OCAD University

Unlike universities which are broad in their appeal, OCAD University thrives as a specialist arts and design institution thanks to a combination of a narrowed focus, an exciting arts and design-centered location, and some of the best academic talent in each respective field.

As a student here, learners will benefit from hands-on studio learning. They'll have access to state-of-the-art shops and production facilities for both traditional and digital creation. As a result, students can get real experience while in the classroom.

To develop their perspective and critical thinking, students will also take courses in humanities, business, and science. Through this combination of courses, they'll begin to see, make, think, and do things differently.

At OCAD U, students will join a creative community: its faculty are all creative professionals with rich history in their fields. Within their courses, students will also be working independently and collaboratively alongside fellow artists and designers.

OCAD University has three Faculties: The Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Design, and the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. Each faculty offers a range of unique and impactful study options:

Faculty of Arts and Sciences Undergraduate Programs

• Creative Writing (BFA)
• Digital Futures (BFA or BDes)
• Indigenous Visual Culture (BFA)
• Visual and Critical Studies (BA)

Faculty of Art Undergraduate Programs

• Criticism & Curatorial Practice (BFA)
• Drawing & Painting (BFA)
• Experimental Animation (BFA)
• Integrated Media (BFA)
• Material Art & Design (BFA or BDes)
• Photography (BFA)
• Printmaking & Publications (BFA)
• Sculpture/Installation (BFA)

Faculty of Design Undergraduate Programs

• Advertising (BDes)
• Environmental Design (BDes)
• Graphic Design (BDes)
• Illustration (BDes)
• Industrial Design (BDes)
• Material Art & Design (BFA or BDes)

All applications for admission are made online through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC). The only entry point is in September each year. The recommended deadline to apply for all programs at OCAD University is February 1. Applications may be considered after this deadline if space is available.

Offers of admission to OCAD U's programs are based primarily on the strength of the applicant's portfolio or writing sample. All offers are conditional upon meeting the minimum academic requirements and supplying all required documentation.

For a given application, most portfolios ask students to submit 8-10 pieces of finished work, alongside a sketchbook and statement of intent. See additional details and program-specific guidelines on the university's website.

Students from a non-English speaking country will need to provide successful results from an accepted English language proficiency test, as all courses at OCAD U are taught in English.

Students applying for OCAD University will pay annual tuition fees along with other associated student costs for materials and IT software required for their course. As part of the visa application, international students in particular will be required to demonstrate their ability to pay these costs as part of their application process.

However, financial aid is open to all students, with various funding options that can provide a non-repayable fund to students based on achievements, need, or background. The eligibility criteria and application process for scholarships and bursaries can vary, as they are provided by various sources. Funding options for international students are very limited, so it is extremely important for students to have a solid financial plan in place for education-related costs and living expenses.

Students who wish to apply for financial aid are advised to check the website early, as many are competitive and require a detailed application. Students who aren't successful can get other forms of financial help from the university, including advice on finding work to fit around studies or assistance with budgeting.

Fees for studying at OCAD U are typically as follows:

Living costs – CAD 21,459.60

Tuition – CAD 28,000 per academic year

Compulsory Fees – CAD 1,918

Laptop Program Fees –CAD 370- 645.00, depending on program

Estimated fees are based on the OCAD University cost calculator.

As prospective students likely expect, there is always something new and exciting happening at OCAD U, whether it be a gallery event showcasing the work of students, or a talk or creative session led by an external expert, or a social event arranged by the university to encourage the community spirit.

Many of the latest developments recognize the outstanding work and contributions of students and faculty alike, and some celebrate the diversity of cultures within the university. One such example is the award of the first ever "'BADG of Honor' Education Award, granted by the Black Artists & Designer's Guild, to OCAD U's Faculty of Design Dean Dr. Dori Tunstall at an event in New York City – demonstrating the powerful work and influence of one of the university's senior staff members.

Partnerships and collaborations are designed to help give students increased exposure. The recent Toronto International Festival of Authors – the largest literary festival in Canada – welcomed OCAD U students for the first time in 2022.

These are just a handful of examples of the thrilling opportunities for students at OCAD U, and the prestige and respect shown for the outstanding faculty team leading students through their programs.

While OCAD University is an institution that puts much of its focus into harboring and developing creativity in its students, that is not at the expense of a focus on career development and future employment opportunities.

Indeed, there is a dedicated Career Development team at the university dealing solely with matters of careers and work guidance for all students. The services vary, but are all aimed at helping students to realize the potential of their qualification and how they can turn that into a future career.

The Career Development team runs the Career Launcher program, aimed at new graduates looking to start their own professional practice, as well as hosting the Talent Network jobs board and the Career Connections service – helping to put current students and recent graduates in touch with experienced alumni already established in their field.