A PR is a PR, I don't think there is such a thing as dependent PR and independent PR. As long as you have done your landing procedures you have the same rights as any other PR whether you were the main applicant or the spouse.
Other more qualified members may be able to reply to your other...
You don't need to cancel the study permit. Just make your travel arrangement and make it to the airport. Passports are not checked on departure.
For refunds options you will need to check your university regulations. Most colleges/universties do not offer refunds on courses a few weeks after...
Do you have any need to renew your residence permit right away? If I was in your shoes I would just stay 3 years to be on the safe side and avoid the voluntary review as canuck78 mentioned
Give it a few weeks. The winter term just started and colleges are busy with incoming students and the administrative issues to be handled at the beginning of each term. So it will take them a little bit longer to get back to you.
The reduction in tuition fees for domestic students will likely translate into higher fees for international students, as colleges and universities will need to make up for that difference somewhere.