A union representing York University's teaching and research assistants has reached a tentative agreement with the institution, likely averting a strike during the final exam period.

The university submitted what it said was its "final offer" early Thursday morning, which came after a strike deadline had passed in contract talks.

In a meeting later in the day, CUPE Local 3903 officials brought the new deal to members.

In a statement, the union said the new deal "met most of our goals in this round of bargaining."

A union representative said earlier in the day that the offer showed significant improvements in some areas of the deal and no movement in others. Sticking points in negotiations were job security and wages.

A strike could have delayed or cancelled exams in classes taught by union members.

CUPE Local 3903 represents more than 3,300 teaching and research assistants, as well as contract faculty staff at York University.

Members of the union will vote on the new deal next week and details will be made public after that time, the union said.