Yes, the University of Ottawa is selective. In 2022, the university’s acceptance rate was 25%. This means that only 25% of applicants were admitted to the university. The university’s selectivity is due to a number of factors, including its high academic standards, its strong reputation, and its location in Ottawa, the capital of Canada.
The University of Ottawa is a public research university with a strong academic reputation. The university is ranked among the top 10 universities in Canada for research and has a number of highly ranked programs, such as its medical school, business school, and law school.
The university is also located in Ottawa, which is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a rich history and culture. Ottawa is also home to a number of government agencies and international organizations, which provides students with opportunities for internships and networking.
Before you apply
The application process takes place entirely online. You don’t need to submit paper copies at this point.
1. Choose a program
The University of Ottawa offers microprograms, graduate diploma, master’s, short-duration master’s, and PhD programs. Explore our graduate programs to find the one that’s right for you.
2. Check deadlines
Make sure to meet the application deadlines. Application deadlines vary by program and can be as early as 10 months before classes begin. The fall, winter and spring-summer terms begin in September, January and May, respectively.
Submit your application and all required documentation by the deadline specified in the program requirements.
To find deadlines, select the program you are interested in on the program admission requirements webpage and view the application deadline in the table.
See the deadlines for each program
3. Check the admission requirements
Minimum requirements
Master’s and graduate diploma programs:
- Hold an honours bachelor’s degree (four years) or the equivalent, with an average of 70% (B), based on your last 20 courses.
PhD programs:
- Hold a master’s degree or the equivalent, with an average of 75% (B+), based on your last 10 courses.
Additional requirements
Some graduate programs have additional admission requirements, such as a higher average, other documentation to be provided or specific tests.
Admission to our programs is highly competitive and meeting the minimum requirements doesn’t guarantee admission.
4. Check the language requirements
You must understand and fluently speak the language of the program you are applying for (English or French) and must provide, on request, your results in one of the language proficiency tests approved by the University of Ottawa.
Below are examples of requirements for the tests most often used to assess admission applications. To find out the minimum result you require, see the specific requirements.