Portfolio Tips

Yes - your portfolio will not be one big file. Each work of the 8 - 10 works in the portfolio will be uploaded as individual file, please do not submit your entire portfolio of 8 - 10 works as one PDF / file.

If you have a series of works that you consider to be one piece, edit them together onto one page before you upload them (a collage) or upload the series of works as a multi-page PDF to be considered one piece in the portfolio.

Yes! Detail shots or perspective shots (3D work) are a great way for reviewers to get a better sense of the work you are showing . You can edit the images all onto one page or create a multi-page PDF to submit. We recommend highlighting the best overall image first.

Yes! Within your portfolio submission to OCAD U, you will have the opportunity to add this information. Slideroom will have a space for these details along with space for a description.

You can also use this 50-word description to tell us why you are uploading the work you have in your portfolio, anything you think we should know about your work, etc.

While you may not have the exact materials, consider how you can showcase related skills using what equipment you do have. There are always ways to be creative.

Try using alternate materials, play with scale, experiment combining different process’ and techniques together, challenge yourself and have fun! 

There are alternatives to some programs such as Gimp and Google Sketchup if you're concerned about digital software. You can do free trials of working with the 3D building software and you can also have access to Google Sketchup's 2D blue print drafting / drawing template that is similar to AUTO-CAD

Also, it’s important that you can show planning. For 3D show, concept sketches for products/buildings. For animation/video you can show drawing out frames by using your phone to take videos or stop motion and mapping out animatics

Creative Writing Portfolio Guidelines

The portfolio requirements are unlike any of the requirements for other programs at OCAD U.

All applicants to the creative writing program are expected to demonstrate their creative writing ability and potential throughout a comprehensive and polished portfolio (which can include digital formats audio and video files) consisting of one or more of the following:

• Up to 5 pages or equivalent poetry, spoken word, and/or hip hop
• Up to 10 pages prose (fiction, creative nonfiction)
• Up to 5 pages equivalent (15 minutes) hybrid or experimental form
• Up to 15 pages (total) in more than 1 genre

*Digital formats can include web pages, interactive fiction or animated text etc. (maximum word count 1500 words)

In addition to the portfolio you must also submit a 250-500 word Statement of Interest that outlines your relevant academic and/or professional experience, how your writing interests align with the program, as well as any record of recent publications, awards, or participation in writing workshops, slams, recordings, or performances.

Last update: November 13, 2020

Our 3D programs welcome applicants from different disciplines, backgrounds and practices. While we welcome applicants who do not yet have three-dimensional work relating to their chosen program, please explain in your statement of intent your specific
interest in the program you are applying to and how it will help you meet your goals.

• Your portfolio should show how you explore and tackle challenging ideas.
• Provide 8 -10 examples of your work, including work that speaks to the program you are applying to. This can include collages, models, drawing, photography, motion, collage, montage.
• Include at least two, 3D forms (e.g. sculptures, built objects, three-dimensional collages, wearable forms, material experiments, etc.).
• A short (50 word) explanation linked to the specific making method/process/media, and the purpose of each work is required (use the "additional details" field).
• Include process work/sketchbook which links to several of the finished works that you are presenting and includes drawings, photos of development or inspiration, collages, trials in the spatial/site specific context/ with users, sketches, models, samples, materials, references and other sources (upload as a multiple page PDF or a short video).

Applicants to our Illustration program may include 8 to 10 pieces in the portfolio submission with emphasis on two-dimensional work.

• Demonstrate your creativity, concepts, drawing and painting skills, variety and use of media, colour, tone and composition.
• Include sketchbook(s) demonstrating a routine of drawing and creative process. You may include more than one sketchbook but must remember that each sketchbook counts as one piece.
• All applicants should include examples of observational drawing. Drawing from direct observation rather than from photographs is preferred. Life studies, if available, are also helpful in assessing skills.
• Drawings and paintings referenced from photography should demonstrate a creative departure from the original source image.
• Provide a short 50-word explanation of intent for each finished piece linked to specific making method/process/media, and the purpose of each piece (use the "additional details" field).

Note: Work executed in an established drawing convention or style (e.g. Disney, Anime, caricature, etc.) is not helpful in assessing skills

The Digital Futures undergraduate program accepts students with strengths in diverse areas. Some applicants have strong visual skills such as art making and others are strong in non-visual subjects such as creative writing, science, computing or business. Because of the diversity of applicants, the Digital Futures undergraduate program portfolio requirements are different to the standard OCAD U guidelines. This section explains how to make a suitable portfolio that is tailored to your background and interests. Your submission will be made up of two components: a portfolio and a statement of intent.

1. Portfolio

Your portfolio is an important part of your admission application. Keep in mind that when it comes to your portfolio, the most important features we look for are passion and curiosity — along with your ability to think laterally or "outside the box." This can be shown through visual or non-visual work. You can include a maximum of 10 pieces of work, one of which will be your sketchbook/creative journal/process document etc.

For helpful tips on how to best present and submit your portfolio through SlideRoom, check back on our Preparing a Portfolio page.

If your strengths are predominantly visual: your portfolio needs to demonstrate a variety of your skills and approaches to art making. This can include experimentation in both traditional and digital media, shown in a diverse range of media. Work exploring colour, form and mixed media approaches are welcome, as are three dimensional works, such as models, jewellery or sculpture. You can also provide links to websites that you have designed or that contain your work.

If your strengths are predominantly non-visual: your portfolio should include your best project work from subjects, such as reports or extensive written work. You should also add any hobbies or interests that give us an indication of your passion and curiosity. Some examples include photography, craft, poetry, cartoons, homemade videos, model making, computer programs, Facebook or other websites.

If your strengths are both visual and non-visual: you can follow both sets of the guidelines given above.

2. Statement of Intent

A Statement of Intent of approximately 300 words is a required element of the portfolio. No portfolio will be reviewed without the written statement. After your application has been received and processed details will be emailed to you about the Statement of Intent. No portfolio will be reviewed without the written statement.

OCAD U Admissions & Recruitment will contact you via email with detailed instructions on submitting your portfolio after you have submitted your application via the Ontario Universities Application Centre.