The University is required by law to abide by the new fee structure and definitions provided by the Government. As such, all ancillary fees were approved by the Ancillary Fees Committee (which has equal representation between student leaders and University administration) and ultimately by the Nipissing University Board of Governors. The University is also required to submit their Ancillary Fee Protocol and breakdowns of Essential and Non-Essential services and fees to the Government and to maintain our adherence to the legislative directives of the Government.
Essential Fees
Nipissing University remains committed to supporting all students as we return to campus operations for the 2025-2026 Academic Year.
In response to the COVID-19 crisis, Nipissing University moved to an essential services model. While it may have seemed that campus was shut down through the pandemic, ancillary fees continued to support some of Nipissing’s most essential services as they moved to online/virtual delivery. On top of this, Nipissing University is continuing to ensure that students have access to enhanced levels of personal support while they cope with the transition back to pre-Covid style of learning and living.
Service Continuation & Enhancement
All services funded by essential ancillary fees continue to be available for student use. For students who have particularly acute academic, well-being, workplace or other needs, the continued availability of these services can be critical to success at Nipissing, and after graduation.
Athletics Complex Fee
This fee is levied in support of the general upkeep and maintenance of the Robert J Surtees Student Athletics Centre and the fitness facilities and equipment within the Centre. For further information please contact rsacrequests@nipissingu.ca.
NUSU Student Centre Fee
The NUSU Student Centre Fee is collected to support the ongoing operations at the NUSU Student Centre. It helps to ensure the upkeep of the building and property, including essential services related to transportation, equipment, utilities, disposal services, health and safety, and insurance. The fee also contributes to costs such as payroll, employee benefits and supports, licenses and permits, interest and principal payments on the Student Centre's Long Term Debt, and long-term infrastructure and operational needs, which ensures the Centre and NUSU continue to function smoothly for the student and general Nipissing University community. For more information, please contact vpfinance@nusu.com.
Athletics Fee
This fee gives Nipissing students access to the fitness facilities and equipment, recreational and intramural programs, covers the costs of student front desk staff and group fitness instructors. Whether you want to take a fitness class - spin, Zumba, kickboxing, or yoga - use the cardio room, play squash, or pump some iron in the weight room, the Robert J. Surtees (RJS) Student Athletic Centre is the place to be. The RJS is home to 14 Lakers teams competing in seven varsity sports in the Ontario University Athletics (OUA), and is also the home of Nipissing University Club Sports, which currently consists of a handful of sports, but continues to grow. The Athletics Fee is also levied in support of Nipissing’s Varsity Athletics, and helps support expenses such as staff salaries, scholarships, uniforms and equipment, marketing of games, travel for our student athletes to attend away games, community outreach programs, etc. For further information please contact rsacrequests@nipissingu.ca.
Health Services
This fee is used to offset the cost of operating the shared health centre on the North Bay campus. Nipissing University’s Campus Health Centre is operational for essential appointments only. They are reachable by phone at 705-474-7600 x5261. If you wish to book an appointment or speak with a staff member please call.
Student Intervention Support
Student Intervention Services provides case management support to students with complex concerns – primarily mental health issues. This support is offered to students experiencing difficulty accessing the appropriate services, require a referral to services, require further collaboration within their current support services, or need assistance transitioning to or from the University (e.g. returning after being admitted to the hospital, registering again after withdrawing for mental health reasons, etc.). Student Intervention Services also acts as a resource for faculty and staff through education awareness and training on how to recognize, respond, and refer students in distress, and provides an important conduit between the University and the community. For more information, please email mhwellbeing@nipissingu.ca.
Mental Health & Wellbeing Support
The Mental Health & Wellbeing Team supports students in achieving positive mental and emotional wellness. This fee enables a variety of services, which may include operation of drop-in therapy, peer support, brief individual therapy, group therapy, counsellor assisted e-support, self-help, referral support, and a variety of outreach and educational programing. Specialized wellbeing supports with an Indigenous and BIPOC lens are also supported with these funds. These supports allow us to work with each student to develop a personalized plan for their pathway to well-being. For more information, please visit https://www.nipissingu.ca/departments/student-development-and-services/… or email mhwellbeing@nipissingu.ca.
NUSU Membership Fee
The NUSU Membership Fee covers various operational and administrative expenses essential for the effective functioning of the organization, including conferences, honorariums for guest contributors, inter-office expenses, and costs associated with board meetings and AGMs. It also funds transition expenses during organizational changes, travel, meals, and accommodations for business-related activities, and professional development opportunities for NUSU employees. These funds ensure smooth operations, support strategic initiatives, and enhance overall organizational performance. Additionally, this fee is collected as a union due and affirms a Nipissing University Student as a Member of the Nipissing University Student Union. For more information, please contact vpfinance@nusu.com.
NUSU Orientation Fee
The NUSU Orientation Fee supports orientation programs for graduate, education, and undergraduate students, helping ease their transition into university life. It funds events, activities, and resources aimed at welcoming students to the community, ensuring a smooth start for first-year, transfer, international, mature, and graduate students alike. These initiatives foster a sense of belonging and provide essential guidance throughout orientation periods. For more information, please contact vpfinance@nusu.com.
Student ID Card Fee
Students are required to have a valid Student ID card. Digital cards will be issued to each student at the start of the year, with printed cards available upon request from UTS. The ID card is the identification piece used for Nipissing students. The ID card is used to gain access to the different services the university provides, such as, but not limited to, printing and library resources, writing tests/exams, and access open computer labs. The ID Card will be used to gain entry to the Robert J Surtees Centre. An invitation to submit a photo will be sent to the student’s Nipissing email account, following which the digital student card will be issued. For more information please email techsrv@nipissingu.ca.
Student Learning and Transition Support
Student Learning and Transitions (SLT) is a department that facilitates a group of services and programs aimed at helping students engage in their academic studies and student life at Nipissing University. We support the development of essential academic skills and study techniques that help students more effectively apply their knowledge and communicate their ideas. We facilitate activities and programs to build a peer support network, an engaged Laker community, and support students throughout their multiple transitions in, through, and out of their academic careers. Services are provided through in-person and online consultations, workshops, peer-to-peer education and asynchronous online resources. SLT provides a personalized, student-focused learning experience with an awareness of diverse needs and backgrounds. For more information, please visit www.nipissingu.ca/slt or email slt@nipissingu.ca.
Career Resources Fee
Career Development and Education strives to support students in initiating career development from the moment their university career begins. Our goal is to empower students in their pursuit of obtaining a fulfilling career by providing support through our resources, workshops, and services. These supports aid students in gaining skills and knowledge that address their needs in making informed decisions for their career(s), further education, and employment goals. For more information, please visit www.nipissingu.ca/studentcareerhelp or email slt@nipissingu.ca.
NUSU Society Support Fee
The NUSU Society Fee is used to fund program-specific student societies. All fees are broken down based on the major that a student is currently working toward and the fees are then distributed to the current society or student group associated with that program by NUSU. For more information, please contact vpfinance@nusu.com.
Record of Student Development
The Record of Student Development (RSD) is Nipissing University’s way of recognizing that learning happens everywhere on campus. It is a formal record otherwise known as a co-curricular transcript, where students can include workshops, volunteer experiences, awards, on-campus employment and activities they have participated in throughout their time at Nipissing University. For more information, please visit www.nipissingu.ca/rsd or email slt@nipissingu.ca.
Sexual Violence Support and Education
Nipissing University is committed to creating and maintaining a safe environment for all students through university-wide initiatives and administration focusing on sexual violence education and outreach. Support for survivors and allies is available through the Sexual Violence Prevention & Education Team. This fee gives student survivors access to services that can help them connect with resources, explain support options, assist with academic and/or living accommodations, and safety planning. Additionally, awareness activities are promoted through “Consent Belongs Here” – Nipissing University’s Student Development and Services campaign to end sexual violence through education, prevention, and outreach. Throughout the year, Consent Belongs Here will be organizing events and initiatives on campus focused on sexual violence prevention and education that are open to all Nipissing students. This ancillary fee also helps bring events such as public speakers, theatre performances, and free workshops on consent, healthy relationships, and bystander intervention to Nipissing University. For more information, please visit https://www.nipissingu.ca/departments/student-development-and-services/… or email svsupport@nipissingu.ca.
NUSU Canadian Federation of Students
The NUSU Canadian Federation of Students Fee goes to the Canadian Federation of Students (CFS) as a membership fee. Each student pays this fee in order to be a part of NUSU's membership in CFS. This group is Canada's largest post-secondary student organization. They advocate nationally and provincially on issues that impact students, including but not limited to: funding for post-secondary institutions and students; tuition fees; student debt; fairness for international students; consent and anti-sexual violence initiatives; and, student mental health services. They also provide support to and representation for groups and communities that experience discrimination and exclusion. NUSU is considered Local 20 of CFS. For more information, please contact vpfinance@nusu.com.
NUSU Operations Support Fee
The NUSU Operations Fee provides the infrastructure and supplies necessary to support NUSU's internal day-to-day operations and ensure smooth service to students. The miscellaneous items this fee funds include but are not limited to: audit fees; marketing and advertising; computer programs and subscriptions; training; NUSU's website; credit card fees; legal fees; office supplies; merchandise; linens and uniforms; and, professional services. These resources allow NUSU to effectively manage its operations and support the student body. For more information, please contact vpfinance@nusu.com.
NUSU World University Service of Canada
WUSC is a leading Canadian non-profit organization in international development, committed to building a sustainable world. Together, with post-secondary institutions across Canada, private-sector partners, and volunteers, they provide education, employment and empowerment opportunities to millions of disadvantaged youth around the world. Through the Student Refugee Program within WUSC, Nipissing University is able to help a refugee student achieve their dreams of obtaining a post-secondary education here at Nipissing University. The NUSU World University Service of Canada Fee contributes to this sponsorship and assists with living costs while attending Nipissing (residence/housing, food, books, etc.) For more information please visit www.wusc.ca.
NUSU Government Advocacy Fee
The NUSU Government Advocacy Fee is used to ensure that student voices are heard at the municipal, provincial and federal levels. This includes, but is not limited to, working with local representatives of federal parliament, provincial legislature and municipal council to ensure the well-being of Nipissing University students is represented within program development, funding, and policies. For more information, please contact vpfinance@nusu.com.
NUSU Awareness Campaigns & Initiatives
The NUSU Awareness Campaigns & Initiatives Fee is used to increase awareness about student needs, issues, and supports that are available to Nipissing University students online, on campus, and within the community. Initiatives and awareness campaigns aim to educate students on the issues impacting them and the society they live in. For more information, please contact vpfinance@nusu.com.
NUSU Programming and Services Fee
The NUSU Programming and Services Fee funds a variety of student-related services and events, including graduate programming, student activities, and music and entertainment services, both on and off campus, as well as online. It also supports safety initiatives like the Safe Ride Home program, Haven, REES, and donations to community causes. These programs are open to all Nipissing University students and aim to enhance student life at Nipissing. For more information, please contact vpfinance@nusu.com.
Student Initiatives Fund
Student projects help build a vibrant student life on campus but often cost more than an individual student can afford. Nipissing University is committed to supporting student initiatives to bring academic, cultural, and recreational projects to life. The funds created by this fee are used to provide funding for student groups and activities through the Student Initiatives Fund (SIF) and for special projects/programs through various units in Student Development and Services and the Nipissing University Student Union. The committee helps individuals and student groups achieve success by funding their amazing student led initiatives. So, if you are an undergraduate, graduate, or continuing education student with a great idea, please submit a SIF application - available on the Student Development and Services website.
World University Service of Canada (WUSC)
WUSC is a leading Canadian non-profit organization in international development, committed to building a sustainable world. Together, with post-secondary institutions across Canada, private-sector partners, and volunteers, they provide education, employment and empowerment opportunities to millions of disadvantaged youth around the world. Through the Student Refugee Program within WUSC, Nipissing University is able to help a refugee student achieve their dreams of obtaining a post-secondary education here at Nipissing University. The NUSU World University Service of Canada Fee contributes to this sponsorship and assists with living costs while attending Nipissing (residence/housing, food, books, etc.) For more information please visit www.wusc.ca.
Non-Essential Fees
Student Development Fund
The purpose of the Student Development Fund is to assist start-up projects or initiatives, which contribute to the objective of student development at Nipissing University. This program provides funds for special projects and initiatives that enrich the University community. Nipissing University is committed to the professional, personal and social success of its students, student groups and clubs. Projects that are dedicated to the principles of personal and community development, health and wellness and, in particular, provide extra and co-curricular educational opportunities for students to build leadership, citizenship, intercultural awareness and/or community-building skills are encouraged. Please visit https://www.nipissingu.ca/departments/student-development-and-services/… for more information.
Student Development Fund Policy
Equity and Inclusion Fee
This fee is reserved to support equity, diversity and inclusion for Nipissing University students through the creation of safer spaces formal training, facilitated educational discussions, events, advocacy etc. For more information, please email avpstudents@nipissingu.ca.
eSports
To support the development of an eSports gaming initiative at Nipissing. Providing students access to the most popular games and gaming systems and create a new opportunity to enhance the student experience on campus. Providing the opportunity for participation in the OPSE league, as well as guest speakers to use the games while discussing topics such as team management, marketing, tournament play, and online platforms. For more information, please email rsacrequests@nipissingu.ca.
NUSU Student Groups Support Fee
The NUSU Student Groups Support Fee funds Student Groups that foster and promote student life on campus. All fees collected are equally accessible to student-run groups contributing to Nipissing University student life. Student Group funds are used to run events, activities, campaigns, and initiatives. For more information, please contact vpfinance@nusu.com..
NUSU Recreational Activities Fee
The NUSU Recreational Activities Fee provides a variety of recreational activities for all Nipissing University students, including both on-campus and off-campus events. Activities may include outdoor excursions like skiing, skating, snowshoeing, and scavenger hunts. Additionally, this fee supports NUSU's annual Block Party and off-campus trips, such as to Canada's Wonderland or Leisure Farms. The fee also covers the cost of food, transportation, insurance, and other necessities for recreational events as organized by NUSU. For more information, please contact vpfinance@nusu.com.
NUSU Emergency Food Bank Fee
The NUSU Emergency Food Bank Fee supports the operations of our emergency food bank, which is exclusively available to Nipissing University students. This emergency food bank is an essential resource to many on our campus facing food insecurity by providing access to non-perishable items and other necessities during times of financial hardship. This aims to alleviate immediate concerns by ensuring students have access to nutritious options, helping them focus on their academic and personal well-being. For more information, please contact vpfinance@nusu.com.This fee is to promote awareness of and advocate for the general safety and well-being of students on and off campus. This fee provides a variety of safety measures including, but not limited to, our safe ride home program. The fee also supports students facing food insecurity and provides monetary support to the NUSU Student Food Bank. For more information, please contact info@nusu.com.
NUSU Academic Peer Support
– The NUSU Academic Fee supports the continuation of key services that NUSU offers, including academic peer support, advocacy, and guidance in matters such as grade appeals, academic petitions, and course concerns. This fee also contributes to academic initiatives run by the Vice-President, Advocacy & Awareness. For more information, please contact vpfinance@nusu.com.
Bus Fee
Student Transit Passes (North Bay only)
Student transit passes – If an institution has a compulsory ancillary fee to support student transit passes that was established prior to January 17, 2019, compulsory ancillary fees may be charged for the duration of the agreement and any subsequent renewals of these agreements. Renewals are understood to be subsequent contracts between the same parties creating uninterrupted service to students.
A North Bay Transit Pass is included for all full-time Nipissing students on the North Bay Campus. The bus pass was initiated as a result of a student referendum. Bus passes will be effective from September 1 to April 30. The bus pass will be incorporated into the student ID card.
Students who are not registered in a fulltime program can request a bus pass on Webadvisor under the Registration section. Please visit Student Card and Bus Pass Requests for instructions on requesting a bus pass.
Student Health Plan
NUSU Student Health & Wellness Plan Fee
The NUSU Student Health & Wellness Plan is a plan that all students at Nipissing University are automatically enrolled in. The benefits and application of the plan are managed by NUSU, with assistance in certain aspects provided by Nipissing University. This plan covers dental, vision, prescription drugs, and various extended health benefits such as paramedical practitioners. For more information, please contact health@nusu.com.
How do I opt out of the non-essential ancillary fees?
- On the “WebAdvisor for Students” menu, click the “Non-Essential Ancillary Fees Opt-Out” link.
- When prompted, select an available term, and click submit. Choose which non-essential ancillary fees for the specific session you wish to opt-out of by clicking the corresponding checkboxes in the “Opt out of this Non-Essential Fee?” column. Click the submit button once completed.
- You may start the process again to opt-out of additional fees, or to opt back into fees, if permitted by the opt-in/opt-out dates.
Please NOTE Important dates below:
All WebAdvisor opt-outs must be completed by no later than September 15th, 2025 for the Fall semester, and by January 16th, 2026 for the Winter semester.
What policy governs ancillary fees?
Nipissing University introduced its first Protocol Agreement and Guidelines for Compulsory Ancillary Fees in 1994. It was signed by the Nipissing University Student Union and approved by the Board of Governors. This document translates the Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities guidelines into the Nipissing University context and outlines the process for fee increases or the introduction of new ancillary fees.
The Protocol Agreement Statement and Guidelines for Compulsory Ancillary Fees describes categories of permitted ancillary fees, including fees for student services provided by the University, services provided by the Nipissing University Student Union (NUSU), fees for specific and limited projects (normally capital projects), and system wide fees (e.g., fees established through a formal agreement for all Ontario universities such as the University Health Insurance Plan).
How are the ancillary fee levels set?
Cost-recovery fees are set at a level to recover the expense incurred by the University in the procurement of the good or service that is being transferred to the student. The University is not permitted to make any profit on these fees.
Like cost-recovery fees, administrative user fees (service fees) relate to the costs of the services provided, and are set at a level that is based on a reasonable estimate of the administrative costs associated with the service provision. The only administrative user fees and fines that may be charged are those shown on the University’s Service Fees. The fees and fines shown on the list may be adjusted annually by administrative authority, provided that the adjustments relate to the cost of the services provided. The introduction or removal of a fee from the service fee listing must be submitted to the Compulsory Ancillary Fees Committee for review and approval.
Why do I have to pay ancillary fees?
Compulsory Ancillary Fees are essential to the functioning of both the University and the Student Union. Without these fees neither would be able to provide the extra-curricular programming that is offered. Ancillary fees are fees charged to pay for administrative services, materials and activities not supported by operating grants, capital grants or tuition fees.
Why do I have to pay for ancillary fees separately from paying for tuition?
Tuition is charged to students according to the principles outlined in the General By-Laws of the Board of Governors of Nipissing University. Ancillary fees are levied to cover the costs of items not normally paid for out of operating or capital revenue (operating and capital grants and tuition fees).These fees vary across programs, courses, year of study and are often based on student choices.
Can I obtain a refund for a fee I have paid?
Ancillary fees are charged in three ways and refunds are dependent on how the fee is charged.
Compulsory ancillary fees relate to a course or academic program and are charged automatically to all students registered in that course or program. These fees are not refundable.
Some specific ancillary fees (for building access fobs for example) are listed as fully refundable deposits. These fees can be refunded once the relevant academic term or program has ended during a refund period. These refunds are processed through the Facilities Office.
The majority of the Service Fees are optional fees and are only charged to a student if they utilize the service or incur a fine (such as in the case of late returns to the library). These fees are not charged automatically. Some cost recovery fees are also optional and are only charged to a student where they opt for services, materials or activities.
How do I know what ancillary fees to expect?
Compulsory fees are charged automatically through your registration. Please check your account on Webadvisor if you are not certain which fees you have been assessed. You can also look at the Fees and Payments area on the Nipissing University website prior to selecting your courses to see what kind of program and course-related ancillary fees you will be charged. Non-compulsory fees are charged to you as you access a service, pay a fine or purchase a good.
Summary
Tuition is assessed at differentiated rates between:
- first and continuing year of study,
- programs of study, and
- international students. The Nipissing University Board of Governors approve the establishment and collection of fees and charges for academic tuition and services.
Ancillary Fees are assessed on a per credit and sessional basis. Most ancillary fees are mandatory. The fees administered by the University are governed by an Ancillary Fee Protocol established by the University and NUSU.
Program Specific Fees may be charged because of the program you are enrolled in.
Course Specific Fees may be charged by the University for the reasonable cost of such things as field trips, or learning material.
Service or Administrative Fees are fees for service and may be incurred as a result of a request or action.
Residence Fees vary depending on the residence assigned and type of room.