Frequently Asked Questions
For general questions about the EAD programs, please contact: ead [at] ocadu.ca (ead[at]ocadu[dot]ca)
A. The recommended deadline to submit your English language proficiency test scores to be considered for the EAD: Bridge to First Year program is June 2, 2025, at the latest. Please submit your language test scores in advance or by this date to allow sufficient time well before the program starts and to verify your eligibility.
A. Most of the time, you will be using the Canvas Learning Management System (LMS) for class. Think of this as your virtual classroom. On Canvas, you will find instructions, assignments, class discussions, resources, and messages from your instructor. For online programs, we also use Microsoft Teams, an online chat, file sharing, and video and audio-conferencing tool. You will mostly use Teams to participate in video calls with your teacher and classmates (for online programs).
You will learn more about the technology/applications to use (which are available for free as part of the program) as you start with EAD.
A. If your English language test scores meet the minimum scores outlined on this page, you are eligible to participate in EAD: Bridge to First Year. By passing EAD: Bridge to First Year, you will fulfil OCAD U's English Language Proficiency requirements for admission in September 2025. There is no final exam or test in EAD programs, but your English language skills will be evaluated throughout the program to ensure you meet the level of skill required at OCAD U.
A. The EAD program is currently only available to students who receive a (conditional) offer of admission to OCAD U for the upcoming academic year (starting in Fall Term).
A. You may not be considered eligible to participate in the EAD program. Please submit your language test scores as soon as possible, according to the deadline, to be considered for the program.
A. You will be better prepared. The classes are designed to build your academic skills and strategies, and give you opportunities for reading, writing, speaking, and listening practice. This will give you a head start (advantage) for the beginning of classes in September. EAD classes are modelled/based on classes you will take in your first year at OCAD U so you will learn English while making art and communicating about art and design. You will learn about Canadian and OCAD U classroom cultures.
The EAD program will also offer you opportunities to make friends and to build helpful connections before you start your first year.
A. OSAP stands for Ontario Student Assistance Program. No, OSAP cannot help fund registration in non-credit programs.
A. If you are an international student, you will require a valid study permit to study at OCAD U in September (and for July & August if you will be taking EAD: Bridge to First Year while living in Canada). We highly recommend that you apply for your study permit before you leave your home country. You should do this as soon as possible because it can take a long time for your visa office to reply and for the application processing time.
Please visit Studying in Canada (Government of Canada website) for more information on applying for a study permit (including updated details on the current process and requirements).
If you’re already studying in Canada on a study permit, you should apply to renew it immediately (if necessary). Please visit Extend Your Study Permit for more information on renewing your permit.
If you have questions about your documents needed from OCAD U, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions [at] ocadu.ca (admissions[at]ocadu[dot]ca) with your inquiry. For questions regarding study permits and immigration, you can also visit this webpage for international applicants or contact international [at] ocadu.ca (international[at]ocadu[dot]ca).
A. Explore our housing page to find housing service providers (including a variety of living styles like residence, co-operative, independent, etc.), and opportunities to connect with potential OCAD U roommates.
For our housing page, please click here.
