The approved health and dental fee hike at University of Toronto Scarborough has left many students wondering if they’re getting their money’s worth, especially as financial pressures continue to mount on campus.
At their April Board of Directors meeting, the Scarborough Campus Students’ Union (SCSU) passed a motion increasing the mandatory health and dental fees by 10.5 percent. This means undergraduate students will now pay $395.69 annually, up from $358.09 last year.
Walking through campus yesterday, I encountered several students with mixed reactions about the change. “I definitely use the dental coverage for my annual checkup, but I’m not sure I’m getting nearly $400 worth of value,” said Priya Sharma, a third-year management student.
The SCSU has defended the increase as necessary to maintain coverage levels without reducing benefits. According to their financial statements, insurance premium costs have risen significantly post-pandemic, creating pressure to either increase fees or cut services.
“Students are getting squeezed from every direction,” notes Rachel Chen, president of the UTSC Economics Society. “Tuition, housing, groceries, transit – it all adds up, and now health fees too.”
What’s particularly concerning is that many students I spoke with weren’t aware of all the benefits they’re entitled to receive. The plan covers prescription drugs, vision care, mental health services, and dental procedures, but utilization rates suggest many students aren’t maximizing their coverage.
The SCSU’s insurance provider, StudentCare, reports that only about 62 percent of eligible students submitted at least one claim last year. This raises questions about whether students are fully informed about available services.
Some of Toronto’s other post-secondary institutions have taken different approaches. Ryerson University implemented a tiered system allowing students to choose different coverage levels, while York University expanded their digital health services to provide more accessible care options.
“We’re trying to balance affordability with comprehensive coverage,” explained Maya Johnson, SCSU Vice President Operations, when I reached her for comment. “We understand students are concerned about costs, but we believe this increase allows us to maintain quality services.”
Financial aid experts suggest students explore whether they qualify for the fee opt-out if they have comparable coverage through parents or part-time employment. The opt-out period typically runs for the first few weeks of each semester.
For international students, who make up nearly 30 percent of UTSC’s population, the situation is even more complex. They’re required to have both UHIP (University Health Insurance Plan) and the supplementary SCSU health plan, creating a double financial burden.
“I pay for UHIP and this plan, but finding healthcare providers who accept both can be challenging,” said Wei Liu, an international student from China studying computer science. “It feels like I’m paying twice without getting twice the benefit.”
The student health plan does cover some services not included in OHIP, such as prescription medications, physiotherapy, and comprehensive dental care. For students with chronic conditions or ongoing health needs, these benefits can provide substantial value despite the fee increase.
Students seeking more information about maximizing their health benefits can attend information sessions that the SCSU plans to host throughout September. They’ve also promised improved digital resources explaining coverage details.
As Toronto’s cost of living continues to climb, every dollar matters for students struggling to make ends meet. While health coverage is undeniably important, the conversation about affordability and value will likely continue across campus this fall.
The question now facing UTSC students isn’t just whether they can afford these increased fees, but whether they’re taking full advantage of the services they’re paying for.
