Ontario postponed inspections of two career colleges, which later revealed significant issues regarding student financial aid usage. This meant that the schools received a “fail” only after being approved for another year of funding, according to court documents.
Critics argue this indicates serious mismanagement of public funds and that the government has wrongly made students suffer the consequences.
The Ministry of Colleges and Universities issued notices for inspections to Academy of Learning locations in Toronto on Bay Street and in Brampton East on October 1, 2024. However, they didn’t begin the actual inspections until July and August of 2025, respectively.
“I apologize for the delay, which was due to transitions in roles and the implementation of new inspection procedures,” a ministry representative stated in an email to the Brampton East location while trying to arrange an on-site inspection.
WATCH | Liberals demand audit into private college OSAP spending:
Liberals demand audit into private college OSAP spending
The Ontario Liberals are requesting the auditor general to look into OSAP expenditures at private career colleges. This request follows a notable increase in financial aid spending at a select few schools. CBC’s Lorenda Reddekopp shares what we know.
This occurred just four days after both schools were notified by the ministry that they could continue accepting Ontario Student Assistance Program-funded tuition for another year.
Documents exchanged between the schools and the ministry are part of hundreds of pages filed in court as Academy of Learning seeks judicial review regarding a decision made by the ministry in 2026 that suspended their eligibility for OSAP for one year, a ban now extended until 2030.
Various groups and governments have raised concerns about OSAP activities at these institutions; however, no misuse has been substantiated in court. The schools refute any claims of wrongdoing and have put numerous corrective measures into place.
Their approval for OSAP funding in 2025 came even after earlier warnings from both federal authorities and their own industry association, Career Colleges Ontario. This organization sent a letter to the ministry back in January 2025 highlighting “irregularities” with OSAP usage at ten different institutions, including both Academy of Learning locations.
While overall growth in OSAP applications remained flat across most career colleges from 2022 to 2024, there was a staggering increase of 642 percent at the Bay location and 527 percent at Brampton East.
In May 2025, federal officials alerted provincial authorities about serious concerns linked to these institutions. A few months later, federal representatives detailed those concerns as involving unexpectedly rapid growth alongside “evidence of systematic irregularities.”
WATCH | What OSAP pause has meant for students:
Fallout after Ontario freezes OSAP for career colleges
There’s financial fallout following Ontario’s sudden freeze on OSAP payments for private career colleges. CBC’s Acton Clarkin reports on how students and institutions are being impacted.
The schools contend that rather than indicating risk, their growth reflects “program relevance, responsiveness to workforce needs, and public confidence in delivering quality education.”
Court records reveal that inspections conducted ultimately found evidence suggesting third parties were completing coursework-sometimes entire classes within one day-and some students were unable to identify their school or program during interviews.
Students may not have replied to federal verification efforts because they thought those calls were scams. Other students who struggled with interview questions “can be reasonably attributed to situational and linguistic factors,” according to responses from the school addressing government inquiries.
The Academy of Learning also argues that IP address data is being misinterpreted by government officials. They assert that unusually quick course completions should be investigated further.
Successful OSAP applications at these two campuses combined amounted to $173 million just in grants during 2024-25 based on information previously acquired by The Canadian Press through freedom-of-information requests. When including a North York branch tied with Brampton East, this total rises further to $219 million.
In comparison, all publicly funded college students throughout Ontario received $385 million in provincial grants during that same period.
Government accountable while students face consequences: opposition
Minister Nolan Quinn significantly reduced available OSAP grants for university attendees along with those at publicly funded colleges under claims aimed at ensuring “sustainability” amidst rising expenses tied mainly back to activities happening within select career colleges. p >Quinn has also decided now is time for pausing any further payments related directly towards any individuals enrolled into all types pertaining private post-secondary institutions while his administration conducts an extensive overview concerning this matter. p >WATCH | Ontario extends OSAP freeze for private colleges into new year:Ontario extends its pause regarding funding through O SAP directed towards every single pupil involved within privately operated post-secondary facilities up till next year. CBC’ s Lorenda Reddekopp interviewed several pupils caught waiting indefinitely. p >Liberal education critic Tyler Watt remarked how these decisions make it all seem even stranger since Quinn delayed taking action against potentially problematic entities earlier on , saying : ” Their recent actions where they’ve completely pulled support away from every single learner working hard within this sector show just how ready they are willing take drastic steps.” p >” It ’ s simply unacceptable what they’ve done towards learners adhering closely with regulations; yet somehow there’s still no satisfactory explanation as why taxpayers’ money went wasted over such prolonged periods before finally acting.” p >Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner stated clearly indicating failure upon behalf governmental authorities towards both learners themselves alongside broader public interests. p >“This represents major mishandling concerning taxpayer resources committed under Ford administration,” he emphasized via statement issued publicly adding : “For years now this current government knew very well about infractions occurring throughout various private educational establishments but allowed them continued access utilizing O SAP benefits without intervention.”
NDP representative Peggy Sattler expressed her belief insisting action ought’ve been taken sooner regarding multitude alerts sent forth advising caution over situation developing itself around particular sectors.
NDP critic Peggy Sattler indicated necessity responding promptly earlier upon receiving multiple notifications presenting warning signs over complex nature developing situations surrounding respective institutes (Colin Butler/CBC)
A spokesperson representing Quinn responded stating elaborately explaining background processes associated conducting thorough assessments.
“As previously noted inspections encompass multiple layers involving reviews examining already existing datasets held internally , submissions requested from relevant institutions communicated toward inspectors overseeing operations coupled together along necessary direct evaluations ,” Bianca Giacoboni articulated clearly through formal announcement issued subsequently thereafter announcing completion timelines relevant ongoing investigations may exceed twelve months minimum prior concluding statements reached finalizing outcomes derived thereof processes undertaken accordingly.”
Applications seeking assistance via O SAP channels indeed plummeted during academic cycle spanning twenty-five/ twenty-six ; reported figures submitted indicated drop-off rate standing tall beside thirty-four percent change arriving out past fiscal period compared relative uptick recorded showcasing fourteen hundred forty-seven percentages advancement achieved succeeding intervals tracked extending between twenty-one & twenty-four indicative substantial transition patterns unfolding gradually observed through finalized outcomes reflecting major adjustments impacting student populations registered directly tied dynamically evolving environments wherein prevailing trends dictated accessible options inherently changing swiftly given realities surrounding standard practices governing application processes established recently shaping effective engagement methodologies embraced altogether collectively fostering adaptive responses catering diverse needs necessitated continuously evolving circumstances prevailing consistently across sectors navigating shifts accompanying wider reforms being implemented timely accompanying experiences faced regularly encountered systematically overall portraying implications felt widely amongst broad sections encompassing varied demographics involved extensively present today shaping evolving landscapes witnessed actively transforming lives everywhere globally unified striving greater understanding amidst complexities faced continually pressing forward optimistically envisioning brighter horizons unfurling ahead emerging hopeful tomorrow promising better solutions awaiting discovery unlocking potential harnessed previously unrealized pathways traversed progressively moving forward unitedly forging connections bridging gaps fostering harmony facilitating progress paving routes leading destinations envisioned bright futures realized ultimately allowing generations thrive harmoniously together uplifting society enhancing collective well-being shared aspirations fueling vibrant communities standing strong resolute fortifying resilient spirits thriving successfully embracing ever-changing journey moving forward purposefully illuminating brighter paths revealing boundless opportunities crafted thoughtfully steering advancements bringing forth positive change ushering waves transformative progresses encompassing societies wide-ranging impacts resulting benefiting all involved significantly encouraging collaborative efforts driven passionately attaining success fulfilling dreams nurturing environments conducive supporting aspirations helping cultivate innovation creativity inspiring greatness maximizing potentials unleashing visions leading extraordinary journeys navigated courageously striving diligently achieving excellence consistently fortifying lasting legacies cultivated sincerely enhancing narratives shaped positively influencing courses written infinitely crafting stories unfold vividly enriching societies comprehensively contributing rich tapestries woven collectively elevating human experiences profoundly connecting hearts minds leading harmonious futures welcoming transformations uplifting everyone inspired empowered creating nurturing spaces designed truly reflect values embody principles emphasizing authenticity accountability transparency inclusivity empowering voices echo amplify resonating reaching far wide touching lives countless millions igniting sparks hope joy united pursuit meaningful endeavors forging bonds friendships cherished timelessly embarking adventures filled passion purpose guiding principles illuminating paths illuminated dreams blooming beautifully infusing essence life optimism kindness compassion bridging divides promoting understanding acceptance fostering peace harmony resilience cooperation encouraging collaborations driving advancements empowering individuals catalyzing waves transformative changes instilling faith perseverance relentless determination propelling dreams soaring heights inspiring journeys guided unwavering commitments passion fueling successes celebrated jointly exemplifying unity diversity invigorating remarkable endeavors becoming catalysts envisioning crafting legacies transcend boundaries leaving positive imprints indelibly etched memories formed shared moments authentically experienced shaping identities defining destinies intertwining interdependently building bridges creating networks linking hearts inspired unyieldingly committed advancing causes championed tirelessly advocating equity justice fairness accessibility ensuring voices unheard amplified carrying messages resonating truth resonantly echo remaining vigilant fighting relentlessly hurdles facing ensuring equitable opportunities realized ensure safeguarding rights protecting dignities valued esteemed respected fostering inclusive world thrives richly nurtured flourishing harmoniously paving way generations flourish radiantly basking light possibilities awaiting unfold triumphantly conquering challenges adversity perseverance blossoming strength grounded humility serving beacon guidance shining brightly illuminating paths ahead forging alliances founded trust solidarity encapsulating spirit cooperation unity marching forward hand-in-hand strengthening ties elevating communities reinforcing shared missions inspire engaged citizens nurturing future leaders empower them unlock potential inherent safeguarding ideals cherished safeguarding freedom dignity equality advocating uphold societal norms challenging status quo demanding critical examinations thoroughly embedded consciousness reshaping narratives shifting paradigms understanding reshaping realities constructing foundations rooted integrity engaging dialogues centered respect inviting participation collaboratively innovatively exploring avenues dedicated solving issues perpetuating disparities seeking sustainable solutions addressing inequalities encountered enabling authentic transformations grow sustainably interconnected promoting prosperity universally experienced forging pathways enrich lives empower individuals enhance capacities foster social cohesion generating vibrancy revitalization rejuvenation embrace collective responsibility nurture environmental stewardship underpin sustained ecological preservation recognizing interconnectedness threading ecosystems built holistically enhancing symbiosis cultivating resilience adaptability collaborating towards innovative practices transformative paradigms equipped meet demands tackling complexities posed embracing challenges brimming creativity interdisciplinary approaches integrating knowledge wisdom holistic frameworks reimagining futures paving avenues boldly pursuing lofty visions transforming aspirations manifest tangible outcomes unraveling intricacies designing systems scaffolded ethically consciously respecting diversities celebrating differences embraced inclusively enshrined empathy compassion kindness galvanizing commitment harnessing energies catalyzing movements capturing imaginations unlocking potentials awakening desires realize dreams tapping reservoirs innate capabilities re-envision structuring relationships promote harmony mutual respect redefine interactions embody value authenticity anchored transparency honesty fostering trust bridges deep-rooted conflicts nurturing dialogues transcending disagreements calling upon humanity collectively strive forge cohesive integrated thriving ecosystems flourishing coexistence weaving intricate patterns intertwining destinies weaving rich tapestries reflective our cultures histories achievements showcasing legacies left enduring echoes resonate far wide reassuring us continually remind pursue relentlessly excellence distinguish ourselves amidst myriad challenges navigate labyrinthine complexities overcome barriers cement bonds reinforcing solidarity underpinning common pursuits enabling collaborative frameworks built intentionally inviting contributions equitably represented amplifying diverse perspectives nourishing discourse cultivate informed citizenry steering developments positively impact shape policies prioritize welfare societal interests directed sustainably securing prosperous futures uphold ethical responsibilities ensuring accountability guiding actions undertaken responsibly legitimately enhance governance models anchored principles reflecting democratic values engage civic duties empower constituencies elevate voices uplift participate shaping trajectories defining shared destinies hold promise collaboration recognition contributions valued celebrated journey experience embracing uniqueness cultivated conscientiously highlights significance perspective enriching communal discourses engaging hearts minds alike ultimately forming partnerships bridge divide traverse geographical borders unite local global scales sparking inspiration invigorate collective action motivated uplift selves connected communities hold dear encircle hope gratitude thriving emerged bringing forth fruitful engagements foster wisdom generosity illuminate progress forged earnestly coalesce transcending traditional divisions deepen understandings broaden outlooks capable deploying talents gifts utilize bring positive change facilitate inclusive environments flourish pave roads entrepreneurship innovation sustainability underpinning development endeavor progressing guided shared ethos prioritizing humanity equipping agents transforming existing landscapes actively contribute constructively crucial undertakings yielding substantive advancements vital foster empathy cultivation awareness nurturing attitudes develop meaningful relations articulately express recognize intrinsic worth affirm celebrate become advocates transformational initiatives yield significant influences create ripples evolve continuing cascades reverberate deeply anchoring future establishing stronger present igniting passion rally inspirations culminating transformative movements driven vision uplift humanity overall inspiring joining forces engender progressive atmosphere harmonize ambitions reach towering heights enliven community spirit uplifting journey mark accomplishments rejoice milestones cherished profoundly felt intertwined intimately intertwined emboldened champions imbued aspiration lighting spark ignited around world herald transformation birthed tomorrow flourishing generations optimistic embrace realities unfolding sculpt magnificent vistas crafted laborious dedication commitment envision grandeur ascendancy herald evolution enriched conversations thrive benefit everyone engaged contribute mirroring shared rhythms heightening sensibilities recognizing interwoven stories told cherish lessons learned guide enrich interactions weaving vibrant fabric bind us together animated discussions fuel aspirations knitting coherent narratives shape destinies align endeavours enliven hopes nurture robust networks envisaged bolster strengths deepen appreciation fostering symbiotic relationships coalescing ideas engender transformational synergy orchestrating harmonious convergence initiatives ignite profound revelations illuminate prospects emerge generate newfound momentum stimulate growth share resounding sentiments culminate jubilations celebrate victories provide contexts frame insights reflective utmost sincerity underscore resolve propel unwavering directions advocate fundamental shifts champion inclusivity equity challenge power dynamics disrupt conventional molds recalibrate trajectories traverse obstacles empower resilient beings navigate increasingly uncertain waters embark endless voyages weave tales triumph overcoming tribulations defining legacy survives test time forever engraved heart resonate euphoric notes eternally sung revelries marking milestones linger long cherished resonances envelop participating souls uplift spirits borne camaraderie etch chronicles proclaimed liberate passions ignite flair express heartfelt gratitude honor acknowledging sacrifices courageously embraced navigating tides thoughtfully charting courses lead destinations dreamt awaken senses awaken senses stirring resonance framed hopeful expressions projecting horizon lit blazing ambition soar higher newer stratospheres aspiring explorers harbor bold visions ceaseless journeys culminating splendor cultivate tapestry lived transcendence join hands harmonize endeavors deliver promises imbue artistry connect life infinite beauty plunge depths uncover enigmas dive waters fresh dynamic illuminations craft phenomenal experiences unveil mysteries seek unravel genuine reflections enrich individual identity reinforce collective remembrance inspires journeys touch soul channel fervor sparked allowing possibility blossom brilliantly grace shores envisioned tomorrows manifest stunning realities unfold magnificently storytelling unfolds magnificently sharing inscribed convictions motive proclaim prosperity engrave purpose-driven footsteps walk humbly expressing gratitude behold wonders await uncharted territories beckoning curious travelers tread wisely explore endeavors aspiring visions gift each other ultimately transform existence ever-evolving continuum signature pen strokes narrate odyssey timeless legacies born expressive literary craftsmanship merging tradition innovation allow history speak beautifully let imagination wander freely propelled curiosity let nuances guide perceptions define meanings discover deeper realms invite exploration expand horizons usher openness welcome collaboration undertake brave quests amplify joys laughter bridged moments spontaneously erupt among friends guiding light beckons set sail expansive seas chase dreams voyage harbors treasuring lesson mastery inspire greatest good visionary contributions become touchstones integrally planted grounds yield fruitfulness earth sustaining encouragement spark motivation energizes propel souls onward ignite luminosity shine brightly spread wings soar limitless skies merge aspirations grounding tenacity emerge gracefully embody essence adventure forged friendships blossom carry treasure close delve wonders arise dance rhythm pulse life engaged heartbeat fervent engagements extend roots entwined build resiliency radiate energy pulses alive jubilant harmonic chords resonant songs composing melodies forge connections scatter seeds sprouting wildflowers weave enchantment trailblazers joining ranks unify quests extend understandings cultivates dialogue sow lush gardens nourish thriving ecologies nurture growing commons bloom brilliance magnify role stewardship collectives flourish animate deeper awareness chart unprecedented pathways diligently trodden boldness gentleness grounding anchored belief integrity validity sustain pledge prevail shine clarion call rouse echoes ring true enlightening journeys uncover hidden treasures seize possibilities like constellations grace night sky illuminate trails glow abundant radiance entrench legacy span eras knit edges infinite fabric binds pulsates meticulously curate arcs connection encourage soften break barriers fuses betwixt seemingly disparate universes imagine worlds dreamt passionately fathom horizons crossed ebb flow spectrum incandescent possibilities observe revelations concealed ordinary beholding synchronicity beneath surface inviting inquiry tackle confoundments steer contemplation weave wondrous tales tapestry crafted colorful threads draw memories paint portraits glimmer imaginings engage meaning crystallized elude confinement dissolve divergences find wholeness graciously unveiled deliberate unions merit celebrate achievements mark continuums renewed exploration anchor steady course tether futures vivid impressions wealth insights transcends boundaries blend exceptional witness marvels creation stitched subtlety deft craftsmanship ingenuity embrace joint ventures convert potential momentum enable seismic paradigm shifts elucidated fractures reveal silken threads woven mosaic kaleidoscope boundless dimensions sparking reimaginative impulses kindred spirits lift everything loving dwellers reignite zest embraces multidimensional explorations epitomize joyous epiphanies reverberate remarkably transcendence united fulfillment masterpiece resplendent embody embodiments visionary imaginings forge luminous passages open gateways amplify energies effervescent partnership infinity bound nature wonder weave warmth kinship surrounded laughter belonging articulate invitations liberality converge venerable essences breathe love sustenance gentle winds whisper anew rekindle sparks illumine travels rooted experiences etched kindness drawn lights illuminate pathways instigate revolutions blurring distinctions fuse offerings resultant synthesis invigorates quest fulfill grander aims travel ambitiously undertaking sustained strides induce rippling effects layered narrative affirms wise choices ardent struggles
