New Course-Based Tuition Framework
Beginning Fall 2026, Carleton University is introducing a new course-based tuition framework for new students admitted to select Masters programs. Under this framework, students pay tuition based on the courses they register in rather than paying a flat rate tuition amount each term.
What is changing?
Current Model
Graduate programs currently charge a flat program tuition each term, regardless of how many courses a student takes. For example, a student taking one course may pay the same tuition amount as a student taking three courses in the same term.
New Course-Based Tuition Model
Under the new framework:
- Tuition is assessed on a per-course or per-credit basis.
- Students pay for the courses they register in during a given term.
- Tuition aligns more closely with a student’s academic activity.
- Students have greater visibility into how their tuition is calculated.
The total cost of the program remains the same overall. The change is in how tuition is distributed across terms, not the total amount you pay to complete your program.
Who Is Impacted?
Students in Select Graduate Programs
The new course-based tuition model only applies to new students admitted in Fall 2026 or after to a Masters program and are following a course-based or research essay pathway as defined by the program. If you are unsure what program pathway you are following, please contact your Department or Graduate Administrator.
Thesis pathway programs will continue to follow a flat-rate tuition model and require continuous registration.
Why Is Carleton Making This Change?
The course-based model:
- Allows for greater flexibility to students who may be completing studies in conjunction with work or other responsibilities.
- Aligns tuition more closely with actual course enrolment
- Provides greater transparency in how tuition is assessed
- Reflects a student’s individual pacing and course choices
Students can more easily understand what they are being charged for and how their tuition is calculated. Under the new framework, tuition reflects the courses a student is actually taking.
How Do I Calculate My Tuition?
Under the course-based model:
- Tuition is directly tied to course registration
- You are charged based on the number of courses you take in a given term
This means your tuition reflects your actual academic activity each term.
In order to calculate the tuition and fees for your program, visit the Fee Estimator Tool. Broad based tuition and fees information can be found on the Student Accounts Receivable website.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No, not if you follow the normal progression in your program and take only the required courses. If you take additional courses out of interest or for other reasons, tuition may be higher.
Total tuition varies by program and course load.
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Your tuition is based on the courses you are registered in during the current term.
Students taking more courses than anticipated may see higher tuition charges in that specific term.
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No. The course-based framework changes how tuition is assessed.
Students should refer to the approved tuition schedule for their specific program and academic year.
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Yes.
In order to calculate the tuition and fees for your program, visit the Fee Estimator Tool. Broad based tuition and fees information can be found on the Student Accounts Receivable website.
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Funding packages, scholarships, and awards are administered separately from the tuition framework.
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Adding or dropping courses may change your tuition assessment depending on registration dates and university deadlines.
Always review the academic and financial deadlines before making registration changes.
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“Graduate non-thesis” designates a pathway through a program that has no Thesis requirement, such as a course-based pathway or a research project pathway.
Key Things to Remember
- Tuition is based on the courses you register in.
- Not all graduate programs are affected.
- Students can estimate tuition before registration.
- Program-specific tuition schedules remain the authoritative source of tuition information.
- Course registration decisions may affect tuition amounts from term to term.
Need Help?
Tuition Questions
Student Accounts
For questions about fees, invoices, payment deadlines, and tuition calculations.
Registration Questions
Graduate Administrator
For questions about course selection, registration, and program progression.
Graduate Regulations and Policy
Graduate Studies
For questions about graduate student status, program requirements, and academic regulations.