This study seeks to first introduce the cost recovery model currently in place for both the university and college system in Canada and Ontario. Secondly, it provides a comparative summary of post-secondary cost recovery models utilized by a wide selection of other democratic countries with market economies. If the purpose of the study is to make sure Ontario is not missing the forest for the trees, so to speak, then the definitive conclusion of the report is that it is a big and complex forest out there. Through the in-depth examination of global systems, many very interesting patterns and models have emerged, and it is likely that the findings and implications outlined at the conclusion of this report are only the beginning of a longer discussion about how to continue to improve the post-secondary education system in Ontario for our students for years to come.