OCAD University Overview

OCAD University (Ontario College of Art & Design University) is Canada’s premier art and design institution located in downtown Toronto. It offers innovative programs that foster creativity and critical thinking, focusing on arts, design, and digital media education.

OCAD University Offered Programs

  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
  • Bachelor of Design (BDes)
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA)
  • Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
  • Master of Design (MDes)
  • Master of Arts (MA) in Criticism & Curatorial Practice
  • Master of Arts (MA) in Contemporary Art, Design & New Media Art Histories
  • PhD in Art & Design (collaborative program)

OCAD University Tuition Fees

Program TypeDomestic Tuition (CAD)International Tuition (CAD)
Undergraduate$7,300 – $8,300$30,000
Graduate$22,600 – $23,300$52,400 – $73,100

OCAD University Required Documents and Admission Requirements

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent for undergraduate applicants
  • Minimum grade 70% in English and other required courses
  • Portfolio of creative work
  • Letters of recommendation (optional)
  • Statement of Intent (optional)
  • Proof of English proficiency for international students
  • Graduate applicants need a bachelor’s degree, portfolio, letters of recommendation, statement of intent, and CV

OCAD University Deadlines

Application TypeDeadline
Undergraduate Fall IntakeFebruary 1
Graduate Fall IntakeMay 8
Final UndergraduateAugust 15
Final GraduateMarch 15

OCAD University Scholarships Offerings

  • Entrance scholarships for undergraduates between $500 and $5,000 annually
  • Sir Edmund Walker Award for fourth-year master’s students ($10,000)
  • Inclusive Design Scholarship for international students ($3,500 annually)
  • In-study scholarships awarded to students with at least 60% average

OCAD University Rankings

Ranking CategoryPosition
Top Art & Design School in CanadaTop 10
QS World University Ranking by Subject (Art & Design)Top 100
North American Art & Design SchoolsTop 150

OCAD University Acceptance Rate

The university’s acceptance rate is around 65%, reflecting a moderately selective admission process.

OCAD University Student Campus Life

OCAD U features over 200 student organizations, cultural events, workshops, and exhibitions. The university encourages creative collaboration and community engagement.

Accommodation options include:

  • Parkside Residence, about 1.6 km from campus, furnished rooms
  • Avant Residence, 1.3 km from campus, modern furnished units
  • HOEM Residence, 1.6 km from campus, all-inclusive apartments with creative spaces

OCAD University Cost of Living

Toronto has a moderate to high cost of living. Students may choose on-campus residences or rent off-campus apartments, depending on preference and budget.

Expense CategoryMonthly Estimate (CAD)
On-campus Housing & Meals$1,200 – $1,400
Off-campus Rent & Utilities$1,000 – $1,300
Food and Groceries$300 – $500
Transportation$100 – $200
Personal Expenses$150 – $250
Total Estimated Cost$1,750 – $2,400

OCAD University Contact Informations

OCAD University Online Application

Undergraduate applications are submitted via the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre. Graduate applications are made through the OCAD University Graduate Studies portal. Applicants should submit all required documents by deadlines to ensure timely consideration.