2. Admissions

The following regulations provide a framework for procedures related to the application and admission processes for new and returning students. Admission to a program is evaluated based upon several factors including your academic history and credentials. All applications are considered fairly and equitably.

Each program has requirements that you must satisfy as an applicant, to be admitted to that program. Admission requirements may vary from program to program. Details for each program can be found on the website. Meeting the minimum requirements for admission does not guarantee acceptance into a program. Admission decisions are based on your overall qualifications as an applicant, and the availability of seats in the program.

2.1 Full-time and part-time credit program application process

Georgian College offers credit programs in full-time and part-time delivery, which lead you toward an approved credential (e.g., certificate, diploma, advanced diploma, degree). To apply for admission to a credit program, you must meet the minimum admission requirements (Section 2.2 Basic admission requirements) and submit a complete application including all required admissions documentation used to establish applicant eligibility. When applying, you must disclose all prior formal education or course work completed – successful and unsuccessful. Failure to disclose prior education in most cases is considered an act of academic dishonesty (Section 8 Academic integrity) and may result in being withdrawn from the program.

If you are seeking transfer credit from previous postsecondary studies, life skills to be assessed via prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR), or using a pathway or articulation agreement, you should review section 3. Credit for Prior Learning. Sufficient processing time is required for the transfer credit process. You must identify this at the point of application so that appropriate transfer credits can be reviewed and assigned.

Domestic applicants: 
If you are a domestic resident applying to full-time or part-time credit programs at Georgian College, you must complete the following steps by applicable deadlines.

1.    Submit a completed application to the Ontario College Application System (OCAS) and pay the OCAS application fee. OCAS receives and records applications and decisions related to the application.

2.    Submit official transcripts. In many cases, official transcripts may be requested within the OCAS application (additional fees apply).

3.    Submit all additional supporting documents required for admission. You are responsible for being aware of and submitting all admission requirements listed in the program’s outline.

If an offer of admission is released, you must:

  • Return to the OCAS application to accept the offer by the deadline (this is also known as “confirming the offer”).
  • Pay the non-refundable tuition deposit to the college by the deadline to secure a seat in the program.

If you have prior postsecondary education or life skills and wish to apply to an advanced semester, you must also apply through OCAS. (Section 3.3 Advanced standing).

Some of our part-time credit programs do not require an application or fee. If a part-time delivery of a full-time program has not been formally established, you may register for course(s) directly either online or with the assistance of the Office of the Registrar without an application or fee. 

Part-time student status does not provide preferred access to a full-time program. If you want to study full-time, you must apply for admission. (Section 4.2.5 Transferring from part-time to full-time studies)

If you would like to change your program, you must make that change on your online OCAS application, no later than day five of the start of the term. Requests for program changes will be determined on your admissibility to the new program and program seat availability. Note that most programs require you to start your studies on day one of the term.

2.1.1 Part-time non-credit program application process

Applications for part-time non-credit programs are not made through OCAS. Applicants can register online via the Continuing Education and Corporate Training website or contact the Office of the Registrar. Please check individual program outlines for additional requirements, policies, and application procedures.

2.1.2 Application process – International students

You are an international applicant if you are a person holding citizenship in another country and do not have status in Canada as a citizen or permanent resident. As an international applicant, including refugee claimants, you are required by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to obtain a study permit prior to registering in education or training courses that last more than six months in duration.

If you wish to study at Georgian, you must complete the following steps by the applicable deadlines. For program availability and general admissions-specific inquiries, email IntlRecruit@georgiancollege.ca.

1.    Apply online using the Ontario College International Application System (IAS). An application fee is required at the time of your application submission.

  • If you do not have an agent representative, you must apply through the IAS Applicant Portal directly.
  • If you are represented by an agent, you should have the agent submit the application through the IAS Agent Portal.

2.    Upload into IAS all original or certified copies of required documentation and academic records. You must provide proof of graduation, subjects taken, and grades received via official transcripts or credential evaluation services. For documents that are not in English, certified translated copies must be provided. You are responsible for being aware of and submitting all admission requirements listed in the program’s outline, such as tests, resumés, portfolios, letters of intent, etc.

3.    If an offer of admission is released, you/your agent will receive an email notification with information on your Pre-admission Letter of Acceptance (PLOA). You must then complete the following two steps by the deadline in the PLOA:

​4.   After the offer is confirmed and the payment is processed, you/your agent will be notified to return to the IAS application to retrieve the final Letter of Acceptance (LOA) that you can use to apply for a study permit/ visa.

5.    Provide proof of permit approval visa status by signing into the IAS application and uploading proof of full study permit, your port of entry/introduction letter, the visa stamp from your passport, or your study permit document.

For international applicants represented by an agent
Prior to registration, agents are authorized by you to make any decisions and declarations regarding your admission application and any applicable fees and refunds. After registration, all authorization, and decision-making transfers to you. At the point of submitting an application for admission, the agent agrees that:

  •  the information in the application is true and complete, and
  • you, as the applicant, have reviewed and verified the application information, and
  • any false or incomplete information submitted in support of the application may invalidate the application and offers of admission may be rescinded. This rescission may take place at any time during the application process or enrolment, and
  • the college is authorized to collect and store your personal information, and the college may release and obtain information from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) related to your study permit/visa, and
  • all documentation submitted to the college will not be returned, and
  • you as the applicant, have reviewed and understand the refund policy at Georgian College (Section 4.4.2.2 Refunds  international students).

Student Direct Stream (SDS)

If you are applying through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program you should note that the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) requirement is 6.0 with no score less than 6.0 in any of the four bands. For programs listing a higher IELTS requirement, the higher score will be required for admissions. Priority for admission will be given to those who meet SDS requirements. Review the list of eligible SDS countries at the Student Direct Stream (SDS) website.

Refugee or Protected Persons

If you are applying as a Convention Refugee, Refugee claimants, or Protected Persons you shall be categorized as an international student until official proof of Refugee/Protected Persons status is received.

If you are currently waiting for the decision in your refugee claim, you must apply through the International Application System (IAS), indicate Refugee or Protected Status under the Citizenship section, and upload required documentation listed above (Section 2.1.2 Application process - international students). If your claim has been approved, you must apply through Ontario College Application System (OCAS) (Section 2.1.1 Domestic applicants) and submit your Proof of Protected Person or Convention Refugee Status.

Per the IRCC, unless you are a permanent resident or Canadian citizen, a study permit is also required to register in education or training courses that last more than six months in duration (Section 4.1 Tuition and fees).

Deferral requests (for new semester one students)
If you are starting your first semester at the college, you may request a deferral to the same program at the same campus in the next available intake using the Deferral Request option in the International Application System (IAS). Eligibility requirements are as follows:

  • Must have paid full tuition deposit
  • Must be the first deferral request (only one deferral request is permitted)
  • Must be for the same program at the same campus in a future intake

Requests for deferrals will be considered for first requests only and are determined on program seat availability. Note that most programs require you to start your studies on the first day of the term. This must be submitted no later than day five of the start of the term.

If you wish to defer beyond the first request, you must submit a new admissions application in IAS. Additional documentation may be required. You should consult with your agent or if you are an independent applicant, you must email intlrecruit@georgiancollege.ca about program availability. All fees paid, including the tuition deposit, will transfer with your status if the deferral request is approved.

If the deferral request is denied, the tuition deposit paid in the original program and intake is upheld as non-refundable and does not move from intake to intake (Section 4.4.2.3 Non-refundable fees).

If you have registered for courses, you must withdraw from your courses when submitting your request to defer. Failure to withdraw from courses may impact your refund. For information on deadlines and refunds refer to sections 4.4.1 Program withdrawal and 4.4.4 Course withdrawal.

Program change requests (for new semester one students):

If you are starting your first semester at the college and have paid the full tuition deposit, you may request a program change for the current intake or a future intake by submitting the International Program Change Request form, found on the International Admissions webpage. This must be submitted no later than day 5 of the start of the term. If you request to simultaneously change your intake and program, you will be considered as a new applicant requiring a new assessment. Additional documentation may be required. You should consult with your agent or if you are an independent applicant, you must email intlrecruit@georgiancollege.ca about program availability. All fees paid, including the tuition deposit, will transfer with your status if the deferral request is approved. 

If the request is denied, the tuition deposit paid in the original program and intake is upheld as non-refundable and does not move from intake to intake (Section 4.4.2.3 Non-refundable fees).

Requests for program changes will be determined on your admissibility to the new program and program seat availability. Note that most programs require you to start your studies on day one of the start of term. 

2.1.3 Deadlines

You are urged to submit your complete application as early as possible. Some programs may require your participation in an information session, results of selection test(s), submission of a resumé/portfolio, other admissions documents, or post-admission/pre-registration requirements that may require lead time for submission (e.g., police vulnerable sector check, clinical preparedness permit, etc.).

Domestic residents follow the application cycle, which opens in early October for the following academic year (e.g., applicants to fall 2024, winter 2025, and summer 2025 intakes may submit applications when the cycle opens on OCAS in early October 2023). Refer to OCAS Important dates for details.

  •  Offers of admission to most programs may be released starting Nov. 1.
  • You must meet the confirmation deadline and non-refundable tuition deposit deadline to ensure your seat is secured:

o   Confirmation deadline is generally May 1 or as listed in your Letter of Acceptance (LOA)

o   Deposit deadline (non-refundable) is posted within Georgian College’s Important Dates (June for the fall intake, October for the winter intake, and February for the summer intake), or as stated in the Letter of Acceptance (LOA). If the date falls on a non-business day (e.g. weekend), a grace day will be granted to receive the deposit on the next business day immediately following the deadline.

For highly competitive programs, all applications received from domestic and international applicants will be considered equally starting Feb. 1.

  • For offer of admission process deadlines refer to section 2.12 Offer of admission and accepting the offer.
  • Applications received or applications completed after Feb. 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis depending on program seat availability.

To find out which programs are open, waitlisted, or closed, domestic applicants should visit OCAS for the most updated information. Alternative contacts include the inquiry line (call toll-free at 1.888.892.2228) or, you can submit an inquiry through MyGCLife.ca or Georgian College directly at 705.722.1511, or admissions@georgiancollege.ca.

International application cycles typically open at least one year before the start of the term, however, will close as soon as seats are full. International applicants should visit the Ontario Colleges International Application System (IAS) to see program seat availability and intake status (e.g., open, closed, waitlisted). Program seat availability changes quickly. International applicants may also reach out for information by email to IntlRecruit@georgiancollege.ca.

2.2 Basic admissions requirements

You should be aware of the following basic requirements to apply to full-time and part-time credit programs, including additional admission requirements specifically listed within the program outline, such as tests, resumés, portfolios, letters of intent, etc.

  • You must be 19 years of age by your program start date or have completed a Grade 12 diploma or equivalent.
  • If you are an international applicant with a Grade 12 diploma and you are under 17 years of age, you must have a designated custodian in Canada. This process must be completed at the time of the study permit application. Proof of custodianship is required before the start of your studies. (Section 2.12 Offer of admission and accepting the offer).
  • If your first language is not English, you must provide proof of language proficiency. (Section 2.5 English language proficiency).
  • Original or certified copies of all required documentation and academic records must be submitted with the application, including proof of graduation, subjects taken, and grades received. For documents that are not in English, certified translated copies must be provided.
  • If it is found that false information was given on the admission application, you may be charged with academic misconduct for fabrication (Section 8 Academic integrity) and are subject to penalties under these regulations as well as the Student Code of Conduct. If you are an international applicant, information will also be reported to IRCC
  • Final or conditional offers of admission are sent only to applicants who meet admission requirements.
  • When required, standard grade conversion will occur to establish equivalencies. (Section 5.1 Grading system).

For all programs, the admissions and selection requirements noted on the program outline in addition to those listed here must be met to gain final admission into the program. You must possess one of the following requirements to be eligible for admission to most certificate and diploma programs:

Secondary school applicants

  • Ontario Secondary School (OSS) curriculum: Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, with courses at the college (C), university (U) or university/college (M) level

Non-secondary school applicants (19 years or older)
If you are a mature applicant, you must meet all course and additional admission requirements listed on program outlines, such as:

  • Specific credit courses taken at Georgian College
  • Equivalent courses taken through secondary school or Independent Learning Centres (at the general, advanced, college or university level)
  • Academic and Career Entrance Certificate (ACE) courses available at most Georgian campuses
  • Mature student testing that meets the minimum standards for admission available through most testing services at Georgian campuses
  • Ontario High School Equivalency Certificate (GED) testing only available for select admission requirements
  • Credit courses taken through accredited colleges/universities to meet select admission requirements
  •  Non-secondary school applicants with previous postsecondary studies applying to degree programs may have additional requirements. (Section 2.2.3 College/university degree applicants).

Home-schooled applicants

If you have been educated in a home school system at the Grade 12 level, you may apply to Georgian College for postsecondary programs. All specific course requirements for the program must be met. When official transcripts from college-approved institutions can’t be used to meet entrance requirements for you, equivalency testing may be available for certificate or diploma programs. In these cases, the Communications Placement Assessment (CPA) tests for both mathematics and English will be considered. For equivalency in other subject areas or for degree programs, you must complete course work prior to being admitted. Challenge exams for some science courses may be available upon request.

Direct entry degree programs

Require an OSSD with six Grade 12 U or M-level courses. Most degree programs have specific grade point average (GPA) requirements, which are listed on the program outline. Previous grades of less than 60 per cent at the postsecondary level will not be accepted. Equivalency testing is not available to degree program applicants to meet admission requirements.

Graduate certificate programs

Admission requirements for graduate certificate programs vary. You are required to have completed a college diploma, advanced diploma, or a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.

2.2.1 Mature applicants to post-secondary certificate and diploma programs

If you are a non-secondary school applicant who is 19 years of age or older by the first day of classes of your program start date, and you do not have the academic entrance qualifications, you may be considered for entrance to an appropriate postsecondary diploma or certificate program as a mature applicant. You must meet all program-specific prerequisites including all courses listed for each program and all selection criteria. If you are unsure whether you meet admission requirements, you should contact the Office of the Registrar. If you do not have documentation of Grade 12 education, you must supply proof of age, such as a copy of an official birth certificate or driver’s licensed (Section 2.6 Other admission requirements).

2.2.2 Mature applicants to degree programs

If you are a mature applicant applying to a degree program, you must meet all the following criteria:

  • Be 19 years of age by your program start date
  • Have not attended an accredited postsecondary institution within the last two years
  • Meet all course-specific admission requirements or equivalents for the degree
  • Must have demonstrated potential for success in degree studies through academic accomplishments
  • HBSN (Honours Bachelor of Science - Nursing) you must have:

o   met the four course requirements listed on the program outline and have earned a minimum grade of 70 per cent in each of the four courses. An overall minimum GPA of 75 per cent is recommended for all applicants.

o   met the science and math requirements within the last five years.

o   no unfavourable academic performance (achievements less than 60 per cent) in the last two years.

The following documents are required from you to apply to a degree program:

  • Official secondary school transcript(s)  
  • Supplemental Education Form or the HBSN (Honours Bachelor of Science - Nursing) Admissions Form (Note: withholding information can result in offers being rescinded or you being withdrawn from your program).

Depending on the program applied to, you may also be required to provide at least one of the following: 

  • Resumé outlining work and volunteer experience since full-time attendance at school and/or 
  • Letter of intent and/or  
  • Other supporting documentation 

Meeting the minimum requirements for admission does not guarantee your admission to a degree program. (Section 2.2.3 College/ University applicants to degree programs).

2.2.3 College/University applicants to degree programs

College/university transfer applicants are those who have completed postsecondary education at an accredited or recognized public or private institution and are able to demonstrate potential for success in degree studies through academic accomplishments.

  • Minimum GPA of 60 per cent, including all attempted courses, is required for most programs 
  • Competitive programs may require higher GPA and specific course grades for admission.
  • HBSN (Honours Bachelor of Science - Nursing) applicants must have 
    • met the course requirements listed on the program outline
    • a minimum grade of 70% in each of the four  courses is required. An overall minimum GPA of 75% is recommended for all applicants.
    • met the science and math requirements within the last five years
    • no nursing degree courses less than 60% in the last two years
    • HBSN applicants in Pre-health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees (PHPA) are required to complete all courses in the program prior to the program start date.   

The following documents are required from college/university transfer applicants to degree programs: 

  • Official transcript(s)  
  • Supplemental Education form or the HBSN Admissions form, disclosing all previous and current enrolment at postsecondary institutions (Note: withholding information can result in offers being rescinded or you being withdrawn from your program).

Depending on the program applied to, you may also be required to provide at least one of the following:  

  • Resumé outlining work and volunteer experience since full-time attendance at school and/or 
  • Letter of intent and/or  
  • Other supporting documentation 

Meeting the minimum requirements for admission does not guarantee your admission to a degree program. 

2.3 Learning skills

While academic achievement is of major importance in the admissions process, other life skills such as being able to work independently, participating in a group, being organized, developing good work habits, being current with technology, and showing initiative, are those that result in the greatest success in college. By contrast, if you lack these skills, you are less likely to become well-integrated into college programs and you are more likely to leave without completion. You are encouraged to develop these aptitudes before beginning your college program. The college may at any point deny admission to a program, if through evaluation, it is determined you will not be successful in your program.

2.4 College preparatory programs/academic and career preparation

If you have successfully completed college preparatory programs and Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) upgrading, you are eligible for admission to postsecondary diploma or certificate programs (not applicable to degree or graduate certificate programs) if admission requirements and deadlines have been met (not applicable to highly competitive post-secondary programs).

  • ACE Math AACE1003 does not meet the Grade 12 C level math requirement.
  • ACE English AACE 1000 will meet the academic course requirement (Grade 12 C level English) for admission; however, proof of English language proficiency may be required (Section 2.5: English language proficiency).

Georgian College’s English for Degree Entrance (EDE) is a course that will allow individuals 19 years of age or older to attempt to meet the English requirement for Georgian College degree programs (this course does not apply toward non-Georgian College degree programs).

2.5 English language proficiency

The language of instruction at Georgian College is English. In addition to the academic admission requirements, if English is not your first language and/or you are coming from countries where English is not an official language, you must provide proof of language proficiency. You must meet ONE of the following criteria to meet Georgian’s language proficiency requirements (see specific language requirements below for some programs):

  • Must have completed three full years of study at the secondary school (high school) level in English in a country where English is a primary language (four years are required for HBSN (Honours Bachelor of Science - Nursing), Pharmacy Technician, and Addictions: Treatment and Prevention), OR
  • Must have completed one full year of study in an accredited postsecondary program in English in a country where English is a primary language (not applicable to HBSN programs), OR
  • Must have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or Canadian provincial equivalent) and English credit (Grade 12 U, M or C) issued by a public or Catholic school board (not applicable to HSBN), OR
  • Graduate from Level 8 of Georgian’s EAPC - English for Academic Purposes (see score requirement below)
  • Provide proof of graduation from one of the authorized Georgian College incoming transfer and language agreements (not applicable to HSBN), OR
  • Must have completed three years of study at a secondary private school in Ontario and received an Ontario Secondary School Diploma and English credit (Grade 12 U, M or C).

If you are applying through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program you should note the following test scores.

  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System Academic): 6.0 overall band score, with no band lower than 6.0
  • CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Test): Minimum overall score of 60
  • PTE (Pearson Test of English Academic): Minimum overall score of 60
  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language iBT): Minimum overall score of 83

For programs listing a higher test requirement, the higher score will be required for admissions. Priority for admission will be given to those who meet SDS requirements. Review the list of eligible SDS countries at the Student Direct Stream (SDS) website. Please note only IELTS is eligible if the application was received prior to Aug 10, 2023.

If you do not meet any of the above criteria, you will be required to submit an acceptable English language proficiency test with the appropriate score. Final admission will not be granted until this requirement has been met. English language tests older than two years will not be considered. Acceptable language tests include, but are not limited to:

Examinations Diploma/Certificate BScN Pharmacy Technician Degree Studies Addictions: treatment and prevention Graduate Certificate
TOEFL Internet-based test (IBT) 79 891 91 (minimum bands of 23 in Speaking, 25 in Writing , 22 in Reading and 21 in Listening) 891 N/A 891
TOEFL Paper-based test 550 580 580 580 N/A 580
IELTS Academic only 6.0 7.0 6.5 (with no band less than 6.0) 6.5 7.0 6.5
Duolingo 110 140 NA 120 N/A 130
YELT 1-5 1-4 N/A 1-5 N/A 1-5
TOEIC 800 N/A N/A 850 N/A 850
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) 60 N/A N/A 602 N/A 602
Pearson Test of Academic English (PTE) 58 N/A N/A 61 N/A 61
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) 170 N/A N/A 175 N/A 175
Graduate of Level 8 of Georgian’s GAAS - English for Academic Purposes 60% in certificate or completion of level 8 with 70% or higher N/A N/A Completion of level 8 with 75% or higher Completion of level 8 with 80% or higher Completion of level 8 with 80% or higher
1

Require minimum bands of 22 in writing and 22 in speaking

2

Minimum bands of 50                

Below is a list of countries in which English is an official primary language. If you are a resident or have studied (in English) in these countries, you are not required to present proof of English language proficiency (not applicable to Pharmacy Technician):

Letter Countries
A Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Australia
B Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Botswana, British Virgin Islands
C Cameroon, Canada, Cayman Islands, Cook Islands
D Dominica
F Falkland Islands, Fiji
G Gambia, Ghana, Gibraltar, Grenada, Guyana
I Ireland
J Jamaica
K Kenya, Kiribati
L Lesotho, Liberia
M Malawi, Malta, Mauritius
N Namibia, Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria
P Papua New Guinea, Philippines
R Rwanda
S St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Swaziland
T Tanzania, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos
U Uganda, United Kingdom, United States of America
Z Zambia, Zimbabwe


Pharmacy Technician Diploma

This program is accredited by the Canadian Council for Accreditation of Pharmacy programs (CCAPP). CCAPP ensures that all accredited colleges meet the National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA) language proficiency.

Applicants must meet ONE of the following criteria to meet Georgian’s language proficiency requirements for the Pharmacy Technician diploma:

  • Must have completed four consecutive full years of study at the secondary school (high school) level in Canada in English, OR
  • Completed an undergraduate degree from a university in Canada, whose instruction was provided in English, OR
  • Submit an acceptable English language proficiency test with the appropriate score. Final admission will not be granted until this requirement has been met. English language tests older than two years will not be considered.

Acceptable language tests for the Pharmacy Technician program include:

  • IELTS – International English Language Testing System (Academic). Score of 6.5 (with no band less than 6.0)
  • TOEFL iBT (Internet) – Test of English as a Foreign Language. Score of 91 (minimum bands of 23 in speaking, 25 in writing, 22 in reading and 21 in listening)

2.6 Other admission requirements

Some postsecondary programs require special prerequisite courses, essays, resumés, testing, portfolios, minimum cut-off scores, or participation in information sessions. These requirements are listed under the admission requirements, admissions details, and selection process sections of each program outline. It is your responsibility to complete these requirements as part of the admission process. The Office of the Registrar will inform you of any changes to admission requirements if they are not listed on the program outline during the application process.

2.7 Criminal record check and vulnerable sector check

Some programs have a clinical or work/field placement component within the curriculum, which requires you to provide post-admission/pre-registration requirements in the form of the criminal record check and/or vulnerable sector check. If you have met admissions requirements and received an offer of admission into such programs, you may be required by host agencies or employers to provide a current criminal record check and vulnerable sector check from a police service before you may register into the term in which your clinical or work/field placement starts. You should be aware that some professions and licencing boards also have a criminal record check provision to ensure suitability to practice in the profession (Section 4.2.4 Placement requirements).

If you have been charged or convicted criminally and not pardoned, you will be prohibited from proceeding to a clinical or work/field placement. Proof of a Record Suspension will be required.  As some jurisdictions require a long lead-time for processing, please check with the program co-ordinator to ensure sufficient turnaround time. If you have a criminal record, you should also contact the appropriate professional association or licencing agency prior to starting your college studies.

The program outline should be thoroughly reviewed for these post-admission/pre-registration requirement details and completion deadlines. Many of these checks are required prior to registering into the semester in which the placement starts. Many placements also require proof of up-to-date immunizations (Section 4.2.4 Placement requirements: immunization and placements).

Accordingly, if you intend to register in a program with a clinical or work/field placement component, you are responsible to ensure you are eligible to participate. The costs associated with the provision of the criminal record/vulnerable sector checks are your responsibility.

If you are an international applicant, you should be aware of work permit requirements and you should consult with immigration experts as required. Further, the college assumes no responsibility for these matters and tuition and related fees will not be refunded in the event that access to a clinical or placement course is denied.

2.8 Practical experience – work integrated learning

Most programs at the college contain opportunities for practical experience in the form of work-integrated learning (WIL)
Georgian College holds membership with, and follows, the co-operative education guidelines set out by the Co-operative Education Work-Integrated Learning Canada (CEWIL) and Education at Work Ontario (EWO) as supported by the Ministry of Colleges and Universities (MCU).

2.8.1 Co-op work terms

All co-operative education programs at the college contain mandatory work-term experiences aligned with program learning outcomes. Co-op work terms are designed to integrate academic learning with work experience, supporting the development of industry specific competencies and employability skills.

Programs may have additional requirements related to the co-op semesters, such as a valid driver’s licence, strong communication skills, industry-specific certifications, and ability to travel or temporarily relocate. Under exceptional circumstances, if you do not meet the requirements for your co-op semester(s), you may be unable to progress in the program or graduate. Refer to your program webpage for more information. (Section 4.2.8 Changes in program, course, section, or co-op).

If you are an international applicant, you should be aware of work permit requirements and you should consult with immigration experts as required. Further, the college assumes no responsibility for these matters and tuition and related fees will not be refunded in the event that access to a co-op is denied.

2.9 Admissions requirements course equivalencies

To meet admission requirements, you must have completed secondary school courses at the general, advanced, college or university level. Courses completed at an accredited postsecondary institution will be considered on an individual basis (Section 3.3 Transfer credit/course exemptions). You must provide official transcripts and course descriptions for evaluation. Courses completed at institutions outside of Ontario are evaluated based on the educational standards of that province or country. For further information, please email the Office of the Registrar at admissions@georgiancollege.ca.

2.10 Highly competitive programs

When there are more qualified applicants than spaces available, a program is determined to be highly competitive (also referred to as  oversubscribed). The college will use formal selection requirements and criteria to determine final selection, in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and Ministry of Colleges and Universities (MCU) policy. Due to the priority of admissions (Section 2.11: Priority of admissions), highly subscribed programs have no seats available to international applicants.

Selection requirements and criteria are approved by the MCU and include but are not limited to academic requirements and performance, testing, information session participation, portfolios, resumés, , physical health, and age requirements. These requirements and criteria may vary from program to program.

For programs requiring selection testing, a non-refundable testing fee is required. This fee must be paid at the time of scheduling the test. Applicants are notified of this fee once they apply to the college. The testing fee is non-refundable if the applicant chooses not to write, fails the test, does not meet admission requirements, does not receive an offer to the program, or chooses not to attend if accepted.

2.11 Priority of admissions

When a program is highly competitive or oversubscribed, you will be admitted to the college in the following order, as required by the Ministry of Colleges and Universities (MCU):

1.    Residents of Ontario established as Canadian citizens or permanent residents

2.    Residents of Canada established as Canadian citizens or permanent residents

3.    Citizens of other countries

2.11.1 International applicant selection

When the college receives more qualified international (citizens of other countries) applicants than international program seats available, the college will use selection requirements and criteria to determine final selection. This means that the college is setting processing priorities based on the academic quality of applicants and the diversity of the international student body.

2.12 Offer of admission and accepting the offer applicants

2.12.1 Letters of Acceptance (LOA)

If you are a domestic applicant, you will be notified of your acceptance (conditional or final) in a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from the college and all offers will be displayed on the MyGCLife.ca Applicant Portal and at OCAS. LOAs are released commencing Nov. 1 for most programs. For highly competitive programs and/or programs with selection processes, LOAs may be released starting Feb. 1 (equal consideration deadline) through March (usually the second week or later). Late applications may receive offers up to the fifth day of the term, including new offers and decisions about semester one program change requests and readmits. You have until May 1 to accept the offer through OCAS (also known as confirming the offer), which will reserve a space for you in that program. You may accept only one offer of admission at one time. If you do not respond before May 1, you forfeit your place in the program to applicants on the waiting list (if applicable). If you receive an offer of admission after May 1, you have 10 working days (or by the deadline on the LOA) to accept the offer.

If you are an international applicant, you will be notified of your acceptance (conditional or final) in a pre-admission invoice, also referred to as a pre-admit letter of acceptance (PLOA), which is displayed electronically on the International Application System (IAS). Late applications may receive offers up to the fifth day of the term, including new offers and decisions about deferral requests, semester one program change requests and readmits.

2.12.2 Tuition deposits

After you accept your offer, you will be required to pay a non-refundable tuition deposit by the fee deadline for that term. The tuition deposit is part of your total tuition fees (Section 4.1.3 Tuition deposits). Paying the deposit secures your seat in the program and paying full semester fees with proof of study permit/visa allows you to register for courses. If you do not submit the deposit by the deadline, you will forfeit your place in the program if there are eligible applicants on the waiting list. Late applicants who receive an offer of admission after the deposit deadline will have 10 working days (or by the deadline on the LOA) to accept the offer and pay the tuition deposit.

If you are an international applicant, you are required, by the deadline found within your pre-admission invoice, to accept your offer (also known as confirming the offer) through IAS and pay a non-refundable tuition deposit (Section 4.1.3 Tuition deposits). The act of accepting the offer in IAS and paying the tuition deposit will reserve a seat for you in that program. If you do not pay the tuition deposit before the deadline, you will forfeit your place in the program. Upon receipt of the full deposit payment, you will receive notification to return to IAS to retrieve the final letter of acceptance (LOA) to be used in the study permit application process.

2.12.3 Conditional acceptance

You may be conditionally accepted pending fulfillment of admission requirements stated in the program outline. It is your responsibility to be aware of the conditions of admission stated in the LOA and to check the conditional status on the MyGCLife Applicant Portal (domestic) or IAS (international). Conditional offers are valid offers and must be confirmed and paid by all deadlines as indicated above. All conditions must be met before final admission is granted. If you meet the requirements, your admission status will be updated in the MyGCLife Applicant Portal (domestic) or IAS (international).

  • If you do not meet the conditions, you will be notified by an admissions officer.
  • If you do not meet the conditions of the offer, the offer will be rescinded 
  • If you are registered in courses and do not meet the conditions of the offer, the offer will be rescinded, and you will be removed from all registered courses.
  • Where possible and if eligible, an alternate program will be offered to you. If there are no alternate program options, your application will be closed. The application fee is non-refundable.
  • Except for study permit refusals, tuition deposits are not refunded for any reason, including an inability to meet admission requirements. Other non-refundable fees include textbooks, assessment of previous learning (PLAR) testing fees, convocation, alumni, U-Pass, and insurance fees (Section 4.4.2.3 Non-refundable fees). 

2.12.4 Registration deadlines for oversubscribed programs

You are expected to register for courses during block registration and be ready to start your studies by day one of your first term. Course changes can be made up until day 10 of the term. (Section 4.2.1 Registration definitions).

If you have been admitted to a program that is oversubscribed and/or has a waiting list, you must register for courses by the end of block registration or you will lose your seat in the program and be placed on the waiting list. 

2.12.5 Waiting lists

Waiting lists are generally kept for oversubscribed programs, which prioritize domestic applicants. If you are a qualified applicant who is not initially accepted, you may be placed on a waiting list. An admission selection procedure will be used to establish which applicants will be placed on the list and in which order they will appear. If you are placed on a waiting list for a program that also has a scheduled January (winter), or May (summer) intake, you may be offered admission for the next intake, without the need to reapply. You will be advised if this is the case. If a seat becomes available, you will be contacted by an admissions officer. If you apply for more than one Georgian program, you can remain on the waiting list for one Georgian program while accepting the offer for a different Georgian program. Applications received after Feb. 1 are considered on a first-come, first-served basis.

2.13 Re-admission

You must apply for re-admission in any of the following circumstances:

  • If you have failed to remain continuously registered following the typical sequence of semesters for the program over an eight-month period (two consecutive terms)
  • If you have been suspended/academically dismissed through academic performance or academic misconduct
  • If you have been dismissed from a program due to repeated course attempts and are no longer able to progress and/or fulfill graduation requirements.

2.13.1 Guidelines

When you are re-admitted to the college, you must successfully complete the graduation requirements described in the current program outline, i.e., for the academic year in which you were re-admitted. If you are in semester one and you need to retake or start over in semester one, you must apply for re-admission through OCAS or IAS. If you are in a subsequent semester, you must apply using an internal college application form. There is a non-refundable fee payable at the time of application.

The dean/associate dean, in consultation with the program co-ordinator and the Office of the Registrar, will determine your academic eligibility for re-admission. The Office of the Registrar will inform you of the decision.

2.13.2 Process

Before being re-admitted, your progress will be reviewed. This review may include examination of any of the following:

  • Health records and current health assessment
  • Interview results
  • Transcripts
  • Course outlines
  • Evaluations from previous academic records
  • Letters of reference from employing agencies, partners, or other educational institutions
  • Competency/skills testing (fees may apply).

Priority for re-admission will be given to the following:

  • Students returning to any year of their program who have had an illness and whose physician recommends, in writing, that the student is able to cope with the physical, emotional, and cognitive demands of the program
  • Students who have failed or withdrawn from any previous courses in which the dean/associate dean in consultation with the program co-ordinator and the Office of the Registrar have determined that the student will be successful in their studies.

2.14 Program transfer

Students wishing to transfer to another program in an advanced level or to the same program at a different campus must apply for program change through the Office of the Registrar.

2.14.1 Guidelines

When you are transferred, you must successfully complete the graduation requirements described in the current program outline, i.e., for the academic year in which you were re-admitted. There is a non-refundable fee payable at the time of application for program transfers (except if transferring to the same program at a different campus or when transferring from the two-year to three-year version of the same program). This fee must be paid when the application for transfer is submitted to the Office of the Registrar. The program co-ordinator and the Office of the Registrar determine your academic eligibility for transfer. Poor academic standing or misconduct may deem you ineligible for transfer. Transfer to another program or level is also determined according to program seat availability. The Office of the Registrar will inform you of the decision.

2.14.2 Process

Before being transferred, your progress will be reviewed. This review may include examination of any of the following:

  • Health records and current health assessment
  • Interview results
  • Transcripts
  • Course outlines
  • Evaluations from previous academic records
  • Letters of reference from employing agencies or other educational institutions
  • Competency/skills testing (fees may apply)
  • Academic standing

Priority for transfer will be given in the following sequence:

  • Students wishing to transfer to the same program at a different campus
  • Students wishing to transfer to similar programs at the same campus, where the curriculum is identical or almost identical
  • Students applying to transfer from another program at Georgian College.

2.15 Applicants with accessibility needs

Georgian College encourages academically qualified applicants with accessibility needs to apply for admission. While you must satisfy admission and graduation requirements, the college recognizes that you may require individualized assistance. This assistance is also available to those with short-term accessibility needs. For details about the modified admissions process, please visit Accessibility Services. The college adheres to the Ontario Human Rights Code and will work with you to ensure a reasonable accommodation is made, where possible. These accommodations provide you with an equal opportunity to meet the standards of the courses in your program. To discuss opportunities, services, and accommodations, you must contact Accessibility Services upon being admitted to the college to start the accommodation process. For more information, visit the Student Services webpage.

2.16 Unsuccessful applicants

If you meet admission requirements but do not receive an offer, or you do not meet admission requirements, you may view outstanding requirements on the MyGCLife Applicant Portal, or IAS for international applicants.

Domestic applicants may discuss available alternatives with the College Entry Advisors in the Office of the Registrar. International applicants are advised to consult with your agent; independent applicants should email IntlRecruit@georgiancollege.ca.

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