Family care
Support at every step
Balancing academic goals with family responsibilities is no small task, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you are a student who is also a parent or caregiver, there are some important things to consider before beginning your studies.
You’ll want to start planning and making some arrangements before you arrive on campus. Here is some key information to help you plan ahead.
Child care and school options
Securing reliable child care is a top priority for student parents. We recommend researching daycare options as early as possible, as spaces in licensed child care centres can fill quickly.
Consider part-time or flexible arrangements that align with your academic schedule.
If your child is of school age, look into local elementary and secondary schools near campus or your housing location.
Throughout Niagara, there are a several options available to you:
- Public schools – District School Board of Niagara
- Catholic schools – Niagara Catholic District School Board
- Private schools – Ontario directory
Be sure to review school registration requirements, including residency and immunization records.
Note: UNF is a private university. Children of parents attending UNF who only hold a study permit do not qualify for a tuition exemption based on their study permit alone.
If either biological parent holds a valid work permit in Canada and submits the required documentation before registration, their child(ren) may qualify for tuition exemption. The current processing time for work permits from inside Canada is 196 days. For applications submitted from outside Canada, timelines can vary significantly depending on the country of application.
If you are unable to enrol your child(ren), under the age of 18, in school or simply need more information about this process, please contact us at isa@unfc.ca.
Housing for families
Finding the right place to live is essential when moving with your family. While the university does not offer family housing through its managed residences, we work closely with trusted housing partners to help you explore rental accommodations that suit your needs.
Whether you’re looking for a multi-bedroom apartment or a home with outdoor space, our partners can guide you toward family-friendly options in the Niagara Falls area.
Family-friendly events
University life extends beyond the classroom. From seasonal celebrations to community activities, and everything in between, there are many family-friendly events on campus that welcome children. Be sure to check the Events Calendar regularly to see what’s coming up so you can stay connected and create great memories at UNF with your loved ones.
Health and wellness support
Your health and your family’s health are a priority. The health and wellness section of our website provides information on:
- Student health insurance plan, including coverage for dependents
- Mental health and counselling services available for parents and families
If you’re pregnant or planning to grow your family while studying, connect with UNF early to explore the support available to you.
We’re here to help
Navigating university life as a parent comes unique challenges, but you don’t have to do it alone. Connect with the Student Success Office for one-on-support and guidance tailored to your family’s needs.
Have questions? Reach out to Student Success or stop by the Student Success Hub on the first floor when you arrive on campus.
