About CASFAA

In June 1979, the Canadian Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (CASFAA) was officially established as a division of the Canadian Association of College and University Student Services (CACUSS). Its purpose was to represent Financial Aid and Awards Administrators at colleges and universities across Canada. The association’s constitution is available on this website.

The first conference following CASFAA’s formation took place in June 1980 at the University of Victoria. Interestingly, several topics from that inaugural agenda have remained relevant and continue to appear in CASFAA programming. Notably, discussions such as “The Role of the Federal Government in Financing Post-Secondary Students” and “A National Work Study Program – Is It Feasible?” have resurfaced over the years.

In its early years, CASFAA dedicated significant time and effort to building a national presence. It engaged with educational institutions, government departments at both the federal and provincial levels, and financial institutions, offering expert insight and a national perspective on student financial assistance.

CASFAA also prioritized professional development, delivering high-quality presentations and workshops at its annual national conferences.

Over time, CASFAA’s expertise has been increasingly sought by agencies, councils, and financial institutions. The association has played an active role in government reviews of student financial assistance policies. As it matured, CASFAA earned a respected place in the post-secondary education landscape.

In 2001, CASFAA became an independent organization. That June, McGill University hosted the first annual national conference under its new status, followed by a successful event at the University of Winnipeg in 2002.

Looking ahead, CASFAA remains a valued contributor to the development of financial aid and awards policy and continues to advocate for the well-being of students across Canada.