UBC to jack up student housing for most rooms by 20 per cent next year

VANCOUVER – For students who plan to live on campus at the University of British Columbia next year they can expect an even tighter budget because the university is getting set to jack up student housing fees by 20 per cent.

A single room in one of the residences geared toward first year students will cost upwards of $778 a month starting next year. The rate hike applies only to winter session students who attend school from September to April.

UBC says its prices are still below off-campus rents, but that doesn’t sit well with the student union.

“You have to look at the square footage,” said Tanner Bokor, UBC Alma Matter Society president. “It’s much less. The amenities you’re receiving, it’s much less, and to be honest the purpose of student housing is to provide affordable locations for students to live.”

“So the idea of arguing that it’s below-market rent, that to be honest is irrelevant.”