How to Apply

OCAD University offers three undergraduate degrees — a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Bachelor of Design (BDes) or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) — in a wide range of programs.

All undergraduate programs can be completed in four years of full-time study. If you need help deciding which program is for you:

• Come to one of our many events throughout the year
• Read our viewbook, program pages and course catalogue
• Do some homework by talking to people who work in these fields.
• Check out student work to get a better of what to prepare for your portfolio

Admission to OCAD U is based primarily on a portfolio or writing submission but strong academic skills are essential for your overall success. All offers of admission are conditional on meeting at least the minimum academic entrance requirements. Review our requirements before applying and contact us if you have any questions.

International applicants are welcome and you should familiarize yourself with any special requirements.

OCAD U offers many transfer pathway opportunities for students with previous post-secondary experience.

All applicants apply through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC).

Late applications to most programs are still being accepted for fall 2021! If you are interested in applying for Fall 2021 we encourage you to apply ASAP! You can start your application today through the Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC).

The following programs are no longer accepting applications for fall 2021:

• Advertising
• Drawing & Painting (including Digital Painting and Expanded Animation)
• Environmental Design
• Environmental Design: Interior Design
• Graphic Design
• Illustration
• Industrial Design
• Material Art & Design
• Upper Year Entry (All Programs)
• Articulation Agreements (All Programs)

Portfolio Submission Deadline: Applicants will be given approximately two weeks from the day we receive and process the application from the OUAC to submit a portfolio/supplement items. Please visit our preparing a portfolio page for more information on how to prepare and submit your portfolio for admission.

If you are applying to our Visual and Critical Studies program you need to submit a writing sample assignment and a statement of intent. You’ll be emailed the topic for the writing sample and other details after your application has been processed.

If you are applying to our Creative Writing program, you need to submit a writing portfolio and statement of intent through SlideRoom. Your portfolio should feature your original work in poetry, prose, spoken word, hip hop, hybrid or experimental forms. Visit our preparing a portfolio page for further details on what we are looking for in your portfolio submission. You’ll be emailed further details after your application has been processed.   

If you are applying to any other undergraduate program at OCAD U,  you need to submit a portfolio online through SlideRoom. Visit our preparing a portfolio page for further details on what we are looking for in your portfolio submission. You’llbe emailed deadlines and further details after your application has been processed.

Most portfolios, writing submissions and other supplemental items are reviewed beginning in February each year.

Portfolios/ supplemental items for the 2021/2022 academic year are due February 11, 2021 (for applicants who have submitted applications by February 1, 2021). Please visit our preparing a portfolio page for more information on how to prepare and submit your portfolio for admission.

Offers of Admission will be sent out by email starting at the end of March 2021. The latest date you should expect to hear from us with a decision is May 27, 2021. All offers are conditional upon the completion of the admission process (meeting academic entrance requirements and submitting required documents). You will receive details by email that will include important dates, deadlines and information about the next steps to complete the process.

After you respond to your offer of admission through OUAC, OCAD U will be notified electronically that you have accepted your offer of admission. You will need to pay a $500 non-refundable deposit in order to secure your spot at OCAD U. Additional details will be emailed to you if you receive an offer of admission.

Ensure you have the necessary financial resources for tuition, fees, supplies and living expenses. Arrange housing if required. Take part in OCAD U Go! and register for your classes online. Review our tuition and funding page for more detailed information.

Take part in our Orientation activities and begin your classes! Be sure to visit Current Students for information on important dates, deadlines and resources for your OCAD U student experience!