Back in the day, I applied to all four English OT schools in Ontario, with the hope of getting accepted to McMaster University as my first choice. I found it interesting that each school had a slightly different application criteria, with some having a different process altogether. In today's blog post, I will try to review the prerequisites and application process for each of the English-speaking schools in Ontario.
What I've noticed is that the subGPAs seem to be getting more and more competitive each year!
McMaster:
- An ORPAS application
- Requires a minimum subGPA of 3.3, but typically the average applicant has a subGPA of 3.7 or higher
- The top approximately 250 students are invited to an Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) that takes place in the spring
- No personal statements are required
- Official transcripts from each postsecondary institution attended
Western University:
- An ORPAS application
- Requires a minimum subGPA of 3.4, but typically the average applicant has a subGPA of 3.7 or higher
- Official transcripts from each postsecondary institution attended
- Responses to questions in the “Personal Submissions” section of the application
- Applicants will be required to provide a response to four questions (5,000 character limit)
- Completed CASPer test with a competitive score
University of Toronto:
- An ORPAS application
- The average subGPA is typically 3.7 or higher
- Those who are applying while completing their final year of undergraduate study must ensure they maintain a minimum mid‑”B” average (GPA 3.0/4.0, or 73%) in their final year of study, or an offer of admission, should they receive an offer, will be revoked.
- Applicants are required to submit a personal statement of intent, which is a written submission online that responds to specific questions, a résumé uploaded directly to ORPAS, and two references using the “Confidential Assessment Forms” with their application to ORPAS.
Queen's University:
- An ORPAS application
- subGPA of 3.3 or higher
- All applicants to Occupational Therapy must submit a Statement of Intent (see “Personal Submissions”, which consists of two questions to be completed in the online application.)
- Two Confidential Assessment forms are considered in your assessment. One Confidential Assessment Form must be completed by someone who holds an academic position in a postsecondary university or college and is qualified to judge your academic ability. Positions such as teaching assistant, laboratory coordinator or athletic trainer do not qualify as academic referees. The second Confidential Assessment Form may be either academic or professional and should be completed by someone who can judge you on your work performance, interpersonal skills and suitability for studies in occupational therapy. Neither of the Confidential Assessment forms may be submitted by relatives or friends.
- A resumé is required. Resumés must be typed in 11‑point font, on 8.5" x 11" paper, single‑sided, with one‑inch margins on all four edges. They should be no longer than two pages and should include your name on the resumé.
For more information, check out the universities' admission criteria on their websites:
