Savanna Hoffman
Getting into university as a mature student in Canada can be a confusing process, but many institutions welcome applicants from non-traditional educational backgrounds. The University of Toronto, Ryerson University, York University, and UBC Vancouver are among the universities that accept mature students. Each university has its own definition of a mature student, but it generally refers to applicants who are over 19 or 21 and do not possess the academic credentials expected of recent high school graduates. Mature students may be required to demonstrate academic readiness for a university program or may be admitted on a trial basis. The application process may involve submitting transcripts, a statement of academic intent, a resume, and references. Some universities offer support services specifically for mature students to help with their transition back to school.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition of a mature student | Typically a student who is over 19, has been out of school for at least a year, and does not possess the academic credentials expected of recent high school graduates. Some universities have different definitions, for example, Ryerson University considers a student to be mature if they are over 21 and have not studied at university before as an undergraduate. |
| Application process | Applications are made through OUAC, which covers all program types. Deadlines are set by each individual school. |
| Application components | Academic background, work experience, personal statement, program choices, extracurricular activities, and academic transcripts. |
| Personal statement | Why you want to attend university, your ability to transition back to an academic environment, and your commitment to learning and studying. |
| Reference letters | Two written references from people who can assess and describe your work habits, drive, and potential for academic success. |
| Where to get reference letters | Employers, teachers, and personal acquaintances. |
| Academic readiness | Some institutions require applicants to demonstrate a level of academic readiness for a university program. |
| English language requirements | Some universities require mature applicants to meet English language requirements. |
| Admission | Some universities admit mature students on a trial basis or only to certain programs. |
| Tuition fees | Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and exempted international students are eligible for domestic fees. Senior citizens may have their fees waived. |
| Support | Some universities have centres to support mature students, such as the Atkinson Centre for Mature & Part-time Students at York University. |
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What You'll Learn
Application process and requirements
The application process and requirements for mature students vary across universities in Canada. Most Canadian universities expect applicants to possess a high school diploma, but some have ""open" admission policies, welcoming mature students regardless of their educational background.
University of Toronto
At the University of Toronto, mature students apply through the standard application routes. Full-time degree applicants who are not current Ontario high school students apply using the OUAC-105 Application, while part-time applicants use the Part-Time Application. If you are attending or have attended a recognised university or college, you will be considered for admission based on your post-secondary studies and your most recent annual average, although your entire academic record will be reviewed.
York University
York University offers a tuition fee waiver for Canadian senior citizens or permanent residents aged over 60. The waiver is restricted to a maximum of one undergraduate and one graduate degree. The university also has the Atkinson Centre for Mature and Part-time Students (ACMAPS), which supports the academic and personal success of students from their first year to graduation.
University of British Columbia (UBC)
UBC defines mature applicants as those who have not attended school full-time for at least four years. As a mature applicant, you must meet the university's English language requirement and certain faculty- or degree-specific admissions requirements. You will be required to submit official transcripts of any and all post-secondary coursework, an official secondary school transcript, a statement of academic intent, your resume, and two written references.
General Requirements for Mature Students
The exact definition of a mature student varies across universities in Canada. Some universities define mature students as those over the age of 19, while others set the threshold at 21 or 23. Mature students are typically required to demonstrate academic readiness for a university program, although some institutions admit them on a trial basis or only to certain programs.
Securing recommendation letters or reference letters can be challenging for mature students. It is advisable to obtain letters from employers, teachers, or personal acquaintances who can speak to your motivations and goals.
Application Process via OUAC
The OUAC application process covers all universities in Ontario and helps streamline your application if you are applying to multiple schools. The OUAC-105 application has no common deadline, and deadlines are set by each individual school. The application consists of your academic background, work experience, personal statement, program choices, extracurricular activities, and academic transcripts.
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Mature student status
In Canada, a mature student is typically defined as someone who has reached a certain age (usually 19, but sometimes 21 or 23) and does not possess the academic credentials or prerequisites expected of a high school graduate. Mature student status may be granted to applicants who are over the defined age and do not have a high school diploma or GED. This status allows applicants who have not completed high school to be considered for admission based on their skills and experience.
The specific requirements for mature student status can vary across different colleges and universities in Canada. For example, Ryerson University considers you a mature student if you are over 21 and have not studied at university before as an undergraduate. It is important to check the requirements for the specific institution you are interested in.
When applying as a mature student, you may be required to demonstrate academic readiness for a university program. This may include providing evidence of recent academic successes, intellectual curiosity, advanced literacy, and numeracy. Additionally, you may need to submit official transcripts, a statement of academic intent, a resume, and reference letters.
Some institutions may offer support services specifically for mature students to help with their transition back to school. For example, York University has the Atkinson Centre for Mature and Part-time Students (ACMAPS), which provides orientations, programming, advising, and a peer mentor program for adult learners.
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Academic readiness
Firstly, mature students are typically expected to demonstrate a certain level of academic proficiency, often through the submission of official transcripts from any previous post-secondary coursework or current courses they are enrolled in. This allows admissions teams to evaluate the applicant's academic background and ensure they meet the necessary prerequisites for their intended program.
Additionally, mature students may be required to provide evidence of recent academic studies or learning experiences. This could include part-time courses, online learning, or other forms of education that showcase the applicant's ability to transition back into an academic environment and commit to learning and studying.
Some universities may also assess academic readiness through a statement of academic intent or personal statement. This provides applicants with an opportunity to outline their reasons for applying, their chosen program's area of study, and their readiness for university-level study. Mature students may also be asked to submit a resume detailing their employment history and any other relevant personal experiences that could contribute to their academic preparedness.
Furthermore, reference letters or recommendation letters play a crucial role in supporting an applicant's academic readiness. While securing these letters can be challenging for mature students, they can seek references from employers, teachers, or personal acquaintances who can speak to their academic potential, work ethic, and drive.
It is important to note that mature students applying to certain programs, such as those in medicine, law, or science, may face additional academic requirements or prerequisites due to the competitive nature of these fields.
Overall, demonstrating academic readiness as a mature student involves showcasing a strong academic foundation, a clear motivation for returning to education, and the necessary skills and attributes for successful university-level study.
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Financial assistance
As a mature student in Canada, you can access various financial assistance programs to help fund your education. Here are some options to consider:
Government Loans and Grants
The Government of Canada offers student grants and loans to full-time and part-time students through the Canada Student Financial Assistance Program. You can apply through your province or territory of residence, and the amount you are eligible to receive will be calculated during the application process. Grants are also available specifically for students with disabilities and can provide up to 520 weeks of educational assistance.
Provincial and Territorial Programs
Each province and territory in Canada may have its own student aid programs with specific eligibility criteria and funding amounts. For example, the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) offers increased benefits for mature students, including free tuition for those who are independent, married, in a common-law relationship, or sole support parents, provided they meet certain income requirements.
University Financial Aid
Most colleges and universities in Canada offer financial aid programs, scholarships, and bursaries specifically for mature students. These may include tuition assistance, student loans, and other benefits tailored to your situation. Contact the financial aid office of your chosen institution to learn about the available options and how to apply.
Private Loans and Scholarships
In addition to government loans, Canadian students can access federal, provincial, and private loan options through banks, trust companies, and credit unions. These loans typically accrue interest but often defer payments until after graduation. Scholarships and bursaries may also be available through your financial institution or directly from the university.
Tax Benefits
As a mature student, you may be eligible for increased Child Tax Benefits if you are a parent with a reduced or absent income. Additionally, claiming qualified tuition and educational expenses on your income tax return can result in a more substantial refund, which you can then apply toward your education expenses.
Work Benefits
Some employers offer financial assistance or tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing further education or work-related training. Check with your employer to see if any such benefits are available to support your educational goals.
Savings and Investments
If you have time before enrolling, consider opening a high-interest savings account or investing through a financial institution to grow your education funds. You can also boost your savings with income tax refunds and, if applicable, Child Tax Benefits. Spreading out your tuition payments or taking advantage of payment plans offered by your college or university can also help manage the financial burden.
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Childcare and support
Daycare Centres:
Daycare centres are a popular option for childcare in Canada. They are available in both private and public settings and offer part-time or full-time care. Daycare centres typically support children from infancy to six years old, providing care and socialization during the daytime hours before they begin their formal education. Many daycares offer flexible hours to accommodate working parents, including extended hours, holiday care, and evening care.
Preschool and Nursery School:
Preschools in Canada are regulated by provincial, Indigenous, or territorial standards, ensuring consistent student-to-teacher ratios and health and safety expectations. While preschool primarily serves educational purposes, some parents may utilise it as a form of childcare. Nursery school is a broad term that encompasses various types of childcare, including daycare, preschool, and even kindergarten.
Kindergarten:
Kindergarten marks the first year of formal schooling for Canadian students, typically starting at the end of August or the beginning of September. Parents have several enrolment options, including free public school, paid private school, or homeschooling.
Government Initiatives:
The Canadian government is actively investing in early learning and childcare to enhance accessibility, affordability, inclusivity, and flexibility. The Federal Secretariat on Early Learning and Child Care, established in 2020, aims to build a Canada-wide ELCC system. This includes supporting Indigenous early learning and childcare centres and working towards more affordable childcare fees. Additionally, the Scotiabank StartRight® Program offers benefits to newcomers, including international students, with potential values of up to $2,200 in the first year.
Childcare Benefits:
Canada provides various benefits to help with the costs of raising children, including Employment Insurance benefits such as maternity, parental, and caregiving benefits and leave. These benefits aim to support parents financially while they take time off work to care for their children.
When considering childcare options, mature students in Canada can explore the various choices available, including daycare centres, preschool, and government-supported initiatives, to find the best fit for their specific needs and circumstances.
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Frequently asked questions
The application process for mature students in Canada depends on the university and program. Most universities expect applicants to possess a high school diploma, but some have ""open" admission policies. Mature students are generally defined as those over the age of 19, or 21 in some cases, who have not completed high school.
As a mature student, you will need to submit official transcripts of any and all post-secondary coursework, as well as details of any current or upcoming courses. You may also be required to submit additional documentation, such as a statement of academic intent, a resume, and references.
Your personal statement should include why you want to attend university, your ability to transition back to an academic environment, and your commitment to learning and studying. It is also beneficial to provide evidence of recent academic studies or learning experiences.
The fees for mature students in Canada vary depending on the university and program. However, mature students who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents may be eligible for a tuition fee waiver or other financial assistance, such as entrance scholarships, awards, and bursaries.
