Applying to College and University

Before You Apply

Before submitting any applications:

• Research programs that match your interests and goals.
• Review admission requirements and prerequisites.
• Check application deadlines.
• Attend open houses and information events.
• Create a shortlist of programs.
• Ensure you are taking any required Grade 12 courses.
• Monitor your grades and academic progress.

Remember that admission requirements vary by institution and program. Always check the college or university website for the most current information.

First Nations, Métis and Inuit Students

Many colleges and universities offer Indigenous students an additional and/or alternative pathway for admission to an undergraduate or graduate program. 

Learn more about college applications and university applications.

Applying to Ontario Colleges

Applications to Ontario colleges are submitted through Ontario Colleges. 

Be Prepared To:

• Create an account.
• Provide personal and contact information.
• Provide supporting documents, as applicable. 
• Select your program choices.
• Pay application fees.
• Monitor your application status.

Helpful Tips

• Record your login information in a safe place. You will use this login to check the status of your application.
• Check your email regularly for updates from colleges.
• Monitor important deadlines.

If you are a current high school student, your school will submit your transcript for you. 

Applying to Ontario Universities

Applications to Ontario universities are submitted through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC).

Be Prepared To:

• Create an account.
• Provide personal and contact information 
• Add supporting documents, as applicable. If you are a current high school student, your high school provides your academic information, including grades to the OUAC. 
• Select your program choices.
• Pay application fees.
• Monitor your application status.
• Provide supplemental applications, personal profiles, portfolios, interviews, auditions, as applicable.

Helpful Tips

• Always review the requirements for each program carefully, including any supplemental requirements and deadlines.
• Record your login information in a safe place. You will use this login to check the status of your application.
• Check your email regularly for updates from universities.
• Monitor important deadlines.
• Learn how to make changes to your application after you submit it. 

Responding to an Offer of Admission

You may receive offers from more than one college, university or program. 

Universities and colleges will:

• Evaluate application files individually and make admission decisions.
• Make offers at different times throughout the year, depending on the school and program.

Understanding Conditional Offers

A conditional offer means you have been accepted provided you continue to meet specific requirements outlined in your offer. These may include:

• Completing your OSSD.
• Maintaining required grades.
• Successfully completing prerequisite courses.
• Meeting any additional program requirements.

Be sure to read all conditions carefully and continue working toward successful completion of your courses.

Accepting an Offer

When you have decided on a program:

• Review the offer carefully.
• Note the acceptance deadline.
• Follow the instructions provided by the institution or application service.
• Keep copies of important information and confirmation emails.

Missing a deadline could result in your offer expiring, so make sure you respond before the deadline.

If You Are Not Admitted

Not receiving an offer is not the end of your pathway journey. You may wish to:

• Explore alternative programs.
• Consider another institution.
• Investigate transfer pathways.
• Search for possible openings at Ontario universities or search for college programs that are accepting late applications. 
• Upgrade courses if needed.
• Speak with your guidance counsellor about other options.

There are many pathways to future success, and students often reach their goals through different routes than originally planned.

Next Steps

After accepting an offer, begin planning for your transition to post-secondary education. Research housing, explore financial supports, register for orientation activities and learn about the services available to help you succeed.