Guide to Admissions
Our application process
WATCH: How to apply to OCAD University
Admissions timeline
Dates and Deadlines
Applications for all programs are still open!
Find a list of important dates and deadlines for applicants. (Additional dates may be added, please check often)
- Early October 2025 - Applications open for fall 2026 admissions.
- February 1, 2026 - Recommended deadline for fall 2026 applications.
- Applications are still being considered after this deadline.
- February 10, 2026 - Portfolio submission deadline
- Late applicants will be provided with a specific deadline for portfolio submission after the application is received.
- March 2026: Initial round of offers of admission go out.
- April and May 2026: Late offers of admission go out.
Post-offer
- Accept your offer of admission
- July 2026 - Recommended deadline to submit official documents.
- August 2026 - Final deadline to submit official documents.
APPLYING TO OCAD U
How it works
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 early February. 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.
Admissions checklist
On this page learn about:
- Application Timeline
- Dates & Deadlines
- Admissions Checklist
- Ways to Connect
- and more! (Keep scrolling)
Take the Next Step
Connect with us
Stay updated on important dates and deadlines, key events, webinars and more!
Book a virtual one to one appointment with an undergraduate admissions experts!
Meet our admissions team to get info about academic and portfolio requirements, campus life and more!
Follow us on Instagram @ocaduadmissions to participate in our #OCADpromptsU challenge! Show us what you got! We prompt you with an idea, you come up with a unique and interesting response to it and we will share it on our Instagram!