious Post-Secondary Landscape, prepared by Abacus Data for CASA, is available here. A summary of the findings can be accessed here.