The Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) is a centralized platform that streamlines the application process for undergraduate and professional programs at Ontario’s public universities. Established in 1971, OUAC simplifies the process by allowing students to apply to multiple universities and programs with a single application, reducing duplication and saving time. Whether you’re an Ontario high school student, an international applicant, or a mature student, OUAC provides a user-friendly system to manage applications efficiently.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Through OUAC
1. Research Programs and Universities
Before starting your application, research the universities and programs available in Ontario. OUAC’s Ontario Universities’ Info (OUInfo) is a comprehensive resource that details program offerings, admission requirements, prerequisites, and deadlines for each university. Identify programs that align with your academic and career goals, and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, such as specific high school courses or minimum grades. Note that some programs, like engineering or computer science, may have highly competitive admission standards.
2. Choose the Right Application Type
OUAC offers different application types based on your status:
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101 Application: For current Ontario high school students working toward an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with six 4U/M courses, under 21 years old, and who have not been out of high school for more than seven consecutive months.
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105 Application: For international students, out-of-province Canadian students, mature students (21 or older by December 31 of the application year), or those who have attended a postsecondary institution.
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Other Applications: Specialized applications like TEAS (Teacher Education), OLSAS (Law), OMSAS (Medicine), and ORPAS (Rehabilitation Sciences) are for specific professional programs.
Select the correct application type to ensure your application is processed accurately. The OUAC system automatically categorizes applicants into Group A (current Ontario high school students) or Group B (all others) based on your input.
3. Create an OUAC Account
Visit the OUAC website and create an account using your personal information, including your name, date of birth, and email address. Ontario high school students typically receive application access codes from their guidance counselor. Ensure your email is active, as OUAC will send a verification link to confirm your account before you can proceed. Use your legal name as it appears on official documents, though you can add a preferred name later.
4. Complete the Application
Log into your OUAC account and fill out the application form. You’ll need to provide:
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Personal Information: Name, address, and contact details.
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Academic Background: Details of all secondary schools, colleges, or universities attended, including current and future courses. For Group A applicants, your high school will upload grades directly to OUAC. Group B applicants may need to submit official transcripts or additional documents through the university’s admission portal after applying.
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Program Choices: Select up to three programs per university, with a maximum of no limit across all universities, though fees apply for additional choices. Each program has a unique OUAC program code, which you can find in the OUAC program directory. Rank your choices carefully, as some universities, like the University of Toronto for engineering, may prioritize applicants who rank their program higher.
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Additional Requirements: Some programs require supplemental documents, such as portfolios, essays, or language proficiency test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo for international students). Check each university’s website for specific requirements.
5. Review and Submit
Before submitting, review your application for accuracy. Errors in course details, grades, or program codes can delay processing. Once satisfied, proceed to payment. The base application fee is approximately $150 CAD for up to three program choices, with an additional $50 CAD per extra choice. Payment can be made via credit/debit card, online banking, or international payment options like Flywire. After payment, you’ll receive an OUAC Reference Number (e.g., YYYY-NNNNNN). Keep this number safe, as it’s required for all communications with OUAC and universities.
6. Monitor Application Status
After submission, OUAC forwards your application to your chosen universities, typically overnight. You’ll receive a confirmation email from OUAC and, within a week, acknowledgment emails from the universities. Log into your OUAC account to track your application status, update personal information, or add/remove program choices (additional fees may apply). Universities may request further documents, such as transcripts or test scores, through their admission portals. Check your email regularly, including spam folders, for updates.
7. Respond to Offers
For Group A applicants, universities typically send admission decisions (offer, refusal, or deferral) by late May or early June. Group B applicants’ deadlines vary by university and program. If you receive an offer, you can accept it through your OUAC account. Ontario universities will not require a response or financial commitment (e.g., registration or residence deposit) before June 2, 2025, for Group A applicants. Review all offers carefully, as accepting one may cancel other applications unless specified otherwise.
8. Prepare for Next Steps
Once you accept an offer, the university will provide details on course registration, residence applications, and tuition payments. Do not send deposits or tuition fees to OUAC; these go directly to the university. If you’re an international student, you may need a study permit and a Provincial Attestation Letter, which you can apply for through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
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FAQs
When is the OUAC application deadline?
For Group A applicants, the recommended deadline is January 15, 2025, though OUAC processes applications received later, subject to university-specific deadlines. Group B applicants should check individual university websites, as deadlines vary by program.
Can I change my program choices after submitting?
Yes, you can log into your OUAC account to add, remove, or reorder program choices. Adding a new program at a different university costs $50 CAD, but changes within the same university are typically free.
What if I’m an international student?
International students use the 105 Application and may need to submit English or French language proficiency test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL). Check university requirements for additional documents like transcripts or study permits.
How do I know if my grades were sent to OUAC?
For Group A applicants, your high school uploads grades directly to OUAC. Group B applicants may need to arrange for transcripts to be sent to universities. Check your OUAC account or contact your school to confirm.
Can I apply to universities outside Ontario through OUAC?
OUAC processes applications only for Ontario universities. However, some out-of-province universities (e.g., McGill, UBC) can access your OUAC academic data if you provide your OUAC Reference Number on their application forms.
What happens if I make a mistake on my application?
You can correct mistakes by logging into your OUAC account. If you’ve already submitted, contact OUAC or the university for guidance, as universities cannot edit your application directly.