20.2 Statement on Equity in Student Affairs

The University of Alberta strives to provide a fair, open and supportive environment for students.

Acknowledging the diversity of the Canadian population, and the University's obligation to remain open to all sectors of society, the University of Alberta encourages applications for admission from all qualified persons including Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, and women. In this manner the University demonstrates its commitment to improving the representativeness of its communities.

The Alberta Human Rights Act, sections 3 and 11.1, requires that no individual be discriminated against on the basis of race, religious beliefs, color, gender, physical disability, mental disability, marital status, age, ancestry, or place of origin, family status, or source of income except where the discrimination can be shown to be reasonable and justifiable. The University of Alberta recognizes and accepts its responsibility to comply with the requirements of this Act in its consideration of students for admission, promotion, and graduation. Of its own volition the University of Alberta does not discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation or political belief.

Subject to the limits set out in the Alberta Human Rights Act, the University of Alberta affirms its right to determine the criteria by which applicants are accepted into the University community. Individuals seeking admission to or continuance in academic programs must meet the qualifications and performance standards set out by the University's governing bodies.