What are the requirements to get into Carleton University?

The admission requirements for Carleton University vary depending on the program you are applying to, but there are some general requirements that all applicants must meet.

Academic Requirements

  • An overall average of at least 70% in your final year of high school or equivalent.
  • Specific course prerequisites for some programs.
  • A higher average may be required for admission to some programs, such as Honours programs.

English Language Requirements

  • If your first language is not English, you must demonstrate proficiency in English by meeting one of the following requirements:
    • A minimum score of 550 on the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or 6.5 on the IELTS (International English Language Testing System).
    • Completion of an approved English language proficiency course.

Admissions Information

Admission Requirements are for the 2023-24 year only, and are based on the Ontario High School System. Holding the minimum admission requirements only establishes eligibility for consideration. The cut-off averages for admission may be considerably higher than the minimum. See also the General Admission and Procedures section of this Calendar. An overall average of at least 70% is normally required to be considered for admission. Some programs may also require specific course prerequisites and prerequisite averages and/or supplementary admission portfolios. Higher averages are required for admission to programs for which the demand for places by qualified applicants exceeds the number of places available. The overall average required for admission is determined each year on a program by program basis. Consult admissions.carleton.ca for further details.

Note: Courses listed as recommended are not mandatory for admission. Students who do not follow the recommendations will not be disadvantaged in the admission process. ACCESS COURSE LIST HERE >>

Additional Requirements

  • A completed application form and application fee.
  • Official transcripts from all high schools and post-secondary institutions you have attended.
  • A personal statement outlining your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and goals for the future.
  • Letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors (recommended but not required).

Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to Carleton University. The university receives a large number of applications each year, and the competition for admission is very strong. Admission decisions are made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account a variety of factors, including academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities.