OmbudsPEI received two complaints from students at UPEI alleging the school unfairly denied them admission. One complainant alleged that they were not provided with an explanation after they were denied re-admission into a program, noting that the denial letter provided no details about the denial or how they could find that information out. Another UPEI complainant alleged that the school unfairly denied them admission to a co-operative program related to their field of study. The complainant explained that they met and exceeded the program’s requirements, however the program spots went to applicants with lesser qualifications.
OmbudsPEI also received a complaint from a student attending Holland College who alleged the school unfairly denied them admission to another program. The complainant explained that when they applied for the other program, they expected that because they indicated they were a current Holland College student, their current grades would be automatically considered. However, this did not happen.
OmbudsPEI worked with both schools through the office’s informal resolution process and suggested that clearer language and communication needed to be implemented by the schools.
The schools agreed to the suggestions made by OmbudsPEI and committed to updating language used online and in applications regarding admission requirements. UPEI as well committed to providing more information on future denial letters.
OmbudsPEI received the authority to investigate complaints about post-secondary institutions in June 2023.
For more on these complaints, including how they were resolved, a summary for each, titled ‘Option to Inquire’, ‘Clear Instructions’ and ‘Clarifying Criteria’ can be found online at https://ombudspei.ca/cases-and-reports/.
Media Contact
Cody McEachern
Investigator/Communications Officer – OmbudsPEI
(902) 218-1967
About OmbudsPEI
As an independent office of the Legislature, OmbudsPEI investigates complaints of unfair treatment by government agencies and provides general oversight of government’s administrative processes under the Ombudsperson Act. The Ombudsperson has a broad mandate to investigate complaints about unfair treatment, process or decisions by public sector agencies such as government ministries, agencies boards and commissions, municipalities and Health PEI.
OmbudsPEI promotes fairness, transparency and accountability in the public sector to enhance good governance and public confidence in government. Our work improves public services for all Islanders.
If any Islander believes they have experienced unfairness in their interactions with a provincial agency, they can contact OmbudsPEI to explore options for making a complaint. Our services are free and confidential.
Sandy Hermiston also serves as PEI’s Public Interest Disclosure Commissioner pursuant to her appointment under the Public Interest Disclosure and Whistleblower Protection Act. Public servants can report wrongdoing by making a protected disclosure or complaint about a reprisal to the office.
For more information about OmbudsPEI, visit ombudspei.ca.