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Calgary’s two universities have significantly fewer members, with 90 registered at Mount Royal University and just 47 at the University of Calgary. Data was not available for Alberta’s other post-secondary institutions.

Fahim Rahman, president of the University of Alberta’s Students’ Union, said it’s troubling that so many students are concerned enough about covering their tuition, books and other expenses that they have to find wealthy benefactors willing to pay for their schooling, usually with the expectation of sexual relationships.

“I’m not surprised more students are signing up,” he said.

“The really interesting thing is how the website is actively recruiting students from post-secondary schools, knowing many will unlikely be able to afford all the costs.”

According to Statistics Canada, the average tuition fees for an undergraduate student in Alberta were $5,730 in 2015. For those studying medicine or dentistry, those annual fees can triple or even quadruple. Books and course materials can add another $1,000 to the tally, and covering housing, food and other costs adds thousands more.

Raham said while it’s understandable some students consider such transactions as a potential solution to financial struggles, it could come with unintended consequences.

“I’m concerned about power dynamics in relationships like this,” he said.

“When you’re a student, you’re definitely more vulnerable and you’re getting involved with someone who might be a bit more established in their life and career, and (the student) might be negatively impacted.”