Campus Tours are Back!

Posted: Monday, January 21, 2019 - 08:00

Campus tours have officially returned for the 2019 season Future Gryphons! Our tours showcase some of our student residences, lecture halls, dining facilities, the library, athletic facilities, the main administration building, and several general academic areas.

Whether you’re deciding where to apply, have already applied or even if you’ve been accepted, campus tours are the best way to determine if you can picture yourself here in the fall! Plus, our Tour Guides are all current U of G students, so you can be sure that you’re learning all the in’s and out’s about life as a gryphon from the best source!

We offer tours at 10:00am and 1:30pm Monday through Friday, and at 1:30pm most Saturdays. Each tour runs approximately two hours, and visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather. Book your campus tour today!

Telethon Tips

Posted: Friday, January 18, 2019 - 07:00

Our annual Telethon is your chance to connect one-on-one with a current U of G student and ask any questions you have about life and studies at the University of Guelph! This year it will run from January 31 until March 8, 2019.

Today we’re sharing our top Telethon tips so you can make the most of your time on the phone with our Telethoners.

TIP #1 – Answer the phone!

Starting January 31, our dedicated army of student ambassadors, who we refer to as “Telethoners”, will be calling YOU (yes – on the phone!) to invite you to our spring events and chat one-on-one about the program(s) you’ve applied to, our campus, and student life. You’ll be able to ask any questions you may still have about our programs and what life at Guelph is really like!

TIP #2 – Prepare your questions

Our Telethoners are prepared to answer questions about student life, residence, campus buildings and can even answer your program-specific questions. Still not sure what to ask when we call? Check out the list of sample questions below for inspiration!

Admissions

• What is the Student Profile Form and how do I submit it?
• When will offers be sent out?

Residence

• What residence did you live in? What was it like?
• If I decide to commute or live off campus, how can I make friends?
• What kinds of activities are organized in residence?
• How are residence rooms decided? What about roommates?

Student Life

• Are there any clubs for [insert your interests here] that I can be a part of?
• Can I study abroad in another country?
• What student support services are there on campus?

Campus

• How long will it take me to get from one class to another?
• What kinds of events happen on campus?
• What is there to do in the city of Guelph?

Academics

• What is the program like?
• What has been your favourite class?
• What kinds of co-op jobs are available for my program?
• Where can I go if I need help with a class?
• Do you have any course recommendations?

TIP #3 – Know when we might call

After January 31 we will be making calls from Monday – Thursday from 5-9 pm, and 11 am – 5 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. We will not make any calls on Fridays or during our students’ reading week which runs from February 18-22.

Miss your call? No problem! We’ll try again later.

TIP #4 – Feedback is appreciated!

This one is self-explanatory, but you should know, we appreciate your feedback and we know our callers do too!

TIP #5 – We’re always here for you

We strive to keep you as informed and supported as possible during the application process. From our ongoing chats, to answering questions via our social media platforms, email and over the phone, we’re always here for our Future Gryphons!

Please note: our Telethoners cannot answer admission questions related to whether you’ll be accepted, if your marks are good enough, etc. nor can they look up the status of your application!

Attention Future Gryphons: Today is the Early Application Deadline!

Posted: Wednesday, January 16, 2019 - 07:00

We repeat, THE EARLY APPLICATION DEADLINE IS TODAY!

If you are a Canadian high school student hoping to be considered in our early round of admissions, please submit your application through OUAC today. These early offers will be appearing in mailboxes from late January – early February.

In this first round of offers we are looking at your top six completed 4U/M courses, including required subjects. Where not available, we will use a combination of the top six completed 4U/M and 3U/M courses, including required subjects. Offers in this round are typically made to applicants with an admission average exceeding the estimated cut-off range for the program applied to.

For a full explanation of when offers go out, what grades are used when, and what the cut-offs will be, check out our Admission Plan webpage.
The regular application deadline for Canadian applicants is March 1, 2019 so if you can’t apply today, you do still have time. Just keep in mind you won’t be hearing from us until later in March, at the earliest.

The deadline for international applicants to apply for fall 2019 admission is Thursday, February 15, 2019. International applicants can visit the Admission Services website for details on how to apply and check our calendar for additional information on upcoming deadlines.

That’s it for reminders today #FutureGryphons. Be sure to check out our recent article on upcoming deadlines for things to keep in mind as we move through the application cycle.    

Tips Tuesday - Episode 6: Chat with us

Posted: Tuesday, January 15, 2019 - 08:00

Did you know that we offer both general and program-specific Snapchat chats? That’s right Future Gryphons!

Here’s why you should join our next chat:

1. It’s a simple way to do Q & A in real-time

To join our chats, follow “uofgadmission” on Snapchat. During the chat time, you’ll send us your question via the chat feature and we will answer them on our story.

What are you waiting for Future Gryphons? Add our Snap Code and ask us your questions anytime.

2: Plan ahead using our schedule

Have questions about our academic programs, their highlights, course loads, and our student supports?

Check out our chat schedule and join the chat that best suits you! We offer 1-2 chats every week until the end of May.

3: We offer program-specific chat times

The program chats feature faculty, counsellors and current U of G students who would LOVE to help answer your program-specific questions! Our chat schedule outline what programs we’re chatting about and when. Today we're chatting about our science programs so be sure to check it out if you are interested in studying science at U of G!

4: You can just listen + learn

Even if you aren’t sure what to ask, you are always welcome to simply watch our story, and observe what your fellow #futuregryphons are asking.

We might answer questions you never knew you had.

Chat soon, friends!

Program Spotlight: Associate Diploma in Turfgrass Management

Posted: Friday, January 4, 2019 - 09:11

Switching gears from our bachelor’s degree programs – today we’re sharing the five main facts about our Associate Diploma in Turfgrass Management.

1. What is an Associate Diploma?

Our Associate Diplomas provide both applied and practical education on the latest technologies in a specific field. Students will gain industry experience through classroom lectures, labs and through exposure to research.

These programs are typically two years and include an industry work placement. For a complete list of our Associate Diploma programs visit our website.

2. Experience hands-on learning

Our Turfgrass Management program utilizes University of Guelph faculty, staff and industry professionals as well as the resources of the Guelph Turfgrass Institute including the grounds, workshops and laboratory facilities of the Institute.

You will combine practical and scientific study with hands-on learning through field trips, projects and a summer internship. Visit the program page on our website to check out sample first year courses.

3. Look forward to exciting career opportunities

Turfgrass management is a dynamic and growing industry. Those who study at the Guelph Turfgrass Institute can look forward to a successful career with global opportunities in:

• Sports field management
• Consulting
• Golf course superintending
• Lawn care
• Sod production
• Sales

4. Transfer opportunities are available

Turfgrass Management students with a cumulative average of 70% or higher may qualify for acceptance into a degree program with advanced standing. Visit the Admission Services website for more information.

5. Study on the U of G main campus

While U of G offers several Associate Diploma programs, Turfgrass Management is the only one that allows you to study on the main University of Guelph campus. This means that during your two years of study, you can join clubs, play intramurals, dine on campus, take advantage of student supports and truly get the university experience.

Join the internationally renowned Ontario Agricultural College and study Turfgrass Management at the University of Guelph. If you are interested in this program, be sure to visit our website and don’t forget to fill out our Background Information Form.

New Year, New Dates and Deadlines to be Aware of

Posted: Thursday, January 3, 2019 - 16:23

School is back in session and we know you’ve got a lot on your mind. That’s why we’re going to keep this simple and give you some info on important things to keep on your radar if you’re hoping to join the gryphon family in 2019.

1. Our early application deadline is coming soon!

The early application deadline is January 16 (January 15th for international applicants) so if you’re hoping to be considered in our first round of admission offers, plan on submitting your application through OUAC ASAP.

The regular application deadline is March 1, so if you can’t get your application completed for the January deadline, you do still have some time. Just keep in mind the later you apply, the later you will hear from us.

Check out our Admission Plan for a full explanation of when offers go out, what grades are used when, and estimated cut-offs to aim for.

2. Scholarship applications are due soon

We’ll be publishing more info about some of our great scholarship opportunities in the coming days, but for now, feel free to visit the Student Financial Services website to learn about our entrance scholarships.

A special application is required for some of the larger scholarships (such as The President’s Scholarship) with an application deadline of January 25. We strongly encourage you begin your application for these larger awards NOW!

3. The student profile form (SPF) is available online now

The SPF is a great opportunity for you provide us with some extra info about yourself. Use it to tell us about your high school experience – your involvement, your struggles, your extracurriculars… include what you want! Check out our recent SPF article for more details and keep in mind any SPF forms must be submitted by May 1, 2019 (March 1 for international applicants). 

4. Chat with us!

We’ve got a bunch of general and program-specific Snapchat chats lined up for the coming months as well as many helpful staff and student volunteers just itching to answer your questions! Visit our Online Chat page for a full list of chat dates.

5. Visit us!

Do more than just picture yourself at Guelph – come and visit our campus!

We offer campus tours led by current students, which include visits to residences, lecture halls, the library, the athletic facilities, and more.

Winter tours run from January 14 – April 5, and March Break tours run from March 11-15. Visit our Campus Tours page to book your tour today!

You can also visit us for Campus Day on Sunday, March 24. This is a full day open house where you and your family can tour campus, check out residence, attend info sessions and meet current students, faculty and staff. Registration and event details will be available in late January.

 

That's it for now #FutureGryphons. Be sure to follow us on social media and check back here for more important dates, deadlines and updates!

Happy Holidays from U of G

Posted: Tuesday, December 25, 2018 - 08:00

Wishing all you #FutureGryphons a safe and happy holiday season!

Why apply to U of G over the holidays?

Posted: Thursday, December 20, 2018 - 14:30

The holidays are basically here, which means our January 16th deadline to be considered in U of G’s first round of offers is just around the corner!

The break is a great time to visit the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) and begin applying to university! Here are 8 key reasons we think the holidays are the perfect time to send in your application to U of G:

1. We offer program flexibility

We offer 80 majors and a full list of minors to allow you to customize your education. Many programs offer a common first year of courses, so you can explore your interests before settling on a major.

We’ve broken down each of our programs on our website so be sure to check them out over the holidays!

2. We have the best campus food in Canada

Our campus food has been voted #1! With 7 dinning halls, 13 coffee houses, and 2 campus bakeries, you will never go hungry here. Watch our students sample foods from across campus on our Facebook page and if you come for a tour, we recommend staying for a bite to eat!

3. We are one of Canada’s Top Comprehensive Universities

U of G has received top marks for student experience for several years running. Everything we do here at Guelph helps make your time in university both fulfilling and unforgettable.

Experience first-rate academics, thought-provoking professors and supportive staff, and a friendly community that is like no other. At Guelph you’re not a number, you’re a Gryphon.

4. Join the Gryphon Family

In case we hadn’t mentioned it, the gryphon is our mascot, which signifies strength and wisdom. Once your application is submitted, you are on your way to becoming a #FutureGryphon and joining a community that embodies the gryphon spirit on the daily. We can’t think of anything better!

5. Residence is guaranteed…

…If you accept your offer and pay the $750 deposit fee by June 3rd!

6. We attract a TON of research funding

Guelph receives approximately 146 million in annual research funding – that’s more than any other university in Canada without a medical school!

This means we offer plenty of support for research projects, field courses, and countless other research-based experiential learning opportunities.

7. Give yourself time to apply for scholarships

Over $23 million was awarded to 7,950 students in 2017/18. That’s a lot of dough folks! Check out the Student Financial Services webpage and get a head start on applying to our scholarships over the holidays. The deadline to apply to our top scholarships is January 25th.

8. Make U of G a MAJOR part of your 2019!

Not only will applying to the U of G over the holidays cross something off your 2019 to-do list, it will give you more time to enjoy your last semester of high school, improve your grades, tune into our chats to have your questions answered, and to schedule a campus tour in the New Year!

Happy Holidays #FutureGryphons, we hope to meet you in the New Year!

Wisdom Wednesday: Breaking Down our Admission Rounds

Posted: Wednesday, December 19, 2018 - 12:17

Applied to Guelph and aren’t sure what comes next? This one’s for you Future Gryphons. Today we’re breaking down our admission rounds and describing what courses and grades we’re looking at in each.

Here it goes!

Round Zero

This is our *unofficial* first round of offers. In late December/early January we send out a very small number of offers to students we call “high fliers”. These students typically have an admission average well above our estimated cutoff range. 

Round One

• Round one typically takes place from late January to late February. Here is what we look at when considering students in this round:
• Your top 6 completed 4U/M courses (including required courses)
• A combination of both 3U/M and 4U/M courses (including required) IF you haven’t completed 6 4U/M courses
• Your top 5 3U/M courses (including pre-requisites) ONLY IF you haven’t completed any 4U/M courses
• Note: Averages typically must exceed our estimated cutoffs to be admitted in this round

Round Two

• Offers in Round two will go out from early March to mid-April
• In this round we are looking at:
• Your top completed 4U/M courses (including required courses)
• A combination of 3U/M courses and 4U/M courses (including required)
• Note: Admission averages of students admitted in this round are typically in the higher end of our estimated cutoff range
• *If you don’t receive an offer in this second round, BE SURE to complete a Student Profile Form by May 1, 2019. We encourage all applicants to complete the SPF.

Round Three

• Our third and final round of offers will go out from late April to mid-May
• This is what we consider in this final round:
• Your top 4U/M completed courses, including the required courses for the program you applied to
• We will consider your application and review your completed SPF in this round if your average is over 75% and within 5% of our determined cut-off
• Note: Averages considered in this round are typically within the cutoff range

Facts to keep in mind:

1. Our estimated cut-off ranges are based on the admission averages from the previous three years of admitted students
2. We will not look at individual course grades; just the cumulative average of your top 6 courses (including required courses)
3. When we say “required courses” we are referring to the courses that are required for entrance into the degree program you applied to
4. You may get an Alternate Offer in rounds 1 or 2 if you didn’t meet the cut-off for the program you applied to. For example, if you don’t meet the cut-off for Bio-Medical Science, we may offer you entry into the general Biological Sciences program

There you have it friends – now you have an idea of when you can expect to see an offer from the U of G. In the meantime, be sure to follow us on social media to discover more about our programs, student supports and campus life.

Program Spotlight: Bachelor of Science in Agriculture

Posted: Tuesday, December 18, 2018 - 11:20

If you are interested in joining the Agriculture industry and tackling the challenge of feeding the world’s growing population, you’ve come to the right place. Today we’re breaking down our Bachelor of Science in Agriculture program.

3 unique majors

In our common first year you will take courses on plants, animals, agri-food systems and agroecology so you can start to figure out what interests you. You then have the flexibility to select one of the following 3 majors in your second year:

Honours Agriculture: Combine agricultural sciences with agri-food business courses and tailor your degree to your interests.

Animal Science: Focus on animal nutrition, welfare, genetics and biotechnology.

Crop, Horticulture and Turfgrass Sciences: Learn about breeding improved crop varieties and the production of field crops for food, fuel and/or biomaterials.

4 jobs for every Ontario Agricultural College (OAC) grad

There are currently four jobs for every graduate of U of G’s Ontario Agricultural College. Yes, you read that right – there are more jobs than people qualified to fill them! A recent report found that 44% of food employers and 56% of agriculture employers project an increase in the average number of expected new hires over the next 5 years.

Graduates from the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture program will be qualified for jobs in various fields including livestock nutrition, research, agricultural consulting, agricultural journalism and beyond.

Feed the world’s growing population

You’ve heard the stat: By 2050 there will be nine billion people in the world to feed. In preparation for those additional mouths to feed, U of G is focused on improving the food system. In the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture program, you will develop solutions for feeding the world using science, ingenuity and a combined passion for plants, animals and the land.

Join Canada’s most renowned agricultural college

The Ontario Agricultural College (OAC) is the University of Guelph’s founding college. It is also Canada’s largest and most renowned Agricultural College and is recognized internationally. As global leaders in education and research, there is no better choice for agricultural studies than the U of G.

Take advantage of experiential learning opportunities

Benefit from conducting meaningful research in academic, industry or community settings through our Applied Research courses. Prepare for professional work through first-hand investigation and analysis in Field Courses and Professional Practice courses designed just for you. No matter which opportunities you take advantage of, you will be supported and evaluated by faculty and professionals who will inspire you to reach your full potential.

Join one of the largest industries in Canada and take on the agri-food revolution. Apply to our Bachelor of Science in Agriculture program today. Visit our website for more information on the program and our Ontario Agricultural College.