Since many of the US university deadlines are in January, February is a great time to focus on your applications to universities in Canada. If you read our 10 Top Canadian Universities, you probably know which ones you want to apply to. Here are our top tips for applying to Canadian universities:
1. Do your applications in 2 parts.
Canadian university applications are usually two-parters. The first part is often general information that can be completed pretty quickly. The second part involves all your supplemental materials (transcripts, test scores, etc.). Fortunately, the two parts have different deadlines. Usually, the information form is due in January or February and MUST be submitted before you can submit part 2. Be sure to check both deadlines on your university website.
2. Get all your supplemental materials at the same time.
We often have students who go back to their guidance counselor several times because they have decided to apply to more universities. Take it from us…this annoys them! If you’re applying to 5 schools, ask for 7 transcripts so you have extras and don’t have to bug the already busy school administrators again.
3. If there is an essay, take it seriously.
Many Canadian universities do not require essays as part of the application. Often, your acceptance depends on your GPA and SAT scores only. However, if there is an essay required, expect admissions officers to read it. They will use consider it in your acceptance because they have decided it is a valuable part of the application.
4. Be sure to check program-specific guidelines.
Often, Canadian universities have specific program application guidelines. These guidelines are in addition to general requirements for freshmen and international students. For example, architecture programs usually require a portfolio or personal statement. History programs do not request these documents.
5. Check whether you need to take the TOEFL or IELTS.
Most students from Dubai applying to Canadian universities will NOT need to take the TOEFL or IELTS. This is because they have attended high schools where the primary language of instruction is English. So, check with each university because requirements do vary.
6. Don’t assume you need recommendations or letters of reference.
Canadian universities often don’t require them. If the universities do, they will ask for the teachers’ information and contact them directly. Teachers will submit a reference online using a special email. Or, you will have to submit a written reference on school letterhead in a signed and sealed envelope.
Check out the admissions guidelines for the University of British Columbia, Vancouver campus as an example of Canadian university admissions requirements: https://you.ubc.ca/ubc/vancouver/admissions.ezc.
Need help applying to universities in Canada?
Email us at eden@apply-me.com or Whatsapp us. We offer Undergraduate Comprehensive Packages to help you from application to acceptance or application to arrival! Check out our student and parent testimonials if you need more convincing.
