OCAD University

OCAD University: Courses, Admission, Tuition Fees, Scholarships and Study in Canada

OCAD University (OCAD U) is a public art and design university located in downtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It offers undergraduate and graduate education across art, design, arts and sciences, with programs including Graphic Design, Illustration, Industrial Design, Digital Futures, Photography, Drawing and Painting, Environmental Design and Creative Writing.

OCAD U's programs combine creative practice, design thinking, technology and critical studies, making the university particularly relevant for students interested in creative and design-focused careers.

OCAD University at a Glance

Information	Details
University	OCAD University
Location	Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Institution Type	Public University
Main Address	100 McCaul Street, Toronto
Language of Instruction	English
Main Academic Areas	Art, Design, Arts & Sciences
Undergraduate Degrees	BFA, BDes, BA
International Tuition	Varies by course load and program
Application	Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC)
Portfolio	Required for BFA and BDes programs
English Requirement	IELTS Academic 6.5 overall, minimum 6.0 in each component
Main Entry	September
International Students	Eligible to apply
Campus	Downtown Toronto

OCAD U's international undergraduate tuition is calculated based on credits. For the 2026–27 international undergraduate schedule, tuition is CAD $1,512.41 per 0.25 credit, before applicable ancillary and other program-related fees.

About OCAD University

OCAD University is located in the heart of downtown Toronto, giving students access to one of Canada's largest creative, technology and business centres.

The university focuses heavily on art, design and creative education. Its programs are structured around studio practice, design projects, research, technology and critical thinking.

OCAD U's undergraduate faculties include the Faculty of Art, Faculty of Design, and Faculty of Arts & Sciences.

Programs at OCAD University

OCAD U offers undergraduate programs leading to Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Design and Bachelor of Arts degrees.

Faculty of Design

The Faculty of Design offers programs including:

• Advertising
• Environmental Design
• Graphic Design
• Illustration
• Industrial Design
• Material Art & Design
• Environmental Design with Interior Design specialization

These programs explore visual communication, products, environments, materials and design processes.

Graphic Design

Graphic Design students explore visual communication through typography, branding, digital media, publication and other forms of communication design.

The program can help students develop creative and technical skills for careers in design studios, advertising, publishing, technology and related industries.

Industrial Design

Industrial Design focuses on designing products and systems for users and communities.

Students can work with materials, prototypes, digital tools and design methodologies.

Environmental Design

Environmental Design examines how people interact with physical spaces.

Students can explore architecture-related design, interior environments, public spaces and other forms of spatial design.

Faculty of Art

The Faculty of Art offers programs including:

• Drawing & Painting
• Experimental Animation
• Integrated Media
• Photography
• Printmaking & Publications
• Sculpture/Installation

These programs allow students to develop individual artistic practices while exploring contemporary approaches to art and media.

Photography

Photography students can explore photographic practice, visual storytelling, image-making and contemporary photography.

The program can support creative development through studio practice, experimentation and critical study.

Experimental Animation

Experimental Animation combines animation practice with artistic experimentation.

Students can explore animation techniques, digital tools, storytelling and moving-image practices.

Faculty of Arts & Sciences

The Faculty of Arts & Sciences offers programs including:

• Creative Writing
• Digital Futures
• Indigenous Visual Culture
• Visual and Critical Studies
• Criticism & Curatorial Practice
• Liberal Studies

Digital Futures

Digital Futures explores the relationship between creativity, technology and society.

Students can work across areas involving digital media, technology, design and emerging creative practices.

This can be relevant for students interested in the intersection of technology and creative industries.

Admission Requirements for International Students

OCAD U's international admission requirements include academic qualifications, English-language proficiency and supplemental materials depending on the program.

For international high-school applicants, OCAD U states that applicants generally need an educational qualification equivalent to Ontario Grade 12 with an overall average of at least 70%.

However, meeting the minimum academic requirement does not guarantee admission because OCAD U states that undergraduate admission is competitive and places significant emphasis on portfolios or other supplemental materials.

Portfolio Requirements

The portfolio is an important part of the OCAD U application for studio-based programs.

For BFA and BDes programs, applicants are generally asked to submit:

• 8–10 finished pieces
• Work in a range of media
• A sketchbook or process document
• A statement of intent of up to 300 words
• A short description for each piece

Some programs have additional portfolio guidelines.

Applicants should therefore prepare their portfolio well before the application deadline.

Visual and Critical Studies Admission

The BA in Visual and Critical Studies has a different supplemental requirement.

Instead of the standard studio portfolio, applicants submit:

• A writing sample
• Creative profile
• Official transcripts

OCAD U provides separate instructions for this program.

English-Language Requirements

International applicants may need to demonstrate English-language proficiency.

OCAD U's current requirements include:

IELTS Academic

• Overall: 6.5
• Listening: 6.0
• Reading: 6.0
• Writing: 6.0
• Speaking: 6.0

Other accepted tests include TOEFL, Duolingo, PTE Academic, CAEL and COPE, with specific minimum scores for each test.

Applicants should check whether they qualify for an English-language exemption before submitting test results.

How to Apply to OCAD University

Step 1: Choose a Program

Review OCAD U's undergraduate programs and identify the degree and specialization that matches your interests.

Step 2: Review Academic Requirements

Check the academic requirements for your educational system and program.

International applicants should confirm that their secondary qualification is equivalent to Ontario Grade 12.

Step 3: Prepare Your Portfolio or Supplemental Material

BFA and BDes applicants should prepare the required portfolio.

Visual and Critical Studies applicants should prepare the required writing sample and creative profile.

Step 4: Apply Through OUAC

OCAD U states that undergraduate applications are submitted online through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC).

Step 5: Submit Supplemental Materials

After applying, applicants receive instructions for submitting their portfolio or other supplemental materials.

Step 6: Submit English Test Results

International applicants who need English-language proficiency evidence should submit an accepted test result meeting OCAD U's requirements.

Step 7: Receive the Admission Decision

Applicants should monitor their application communications and complete any outstanding requirements.

Step 8: Accept the Offer

Students who receive an offer must accept it according to the instructions and deadline provided.

Step 9: Prepare for Canada

International students should arrange their study permit, accommodation, finances, health coverage and travel plans.

Application Deadlines

OCAD U's undergraduate entry point is primarily September, and the university recommends applying by early February for its regular undergraduate admission cycle.

OCAD U has also introduced a Winter intake for international students, with January 2027 entry available under specific eligibility conditions.

Students should check the current admissions calendar for the exact deadline applicable to their intake and program.

Tuition Fees for International Students

OCAD U's tuition depends on the student's program, international status and course load.

For the 2026 Summer international undergraduate fee schedule, tuition is listed at CAD $1,512.41 per 0.25 credit. The corresponding 2.50-credit term tuition is CAD $15,124.10 before additional fees.

For a typical full-time academic load across Fall and Winter, students should use OCAD U's current fee schedule and cost calculator rather than applying a single generic tuition figure.

Additional expenses can include:

• Ancillary fees
• Course and program fees
• Materials
• Laptop program fees
• Health coverage
• Accommodation
• Food
• Transportation
• Personal expenses

OCAD U specifically notes that program and course-related fees may be additional to the published tuition totals.

Scholarships and Financial Support

OCAD U provides financial information and funding resources for students.

International students should check the university's current scholarship and funding opportunities because eligibility and award values can vary by program and intake.

Applicants should also consider external scholarships and funding opportunities available to international students studying in Canada.

Accommodation

OCAD U does not operate its own residence. Instead, students commonly use private student residences, co-operative housing, homestays or shared rental accommodation in Toronto.

Because OCAD U is located downtown, students have access to a large range of private accommodation options.

Students should research accommodation early because housing availability and prices can vary significantly across Toronto.

Campus and Student Life

OCAD U's campus is integrated into downtown Toronto.

The university environment combines studios, classrooms, laboratories, galleries, creative spaces and student services.

Students can participate in:

• Student organizations
• Exhibitions
• Creative projects
• Workshops
• Academic events
• Industry events
• Cultural activities

The downtown location also provides access to Toronto's broader arts, design, technology and cultural communities.

Career Opportunities

OCAD U highlights career paths for graduates across a wide range of creative and professional industries.

Its alumni work as:

• Designers
• Illustrators
• Animators
• Art directors
• Photographers
• Curators
• Writers
• Entrepreneurs
• Creative professionals in technology and media

The university states that career services begin in the first year through its Centre for Emerging Artists and Designers.

Studying in Toronto

Toronto is Canada's largest city and provides students with access to a broad professional and cultural environment.

For OCAD U students, the location provides proximity to:

• Design studios
• Advertising agencies
• Technology companies
• Art galleries
• Museums
• Publishing organizations
• Film and media companies
• Cultural institutions

Students should also account for Toronto's housing and living expenses when preparing their overall study budget.

International Student Support

OCAD U provides dedicated support for international applicants and students.

The international application process includes guidance relating to:

• Application
• Portfolio submission
• English proficiency
• Admission
• Study permits
• Provincial Attestation Letters
• Course registration

For eligible students, OCAD U requests the Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) on the student's behalf after the student accepts the offer and pays the required confirmation deposit.

Research and Creative Practice

Research at OCAD U frequently connects creative practice with technology, culture, design and social issues.

Students can explore research through studio work, design projects, interdisciplinary study and faculty-led research.

Graduate-level research opportunities extend into areas such as contemporary art, design, digital futures, inclusive design and strategic foresight.

Experiential Learning

OCAD U's programs emphasize practical creative work.

Depending on the program, students may gain experience through:

• Studio projects
• Design challenges
• Exhibitions
• Workshops
• Industry collaborations
• Research projects
• Community-based projects

These experiences can help students build portfolios and develop practical skills alongside academic knowledge.

Who Should Consider OCAD University?

OCAD U may be relevant to students interested in:

• Fine arts
• Graphic design
• Industrial design
• Illustration
• Photography
• Animation
• Environmental design
• Digital Futures
• Creative writing
• Visual culture
• Creative technology
• Design research

Students should pay particular attention to the portfolio or supplemental application requirements because these are central to admission for many undergraduate programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is OCAD University located?

OCAD University is located at 100 McCaul Street in downtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Is OCAD University public?

Yes. OCAD University is a public university in Ontario.

Does OCAD University accept international students?

Yes. International students can apply to OCAD U through the university's international admissions process.

What programs does OCAD University offer?

OCAD U offers programs in areas including art, design, creative writing, digital futures, visual and critical studies, environmental design, graphic design, illustration, industrial design, photography and animation.

Does OCAD University require a portfolio?

Yes. Portfolios are required for BFA and BDes studio programs. OCAD U generally asks for 8–10 finished pieces along with process work and a statement of intent.

What is the minimum academic average for international applicants?

OCAD U states that international high-school applicants generally need an Ontario Grade 12 equivalent with a minimum 70% overall average.

What IELTS score does OCAD University require?

OCAD U lists IELTS Academic 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each component.

Does OCAD University offer Computer Science?

OCAD U does not operate as a conventional computer-science university. Its technology-focused undergraduate options include Digital Futures, which combines technology, creativity and design.

Does OCAD University have student residence?

OCAD U does not operate its own residence. Students use private student residences, co-operative housing, homestays and shared rentals.

How much is OCAD University's international tuition?

International undergraduate tuition is calculated according to credits. The 2026 schedule lists CAD $1,512.41 per 0.25 credit before applicable additional fees.

Can international students apply through OUAC?

Yes. OCAD U states that undergraduate applications are submitted online through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre.

Final Takeaway

OCAD University is a public art and design university in downtown Toronto, offering undergraduate programs across art, design, creative technology, visual culture and related fields.

Its undergraduate admissions process differs from many traditional universities because portfolio and supplemental materials play an important role in admission, particularly for BFA and BDes programs. International applicants generally need a Grade 12-equivalent qualification with a 70% overall average, plus the required English-language proficiency evidence where applicable.

For international undergraduate students, OCAD U's 2026 fee schedule lists tuition at CAD $1,512.41 per 0.25 credit, with additional ancillary, course and program-related costs potentially applying.

The university's downtown Toronto location, studio-focused education and programs spanning art, design and technology provide students with opportunities to build creative, technical and professional skills.

Before applying, students should verify the latest program requirements, portfolio guidelines, English-language requirements, tuition, application deadlines and international student requirements on OCAD University's official admissions pages.