![Students smiling at orientation](/sites/default/files/styles/16_9_x_large_1280_x_720/public/2026-10/image%2040.jpg.webp?itok=0AL_H2zG) # Turn ideas into a career at OCAD University Join OCAD University, Canada’s top art and design university, in the heart of downtown Toronto and learn how to use your creativity for in-demand careers. [Explore our Programs](https://admissions.ocadu.ca/discover/undergraduate-programs) [How to apply](https://admissions.ocadu.ca/apply/guide-admissions) [Connect with us](https://admissions.ocadu.ca/get-help/contact-us) ![](/themes/custom/ocad/img/decor/ripped-paper-whitebg.png) rgb(0,0,0) @media (max-width: 1000px) { .paragraph--collage-2-image .collage-images--images {display: none;} } #paragraph-id--14120 .ripped_paper_top_black_to_right { display: none; } rgb(0,0,0) rgb(0,0,0) ## We are Canada's most inspiring campus! ### Our Location   OCAD U puts you in the middle of one of the world’s most creative cities. Our campus sits next to Grange Park and the Art Gallery of Ontario, with Queen West, the Entertainment District and some of Toronto’s most vibrant neighbourhoods just steps away. Across 12 buildings, you’ll find 20+ shops and studios, six public galleries and spaces designed for making, experimenting and bringing ideas to life. With excellent transit and a city full of culture, creativity and opportunity right outside your door, Toronto becomes part of your education. ### Housing options   At OCAD University, you're living in the heart of Toronto—steps from galleries, cafés, and iconic neighbourhoods, with subway and streetcar lines just minutes from campus. While OCAD U doesn't have its own residence, you'll find plenty of ways to feel at home: privately-run student residences, community-focused co-op housing, welcoming homestays with local families, or your own place to rent solo or share with roommates. Whichever you choose, our housing resources and admissions team are here to help you settle in—explore your options at [ocadu.ca/housing](https://ocadu.ca/housing). [Learn more about housing](https://admissions.ocadu.ca/afford/housing-options/housing-info) ![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_large/public/assets/media/47752017191_1e2dc9e6ed_c.jpg.webp?itok=fum7R7Gn) ![Sharp Centre for Design](/sites/default/files/styles/square_large/public/2026-09/55087953447_be6028ce3b_k.jpg.webp?itok=dAgNgGBG) .paragraph--collage-2-image .field_pattern svg path { stroke: #f26323 ; fill: #f26323 ; } rgb(255,255,255) ![](/themes/custom/ocad/img/decor/ripped-paper-whitebg.png) rgb(255,255,255) rgb(255,255,255) ## Find the program for you [ ![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_medium/public/2026-09/advertising.jpg.webp?itok=xAwcLBuz) ### Advertising ](https://admissions.ocadu.ca/program/advertising) [ ![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_medium/public/2026-09/drpt.jpg.webp?itok=0MJ1fN6S) ### Drawing and Painting ](https://admissions.ocadu.ca/program/drawing-painting) [ ![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_medium/public/2026-09/graphicdesign.jpg.webp?itok=INRlUXfz) ### Graphic Design ](https://admissions.ocadu.ca/program/graphic-design) [ ![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_medium/public/2024-10/ill.jpg.webp?itok=mOhzh72h) ### Illustration ](https://admissions.ocadu.ca/program/illustration) [ ![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_medium/public/2024-10/df.jpg.webp?itok=Opfccdlu) ### Digital Futures ](https://admissions.ocadu.ca/program/digital-futures) [Explore all programs](https://admissions.ocadu.ca/discover/undergraduate-programs) ![](/themes/custom/ocad/img/decor/ripped-paper-whitebg.png) rgb(0,0,0) ## Meet our alumni 01 Previous item Next item > ### Graeme McMillan Industrial Design > ### Sharene Shafie Strategic Foresight and Innovation (MDes) > ### Sung Wook Park Industrial Design > ### Madelaine Fischer-Bernhut Digital Futures (BDes, BFA) > ### Lucas Kschischang Photography > ### Ali Mapara Industrial Design > ### Danielle Kim Environmental Design > ### Kikki Guerard Advertising > ### Samuel Kwan Industrial Design ![](/themes/custom/ocad/img/decor/ripped-paper-whitebg.png) rgb(255,255,255) rgb(255,255,255) ## Frequently asked questions ### What is OCAD U? OCAD University is Canada’s largest and oldest art and design university, founded in 1876. We’re a world-famous hub for art, design, digital media, research, innovation and creativity. Located in downtown Toronto’s Entertainment District, the university has twelve buildings in the heart of the city. OCAD U has more than 4,500 students and 17 undergraduate programs.  ### What do I need to do to get into OCAD U? Apply through OUAC, then submit a portfolio on SlideRoom. Offers are based mainly on your portfolio, plus a 70% Grade 12 average, including English. [ See requirements .arrow-link-long { fill: #000; } ](https://admissions.ocadu.ca/apply/academic-requirements) ### How do I create a portfolio? Show 8–10 finished pieces, your sketchbook and a 300-word statement about why you want your program. Mix traditional and digital work. [ Portfolio guide .arrow-link-long { fill: #000; } ](https://admissions.ocadu.ca/apply/preparing-portfolio) ### How much does it cost to go to OCAD U? For information on tuition and fees, as well as funding options and additional resources, [visit the Tuition and Fees page](https://admissions.ocadu.ca/afford/tuition-fees). [ Cost calculator .arrow-link-long { fill: #000; } ](https://admissions.ocadu.ca/afford/tuition-fees) ### What are the important dates and deadlines? There are entry points in the fall and winter (winter entry is available for all applicants except currently enrolled Ontario High School Students) each year. The recommended deadline to apply for all programs at OCAD University is early February. International applicants not enrolled in an Ontario secondary school have the opportunity to start in January. [ Full timeline .arrow-link-long { fill: #000; } ](https://admissions.ocadu.ca/apply/guide-admissions) ### What type of career can I have with a degree from OCAD U? Over 90% of OCAD U alumni are employed or self-employed within six months of graduating, working across graphic design, advertising, fashion, animation, and more. The [Centre for Emerging Artists and Designers](https://www.ocadu.ca/student-services/centre-emerging-artists-and-designers) runs job boards, career fairs and placement courses so students start building industry contacts before they graduate. [ Alumni News and Stories .arrow-link-long { fill: #000; } ](https://www.ocadu.ca/alumni/alumni-news-and-stories) ### Is there a residence? No, but there are privately-run student residences, co-ops, homestays, and rentals within a short walk or subway ride of campus. [ Housing options .arrow-link-long { fill: #000; } ](https://admissions.ocadu.ca/afford/housing-partners) ### Can I get portfolio feedback first? Yes — book a one-on-one, attend a National Portfolio Day, or submit five pieces to the AICAD review portal. [ Get feedback .arrow-link-long { fill: #000; } ](https://admissions.ocadu.ca/apply/preparing-portfolio)