University of Toronto
University of Toronto Admissions Guide for
University of Toronto Admissions Guide for
Founded in 1827, the University of Toronto is Canada's most research-intensive university and one of the world's great public universities. With over 97,000 students across three campuses in the Greater Toronto Area, U of T offers a breadth of academic programmes matched by few institutions on earth — paired with the career-launch advantages of Canada's financial, technology, and life-sciences capital.
For international students, U of T represents something rare: a globally top-25 research university with a relatively accessible acceptance rate, located in one of the world's most liveable and multicultural cities. Whether your ambition is deep-learning research, investment banking, pre-medicine, or architecture, U of T has a direct-entry programme and the faculty to match.
University of Toronto — campus in pictures
Real, freely-licensed photographs of the campus (via Wikimedia Commons).
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Sir Daniel Wilson Quadrangle St. George Campus, Toronto, Canada
Victoria Heath vheath · CC0 · via Wikimedia Commons
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The City of Toronto · CC BY 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
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Front campus, University of Toronto in November 2023
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View from CN Tower towards the campus of OCAD and University of Toronto.
Arild Vågen · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
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University of Toronto Campus, seen from Robarts Library
Inmouchar · Public domain · via Wikimedia Commons
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A view from the Back Campus of the University of Toronto
Maksim Sokolov (Maxergon) · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
U of T's combination of top-25 global rankings, a diverse tri-campus system, and Toronto's booming technology and finance ecosystem make it one of the most compelling choices for internationally ambitious students.
Ranked #25 globally (QS 2025) and #21 by Times Higher Education, U of T is home to some of the most cited researchers in the world. Insulin was discovered here. Modern deep learning — the engine behind today's AI revolution — was pioneered here by Geoffrey Hinton and colleagues. Undergraduates can join labs from Year 1.
U of T holds the top national ranking in Canada by every major index. Its graduate schools — medicine, law, management, and engineering — are consistently ranked among North America's finest, making it the strongest domestic brand for professional school advancement.
Toronto is Canada's economic capital and home to the country's largest financial district, a surging technology sector (Shopify, Google, Intel, and hundreds of startups), and the largest hospital cluster in North America. Internships, co-ops, and full-time roles are within the city — not a two-hour drive away.
Three distinct campuses — St. George (downtown), Mississauga (UTM), and Scarborough (UTSC) — each with its own academic personality and strengths. St. George anchors flagship engineering, medicine, and commerce programmes; UTM and UTSC offer co-op tracks and a more intimate campus feel while sharing U of T's degree and library system.
Unlike many North American universities, U of T admits students directly to specific programmes (Applied Science & Engineering, Rotman Commerce, Life Sciences, etc.). You know exactly which faculty you're entering from Day 1, and your curriculum is focused from the outset — a major advantage for career-focused internationals.
One of the World's Most Diverse Universities
28% of U of T's 97,000 students are international, representing over 160 countries. The city of Toronto is one of the most multicultural on earth. International students do not feel out of place here — they are part of the institution's character and identity.
U of T's overall acceptance rate of approximately 43% places it in a different category from the most selective US universities — but do not be misled. Acceptance rates vary dramatically by programme. Engineering Science, Rotman Commerce, and Computer Science within Arts & Science are highly competitive, with effective acceptance rates far below the institutional average. The IB benchmark of 34 points reflects the minimum for serious consideration; admitted students to flagship programmes typically present significantly higher scores.
Institutional average — varies sharply by programme
Minimum for serious consideration; competitive programmes require higher
On a 4.0 scale; top programmes demand substantially higher
SAT and ACT scores are not required for admission and are not part of the standard review. U of T assesses international applicants primarily on academic transcripts and, where required, supplementary applications.
International students apply through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC 105) or directly via the U of T International Application if not applying to other Ontario universities. The application is programme-direct — you apply to specific faculties and admission categories.
The Ontario Universities Application Centre form for non-Ontario applicants. Submitted online at ouac.on.ca. You can list multiple programmes and campuses. The application fee is $130 USD (or equivalent in Canadian dollars). Once submitted via OUAC, you create a JOIN U of T account to track your application and submit supporting documents.
Official transcripts from all secondary schools attended. For IB students: predicted grades and final results when available. For A-Level students: predicted and final grades. Transcripts must be submitted through the JOIN U of T portal or directly from your institution.
IELTS Academic (6.5 overall, minimum 6.0 in each band), TOEFL iBT (100 overall), or Duolingo English Test (120) for students whose first language is not English and who have not completed sufficient schooling in English. Exemptions apply for students from designated English-speaking countries or who have studied in English for three or more years.
Supplementary Application (Programme-Specific)
Rotman Commerce, Engineering, and some other programmes require a supplementary application accessed through JOIN U of T. Rotman Commerce uses the Kira Talent platform for written and video responses. Engineering programmes require an Admission Information Form (AIF). These are separate from the main OUAC application.
Each programme has specific prerequisite subjects. Engineering requires advanced mathematics and physics; Rotman Commerce requires calculus and a senior English course; Life Sciences requires biology, chemistry, and mathematics. You must declare which prerequisite courses you are completing or have completed.
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship requires a school nomination (your secondary school may nominate one student per year), a separate OUAC application by mid-October, and a scholarship application by early November. It is a wholly separate process from the general application.
U of T's admissions process is primarily academic. Unlike many US universities, extracurricular activities, personal essays, and letters of recommendation are NOT part of the standard Arts & Science or Engineering application. The review is transcript-first: your grades in prerequisite and senior courses, and the rigour of your curriculum, are the primary decision factors.
For programmes requiring supplementary applications — Rotman Commerce, Engineering, and select others — the supplementary is formally evaluated alongside your academic record. In these programmes, communication skills, leadership evidence, and a demonstrated understanding of your chosen field matter significantly. Rotman Commerce in particular uses written and video responses to assess how well you think on your feet.
Your grades in prerequisite courses and your overall senior secondary average are the single most important factor. U of T evaluates applicants on a 'competitive average' — a calculated figure from your top-six or required courses. For Engineering Science and Computer Science, this average typically needs to exceed 90-95% to be competitive.
Completing higher-level coursework signals genuine readiness. IB HL courses in mathematics, sciences, and English signal academic ambition. A-Level candidates presenting three strong A-Level subjects in the relevant discipline are well-positioned. Taking the most demanding curriculum available at your school strengthens your file.
U of T is strict about prerequisites. If a programme requires Grade 12 calculus and you have not taken it, your application will not be considered regardless of your overall average. Match your prerequisites precisely before you apply.
For Rotman Commerce and Engineering, the supplementary application is a formal component with significant weight. Rotman seeks evidence of business acumen, communication, and leadership. Engineering AIF reviewers look for genuine intellectual curiosity about engineering and meaningful extracurricular or project involvement.
U of T uses rolling admissions within a window. Applying early significantly improves your chances — especially for competitive programmes — because decisions are released in rounds beginning in January. Applying by November and submitting documents by December positions you for the earliest possible consideration.
Engineering / Kinesiology / Music / Nursing
Arts & Science (St. George) / Architecture
Dates above are for the 2025–2026 entry cycle (Fall 2026 start). Verify current-year deadlines at future.utoronto.ca before applying.
Life at U of T is inseparable from life in Toronto — one of the world's great cities and consistently ranked among the most liveable. The St. George campus sits in the heart of downtown, a short walk from the Financial District, Queen's Park, and Kensington Market. You are not tucked away in a college town; you are in the city from day one.
U of T's size — 97,000 students — means you have access to over 1,000 student clubs, a world-class athletics and recreation centre, and a residential college system on the St. George campus. The seven federated residential colleges (Trinity, Victoria, St. Michael's, Innis, New, Woodsworth, and University College) each have their own culture, dining, and community — they function as the social and residential anchor within a large university, preventing the anonymity that sometimes comes with size.
Seven college residences on St. George, each with distinct traditions and a tight-knit community. First-year students are guaranteed housing if deadlines are met. College affiliation persists through your degree — you use your college's library, common rooms, and student government throughout your time at U of T.
Chinatown, Little Italy, Annex, and Kensington Market are all within walking distance of campus. Toronto is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the world — a direct benefit for international students who want to feel at home, not abroad.
Mississauga and Scarborough campuses offer a greener, less urban campus experience. UTSC's Scarborough Bluffs backdrop and UTM's Credit River setting appeal to students who want more of a traditional campus feel. Both have strong co-op programmes deeply integrated into their academic structures.
With over 1,000 registered student organisations, the Hart House student union (one of the oldest university student centres in North America), and access to over 40 libraries, there is no shortage of ways to engage. Engineering students have Formula SAE teams and robotics clubs; commerce students run one of Canada's largest student-run investment funds.
U of T graduates have one of the strongest employment records in Canadian higher education. The combination of a globally recognised degree, a massive alumni network, and Toronto's position as Canada's economic and technology capital creates a powerful career-launch platform.
Toronto is home to the headquarters of Canada's five major banks (RBC, TD, BMO, Scotiabank, CIBC), the MaRS Discovery District — North America's largest urban innovation hub — and a technology sector that has grown into a genuine rival to Waterloo and San Francisco. Rotman Commerce graduates enter Bay Street banking and consulting firms. Engineering graduates join Google, Microsoft, and AMD's Toronto AI research labs as well as Shopify and Wattpad. Life sciences graduates feed into the largest cluster of hospitals in Canada — the University Health Network, Sunnybrook, and SickKids — and into companies like GSK and AstraZeneca, both of which have significant Toronto presences.
Employment figures from facts file. Salary is USD equivalent estimate and will vary substantially by programme, specialisation, and career path.
Do I need to take the SAT or ACT to apply to U of T?
No. U of T does not require SAT or ACT scores for undergraduate admission and does not use them as a primary assessment tool. Your secondary school transcript and grades are the primary basis for evaluation. If you choose to submit scores, they will not substitute for required academic prerequisites.
I am applying to Engineering and Arts & Science simultaneously. Can I do that?
Yes. Through OUAC 105 you can select multiple programmes and campuses. Each programme has its own prerequisites and some have their own supplementary applications. Make sure you meet the prerequisites for each programme you select before applying.
How does the tri-campus system work? Does it matter which campus I apply to?
Yes, it matters. St. George (downtown Toronto) hosts the flagship Engineering, Rotman Commerce, Medicine, and large Arts & Science programmes. UTM (Mississauga) and UTSC (Scarborough) have their own programme sets, faculty, and campus culture — and strong co-op integration. All three campuses issue U of T degrees. Apply to the campus and programme that matches your academic goals and preferred environment.
What is the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship and how competitive is it?
The Pearson Scholarship is U of T's most prestigious award for international students, covering full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence for four years. Only 37 scholars are selected annually from thousands of nominees worldwide. Nomination by your secondary school is required — your school may nominate only one student per year. It is among the most competitive undergraduate scholarships in Canada.
Is financial aid available to international students beyond the Pearson Scholarship?
U of T is a publicly-funded provincial institution and, as its own website states, cannot offer need-based financial aid to international students. Admission scholarships (awarded on academic merit at the time of offer) are available and do not require a separate application. The Pearson Scholarship is the flagship award for internationals requiring comprehensive support.
What English test score do I need, and are there exemptions?
Minimum requirements are IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0), TOEFL iBT 100, or Duolingo 120. Students who have completed three or more years of full-time secondary or post-secondary education taught in English at a recognised institution may qualify for an exemption. Citizens of Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, and the US, among other designated countries, are also generally exempt.
Does U of T accept predicted IB grades for conditional offers?
Yes. U of T regularly issues conditional offers of admission based on predicted IB grades. Your offer will include conditions — typically a minimum overall diploma score and specific HL subject scores — that must be met. Final results are required before you can formally enrol.
How important is the Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application?
It is formally evaluated alongside your academic record and carries significant weight. The application uses the Kira Talent platform and consists of written and video responses on themes related to business, teamwork, leadership, and communication. Rotman receives far more academically-qualified applicants than it can admit, so the supplemental is a genuine differentiator. There is a $51 CAD supplemental application fee.
U of T is a programme-direct university that reads your academic record with precision. There are no holistic second-chances through essays or recommendations in most programmes — your transcript must speak for itself. The university converts international grades to a competitive average and assesses whether you meet both the overall threshold and the specific prerequisite requirements for your chosen programme.
The good news: U of T's assessment of international qualifications is sophisticated and well-documented. IB, A-Level, and AP students are all well-understood by the admissions team, and the equivalencies are clear. The challenge: prerequisite alignment is non-negotiable. A strong overall average with a missing prerequisite will result in a rejection.
Points (out of 45) — minimum for competitive consideration
Overall — flagship programmes significantly lower
SAT and ACT bands are not available or used for U of T's undergraduate admissions process. These stats are from the university's facts profile.
The University of Toronto does not require or use SAT or ACT scores in its undergraduate admissions process for international students. The policy is effectively test-blind in the sense that standardised tests from other systems (SAT/ACT) do not factor into the evaluation.
U of T's review is centred on your secondary school grades, the specific courses you have taken (especially prerequisites), and for select programmes, a supplementary application. This is materially different from US university admissions and is important to understand: there is no pathway through a high SAT score to compensate for a lower academic average. The transcript is the primary document.
English proficiency tests (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo) are required for students whose first language is not English, unless an exemption applies. These are distinct from academic standardised tests.
For international students who do not qualify for an English proficiency exemption, one of three tests is required. The minimum scores below are the institutional floor — competitive programmes may hold applicants to a higher standard in practice.
Academic version required; IELTS General Training not accepted
22 in Speaking & Writing (pre-Jan 2026 test format)
https://future.utoronto.ca/english-language-requirements
Exemptions apply for: students from Australia, Canada (outside Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, UK, USA, and others; and students who have completed 3+ years of full-time study taught entirely in English.
U of T has well-developed policies for all three major international qualifications. Here is what each pathway looks like in practice.
U of T requires the full IB Diploma for most programmes. The facts-file benchmark of 34 points reflects the minimum threshold for serious consideration — competitive programmes (Engineering Science, CS, Rotman Commerce) expect scores considerably higher, typically in the 37–41 range. English SL or HL satisfies the English prerequisite for most programmes. IB Mathematics HL or SL (Analysis & Approaches) satisfies calculus prerequisites; Mathematics: Applications & Interpretation SL does NOT satisfy engineering or science math prerequisites. Transfer credit is awarded for HL subjects with a grade of 5 or above — up to 1.0 full-course equivalent per HL subject.
A-Level applicants must present five different IGCSE/GCSE subjects plus three A-Level subjects in relevant disciplines. Three strong A-Level grades (AAA or better for competitive programmes) are the expected standard. English at IGCSE/GCSE is required for most programmes. Mathematics A-Level satisfies the calculus prerequisite for engineering and science. U of T views A-Level rigour favourably and the equivalency mapping is well-established.
AP scores of 4 or 5 can earn transfer credit at U of T. However, AP alone is rarely used as the basis for undergraduate admission — you will typically need a full secondary school transcript alongside AP results. AP credit can reduce your course load in first year but does not substitute for the prerequisite system. Engineering applicants must disclose all AP and other standardised test results.
https://future.utoronto.ca/requirements-international-high-schools
Prerequisites are strictly enforced. Here is what each major programme area expects from your secondary school curriculum.
Calculus (Grade 12 / IB Math HL or AA SL / A-Level Mathematics), Advanced Physics (Grade 12 / IB Physics HL recommended / A-Level Physics), Advanced Chemistry (recommended for some streams), and Advanced English. The Admission Information Form (AIF) is required and formally evaluated. Engineering Science is among the most competitive programmes at U of T.
Senior English (Grade 12 equivalent), Calculus (Grade 12 equivalent / IB Math HL or SL), and any relevant business or economics electives. A Supplemental Application on the Kira Talent platform is mandatory — written and video responses assessing communication, leadership, and business understanding. $51 CAD supplemental fee applies.
Biology (Grade 12 / IB Biology HL strongly recommended), Chemistry (Grade 12 / IB Chemistry HL recommended), Physics (Grade 12 / IB Physics), and Mathematics. The life sciences stream at U of T St. George is a major pathway into medicine and health research, and competition is significant.
Advanced Mathematics (Calculus is essential; IB Math HL is advantageous), senior English, and for Computer Science, evidence of programming interest (though no formal CS prerequisite is typically required at secondary level). CS at U of T St. George is highly competitive given the city's technology sector.
Senior English (Grade 12 / IB English HL or SL), plus any specific prerequisites for your declared program of study. The Faculty of Arts & Science offers the broadest range of programmes and has a more flexible prerequisite structure than professional faculties. It remains competitive but is more accessible than Engineering or Commerce.
English language proficiency is assessed separately from academic prerequisites. All applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency unless they qualify for an exemption.
Most commonly accepted; Academic version required
MyBest (superscored) results not accepted
Accepted; growing recognition across Canadian universities
https://future.utoronto.ca/english-language-requirements
Exemption criteria include: citizenship or permanent residency in designated English-speaking countries (Australia, Canada outside Quebec, Ireland, New Zealand, UK, USA); completion of 3+ consecutive years of full-time secondary or post-secondary education taught entirely in English.
U of T's admissions is almost entirely academic. Here is how to structure your four secondary years to maximise your chances.
Choose the most rigorous curriculum available. If your school offers IB, enrol in the IB MYP or the full DP from the start. Identify whether you are aiming for Engineering, Commerce, Science, or Arts — your prerequisite subject selections must begin here. Maintain strong grades in mathematics and English above all.
Audit your chosen programme's prerequisites against your current course selections. If Engineering is your goal and you have not taken IB Physics or Calculus-track Mathematics, now is the time to correct the course. Strengthen grades in the subjects that will be used to calculate your competitive average.
Submit your OUAC 105 application in October–November for early consideration. Start your Supplemental Application or AIF if required — you will receive access through JOIN U of T after submitting your OUAC application. Confirm your English test score meets the minimum or that you qualify for an exemption.
Submit all required supporting documents by December 2 for early consideration, or by the programme-specific deadline otherwise. Predicted IB grades and interim transcripts must be uploaded through JOIN U of T. First-round offers typically begin arriving in January.
If you receive a conditional offer, meet your conditions. Report your final IB or A-Level results to U of T as soon as they are released. If your final results meet the conditions stated in your offer, your place is confirmed. If they fall short, contact the admissions office immediately — some flexibility is occasionally available.
Applying to Engineering or Commerce without the required math/calculus prerequisite — this is the single most common reason for early rejection
Using IB Mathematics: Applications & Interpretation SL for engineering or science programmes — this course does NOT satisfy the calculus prerequisite at U of T
Submitting a TOEFL MyBest (superscored) result — U of T does not accept superscored TOEFL; a single sitting must meet the 100 threshold
Applying only to UTSG and overlooking UTM or UTSC as fallback options for the same programme area
Missing the early consideration deadline (November 7 / December 2) and losing out on the most competitive round
Underestimating the Rotman Commerce Supplemental — treating it as a formality rather than a serious evaluated component of your application
Expecting strong extracurriculars to compensate for a sub-threshold academic average — they will not in most programmes
Not applying to the Pearson Scholarship simply because the process looks complex — 37 awards from a global applicant pool is tight, but the value (four years fully funded) justifies the effort for qualifying students
U of T is Canada's top university, but it is a publicly-funded provincial institution — and that distinction matters for international students. Unlike private US universities with multi-billion-dollar endowments and robust need-based aid for international students, U of T explicitly states it cannot offer financial aid to international students. The cost is real, and you should plan for it carefully.
That said, U of T's international tuition — while significant — is lower than many comparable US private research universities. Toronto is an expensive city by Canadian standards but remains more affordable than New York, London, or Boston for equivalent quality of life. The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship and merit-based admission awards provide meaningful relief for the very strongest applicants.
All figures are annual estimates in USD equivalent, from the university's facts profile. Actual CAD amounts vary by programme and year of study. Tuition varies significantly by faculty — Engineering and Commerce are at the higher end of the range.
Annual estimate; varies by programme and year
Cost of Living (Housing, Food, Transport)
Annual estimate for Toronto; higher if living off-campus in central areas
One-time OUAC fee; Rotman Commerce adds $51 CAD supplemental fee
Mandatory for international students; covers basic medical in Ontario
CAD/USD exchange rates fluctuate. These figures use the facts-file USD equivalents. Always verify current CAD amounts at the U of T Student Accounts website.
Financial Aid for International Students —
U of T is transparent about this: as a publicly-funded provincial institution, it cannot offer need-based financial aid to international students. This is confirmed on the university's own fees page, which states: 'The University of Toronto is a publicly-funded institution and cannot offer financial aid to international students.'
This means the primary financial support pathways for international students are: (1) merit-based admission scholarships awarded at the time of admission offer, which require no separate application; (2) the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship for exceptional students; (3) external scholarships from your home government, foundations, or organisations; and (4) part-time work — international students on a valid Canadian study permit can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic sessions.
https://future.utoronto.ca/finances/fees/
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
FULLY FUNDED — SCHOOL NOMINATION REQUIRED
Covers full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence support for four years of undergraduate study. Approximately 37 scholars selected annually from thousands of nominees globally. Eligibility: international students requiring a study permit, in their final year of secondary school, applying for September entry. Process: your school nominates one student (nomination deadline: October); you apply to U of T by mid-October; scholarship application submitted by early November. Use of AI in the application results in disqualification.
https://future.utoronto.ca/pearson-scholarships
University of Toronto Admission Scholarships
All admitted students, including international applicants, are automatically considered for admission scholarships at the time their application is assessed — no separate application required. These range from single-year awards to renewable multi-year scholarships, and are awarded based on academic strength at the point of admission. The value varies by programme and year.
Individual faculties and programmes offer their own entrance awards for exceptional students. Engineering, Rotman Commerce, and Arts & Science each have faculty-level scholarships that are assessed alongside the admission review. Details are available on individual programme pages after you receive an offer.
Many countries' governments offer full or partial funding for study at globally ranked universities. Commonwealth Scholarship programmes, DAAD (Germany), Chevening (UK-origin students studying abroad), and numerous national programmes are compatible with U of T. TYCHR advisors can help you identify which external scholarships are available for your nationality and programme.
At approximately $62,000 USD per year in total cost of attendance, U of T sits below the sticker price of most comparable US private research universities (MIT, Stanford, Columbia) but above European tuition systems. For students from middle-income families in emerging economies, the cost without scholarship support is significant.
However, context matters. Toronto offers legitimate on-campus and off-campus employment — international students with Canadian study permits can work up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. Co-op programmes at UTM and UTSC build paid work terms directly into the degree structure, partially offsetting costs. And a U of T degree in Canada carries strong value: the 92% employment rate and $55,000 USD average starting salary represent a meaningful return on investment within a few years of graduation.
No-loan policies and full-need-blind policies for international students do not apply at U of T. Plan your financing before you apply.
Apply for the Pearson Scholarship Immediately
If you are in your final year of secondary school and your school is willing to nominate you, pursue the Pearson Scholarship in parallel with your admission application. The scholarship and OUAC deadlines run together in October–November. This is the single highest-value opportunity available.
Research Your Home Country's External Scholarships
Most countries and regions have government-funded or foundation-funded scholarships for students attending top-25 global universities. Identify these early — many have their own deadlines that precede U of T's admission timeline.
Apply Early for Automatic Admission Awards
Admission scholarships are assessed when your application is reviewed. Applying early and with a strong academic record maximises your chances of receiving an automatic merit award. There is no additional form required.
Budget for the University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP, ~$800 CAD/year), the application fee ($130 USD), and any supplemental fees (Rotman Commerce: $51 CAD). These are due at application time and are non-refundable.
UTM and UTSC's co-op programmes integrate paid work terms into the degree. For St. George students, the Career Exploration & Education office facilitates on-campus employment and co-curricular internship connections. Part-time work eligibility (up to 24 hours/week) applies from the start of your study permit.
Does U of T offer need-based financial aid to international students?
No. The university is explicit: as a publicly-funded provincial institution, it cannot offer need-based financial aid to international students. Merit-based scholarships and the Pearson Scholarship are the primary award mechanisms.
How much is the Pearson Scholarship worth in dollar terms?
The Pearson Scholarship covers full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence support for four years. No single dollar figure is published because tuition varies by programme, but the total value across four years typically exceeds $200,000 CAD for students in programmes with higher international tuition rates.
Can international students work in Canada while studying?
Yes. International students with a valid Canadian study permit can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during the academic session and full-time during scheduled breaks. Co-op programmes at UTM and UTSC integrate paid work terms into the degree structure.
Is the application fee refundable if I'm rejected?
No. The OUAC application fee ($130 USD or CAD equivalent) is non-refundable. The Rotman Commerce supplemental application fee ($51 CAD) is also non-refundable.
International tuition at U of T has historically increased annually. The figures in this guide are estimates based on the most recently published data. Verify current programme-specific tuition at the U of T Student Accounts website before finalising your budget.
Are there scholarship opportunities available after I enrol?
Yes. In-course scholarships, research awards, and bursaries are available for continuing students. These are administered through individual faculties and the Office of Student Life. For research-active students in upper years, paid undergraduate research positions (through NSERC USRA and similar programmes) are available.
University of Toronto's admissions process is transcript-first for most programmes — no essays, no letters of recommendation, no Common App personal statement. However, several flagship programmes require supplementary applications that carry genuine evaluative weight, and these are where your voice, reasoning, and communication skills enter the picture.
The most important supplementary applications are for Rotman Commerce (Kira Talent platform: written and video responses) and Engineering (Admission Information Form). If you are applying to either of these programmes, treat the supplementary with the same rigour as a competitive university essay. It is formally reviewed, formally scored, and formally used to differentiate among candidates with similar academic profiles.
Most Arts & Science programmes at U of T do NOT require a supplementary application. The exceptions are notable and include two of U of T's most sought-after programmes.
Rotman Commerce — Kira Talent Supplemental
All applicants to Rotman Commerce must complete a Supplemental Application via the Kira Talent platform. It consists of written and video responses assessing communication, analytical thinking, leadership, community involvement, and passion for business. The application fee is $51 CAD. Access is granted through the JOIN U of T portal after submitting your OUAC application. Unlimited practice sessions are available before the real submission.
Engineering — Admission Information Form (AIF)
All Engineering applicants must complete the Admission Information Form (AIF), accessed through JOIN U of T. The AIF asks about extracurricular activities, competitions, awards, work experience, and a personal statement about your interest in engineering. It is formally evaluated as part of the application — particularly important for Engineering Science, where admitted students typically present near-perfect academic averages and the AIF differentiates among otherwise equal candidates.
Some programmes within Arts & Science and at UTM/UTSC may have specific supplementary requirements, particularly competitive music, nursing, and health sciences programmes. Check the individual programme pages on future.utoronto.ca for the full current list.
Arts & Science (General) — No Supplementary
The majority of Arts & Science programmes — including Computer Science, Economics, Life Sciences, Mathematics, and most humanities — do not require a supplementary application. Admission is based purely on your academic record and English proficiency.
https://rotmancommerce.utoronto.ca/future-students/our-supplemental-application/
The specific written and video prompts for Rotman Commerce and Engineering AIF are released through the JOIN U of T portal after you submit your OUAC application — they are not published publicly in advance. Below is what we know about the format and themes from official sources.
Rotman Commerce Supplemental — Written Responses
Short written responses on themes related to your motivation for business, teamwork, leadership, community involvement, and communication. Specific prompts are delivered through the Kira Talent platform and are not published publicly in advance. Unlimited practice sessions are available.
Treat each written response like a tight, well-reasoned paragraph. Rotman is looking for evidence of business curiosity — not generic statements about 'loving numbers.' Be specific: name a real business situation you read about, a project you worked on, a problem you tried to solve. Show that you understand what a business education involves and why Rotman specifically is your target. The written responses test clarity and directness. Avoid filler language — every sentence should add something.
https://rotmancommerce.utoronto.ca/future-students/our-supplemental-application/
Rotman Commerce Supplemental — Video Responses
Short video responses delivered through the Kira Talent platform. You receive a question and have a limited time to prepare and record your response. Unlimited practice sessions allow you to get comfortable with the format before the real submission.
The video component is explicitly testing communication — how you present yourself, structure your thinking under time pressure, and articulate ideas verbally. Use the unlimited practice sessions seriously. Common video response themes include: a challenge you overcame and what you learned, your view of leadership, a time you worked in a team. Structure each answer clearly: context → your role → what you did → outcome/lesson. Look at the camera, not at the screen. Dress as you would for a professional meeting.
https://rotmancommerce.utoronto.ca/future-students/our-supplemental-application/
Engineering Admission Information Form (AIF)
The AIF asks applicants to describe their extracurricular activities, competitions, work experience, and submit a personal statement about their interest in engineering. Specific questions are delivered through the JOIN U of T portal. All standardised test scores must be disclosed.
The AIF is your only opportunity to tell U of T Engineering who you are beyond your transcript. Engineering Science in particular reviews the AIF carefully, because most applicants have near-perfect academic averages — the AIF differentiates. Describe concrete projects: a robot you built, a physics olympiad you competed in, a research paper you read and discussed with a teacher. Your personal statement should explain WHY engineering, and ideally WHY U of T's specific engineering streams interest you. Avoid generic language about 'wanting to make the world better' — be technically specific.
https://blog.myls.ai/university-of-toronto-engineering-programs-and-supplementary-application-guide-myls-interview/
Each supplementary has a distinct purpose and audience. Generic answers that could apply to any university are immediately obvious to evaluators who read thousands of applications.
Rotman evaluators are looking for students who genuinely understand what a world-class commerce education involves. Research Rotman's specialisations — finance, strategy, accounting, marketing — and reference the specific area you want to pursue. Demonstrate that you have read about or experienced something in business, economics, or entrepreneurship that shaped your thinking. Generic ambition is not enough.
Engineering AIF — Show Technical Curiosity
Your AIF extracurriculars section should be specific and concrete. Competitions (AMC, CEMC, Science Olympics, FIRST Robotics), independent projects, maker activities, and research experiences all demonstrate genuine engineering aptitude. The personal statement should explain your interest in a specific engineering stream (not just 'I want to build things') — what draws you to the problems that discipline solves.
Both supplementaries are accessed through JOIN U of T after your OUAC application. Do not wait until the week before the deadline. For Kira Talent, the unlimited practice sessions are genuinely useful — use them to calibrate your timing, get comfortable on camera, and refine your written responses. For the AIF, draft and redraft your personal statement over several weeks.
Unlike US universities, U of T does not use the Common Application, Coalition Application, or QuestBridge. The application is submitted through OUAC (Ontario Universities Application Centre) — a Canadian-specific platform — or the U of T International Application for students not applying to other Ontario schools.
There is no personal statement required as part of the OUAC application for most programmes. You do not write a Common App-style essay about a formative experience. The application is document-based: transcript, test scores (English proficiency), and for select programmes, a supplementary via JOIN U of T. This is a meaningful structural difference from applying to US universities and should shape how you allocate your writing time during application season.
If you are applying to both US and Canadian universities simultaneously, be aware that your time and energy for essays should be primarily directed at your US supplements. The U of T application itself requires far less written work — but the supplementary for Rotman or Engineering, if applicable, deserves serious preparation.
For Rotman Commerce and Engineering, you have limited space and response time to make your case. Topic selection determines whether you stand out.
A student who describes leading a school investment club, tracking a specific sector, and then referencing how that experience made them want to understand corporate finance is more compelling than one who writes 'I have always been interested in how businesses work.' Evaluators read thousands of applications. Specificity is what makes a response memorable.
Rotman's strengths include quantitative finance, management consulting, and business analytics. Engineering Science feeds into disciplines like electrical engineering with business intelligence, aerospace, and robotics. Referencing what you actually know about the programme's culture and trajectory signals that you did your research — and that you chose U of T deliberately, not by default.
You do not need a published paper or a national championship. What you need is to be able to speak clearly and specifically about something real — a problem you engaged with, a project you completed, a book or article that changed how you think. Authenticity reads clearly through video responses in particular.
Treating the Rotman Commerce Supplemental as a formality — it is formally evaluated and carries real weight in the decision
Using AI to write your Kira Talent or AIF responses — U of T (and Rotman explicitly) disqualifies applicants for AI-generated content in the Pearson Scholarship application, and evaluators screen for it in supplementaries
Recording your Kira Talent video in a noisy, poorly lit environment — lighting, sound quality, and visual presentation reflect your professionalism
Writing generic 'I love business / I love building things' statements without specific evidence or examples
Not using the unlimited Kira Talent practice sessions before your actual submission
Submitting the AIF or Supplemental at the last minute — rushed applications read as rushed
Referencing programmes, professors, or lab groups you have not actually researched — evaluators will notice factual errors
Applying to Engineering and Commerce simultaneously with identical generic supplementaries — each supplementary must be tailored to that programme
Is there a personal statement required for the standard U of T OUAC application?
No. For most programmes, the OUAC application does not include a personal statement. Your application is assessed primarily on your academic transcript and English proficiency. Supplementary applications are required only for specific programmes such as Rotman Commerce and Engineering.
When do I get access to the Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application?
Access is granted through the JOIN U of T portal after you submit your OUAC application and receive your JOINid/UTORid. You should submit your OUAC application well before the supplemental deadline to give yourself adequate preparation time.
Can I apply to both Rotman Commerce and Engineering at U of T?
Yes, you can list multiple programmes on your OUAC application. Each programme with a supplementary requirement will have its own application to complete. You will pay the Rotman supplemental fee for the Commerce application. There is no additional fee for the Engineering AIF.
How long are the Kira Talent video responses?
The exact time limits are delivered within the platform and may vary. Typically, video responses in Kira Talent allow 60–120 seconds per response, with a brief preparation window before recording. The unlimited practice sessions allow you to experience the format before your official submission.
Does the Pearson Scholarship have a separate essay or personal statement?
Yes. The Pearson Scholarship application — submitted after your school nominates you — includes a separate application with its own questions about your background, achievements, and aspirations. AI-generated content in the Pearson application results in automatic disqualification.
Is there an interview for Rotman Commerce or Engineering admission?
For Rotman Commerce, the Kira Talent video responses function as an asynchronous video interview component — there is no live interview. Engineering does not have an interview component; the AIF is a written form. Some scholarship and specialised programme competitions may include interviews at a later stage.
What happens if I miss the supplementary application deadline?
Missing the supplementary deadline typically means your application will not be considered for that programme in the early rounds. Rotman Commerce states that applicants submitting after the early consideration deadline (December 2) may not be reviewed until April, significantly reducing chances of an early offer and guaranteed housing.