Getting Your Application Ducks in a Row

By Billie-Ann Woo

The hunt is on! Set yourself up for success by spending some time getting organized for this next step in your academic journey. Here are 5 tips to help you in your application prep:

1. Set out your plan
   Each school can ask for different things. Don’t get caught in the marsh – set up a checklist for each school that outlines all the application requirements in as much detail as you can. For example, how many reference letters do they need? How recent of a transcript do they require?
2. Gather Your Resources
   Make a list of all the documents you need and how many copies you will need. Ensure that you have a copy for “just in case” as well!
3. Action in Action
   Depending on the program or school you are applying to, there may be an activity participation requirement. Our Special Education Assistant Program requires 50hrs of volunteer time working with children and a letter of suitability. If your desired Program is similar, do you have the hours? Start now and ensure that you’ll have the paperwork in time for applications.
4. Financing
   Although this is not explicitly a part of the application process – do you have a financing plan? If you are requiring loans or funding, find out if and/or how much you are eligible for and what applications you will need to secure financing. Don’t forget about scholarships and bursaries which have application processes too.
5. Ready…set…click!
   If any of the schools you are applying to have an online system, have your account set up in advance and be familiar with the navigation as well as the types of files they will accept. Avoid the last minute potential website troubles and apply well before the deadline.

Good luck!