🎓 Admission Requirements for the University of Toronto (U of T)

The University of Toronto is one of the world’s most selective and prestigious institutions, attracting outstanding students from more than 160 countries. Admission is competitive and based on academic excellence, English proficiency, and program-specific requirements.

Below is a breakdown of the undergraduate, postgraduate, and international student admission criteria.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

General Entry Requirements

To be considered for admission into an undergraduate program at U of T, applicants must have:

1. ✅ Completion of Secondary Education
   • A recognized high school diploma or certificate of completion equivalent to the Canadian Grade 12 level.
   • Strong academic performance in core subjects relevant to the intended program.
2. ✅ Competitive Grades
   • U of T typically looks for an average of 85 % or higher (A or A– grade) in senior-level courses.
   • Some competitive programs (e.g., Computer Science, Engineering, Commerce) may require 90 % or higher.
3. ✅ Program-Specific Prerequisites
   Each faculty or program may have specific subject requirements:
   • Engineering: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry
   • Life Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics
   • Commerce: Mathematics (Calculus)
   • Computer Science: Advanced Mathematics and Computing background
   • Humanities & Social Sciences: English and related arts subjects
4. ✅ Proof of English Language Proficiency
   Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency through one of the following:
   • IELTS Academic: Minimum 6.5 overall, no band below 6.0
   • TOEFL iBT: Minimum 100 overall, with at least 22 in Writing
   • Duolingo English Test: Minimum 120
   • Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency: Overall 180+
   • CanTEST or MELAB: Accepted in select cases
   (English requirements may vary slightly by faculty or campus.)
5. ✅ Supporting Documents
   • Official academic transcripts
   • Personal statement or supplementary application (for programs like Commerce or Engineering)
   • Letters of recommendation (if required)
   • Valid passport copy (for international applicants)

Postgraduate (Graduate) Admission Requirements

Graduate admissions at the University of Toronto are highly competitive and vary by faculty and program.
Most programs are research-intensive and require a strong academic record and relevant professional or research experience.

General Requirements

1. Bachelor’s Degree:
   • A four-year undergraduate degree (or equivalent) from a recognized university.
   • A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent B average). Competitive programs may require higher GPAs.
2. Transcripts:
   • Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
   • Certified English translations, if not originally in English or French.
3. English Language Proficiency (if applicable):
   • TOEFL iBT: Minimum 93 overall, 22 in Writing and Speaking
   • IELTS Academic: Minimum 7.0 overall, no band below 6.5
   • Duolingo: 120–125 accepted by many graduate programs
4. Program-Specific Requirements:
   • Statement of Purpose or Personal Statement
   • Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
   • Two or three Letters of Recommendation
   • GRE or GMAT scores (required for some programs such as MBA or certain Engineering streams)
5. Interview (if required):
   Some programs, especially MBA, Public Health, or Professional Master’s, may require an interview as part of the admission process.

International Student Admission Requirements

For international students, the University of Toronto welcomes applications through the OUAC (Ontario Universities’ Application Centre) and directly via the U of T website.

Requirements Include:

1. Proof of completion of equivalent secondary or post-secondary education.
2. English-language proficiency test results (if education was not primarily in English).
3. Financial documents showing ability to cover tuition and living expenses.
4. Valid study permit or visa once admitted.

U of T’s International Student Centre provides guidance on visa processing, housing, orientation, and student support services.

Application Timeline

Intake	Typical Deadline	Notes
Fall (September)	November – January (previous year)	Main intake for most programs
Winter (January)	July – September	Limited graduate & professional programs
Summer (May)	November – February	Some professional or short-term programs

(Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as spaces and scholarships are limited.)

Some programs require portfolio submissions (e.g., Architecture, Visual Studies).

Professional faculties (Medicine, Law, Dentistry) have separate application systems and earlier deadlines.

All international applicants must ensure that their credentials meet the Canadian equivalency standards.

CONCLUSION

The University of Toronto maintains one of the most rigorous admission standards in Canada, designed to identify exceptional, motivated, and globally minded students. Whether you’re applying for undergraduate, graduate, or professional study, U of T offers an academic environment that fosters excellence, research, and leadership.