Applying to Post-Secondary Education
http://ontariouniversitiesinfo.ca/
This is a comprehensive guide to Ontario Universities for students. Also, view this site for language requirements if English is not your first language. 2015 Admission requirements are available at this site.
This site gives you all the resources you will need to apply to an Ontario university. It will also link you to a tutorial on how to complete your application. You will require a personal Identification Number from the Guidance Office in order to apply online.
All applications to community colleges in Ontario will be made via this site.
Ontario Universities Fair – A unique opportunity to visit all of Ontario’s 21 universities in one location. A Friday, Saturday, Sunday in September
For Identified Students Applying to College or University
This is up to date information about the process of identification for every college/university – the requirements are NOT the same from school to school. This answers any questions identified students have related to post-secondary.
http://www.transitionresourceguide.ca/
Applying to Universities Outside of Ontario
Application due dates and special requirements for institutions outside the province of Ontario vary. Students considering such applications should begin the process early utilizing the institutions website for direction. Almost all applications are done on-line and are required no earlier than the end of January. Some universities will offer early admission to qualified applicants who submit earlier. It is the responsibility of the student to investigate universities and colleges independently but the Guidance department is available to assist with questions.
Applying in the United States
There are thousands of universities (typically referred to as “colleges” at the undergraduate level) in the U. S. These include:
- Research/national universities
- Liberal Arts Colleges (primarily undergraduate focus)
- Smaller classes
- More personal instruction
- Wider scope
- Special programs (arts, etc.)
Information on various institutions can be found at:
www.nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator
Requirements for Admission
Each institution has its own requirements, which are typically found on the school’s website or application form. Most schools will require some or all of the following:
- application form that includes important information about you, such as academic records (diplomas, transcripts, etc. ) Typically, more breadth in a student’s high school courses in recommended over specialization.
- standardized test reports (example: TOEFL, SAT/ACT – info. at bottom)
- personal essay, letters of recommendation, and evidence of financial resources
- application fee
* If you intend to apply to more than one U. S. University, you may be interested in completing The Common Application (www.commonapp.org) to save time and money.
Over 350 universities/colleges use this method (some only use the Common Application). Application contains:
- interesting questions to identify how you think
- supplemental forms for each school
- personalized account that allows student to manage test scores, grades and other information
Other Tips, Strategies, Resources and Important Dates
Request reference letters early and keep them current
- Participate in extra-curricular activities:
- Show passion in athletics, music, volunteer work, community service, projects, etc.
- Demonstrate depth more than breadth (don’t “pad” resume, rather maintain a focus)
- Each school has specific requirements – check web-site
- Evaluate the quality of the university through their acceptance rate, graduate rate, retention rate, faculty – student ratio and range of standardized test scores
- The average size of an American university is >2000 students (smaller than the Canadian average)
- Early admission/early decision (optional): Nov. 1 – 15 – A student may apply to only one institution using this method and acceptance is binding.
- Early admission: may apply to many schools, acceptance is not binding
- Rolling admission: acceptances sent out throughout application period
- Regular admission: January 31st (SAT score can come after this date)
- Financing: Costs range from $15,000 – $50, 000 per year
- Canadian Federal student loan (up to $7000 per year)
- Scholarships (though some don’t offer any)
- Athletes: NCAA budget is on the rise!
- www.fastweb.com – A free website for US scholarships
- www.collegeboard.com
The SAT
SAT Reasoning Test (3 hrs, 45 min): The most widely used admissions test among universities in the U.S. It tests students’ knowledge of subjects that are necessary for college success: reading, writing, and mathematics. The SAT assesses the critical thinking skills students need for academic success in college.
SAT Subject Tests (1 hour): Designed to measure knowledge and skills in particular subject areas, as well as the ability to apply that knowledge. Students take the Subject Tests to demonstrate their mastery of specific subjects like English, History, Mathematics, Science and Language. In deciding which tests to take, review the university catalogues or web-sites to find out whether the school requires scores for admission.
The ACT
www.act.org
The ACT test (3 hours in length) assesses high school students’ general educational development and their ability to complete college-level work. The multiple choice tests cover four skill areas: English, Mathematics, Reading and Science. The Writing test, which is optional, measures skill in planning and writing a short essay.
Resources: www.ivyglobal.ca – leading education consulting company that provides a range of services for students interested in U. S Colleges. Includes assistance with SAT prep and US admissions.
SAT Prep Course Offerings
Sylvan Learning Centres: http://tutoring.sylvanlearning.com
Prep Skills: www.prepskills.com – Toronto
www.fairtest.org: Indicate schools that do not require standardized test scores as part of admissions process.