Quick Information
| Last Verified Date | November 10, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Official Source | https://www.ouac.on.ca/guide/undergrad-dates/ |
Step 1: Choose Your Province and Universities
Canada has no single national application system for universities. Each province organises admissions differently, so the first step is to decide where you want to study and then learn that province’s route. Ontario, which has the largest number of universities, uses the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC). Other provinces use direct applications to each university or their own central systems. Shortlist universities by subject, cost, campus and the admission average they publish, and read each university’s own admissions page — programme requirements and deadlines are set by the university, not by the province.
Step 2: Apply Through the Right System
For Ontario, international applicants usually apply through the OUAC Undergraduate application, form 105. If you are applying only to the University of Toronto, live outside Canada and have not studied in Canada before, you can use the University of Toronto International Application instead. For Group A applicants to Ontario universities, the deadline to submit a completed application to the OUAC is 15 January 2027. Group B applicants have no single OUAC deadline; their deadlines vary by university and programme, so each university’s page is the authority. Some programmes also ask for a supplementary application, a portfolio or an interview, with separate deadlines.
Step 3: Submit Documents and English Evidence
Universities need your school transcripts, proof of English ability (usually IELTS or TOEFL at the level the university sets), and any supplementary material the programme asks for. Send transcripts exactly as the university instructs — some want them sent directly by your school. Keep copies of everything, and check your application portal regularly, because universities may ask for missing documents with short deadlines.
Step 4: Accept an Offer and Get Your Documents Ready
When you accept an offer, make sure the university is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) — only a DLI can host international students on a study permit. The university will send you a letter of acceptance and a provincial attestation letter (PAL), or a territorial attestation letter (TAL) where one applies. You need both documents for your study permit application, so keep them safe and check that the name, programme and dates on them match your application exactly.
Step 5: Apply for Your Study Permit
Apply for a study permit online before you come to Canada. The Government of Canada’s own guidance says you must apply before travelling, and your application should include your letter of acceptance, your PAL or TAL, and proof that you can pay your tuition and living costs. If you are between 14 and 79 years old, you will probably need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) and pay the biometrics fee when you submit your application. Your biometrics are valid for ten years. If you need a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorisation, it will be issued automatically at the same time as your study permit — you do not need to apply for it separately.
Step 6: Plan Your Arrival
Study permit processing times vary by country, so apply as early as you can after accepting your offer. Do not book non-refundable travel until your permit is approved. When you travel, carry your letter of acceptance, your PAL or TAL, your proof of funds and your passport with the visa or authorisation, because a border officer will check them on arrival. Check the university’s orientation dates and arrange housing before you leave home.
