Application strategy
Ontario applicants need mid-to-high 80s for Arts and Science, low 90s for Commerce and Life Sciences, and 93-97% for Engineering Science. IB students should target 38-40 predicted for competitive programs. Supplemental applications matter for Commerce (Rotman) and Engineering — treat the video essays and written responses as seriously as the grades. Early conditional offers go out in February; residence guarantees require acceptance by June 2. International applicants face a new reality post-2024 caps: apply early, demonstrate genuine intent to study (not just immigrate), and have a backup plan. The CS Post-entry system means admission to Arts and Science does not guarantee a CS major — you must earn it with first-year grades above the annual cutoff, which fluctuates between 83-87%.
Who fits
- Research-oriented students targeting graduate school or academic careers in STEM and AI
- Self-directed learners comfortable navigating a 97,000-student institution without hand-holding
- International students seeking a 3-year PGWP with strong PR conversion odds in a global city
- Finance and consulting aspirants wanting direct Bay Street and MBB recruiting access
- Students prioritizing institutional prestige and alumni network breadth over undergraduate teaching intimacy
Who should think twice
- Students who need small classes and close faculty mentorship from year one
- Those seeking a tight-knit residential campus community with high extracurricular participation
- Budget-conscious international families: CAD 70,060/yr engineering tuition before living costs
- Students who struggle without structured academic support or who are grade-sensitive for US grad school applications
- Anyone expecting a traditional American-style college experience with school spirit and campus cohesion