Applying to College/University

Applying to college or university can be a stressful process! Each province has a different platform/process for applying to colleges or universities (i.e. Ontario uses OUAC and OCAC, B.C. uses PASBC) and each school or program may want additional information on top of that. It’s important to research the schools and programs you’re applying to yourself to make sure you know what’s needed from you by when! It can be confusing, so reaching out to a parent, teacher, guidance counsellor, or even a friend who’s been through it can be helpful. Here are some tips for applying…

September-November:
– If you haven’t already, research schools and programs of interest and make decisions about which ones to apply to.
– Book tours (if they’re available). Right now a lot of schools are hosting virtual tours!

November:
– Research the application deadline dates for each program you’re applying to and mark them on a calendar
– Get familiar with the website you will use to apply – ask someone for help if you need it!
– Start working on your applications. Sometimes they require getting forms from your school or community agencies… make sure you leave enough time!

December – deadline:
– College and university deadlines range from mid-January to June.
– Ensure you have all the necessary pieces of your application completed and submitted before the deadline.

Colleges and universities may consider your grades, extracurriculars, volunteer experience, and work experience. They may also require a reference from non-related adults who knows you well. All post-secondary schools require you have a high school diploma. Many schools also have a form you can fill out in your application if you have a disability to provide equal opportunity to everyone.