Are you a parent of a First Generation Student?
We've put together some of our most frequently asked questions for you to look through.
Who is considered a First Generation Student?
The Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities defines First Generation Students as those who are the first in their families to attend a college, university or apprenticeship program.
Why should my child apply for post-secondary education?
Education will have a major impact on your children’s future earnings and prospects. The labour market rewards education, and in today’s knowledge economy, education is the prerequisite for prosperity. At least 70% of future jobs will require some form of post-secondary education.
What can I do to help?
Research shows that parents play a key role in shaping their children’s’ attitudes toward pursuing post-secondary studies. High school students rate their parents as the ‘most helpful’ resource in post-high school planning, above teachers and guidance counsellors. Encouraging your son or daughter to ‘think post-secondary’ can make a big difference! According to a recent study, young Canadians who felt their parents expected them to go on to post-secondary education were twice as likely to do so than students whose parents did not expect them to.
What's the difference between college and university?
College programs are primarily career and occupation focused and are offered in almost 600 subject areas! College programs range from technology, health sciences, business, and creative arts, to hospitality and tourism or horticulture and forestry. University undergraduate programs tend to be academically focused, with programs ranging from fine art and media studies to biology, commerce and religion. Graduate programs include medicine, law and dentistry.
What about apprenticeship programs?
Apprenticeship is an industry-based learning system that combines job experience, technical training and classroom theory. Employers provide 90% of apprenticeship training in the workplace – the other 10% is spent in the classroom. There are over 100 apprentice trades, from assistant cook and carpenter to hairstylist and welder.
What about the cost?
Average college tuition per year is:
- $1900 for a diploma program
- $2,500 for a post-graduate program
- $4,200 for an applied bachelor degree
Average university tuition per year is:
- $4,500 for a degree program
These costs do not include books or living expenses.
Is financial assistance available?
Financial assistance is available through student loans and through awards, bursaries and scholarships.
What kind of support and assistance can my child expect at George Brown College?
George Brown College has many services and programs to help your son or daughter make a successful transition to post-secondary education, at every stage of the process.
Where can I get more information?
There are many websites with helpful information on post-secondary education options.
