Costs & Financial Aid
True or False: University is unaffordable for most students.
False! There are scholarships, OSAP, bursaries, and part-time work options.
How many hours a day is the average university class?
About 3 hours per class per week, with some variation.
Can you change your major after starting university?
Yes! Many students switch or add programs.
True or False: University is always better than college.
False! Both have different strengths and career pathways.
$100: True or False: If you don’t meet the prerequisites, you won’t get into university.
False! You can apply for joint college/university programs, start undeclared, or transfer later.
What is OSAP?
Ontario Student Assistance Program, which provides grants and loans.
True or False: Professors don’t care about students.
False! Professors have office hours and want to support students.
True or False: You are guaranteed to get into every course you want.
False! Some courses fill up quickly, so early registration is key.
True or False: You must finish your degree in four years?
False! Many students take longer depending on their circumstances.
What is one way you can switch into your desired program after starting university?
Apply as an undeclared major and transfer later (program dependent).
Name two ways students can reduce university costs.
Scholarships, bursaries, part-time jobs, budgeting
Is there really a Dungeons & Dragons club at universities?
Yes! Most universities have hundreds of student clubs, including niche interests.
What’s a "bird course"?
A course rumored to be easy, but it depends on the student.
Do all classes have huge lecture halls?
No, upper-year courses and tutorials are often smaller.
True or False: Professors are mean and unhelpful.
False! Many professors are flexible, supportive, and willing to help students succeed.
True or False: All student debt must be repaid immediately after graduation.
False! Many student loans have grace periods and repayment plans.
What is a tutorial?
A smaller class where students review material with a TA.
Can you take university courses part-time?
Yes, but it may affect financial aid eligibility.
What happens if you don’t get into a required course?
You can take it in a later semester or talk to an advisor.
What is one way to feel more connected at a large university?
Join clubs, student organizations, or use campus support systems.
What is York University's Work/Study program and how does it help students financially?
It provides part-time paid jobs on campus for eligible students, helping them gain experience while earning money to support their education
What is the role of a college at York University, and how does it impact student life?
Each college offers academic and social support within specific programs, hosting events, providing advising, and helping students feel a sense of community in a large university.
What is the difference between a major, a minor, and a certificate program at York?
A major is your primary area of study, a minor is a secondary concentration, and a certificate is a focused credential that can be completed alongside your degree.
True or False: You can’t get a good job unless you attend a prestigious program.
False! Success depends more on your skills, experience, and networking all kinds of grads work in top organizations across many fields.
How can York’s Learning Commons and PASS (Peer Academic Support Sessions) help students succeed academically?
They offer tutoring, writing help, study strategies, and peer-led review sessions to boost student learning and academic performance.