5 Tips for Your Supplemental Requirements

Many applications ask for extra things from you, like documents, a portfolio, or an interview. These can help you stand out!

You've submitted your application to university — hooray! But now, the program you want needs something extra: a supplemental requirement. Feeling overwhelmed? Don't worry, we have tips to help.

Supplemental requirements come in many forms: profile, essay, audition, portfolio, and interview. What they all have in common is that the university wants to know more about YOU. And that's a good thing. It's your chance to show you're right for the program.

Tip #1: Check the requirements carefully

This may seem obvious, but read the instructions. Make sure you understand what they're asking for.

For example, the School for Advanced Studies in the Arts & Humanities at Western asks for a Statement of Interest that is 750-1,000 words and answers five specific questions. Meeting those requirements is your first step to making a good impression.

Tip #2: Don't leave it to the last minute

Check your deadlines and be sure to mark them down. Starting early means you can think about how to represent yourself in the best way. Plus, you'll have time for tip 5!

Sometimes you can view the questions in advance, like for Western Integrated Science. By checking this early, you'll have lots of time to construct your answers.

Tip #3: Make it relevant

So, you're on your high school hockey team? Or you help out at a local seniors' centre? That's great, those experiences have shaped you into the wonderful person you are today. But how does that link to success in this program?

If the supplemental requirement gives you the chance to talk about your experiences, make it relevant. How has that experience sparked your interest in the program you're applying for? How have the lessons you've learned given you the skills to be a successful student? Show them why and how your experiences make you a good fit.

Tip #4: Be honest

It can be tempting to exaggerate in supplemental requirements. Did you really read all of War and Peace? Are you truly fascinated by trigonometry? If the answer is yes, good for you. But if the answer is no, don't fake it.

Universities want to know about the real you — your strengths and your interests. Being truthful ultimately helps you end up in a program you're more likely to enjoy.

Tip #5: Ask for help

Your teachers, counsellors, parents, and friends are all there to support you. If you have an audition or interview, practice with people you trust. Ask them to proofread your writing or take a look at your portfolio.

As long as it's allowed for your requirement, asking for feedback can help you polish your submission and give you the confidence to move forward in the process. You got this!