University Information

To apply to university you need six grade 12 U or M credits (including the prerequisites for your chosen university program). Open courses and co-op do not count as university prerequisites.

  • Be sure your Guidance counsellor knows about any on-line, correspondence, private or night school courses you are taking.
  • Universities are increasingly reviewing students’ grade 11 marks to gather further information about potential program candidates.
  • Visit Ontario Universities Application Centre  to research programs and admission requirements – make sure you aren’t missing any required courses, etc.!
  • Research costs (tuition, residence, books, etc.) and begin applying for scholarships and bursaries
  • Apply on-line through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) website:
    • Submit payment of $150 for three choices – additional choices are $50 each. All fees are non-refundable.  Be aware you are usually limited to 3 programs at one university.  Ensure you are also aware of each university’s policy regarding number of allowable programs.
    • You can make changes to program selections up to the application deadline, but be aware you will incur a fee penalty if switching from one university to another.
    • Be aware of ALL APPLICATION DEADLINES!
    • Make sure you check your email given to OUAC AND your OUAC account regularly after applying to ensure everything was submitted correctly and your application is being processed.  You can also get updates on progress.
    • Complete and return any Additional Information Forms (AIF) if required by your program/university BEFORE THE DEADLINE DATE!
    • Be sure to keep a copy of your access codes (OUAC Reference Number and PIN)
  • Research OSAP and complete application on-line after receiving and confirming acceptance of Offer of Admission.  You can’t apply for OSAP until you know where you’re going.
  • Submit forms for residence (if applicable)

 WHERE DO I START?

If you’re applying to a university in Ontario, you’re in luck.  The ONTARIO UNIVERSITIES INFO WEBSITE is the best place to begin your research.  This comprehensive website is updated annually with new program and admissions information and provides a number of ways to explore programs.  Check out the video below for instructions on how to use the site. Applying to university in another province?  Check the websites for the universities you’re researching to find out admission requirements and deadlines as these may vary from Ontario schools.

Considering a university in the U.S.?  Check out the College Board website for information regarding programs, schools, SATs and more.

Need more info to help you in your research?  There are many opportunities to learn about different universities and/or programs.  Here are a few great ideas:

  • Check to see if your school is hosting university information sessions or fairs
  • Attend university open houses (many in fall and early spring) or arrange school tours/visits.  Make sure to check out the campus of the school you plan to attend to see if it really fits YOU!  Check out university websites for more info!
  • TALK TO YOUR GUIDANCE COUNSELLOR!

There is more information on your Graduating Class Google Class.  Parents can also join this Google classroom.  Please have your student send you an invite or join with the code: vrhghz6

 

 

 

 

 

Financial Incentives & Assistance

Many schools provide entrance scholarships or bursaries based on academic credentials (often automatic) along with secondary financial incentives that require an application.  It is up to you to research what is available based on your qualifications.  Check out the Beyond OSAP page for information about these incentives.

The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is a financial aid program designed to help students pay for college or university.  Money is provided through grants and loans, both of which are automatically considered when you apply.  Visit the OSAP website for more information.