admissions process
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The School of Architecture carries out an initial screening of applicants on the basis of overall academic background and, more specifically, grades received in the required courses. The School receives fifteen to twenty applications for each space available, hence students will normally need an overall average of at least 80% and at least a grade in the high 70s (usually 80%) in English and at least 70% in Physics and the two required mathematics courses, to be considered for an interview. We recommend that students take art, history and other humanities courses and pursue independent creative activities. As at the time of application to the school, it is unlikely that students will have final grades in their Grade 12 courses, the review of grades will begin by using the Grade 11 average and grades. As Grade 12 final and interim grades become available these will also be reviewed. Selection of the students that will be invited for an interview in April will be determined by whatever combination of appropriate Grade 11 and 12 grades are available by the middle of March. If conditionally accepted into the program, students are expected to maintain their average. Failure to complete required courses, or final grades below 70% will result in a revocation of any offer of admission.
Approximately 500 students will be selected for further consideration for admission. These students are required to participate in an interview as part of the admissions process. A portfolio of creative work must also be presented during the interview. In addition, a test in the form of an English précis will be required of applicants on the day of their scheduled interview. An Admission Information Form is also required. Admission to the School depends on both success in the précis test and the results of the interview.
There are no specific requirements or format for portfolios. Do not over-select, bring a wide range of material that represents the full scope and quality of your creative activity. This usually means original samples of artwork such as drawings, paintings, graphics, video, three-dimensional works, and multimedia projects that you have completed. In addition, you may wish to include other creative studies, for example, photography, craftwork such as ceramics, clothing, jewelry, metal work, dance, or music, either performed live or on tape. The committee is also interested in seeing your sketchbooks and evidence of your thought and creative processes. It is preferable to bring the original versions of your pieces, rather than photographic or otherwise reduced reproductions. Portfolios consisting only of drafting or technical drawings are not appropriate. The highest value is attached to self initiated projects and high levels of critical engagement with the creative process.
While the majority of the time in the interview will be devoted to a discussion of your work, you should also be prepared to answer questions about your creative work, interests, travel, engagement in extracurricular activities, reading preferences and other pursuits. The interview panel will normally consist of two faculty members and two senior students from the School of Architecture. The interview is approximately 25 minutes in length.
For students entering from high school, offers of admission, remain conditional on obtaining a final mark of at least 75% in ENG4U and 70% in each of the other required courses.
Students who reside more than 500 km from the School may complete an alternative interview format, but it is preferable to attend a face-to-face interview if at all possible.