Pre-University Summer Intensive

This intensive is for domestic and international students seeking an opportunity to visit Toronto, immerse themselves in our OCAD U studios, learn from our faculty and make art in the summer to prepare for post-secondary creative education.

Must have completed Grade 10 and be 16 years or older. 

This program runs for three weeks every July. 

December 2025

• Applications open

March 2026

• Early bird deadline: March 1, 2026. (Save $200! This is also the recommended deadline for international applicants who need a visa to enter Canada)
• Online Info Session: Date TBD (watch 2025 info session)

May 2026

• Application deadline: May 4, 2026

July 2026

• Program dates: Monday, July 6 to Friday, July 24, 2026. Recommended arrival and departure dates are Sunday, July 5 and Saturday, July 25.

Application Process

1. Fill out the application form
    
2. After submitting tis form, you'll receive an email with a link to Slideroom to upload your portfolio and statement of intent
    
3. Create a Slideroom account and use the link in your email to access the portfolio submission
    
4. Upload your portfolio and statement of intent within two weeks
    
5. Submit and stay tuned as we review your work!
    

Note that your application is not complete until you submit your portfolio. You will receive a response within two to four weeks upon submitting your full application.

Application Requirements

1. Application form
    
2. Written Statement of Intent: Tell us a little about yourself, what you're interested in, and why. There will be questions on the form to guide your answers.
    
3. Art/Design Portfolio: Provide 5-8 files that include images or documentation of your art or design work. This may include both finished and process work. 

Residence-style stay:

For ease of travel and stay, this program can include an overnight residence at OCAD U's nearby downtown student housing partners. These are safe and convenient options to provide participants with the experience of living on your own, with a little support. 

Amenities vary depending on the partner, which will be announced in February. 

Do I have to stay at the residence? 

No, if you have other housing arrangements you can still apply and participate in this program. You will still  be expected to attend all weekday programming and have the option to participate in any  potential weekend activities.

Don't see your question here? Email us at portfolioclinics [at] ocadu.ca (portfolioclinics[at]ocadu[dot]ca) 

Program fee with accommodation

CAD $7,150 plus tax (13%)*, which includes 3-week accommodation at a partner student residence in the heart of downtown Toronto.

Program fee without accommodation

CAD $4,700 plus tax (13%)*. This fee is available for students who have alternate nearby housing arrangements. 

*some additional costs may apply depending on your arrival, departure dates. All participants will receive a suggested budget for out-of-pocket expenses like entertainment, lunch, clothing, phone plans, specialized art supplies etc.

Are there language requirements?  

All classes are taught in English. If English is not your first language, you are required to be proficient in written and spoken English and be able to participate in group discussions and presentations in English. As a guideline, we expect you to have an IELTS score of 4.5 to 6.0. 

I’m not a citizen or permanent resident of Canada.  Will I need a visa? 

A study permit is not required for a stay of less than 6 months. However, unless you are a citizen of the United States, you will need either a temporary resident visa (visitor visa) or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.  The one you need depends on your country of citizenship. Please visit the Government of Canada website to find out which one you should apply for. 

How long does it take to get a visitor visa? 

Canadian visiting visa processing times vary from country to country.  You can check the average processing time for your region on the Government of Canada website. 

Can OCAD help me with my visa application? 

The International Student Support Office at OCAD can answer questions and provide advice but cannot complete the visa application for you.  Please contact international [at] ocadu.ca (international[at]ocadu[dot]ca) if you need assistance. 

I’m under 18 years old.  Are there special requirements for me to come to Canada? 

In Ontario, a person under 18 is considered a minor child.  Minor children under the age of 17 must come to Canada with a parent or legal guardian or have a custodian in Canada. A custodian is a responsible adult who will take care of the child in Canada.  Custodians must be citizens or permanent residents of Canada.  Please visit the Government of Canada website for details. 

If you do not have a responsible adult in Canada and you would like to take part in the residence program, please reach out to portfolioclinics [at] ocadu.ca (portfolioclinics[at]ocadu[dot]ca).