university of toronto supplemental essay

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Supplementary Application Form

Who Needs to Complete a Supplementary Application Form?

The Supplementary Application Form (SAF) is only a requirement if you applied to one of the following programs and is important for both admission and scholarship consideration:

• Management (regular and co-op)
• Management & International Business (co-op)
• Double Degree (BBA/HBSc) (regular and co-op)
• International Development Studies (co-op)
• Music Industry and Technology
• Paramedicine

What is a SAF?

A SAF helps us get to know you better. What is your story? We welcome students with varied lived experiences and whose activities demonstrate learning and/or leadership potential beyond their academic records. The SAF is a space for you to tell us about your life, interests, and goals for attending U of T Scarborough. We are looking for engaged students of any background who will bring leadership, passion, and diverse perspectives. 

At the University of Toronto Scarborough, we welcome students with varied lived experiences and whose activities demonstrate learning and/or leadership potential beyond their academic records. We believe strongly that every applicant should be given an equitable opportunity to join our learning community. Please fill out the SAF to the best of your ability so we can get to know more about who you are and what you have learned from your experiences (rather than simply listing how many extracurricular activities you have participated in). Your responses will be read by university staff with a diverse set of backgrounds and an anti-discriminatory lens. 

We strive to make our processes as accessible as possible and provide accommodations for applicants with disabilities, in accordance with the principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require any accommodation in the supplementary application process, please contact [email protected] .

SAF Deadlines

The current deadlines to submit the SAF can be found on the Dates & Deadlines page . If you’ve already submitted an application for admission, please refer to the SAF deadline listed in your JOIN U of T portal . We encourage you to submit your SAF as soon as possible for earlier consideration. The sooner that we receive your SAF, the earlier you will be considered for admission. The SAF is available through the JOIN U of T portal  in late October/early November each year.

SAF Requirements

“Scarborough is a meeting place of peoples from around the world where we engage with local and global challenges and opportunities…embracing and promoting the enriching contributions that come from the diverse backgrounds, ways of knowing, ideas, perspectives, and experiences represented in our community.”    —Inspiring Inclusive Excellence: A Strategic Vision for the University of Toronto Scarborough (2020–2025)    Everyone has a purpose. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?    At the University of Toronto Scarborough, we welcome students with varied lived experiences and whose activities demonstrate learning and/or leadership potential beyond their academic records. We believe strongly that every applicant should be given an equitable opportunity to join our learning community.    The SAF is a space for you to tell us about your life, your interests, and your goals for attending U of T. The questions are designed to amplify your unique qualifications and contributions beyond your academic transcripts as we consider your application for admission.

We strive to make our processes as accessible as possible and provide accommodations for applicants with disabilities, in accordance with the principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require any accommodations in the supplementary application process, please contact [email protected] .    Please fill out the form to the best of your ability so we can get to know more about who you are and what you have learned from your experiences (rather than simply listing how many extracurricular activities you have participated in). Your responses will be read by University staff with a diverse set of backgrounds and an anti-discriminatory lens.

“Scarborough is a meeting place of peoples from around the world where we engage with local and global challenges and opportunities…embracing and promoting the enriching contributions that come from the diverse backgrounds, ways of knowing, ideas, perspectives, and experiences represented in our community.”    —Inspiring Inclusive Excellence: A Strategic Vision for the University of Toronto Scarborough (2020–2025)    Everyone has a purpose. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?    At the University of Toronto Scarborough, we welcome students with varied lived experiences and whose activities demonstrate learning and/or leadership potential beyond their academic records. We believe strongly that every applicant should be given an equitable opportunity to join our learning community.    This form is a space for you to tell us about your life, your interests, and your goals for attending U of T. The questions are designed to amplify your unique qualifications and contributions beyond your academic transcripts as we consider your application for admission.

We strive to make our processes as accessible as possible and provide accommodations for applicants with disabilities, in accordance with the principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require any accommodations in the supplementary application process, please contact [email protected] .    Please fill out the form to the best of your ability so we can get to know more about who you are and what you have learned from your experiences (rather than simply listing how many extracurricular activities you have participated in). Your responses will be read by University staff with a diverse set of backgrounds and an anti-discriminatory lens. 

Admission Interview

In addition to the SAF, an interview is required for admission to Co-op Management & International Business. Once your application and SAF have been reviewed, you may be invited to register for an interview. Submit your SAF as early as possible to ensure interview consideration.  

 “Scarborough is a meeting place of peoples from around the world where we engage with local and global challenges and opportunities…embracing and promoting the enriching contributions that come from the diverse backgrounds, ways of knowing, ideas, perspectives, and experiences represented in our community.”    —Inspiring Inclusive Excellence: A Strategic Vision for the University of Toronto Scarborough (2020–2025)    Everyone has a purpose. Everyone has a story. What’s yours?    At the University of Toronto Scarborough, we welcome students with varied lived experiences and whose activities demonstrate learning and/or leadership potential beyond their academic records. We believe strongly that every applicant should be given an equitable opportunity to join our learning community.    This form is a safe space for you to tell us about your life, your interests, and your goals for attending U of T. The questions are designed to amplify your unique qualifications and contributions beyond your academic transcripts as we consider your application for admission. We strive to make our processes as accessible as possible and provide accommodations for applicants with disabilities, in accordance with the principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require any accommodation in the supplementary application process, please contact [email protected] .    Please fill out the form to the best of your ability so we can get to know more about who you are and what you have learned from your experiences (rather than simply listing how many extracurricular activities you have participated in). Your responses will be read by University staff with a diverse set of backgrounds and an anti-discriminatory lens. 

The SAF for International Development Studies (co-op) will include sections about: 

Extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership potential and/or learning. 

Lived experiences. 

Why you have chosen to pursue International Development Studies and any experiences that sparked your interest. 

The IDS Co-op Admissions team utilizes the SAF to assess an applicant’s suitability for the program. We are looking for individuals who are curious about the world, passionate about social justice, willing to interrogate their own privilege and the systems we live in, and able to communicate their ideas with clear writing skills in the SAF. 

The Music Industry and Technology program has limited enrolment. Applicants will be evaluated on their academic performance and a Supplementary Application Form (SAF) that includes three primary criteria:

• Background and experiences in music.
• Goals and ambitions in music.
• Why you're interested in the Music Industry and Technology program.

In addition, the SAF provides an opportunity to submit links to musical work (via services like Soundcloud or YouTube).

The SAF for Paramedicine intends to capture the information about the applicant, including the following: 

Why you’re interested in Paramedicine as a career. 

Non-Academic Requirements

All students admitted to the Paramedicine program will need to meet the following requirements for the Centennial College portion of the program, which begins in second year. 

• Medical doctor's statement certifying a standard of health acceptable to both Centennial College and the clinical agencies, as outlined in the Ambulance Act. This includes full immunization and vaccination review which involves appointments with a Requisite Nurse, your family Doctor, lab work, follow-ups etc. Additional cost may be incurred by the student in order to meet this requirement. This is required during years two and three. It is advised that you begin this process during the summer, prior to your first semester at Centennial as it can take some time to get all of your immunizations up to date. 
• Class "G" driver's license; a class "F" license is highly recommended prior to third year. A class "F" license is required for employment with an ambulance service in Ontario. 
• Valid Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) Health Care Provider course. BCLS Certification is an annual certification that must be valid for the duration of the school year (September 1 to May 1) of years two and three. 
• Standard First Aid certification. SFA certification is valid for three years and must be valid for the duration of the school year (September 1 to May 1) of years two and three. 
• Lifting Evaluation, with a partner, of up to a 210-pound patient using various Paramedic equipment. (Students are encouraged to contact Physical Education and Athletics at U of T Scarborough to use the facilities to improve their abilities. For a modest charge, a personal trainer can provide an assessment and an individualized training program, if that is desired.) If you require additional details regarding the lifting requirements prior to agreeing to this declaration, please contact Michael Thomas, Program Coordinator at [email protected] or 416-289-5000 ext. 8117.  The lifting requirements are as follows (in pairs) : Semester 1 at Centennial – 170 lbs, Semester 2 at Centennial – 190 lbs, and Semester 3 and 4 at Centennial – 210 lbs. 
• Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Search must be completed during the second and third year of the program. Clinical and field placement cannot be guaranteed to those with a criminal record. Information on how to obtain the background check will be provided upon acceptance of your application. Information on how to obtain a Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Search will be provided prior to the start of year two. (Should be started prior to starting in September as the process can take more than 6 weeks.)
• Students enrolled in the Paramedicine program must be fitted with an N95 mask. In accordance with CSA Standards (CSA Z94.4-2011) people with beards are not able to be fitted for tight fitting respirators, including N95 masks. The tight-fitting respirators are not able to provide an effective seal along the wearer's face when they have a beard and are therefore not functional and cannot complete the requirements of the program.    

You must also be aware that under the provisions of the Ambulance Act , employment as a paramedic is prohibited to any individual who: 

• In the past year has received six or more demerit points on their driving record.
• Has had a driving license suspended in the previous two years.
• Has been prohibited from driving under the Criminal Code of Canada within the past three years.
• Has been convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude for which they have not been pardoned. 

Missed Deadlines

Submit your SAF as soon as possible! We may still consider your SAF, pending space and the competitiveness of your application to the program to which you've applied. 

How to Complete Your SAF

• Set up your JOINid.  You will need to enable your JOINid before completing the SAF. Instructions are provided with your Acknowledgment of Application email from U of T. Note that the system may take 3-7   business days to process your information. Access to the SAF will be available starting in late October.
• Log in to the JOIN U of T website  and select the Application Status Check link . The password to access the SAF is the same password you used to access the JOIN U of T website.
• Answer all the questions on the SAF as specified.  You can work on your SAF over a few days and save your responses, however, once it is submitted you are not able to make any changes.
• The SAF must be completed only by the applicant, and you need to be honest with your responses.
• Wait for the confirmation page. After you successfully submit your SAF, a confirmation page will appear thanking you for completing the form. Please be patient and wait for the message to display – this message is the confirmation that you have submitted the form.

Need help? 

• If you're experiencing technical issues, try opening the SAF in a different browser (we recommend Firefox for the SAF). If problems persist, send us an email at [email protected] .
• If you can't see the SAF, ensure the program you applied for requires an SAF (refer to the list above) and/or wait about a week after applying to U of T Scarborough for us to process your application and prepare your SAF.

Contact Admissions & Student Recruitment

U of T Rotman Commerce: Supplemental Application & Interview Questions Examples 2023/2024

If you’re looking for guidance on the University of Toronto Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application , as well as tips, strategies, and examples for the written/video interview questions, then you’ve come to the right place. 

This Application Prep guide is fully updated with this year’s 2023/2024 application (i.e. for applicants planning on starting the program in Fall 202 4).

Before you dive in, it’s important to understand that the admissions committee receives thousands of applications every year. To help you stand out from the crowd , you need to demonstrate a clear sense of self , strong life experience , and exemplary communication skills .

Our ‘full student’ coaching process does exactly that. If you’re not working with a coach, be sure to read the Self-Awareness , Goal-Setting , and Narrative Communication Skills Guides.

The Narrative Communication Approach™ is a particularly useful storytelling framework that helps you tell a clear and concise story, while creating an emotional connection with the reader. All U of T Rotman examples and templates use this approach.

Our templates show you a suggested answer structure that uses the Narrative Communication Approach™. Using this structure does not mean your written/video answers will be the same as other students. That’s like saying using the 3 Act Structure makes every play, movie, and novel the same. The content of that story makes it unique.

We’ve also created a comprehensive Interview Skills Guide that covers every step of the interview process so you can ace any question that comes your way.

If you’re serious about getting into Rotman Commerce and reaching your fullest post-secondary potential, connect with a coach . It’s never too early to receive coaching.

Table of Contents

• 2023/2024 Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application : Set questions (i.e. Activities Question and Intro Question, Qs 2-3); Randomly selected questions (Qs 4-6); Question examples; Question themes and tips; and More. 
• Application Prep Tips: Question themes; Preparing your answers; Submitting your application; and More.

U of T Rotman Supplemental Application 2023-2024

For the 2023/2024 University of Toronto Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application, all applicants must complete 4 written/video questions :

• 1 set written question (which they share in advance): 200 words, 20 mins
• 1 set video question (which they share in advance): 30 secs to prep, 45 secs to deliver
• 1 set written question (which they do not share in advance, but is the same for all applicants): 200 words, 20 mins
• 1 random video question: 60 secs to prep, 60 secs to deliver

The Supplemental Application questions are are designed to give you an opportunity to showcase your experiences, interests, leadership potential, and other skills.

Your reviewers only know the surface level information, like your name and high school grades — they know nothing about who you are as a person, where you come from, and how your experiences have shaped your personality, interests, and goals. These questions are your chance to make a lasting first impression and show what makes you unique and a perfect fit for the program.

Rotman Commerce is looking for students who are articulate , passionate , and dedicated . They also want to see that you have the drive to succeed in the program. 

The entire Supplemental Application is completed through the external video interview platform, and must be submitted by December 15, 2023 for early consideration for all applicants OR February 1, 2024 at 11:59pm EST as a final deadline for all other applicants. IMPORTANT : Submitting your application to U of T for early consideration as an OUAC 101 applicant will NOT impact the admission decision or give you a better chance of getting accepted. The only difference is that if you are accepted, you might receive an admission decision earlier than someone who applied for regular consideration. Click here to learn more information, and if you have questions, connect with a coach any time for support.

Keep reading below for writing tips, strategies, possible questions, submission instructions, and much more for both the written and the video questions. If you have questions about this year’s application and need help preparing for your written/video questions, connect with a coach for 1-on-1 support.

IMPORTANT : The suggested questions below are for PREP PURPOSES ONLY and are NOT the actual questions you’ll receive during your Rotman Commerce interview.  

Rotman Supplemental Application Question 2: Activities Question (Written)

Talk about 2 extracurriculars (clubs, paid/unpaid employment, community involvement, etc.) you’ve done within the last 4 years, describing what the activity is, how long you’ve been doing it, your role, and things you’ve accomplished.

Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application Question 2 – Breakdown

You have 20 minutes to complete this question so make sure you take your time and ALWAYS proofread your work before clicking “Submit”. 

For this question you want to choose activities that will allow you to show your leadership abilities , as well as activities that you can quantify , ones that are unique , and allow you to show your commitment . 

Also pick activities that will let you show off skills like project management, organization, problem solving, and more. The Rotman admissions committee wants to hear about activities that have made a huge impact on your life . 

COACH’S TIP : If you write this question before the Assessment (which we recommend) DO NOT COPY AND PASTE YOUR ANSWER from another document or the external video interview platform will pick it up as plagiarism. Print out the answers you’ve prepared and manually type in each one yourself at the time of the Assessment. 

We know that identifying (and participating in) activities like this can be difficult, especially if you don’t know where to start. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back.

Our unique approach will help you and your coach identify and execute audacious and authentic goals (we call these AYA goals) that are perfectly aligned with your interests and passions, so you can accomplish what you want (and have amazing experiences to talk about on your application!). Connect with a coach to get started and check out our Goal-Setting Guide now.

Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application Question 2 – Template

REMEMBER : When you’re typing in your answers, you will see the word count at the bottom left of the page. You MUST keep your answer to 200 words or less for this question.

Your response to the Activities Question should have these three components for EACH ACTIVITY: 

• Briefly describe the activity/organization and your role.
• State when you did this activity (start date and duration), as well as the commitment level (e.g. 10 hours per week). 
• Briefly describe what you achieved in this activity. Use quantifiable outcomes (like money raised, hours spent, etc.). Focus on skills you built (like leadership), as well as the impact this activity has had on you. Finally, tie this activity to Rotman and state how it will help you if accepted.

Want to really stand out with your answer? Create a memorable and unique answer using storytelling to draw your audience in and make a connection with them. Check out our Narrative Communication Approach™ Guide and connect with a coach to learn how.

Ace your Rotman Commerce interview.

Rotman BCom Grad & Youth Coach™

Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application Question 2 – Example

Here’s an example of how to answer this question. 

REMEMBER : This is an EXAMPLE ONLY and is NOT meant for you to copy. Why? First and foremost, this is plagiarism and is a serious offense . Plagiarizing these essays will result in immediate disqualification from the admissions process . This can be easily detected using technology and application reviewers are usually trained and/or able to spot when an application isn’t original and does not align with an applicant’s background, personality, values, etc.

COACH’S TIP : For this Activities Response, you must have a combined 150 words for both activities. You are not required to have each activity be 75 words exactly, but one activity can be longer/shorter than the other. Notice in the example above that the student spends more of his word count on the first activity (that is totally fine!).

Rotman Supplemental Application Question 3: Introductory Question (Video)

Tell us more about you, like who you are, your experiences, values, interests, skills, etc. Drawing on these details, talk about one way that you will contribute to the Rotman community.

Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application Question 3 – Breakdown

We call this question the Introductory Question because it is the first time the admissions committee gets to meet you (virtually) and you get to tell them a bit more about who you are. 

We all know that first impressions are everything , so we’ve put together some tips to help you out.

We all have a bunch of different skills, interests, experiences, etc. so it can be tough to come up with a concise answer in only 45 seconds .

When thinking about what details you want to choose (and describing how you’ll contribute to the Rotman community), be completely honest and truthful . Speak to what makes you, you. 

Refer to your Student Identity Blueprint™ and talk with your coach about the points you went over during your Discovery call (if you haven’t done this, connect with a coach now). 

The important thing is to provide details that will let you emphasize traits that Rotman looks for, as well as unique experiences centred around your passion which have made you a better person and stronger student. 

For the competitive swimming example, you would go beyond talking about how much you love to swim and talk about a unique experience where you got to travel to the US for a competition, and prepping for that competition helped teach you invaluable lessons about teamwork, dedication, and perseverance. 

If you need some help identifying which passion to discuss and how to strategically draw out experiences and perspectives that Rotman looks for, connect with a coach now. 

Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application Question 3 – Template

When thinking about the type of answer you’ll give for this question, try to answer the following points and details. 

• Give some general information, like your name and where you’re from. Include interesting facts that would differentiate you, like living in seven countries or being a 20 under 20 winner (only do this if it is really unique and a high level achievement.  Keep this section relatively short.
• Your Passions : Think about an interest/passion that makes you unique and has contributed to making you the person you are today. Briefly describe what that passion is here.
• Rotman Connection : Based on this passion, talk about the experiences you’ve had to lessons you’ve learned that will help you as a student at Rotman. Highlight skills, points of view, dedication, etc.

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Rotman Supplemental Application – Question 4: Set Written

This is a 200-word essay, with 20-minutes to write.

Questions 4 is a set written question, which is the same for all applicants.

However, they do not share this in advance.

Please speak to your coach on how to prepare effectively for this question, as we know what it is.

Hint: it has to do with self-awareness.

Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application – Question 5: Random Video Question

This is a totally randomly selected video question.

60 seconds to prepare, 60 seconds to deliver.

As our coaches have been working with students on preparing for their 2023/2024 U of T Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application, they’ve noticed a few general things about the questions.

The written and video responses for Questions 5 will fall into two main types , as described below.

We believe more of these questions are oriented around personal, rather than problem-based questions.

But it’s important to be prepared for both.

1. PERSONAL QUESTIONS:

Personal questions are all about YOU.

They will ask you things like what you would do in a certain situation, what you value, the experiences you have had working on your own and with others, etc.. 

These questions give you the change to talk about where you come from , while showing how you react to situations and how you apply key skills like leadership, problem solving, organization, and time management in all areas of your life. 

COACH’S TIP : Don’t waste your valuable time coming up with different answers to every single practice question. To help make your interview prep process easier, we’ve analyzed hundreds of personal questions from programs like Rotman, and we’ve identified 10 common themes that personal questions fall into. We’ve broken each theme down, and provided templates and examples of each type so you’ll be prepared to answer any question that comes your way. Check out the themes and much more in our Interview Skills Guide .

When answering personal questions, we recommend using storytelling to help make your answers more unique , memorable , and authentic .

How can you do this?

Check out our  Narrative Communication Approach™ Guide  to learn how to make an emotional connection with the reviewers so that you can stand out from other applicants and showcase your skills, values, interests, and experiences.

2. PROBLEM-BASED QUESTIONS:

Problem-based questions ask you to take a position or discuss your opinion about a specific issues, question, or topic. Learn more about effective ways to approach problem-based questions and ace your Rotman interview in our Interview Prep Skills Guide .

These questions might seem scary, but just remember that they are meant to be this way!

The admissions committee wants to see your critical thinking and problem solving skills, as well as your ability to keep your cool under pressure and make a logical and structured argument .

What you want to do for these questions is take a position , justify that position with a couple supporting arguments, and then briefly explain what your answer says about you (so that it benefits your application).

Trust us…it’s not as complicated as it sounds.

Our Deductive Communication Approach™ will help make this process easier for you because it uses a top-down method , where you state your Answer, back it up with some Main Arguments and Supporting Arguments, and then talk about why it all matters (and how it has allowed you to learn and grow as a student).

By having this communication approach in your interview toolkit, you can go into the interview super confident that you’ll be able to give a logical answer and keep your cool — no matter what question they throw at you.

COACH’S TIP : Problem-based questions can seem intimidating, but DON’T PANIC. The most important thing is how you come across vs. what exactly your answer is. The admissions committee isn’t expecting a perfect answer — what they really want to see is a strong thought process and that you can form a logical answer that’s backed up by solid reasons and evidence. For example, we’ve seen the question: “Do you believe there should be a cap on rent charged in large cities?” In this case, the admissions committee isn’t expecting that you’ll know a ton about economics models. Instead, they want to see that you can stay calm, form a rational and logical answer and back it up with solid reasoning.

If you need some help preparing your answers and doing some mock interviews for personal and problem-based questions, connect with a coach now.

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Rotman Commerce Interview Questions – Sample Questions

Here are some typical interview questions to help you think about the types of things that might come up on the Rotman Commerce interview for the written and/or video responses.

No matter whether then question is personal or problem-based, the admissions committee wants to see that you have self-awareness . This means that they want to make sure you know what your skills are (and what you need to improve on), what you value, and how you plan to make a difference in the world.

It may seem obvious and you’re probably thinking, “Duh.. of course I know what I’m good at and what I care about.” 

This might surprise you, but very few students actually focus on self-awareness. You might think you have it all figured out, but it’s probably more surface-level than you think. 

That’s why we have a whole phase in our coaching methodology (the Discovery phase) where we use a Student Identity Blueprint™ to help you figure out who you are and what makes you tick. Then, when questions like the ones above come up on your Rotman Supplemental Application, you will know EXACTLY how to respond. 

If you haven’t already, connect with a coach to get started on your Student Identity Blueprint™.

Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application Question 4-6 – Template

Even though you don’t know what the written questions will be, you can prepare beforehand by getting more familiar with our Narrative Communication Approach™ , which will make your answers unique, authentic, and memorable. 

This approach uses storytelling to draw out character development and create an emotional connection with your reviewers. 

No matter what the question is, if you incorporate these 5 components into your answer, we guarantee you’ll stand out from other applicants. 

Here’s a template using these 5 components that you can use as a starting point for thinking of responses to the possible questions listed above. To learn more about these components, read our blog here .

• Capture the reviewer’s attention by listing a captivating experience that creates an emotional connection from the beginning. Keep this section short.
• Provide the necessary background information, including the 5Ws (who, what, when, where, and why). Provide key details the reviewer must know, along with some personal insight so they can understand who you are and what’s important to you. 
• Describe a shift or change (it can be a specific event or a change over time). Discuss the conflict or struggle or obstacle you were faced with and how this turned out to be an opportunity for you to grow.
• State the end result/impact and provide a resolution for what was described in the Catalyst section. 
• Discuss the moral of the story, and describe what you learned, using deep and unique learning outcomes and insights. 

COACH’S TIP : This template can be used BOTH for written and video responses. If you’re using it for the video interview questions, DO NOT read off this sheet because you will look too practiced and super inauthentic. Instead, use the template to come up with some talking points that you want to cover in your answer when a personal/problem-based question comes up.

For more support on using approaches and strategies like the Narrative Communication Approach™ to prepare for your Supplemental Application and give standout answers, check out our Interview Skills Guide and connect with a coach now.

Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application Questions 4-6 – Examples

Example 1: Opinion Question (Video Response)

Here’s a sample answer for the question,  “You win the lottery and are awarded $1 million. What do you do with the money?”.

In this video, Youthfully coach, Marina, will go through her answer and tell you exactly how to prepare for random questions like this, so you can ace them during your interview.

Example 2: Field of Business Interest and Development (Written Response)

Here’s an example written answer for the question.

REMEMBER : This is an EXAMPLE ONLY and is NOT meant for you to copy.

“Where did your interest in business start and how has it evolved over time? “

COACH’S TIP : In all of your written and video questions, make sure you have a statement (or a ‘pitch’) at the end of each answer that shows exactly why you are the perfect fit to go to Rotman and how you would add value to their program. Show that your interests are perfectly aligned and that you would achieve great things by attending. 

Example 3: News & Point of View (Written Response)

Describe the details of a news story you came across recently. What made it stand out to you, and what were some of your initial reactions to it and why? Briefly discuss how this story and/or issue will affect the future (socially, politically, financially, etc.).

REMEMBER : We have to say it again, this is an EXAMPLE ONLY.

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U of T Rotman Commerce Interview Questions – Prep Tips

Here are a few things you can focus on as you prepare for your interview. Remember, if you ever need any help, we’re here for you. Check out this comprehensive Interview Skills Guide we created to help you through the entire interview process, and connect with a coach for all the support you need.

Rotman Commerce Interview Questions – Themes 

Whether you know what the question will be ahead of time (Questions 2-3) or whether the questions are chosen at random (Questions 4-6), it helps to think generally about a few themes and ideas that you can use across various types of questions . 

Then, as you’re completing your Supplemental Application questions, you can draw on these ideas and your Student Identity Blueprint™ to easily come up with an answer. 

​​ COACH’S TIP : Don’t memorize your answers beforehand. This will come across as inauthentic and over practiced. Instead, think of some talking points, experiences, and interests that fit many different types of questions and then answer the question in the moment as best as you can. 

Here are some themes you can draw upon as you’re thinking about your answers.

ROTMAN COMMERCE

This is probably the most important theme you should focus on. In your answers, you need to be able to specifically communicate why you want to attend Rotman .

Make sure to do lots of research and use it in your answer. The more depth to your research, the more differentiated your answer will be. In all of your answers, make sure you have a statement (or a ‘pitch’) at the end of each answer that shows exactly why you are the perfect fit for Rotman and how you would add value to their program as a student. You should also be very familiar with the program , streams and specializations , courses , professors , and resources offered .

This may seem obvious, but a lot of applicants know nothing about these, so if you can show you have a strong knowledge of Rotman and communicate your passion for going there, you will have a better change of getting in.

You should easily be able to answer the question: “Why business?” You need to go beyond obvious answers like, “I’m good at math” or “I’ll be able to get a good job when I graduate.”

Relate your interest in business to a particular passion you have, like sustainable investing (see the example above) or international finance.

When thinking about your interest in business, take the time to understand what is personally appealing about business (and how it relates to Rotman Commerce). This way, during the interview you’ll be able to show exactly why you’re there and what you hope to get out of the program — and this self-awareness will really set you apart from other applicants. 

It is very likely that there may be a question around leadership. To prepare for this, make sure you know a few examples of how you have shown leadership in the past. It is important to not just explain what the leadership role you had, but actually how you demonstrated that leadership (being the President of a club doesn’t necessarily mean you are a good leader).

Rotman wants students who are actively involved in the community, not just because it shows commitment, selflessness, and passion, but also because it highlights time management. 

Make sure you have 1 or 2 examples of how you have been involved in your community. As much as possible, quantify the impact you had. 

There is often a question about how you have dealt with conflict. This is mainly around how you have dealt with conflict in a team setting or a potential inflammatory situation. Remember to not just focus on the problem, but more so the resolution or lessons learned. 

In addition to conflict in team settings, a lot of the time there are questions about how you have worked in a team effectively. Once again, make sure you can clearly define how you succeed in the team, and not just the team’s success.

TIME MANAGEMENT

There are questions that are really just structured around seeing how you handle pressure and manage your time. Be sure to really explain why the example you are giving is a good example of how you can manage your time and operate under stressful situations. 

ACHIEVEMENT

This is an opportunity for you to discuss something you have achieved. For this, try to think of something that is differentiated and you can really explain how you achieved it, and why that achievement will help you at Rotman.

If you want to learn how you can align these themes to your unique interests and experiences, connect with a coach now.

Rotman Interview – Questions Tips 

Many students ask us for tips for writing the Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application.

Here are the ones we think will help you the most for the video and written questions:

TIP #1: PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT

It can seem really scary to see yourself talking on screen and worrying about how you are coming across to the admissions committee.

Open up your camera and practice answering Question 3 (discussed above) or any of the possible questions in Questions 4-6 a few of the possible questions. Seeing yourself on camera will help you get the hang of things and get comfortable with seeing yourself on camera.

If you want to take your prep to the next level, work 1-on-1 with a coach and do some mock interviews so you know exactly what to do when you’re recording your answers for real.

TIP #2: ALWAYS ANSWER THE ENTIRE QUESTION  

It seems silly, but it is common to get off track and later realize you didn’t answer the question. 

Break down each part of the question into smaller components, and address each one as you move through your answer. If you’re working on a written question, take some time at the end while you’re proofreading to make sure you’ve answered everything. 

TIP #3: TAKE YOUR TIME

Sometimes when you know you have a limited amount of time you might speed through everything like a mad race against the clock. 

For the video questions, remember to take a breath and pause between your sentences to allow the reviewer time to process what you said. Focus on speaking clearly and slowly. 

TIP #4: TELL IMPORTANT INFO ABOUT YOU

Remember that every answer you give should tell the interviewer something about you that boosts your application, even if the question isn’t about you. 

Highlight your skills and experiences, show that you have thought about goals, and use the questions to help the admissions committee learn more about you. You’d be a great addition to their program — tell them how!

TIP #5: BE CONCISE 

Your answers should be clear and to the point, leaving out unnecessary information. In the video questions, you don’t want to ramble — get to the point and be clear. 

The written questions are the same. 150 words isn’t that much so you have to make every word count. Get rid of information that is repetitive or doesn’t add value. It is better to have a short, concise answer than a convoluted answer that is redundant and possibly unfocused. 

TIP #6: BE PROFESSIONAL (BUT ALSO HAVE FUN!)

When preparing for your video questions make sure that you come across as a young professional with something special to offer the program. How can you do this? 

• Dress professionally
• Make sure the background behind your camera is empty
• Go somewhere that is quiet and free from distractions
• Maintain eye contact with the camera as you give your answers

While it’s important to be professional, it’s also important to have fun with these questions. The admissions committee wants to admit unique people who have a shining personality and the experiences to match. Show them who you are and be yourself.

TIP #7: DIFFERENTIATE YOURSELF

The admissions committee reviews thousands of applications. You’ll never stand out if your answers are the same as everyone else’s, so come up with answers that are unique. 

For example, if there’s a question that asks “Describe a time when you had to adapt” don’t simply talk about how COVID made everything more difficult. Instead, you can talk about a leadership experience where you took on a challenge and tried something that hadn’t been done before. Then, shift the question into talking about your successes and what you learned from the experience.  

Trying to come up with a different approach is important and you should only resort to these easy answers if you get stuck. Using storytelling to create an emotional connection with the reviewers can also make a huge difference in creating a unique, authentic, and memorable application. Check out this blog about our Narrative Communication Approach™ to learn more. 

If you would like more tips to help you prepare, as well as the chance to up your game and do some mock video/written questions, connect with a coach today. Our coaches have helped hundreds of students conquer their video interview questions and achieve admissions success!

Submitting Your Rotman Supplemental Application

Navigating the U of T site and submitting your written/video questions is a bit complicated, so here we’ll do a step-by-step breakdown to show you exactly how to complete your Supplemental Application. 

Step 1: After you submit your OUAC application, you will receive an email with a link to sign into the JOIN U of T website, along with your credentials for your JOINid. Click the “Login to the JOIN U of T Website”.

Step 2 : Once you’ve logged in, you will come to a “Connect with U of T” page, where you will see a page with the header “Your Application Status” and a button that says “Check Your Application Status”. This is where you will complete your Supplemental Application.

Step 3 : Once you’ve clicked that, you can complete your Supplemental Application under the “Required Documents” list and then click “Check In” on the next page. 

COACH’S TIP : On this Check In page, you will also see the first written question listed as well as the first video response question under the “Structure and Content” header. These are questions that you can prepare in advance of the actual assessment. Keep reading to get a breakdown of these two questions, as well as tips for preparing them and examples. If you have any questions about the prepared questions, please connect with a coach any time.

Next, you will be redirected you to a third-party site, where you’ll do the timed written and video questions. 

REMEMBER : The external video interview platform is invitation only, online interviewing platform that uses text and video questions. You will NOT interact with live people. Instead, you will get text or video questions and then provide the corresponding answers. 

Step 4 : After you check in, make sure you watch the Welcome Video first so you can become more familiar with the platform and you know exactly what to expect. 

Step 5 : Next, click the “Registration” button and enter all of your information. 

Step 6 : Next, complete the device setup to ensure that your camera and microphone are working properly.

Step 7 : Now it’s time to do your practice questions. These are REALLY important to do so you know exactly how the written/video questions will look. The last thing you want is to be stressed out, so getting a feel for the platform will help ease the stress a bit. 

You will get to practice two video questions and one written question .

Once you’re done practicing, you are ready to begin the questions for real!

REMEMBER : For the Welcome Video, Registration, Device Setup, and Practice sections, you can exit and come back whenever. When you click “Assessment” you WILL NOT be able to exit and come back , so only click it when you’re ready to record your answers for real.

You’ve Got a Dedicated Coach in Your Corner

For over a decade, we have worked with thousands of students to help them achieve more than they ever thought possible.

Our coaches have a strong success rate supporting students as they apply to U of T Rotman Commerce, among other top university programs.

Our 1-on-1 Youth Coaching fills that gap that most high schools miss. We can help you build self-awareness through probing questions and assessments, set bigger goals to elevate your extracurriculars and future career plans, and improve skills that matter on supplementary applications, such as interviewing, written communication, critical thinking, and creativity.

We use a coaching methodology, called ‘full student’ development, that’s been proven to increase your chances of admission to top-tier universities and obtaining competitive jobs/internships.

So, what are you waiting for? Fulfill your post-secondary potential with the mentorship and coaching you’ve always wanted! 🙂

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One Idea Supplementary Application

All applicants MUST submit the One Idea supplementary application in addition to their official application to the University of Toronto in order to be considered for admission. Those who do not submit the supplementary application by February 1 will be automatically refused admission . For more information on the application process and requirements, see Applying to Undergraduate Studies at Daniels. There is a $45 supplementary application fee collected at the time of application; this fee is non-refundable.

Approximately one week after we receive your application the University will send you an email acknowledgement including your JOINid, your University of Toronto applicant number, and full information about the next steps in the application process. Your JOINid will provide you with access to submit your One Idea supplementary application.

You will have only one opportunity to submit your One Idea supplementary application. Once you have reviewed and submitted your supplementary application, your submission is final.

The use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools, such as ChatGPT and other AI applications, is prohibited when creating content for any University of Toronto undergraduate application.   Students and applicants found to have used generative AI (e.g., ChatGPT)  to create content that is presented as their own will be disqualified from eligibility for admission. This prohibited use of generative AI for content creation will be considered an academic offence. For information on academic integrity at the University of Toronto, visit academicintegrity.utoronto.ca .

One Idea Deadline

Recommended early deadline for one idea: december 15, 2023  (11:59pm, eastern standard time), final deadline for one idea:  february 1, 2024  (11:59pm, eastern standard time), one idea requirements.

Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their supplementary application ahead of time.

Written Response

Required:  Architectural Studies and Visual Studies Applicants

Read the One Idea questions carefully. Choose  one  of the four questions to answer. Prepare a written response (between 250 and 650 words). 

We are interested in how you will pursue your intellectual interests and apply your personal experience, background, and future goals within our programs. This is the opportunity for us to hear your voice, and to help us envision what you will bring to the Daniels Faculty. In fact we are not looking for one idea, but many.

The Questions  (Choose  only one  to answer): 1. Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. Describe how it shapes your way of navigating the world, and how you wish to address it in your future career.

2. Describe a time you were surprised by how much you learned in the process of researching new ideas or learning new skills. What was it about the process that was rewarding and how can you apply what you’ve learned to your future endeavours?

3. Describe a moment when you were able to help another person or persons. How has this experience impacted your understanding of social relations?

4. The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to shaping our outlook on future challenges. How will you use your previous experiences to reorient your approach to new problems?

Creative Ideas / Images

Optional:  architectural studies applicants required:  visual studies applicants.

Select four to six of your own images to include in your submission.

This means single images - if one work is an integrated diptych or triptych, then that counts as one image and should remain whole - but do not include a sheet of thumbnail images.

For each item submitted, you will be required to provide information on the title, medium used, the original size of the artwork, date of completion, and please specify if the work was done as a school assignment or not.

Please submit images that are entirely your own creative work.

Other than what is required in the point above, do not add any extra or additional writing on the documentation of the visual images (i.e. no explanations, etc.).

Limit one image file per upload. Limit one video (max 1 minute in length, 100megabites) per applicant.

If you are submitting sound work please include it within a video file.

This is your opportunity to share some images of your own creative work in a limited capacity. Think critically about the images that best represent who you are and who you want to be as an artist.

Architectural Studies Applicant Note : Why is there no portfolio? We believe that students, especially at the undergraduate level, do not necessarily need to already have an aptitude in art or design to become successful architects, landscape architects, or urbanists. At the same time, some students have a background, interest, or talent in a visual medium that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. Therefore, we do provide a platform for sharing this with us, but it is still not a portfolio requirement in the traditional sense.

Steps for Submitting the One Idea

Approximately one week after we receive your application the University will send you an email acknowledgement including your JOINid/UTORid, your University of Toronto applicant number, and full information about the next steps in the application process. Your JOINid/UTORid will provide you with access to your Join U of T portal where you will be able to submit the One Idea. 

• Once you have logged in, proceed to your Status Check page.
• Follow the link on your Status Check page – “Daniels One Idea Application” – to start an One Idea Application.
• Click on “Start New Application” on the bottom of the page to begin. A pop up box will appear, prompting you to create a new One Idea Application.
• After clicking on “Create Application”, an “Open Application” button will automatically appear, clicking on it will take you to the application.
• You will then be prompted to provide your Written Response in Part 1.
• Once complete, you will proceed to Part II – Creative Ideas. This is optional for Architectural Studies and required for Visual Studies. You should drag and drop media files into the area to upload them. Files will appear in the “My Portfolio” tab once upload is completed. You will be able to edit the title, year of completion, size, medium used, and a description for each uploaded image.
• Following completion of Part II you will proceed to the “Confirm and Submit” stage.
• Submit the final submission no later than February 1.

Note : You can also save your application and return to complete or submit it at a later time. However once submitted, no alterations to your submission can be made. Please ensure that you return to your application to confirm and submit no later than 11:59 pm (EST) on February 1.

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Rotman Commerce is seeking to admit outstanding students that have demonstrated academic excellence, have an understanding of leadership and community, and a passion for the world of business. In order for us to better evaluate for these qualities, all applicants to our program are required to complete the Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application. The application includes short written and video responses which give us the opportunity to get to know you better. It will be considered alongside your academic record when evaluating you for admission to the program.

Application Deadlines

Applications for September 2025 will open in the fall of 2024. Detailed application dates will be updated here as they become available. Applicants are recommended to complete their application by November 7, 2024 . The final application deadline for all applicants is January 15, 2025. All prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.

Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application Deadlines

We encourage all applicants to submit their RC Supplemental Application and any required documents well in advance of the published deadlines. The deadline for early consideration for  all applicants is December 2, 2024. The final deadline to complete the supplemental application for all applicants is February 3, 2025 (11:59 PM EST).

How It Works

There is a $50 Supplemental Application fee, paid with the submission of your OUAC application. Shortly after submitting your OUAC application, you will receive an email acknowledgment from U of T that will include your JOINid/UTORid, your University of Toronto Applicant Number, and information about the next steps in the application process.

Once you have access to the Join U of T portal, you can view the status of your application(s) and see a list of any required documents, including the Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application. Detailed instructions about the format of the Supplemental Application will be available to applicants through the Join U of T portal. Applicants will have access to unlimited practice sessions.

Note: Your information will be collected and held for the University by Kira Talent, a company that provides an online platform for video interviews and essays. Kira Talent uses cloud-based technology to store data. Before you begin your application, please ensure that you have read the Kira Talent Privacy Policy.

If you have any questions or concerns about completing this phase of your application, contact Rotman Commerce at  rotmancommerce.utoronto.ca/inbox .

Supplemental Application Webinar

We will be offering webinars throughout the fall to help you prepare for the Rotman Commerce Supplemental Application. You can register to attend a live session below.

• October 10, 2024 | 8:00 AM ET – Register here
• October 10, 2024 | 8:00 PM ET – R egister here
• October 21, 2024 | 8:00 AM ET – Reg ister here
• October 21, 2024 | 8:00 PM ET – Register here
• November 12, 2024 | 8:00 AM ET – Register here
• November 12, 2024 | 8:00 PM ET – Register here

Can’t make it to a live webinar? Watch a recording from a previous session below.

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Download Guide to Writing Personal Statements for Further Education (PDF) for advice on writing personal statements for grad school.

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Brief Personal Essays and How they are Assessed

Brief Personal Essays (BPEs) are one of the non-academic components required as part of the application for U of T’s MD Program. These essays are just as their name suggests – brief (only 250 words) and personal (reflective of your personal thoughts and reasoning). Every year we receive questions about how to write a good BPE. In this blog post we will answer some of the more common questions.

Why did you choose these particular essay questions?

Every year a working group collaborates to develop our new BPE questions. These questions are framed around the four competency clusters that we use to assess the non-academic materials that are required for admission. These clusters are:

Professional: maturity, reliability, perseverance and responsibility

Communicator/collaborator/manager: communication, collaboration, teamwork, time management and leadership

Advocate: advocacy, community service and social responsibility

Scholar: academic standing, achievements in leadership, research and social responsibility as demonstrated by (but not limited to) awards, conference presentations, publications and scholarships

The questions often relate to current events and common themes in healthcare. They are designed to incite critical thinking, and to encourage personal reflection.

You can find this year’s BPE questions here.

How are these essays being assessed?

The BPEs are being assessed in the following ways:

Does the response answer the question being asked? Is the response clear and do we understand the argument? Is the writing style concise? Is the applicant able to personalize their response by providing examples? Given the brief nature of these essays – 250 words – it is very important that you focus on clear and concise writing. While we do not deduct marks for spelling and grammar specifically, mistakes like these can lead to a lack of clarity in your response.

The focus here is really on the content of your essay. Keep in mind the four clusters listed above. Will the individuals reviewing your essay responses be able to identify these clusters in your responses? This is important to reflect on.

What if I disagree with the question, or wish to take an opposing stance to the statement provided?

It is important to note that there is no right or wrong answer to the essay questions and statements we provide. Applicants are invited to take an opposing stance, or to frame their response in a different way based around their personal views, beliefs and arguments. We welcome a diversity of opinions. Our file reviewers are measuring content, clarity and a sound argument (as suggested above). Our reviewers learn during our training process that personal biases are not to influence how these essays are marked.

Should I use examples and references?

Absolutely. It would be difficult to write a personal essay response without including personal examples and/or references to research, current events, etc. Should you choose to reference research or publications, keep in mind that 250 words is not long at all, so we do not expect to see long citations or footnotes. A simple reference to the author and date is sufficient.

Some advice from our team: do not leave these essays until the last minute. Think about the questions, plan out your thoughts, frame your responses and arguments, draft the essays, and proofread. Then ask your friends, family members, colleagues, university counsellors, etc. to proofread and provide feedback. Take your time and really work hard to write good quality essays, as doing so will certainly enhance your application.

Still have a question about the BPEs? Email us – we are happy to help.

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Supplemental Essay Guide 2024-25

What do the 2024-25 supplemental essay prompts really mean, and how should you approach them? CEA's experts are here to break them all down.

Acceptance Rate

Undergrad population.

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* Tuition filtering is based on out-of-state fees

How to Approach Supplemental Essays

When our students dig into the college application process, they are often surprised to encounter not only the main Common Application’s personal statement , but also a host of supplemental essay questions. These assignments are often school-specific writing prompts for which a student must also craft thoughtful, well-written replies.

Supplemental essays are often more focused than the Common App assignment, though they vary in length and scope. Their prompts tackle subjects that range from deeper explorations of a student’s background to their collegiate and academic interests.

We often encourage our students to nail down their personal statement topic first, then ask them to approach their supplemental essays in priority order, according to submission deadlines. Many schools will offer prompts that are similar in theme and content to one another (for example, many institutions now ask about a student’s most important activity ), so it is helpful for students to gather and review all supplemental questions before beginning the brainstorm process to see where they might naturally overlap.

Elite institutions often have extensive supplemental sections, as do some honors programs, so students should keep this in mind as they hunt for their essay questions and map out their plan of attack.

All supplemental essays should be given the same time and care as the main Common Application essay. These supplements not only are an excellent opportunity to show a school both your competence and level of devotion to their institution, but also offer opportunities to paint some personality into your application. So embrace supplements, use your unique voice, and show these schools what you’re made of!

Agnes Scott College 2024-25 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Alvernia University 2024-25 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide  

American university 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide, amherst college 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide, babson college 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide, bard college 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide  , barnard college 2024-25 supplemental essay guide, baylor university 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide  , bennington college 2024-25 supplemental essay guide, bentley university 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide, berry college 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide, bethany college 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide, boston college (bc) 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide, boston university (bu) 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide, bowdoin college 2024-25 supplemental essay guide, brandeis university 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide , brown university 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide, bryn mawr college 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide, bucknell university 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide, butler university 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2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide, new york university (nyu) 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide, frequently asked questions.

It really depends. Typically, the more competitive the university, the more arduous the supplemental essay requirements. Most top universities ask for at least three supplemental essays, but some only require one short essay.

The most common supplemental essay topics are:

• The Why Essay , which asks applicants to discuss their interest in their intended major and/or the school in question.
• The Activity Essay , which asks applicants to describe their involvement in an activity that is meaningful to them.
• The Community Essay , which asks about a community the applicant belongs to and the role that community plays in their life (and vice versa!).
• The Diversity Essay , which often asks applicants to explore how they champion diversity and inclusion in their communities and/or how they engage with people from different backgrounds or who hold opposing views. 
• The Short Answer , which asks applicants to answer prompts in very few words (or characters) to add context to their application and a splash of personality.
• The Oddball Essay , which asks applicants to tap into their creativity to connect curveball questions to their lives and interests.

Just like with the Common App personal statement, you’re going to want to write authentically about yourself while addressing all parts of each supplemental essay prompt. Many schools want to better understand how you see yourself contributing to their campus community and/or diversity and inclusion efforts along with how you hope to use your education to achieve your goals. So, be honest and forward-thinking, and don’t forget to customize each supplemental essay so it’s specific to each school you’re submitting to. That means doing research and weaving information into your essays that demonstrates the amount of time and thought you’ve put into your application. 

We have a few successful supplemental essay examples in our Free Resources section.

Each admissions department has their own process for reviewing applications, and some admissions committees put more weight on supplemental essays than others, but all admissions departments that offer applicants the opportunity to pen additional essays are doing so for a reason: to better understand the applicant and compare similarly qualified candidates. It’s in the applicant’s best interest to not only provide admissions with as much information regarding their candidacy as possible, but also go the extra mile. At highly competitive institutions, admissions officers are looking for reasons to remove students from the applicant pool—don’t let poorly written or (*gulp*) incomplete supplemental essays work against you!

Absolutely not. Please do not reuse content from your Common App essay in your supplements. Although it’s possible for you to expand upon an idea, activity, or community that you mention in your Common App essay in your supplements, you should never recycle content or any phrasing word for word.

Start by reading through all the prompts. Next, jot down ideas that come to your mind (no matter how silly they may seem!). Everyone has a story to tell, and we’re willing to bet you’re more interesting than you think. Give yourself plenty of time to consider different topics and revise, revise, revise! Also, our handy dandy Supplemental Essay Guides are sure to help you on your writing journey.

North Carolina State 2024-25 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

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Computer Science Admission Category

Students in computer science will learn how to design software, develop computer applications such as databases and graphics and investigate mathematical problems. They will train to meet an increasing demand for graduates with scientific knowledge and creative skills to excel in the industry. A computer science degree will introduce students to tomorrow's technological world.

Computer Science Programs

Why Study Computer Science

Computer Science Careers

Applying to Computer Science

Admission requirements.

OUAC Admission Code: TAD (Computer Science)

Supplementary Application Form Required: Yes

Admission Category Prerequisites: English and Calculus

Approximate Admission Range: Low 90s

Supplemental Application for Computer Science Admission Category

The supplemental application will be found in applicants' JOIN U of T account after they have applied through the OUAC.

• It comprises four short-answer questions
• Applicants will be asked to reflect on personal experiences and qualities
• The questions are not specific to computer science
• It is not timed

Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply and submit all requested documents, including the supplemental application, as early as possible. See the recommended early application deadline here .

Offers of admission to the Computer Science admission category at the Faculty of Arts & Science, St. George campus are not eligible for deferral.

Alternate Admission Category Form

Applicants applying to the Computer Science admission category in the Faculty of Arts & Science have the option of selecting an alternate admission category for consideration on the JOIN U of T portal after completing their OUAC application.

Selecting an alternate category does not affect students' eligibility to their first choice of admission category. You can select from the four other admission categories at Arts & Science: Mathematical & Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Social Sciences and Humanities. Computer Science and Rotman Commerce are not available as alternate choices. If you are admitted to an alternate admission category, you may be waitlisted for your first choice and reconsidered at a later time, space permitting.

Please note that selecting an alternate admission category does not guarantee admission. To be considered for your alternate choice, you must meet eligibility requirements and the minimum overall average, including in any prerequisite courses.

Transfer students

Students with previous post-secondary (at the University of Toronto or another post-secondary institution) are not eligible to apply directly into the Computer Science admission category or program of study.

More information on pursuing a program of study in Computer Science as a transfer student can be found on our Transfer Student Admission webpage .

Exceptions to the above include:

• Dual-enrolment secondary school students who are completing post-secondary courses at part of their secondary school diploma. The secondary school official transcript must list all the dual enrolment courses explicitly. Additional information or documentation may be requested to confirm the nature of the program. Students admitted into the Computer Science admission category or program of study are not eligible for transfer credits for dual-enrolment courses.
• Students who completed programs or certificates not eligible for transfer credit such as religious studies, and technical programs such a photography, culinary arts, etc. If in doubt about eligibility, please contact the Office of the Faculty Registrar .

Admission Requirements by Curriculum:

• Ontario High School and Other Canadian Provinces
• US High School Admission Requirements
• International Baccalaureate (IB) Admission Requirements
• British Patterned Admission Requirements
• Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) Admission Requirements
• Other International School Admission Requirements

Transitioning from an admission category to a program of study

Admission to the Computer Science admission category is not the same as enrolment in a Computer Science program of study. Students apply to a program of study, or programs, of study at the end of first year.

However, all students admitted to the Computer Science admission category are guaranteed admission in the Computer Science specialist, major or minor program of choice after first year, provided that they meet the conditions of the first-year guarantee.

To prepare for admission into your program of study at the end of first year:

Step 1: Search for your desired program of study (e.g. major in data science) in the  table in the "Computer Science" section below

Step 2: Find the high school subject prerequisites for your desired program of study listed under Subject(s) Required in Addition to English

Step 3: These prerequisites subjects allow you to enrol in introductory first year courses needed for your program of study selection at the end of first year. You can find these courses listed under Program Area in the Academic Calendar

Program List

After first year, you can apply to one of the two programs listed below. Whichever path you choose, you'll be on the cutting edge of in-demand fields like artificial intelligence, game design, statistics, human-computer interaction and more.

• Computer Science

Why Study Computer Science at Arts & Science?

Gain Hands-On Experience

Eligible Computer Science students can apply for the Arts & Science Internship Program after first year and gain 12-20 months of relevant, paid work experience and specialized professional development training. As an undergraduate student, you'll also have the opportunity to work closely with a professor on a research or development project .

Award-Winning Faculty and Research

Computer Science research is ranked #1 in Canada and our faculty is globally renowned. We're home to two Turing Award winners and to members of acclaimed computing societies, including nine Association of Computing Machinery fellows and eight Fellows of the Royal Society of Canada.

Computer Science Careers

#1 in Canada for graduate employability — recruiters from top companies have consistently ranked U of T as #1 in Canada and among the best in the world at preparing its students for the workplace. With a computer science degree from a world-renowned university, you will have a competitive advantage when applying for jobs in fields such as:

• Artificial intelligence (AI)
• Computational linguistics
• Computer systems
• Computer vision
• Game design
• Human-computer interaction
• Scientific computing
• Theory of computation
• Web and internet technologies 

Use Career Navigator to explore more computer science careers and check out our alumni success stories below.

A&S alumnus develops app to help Canadians find closest vaccine clinics

AI startup Cohere raises US$40-million for natural language software

A&S alumna Aashni Shah creates HypeDocs to give women and underrepresented minorities more confidence and a boost in the workplace

How one U of T alumnus went from slinging drinks in undergrad to Geoffrey Hinton's AI lab

My two majors at U of T — computer science and economics — were a great pair. On the computer science side, you learn how to build a product so that users love it. — Zain Manji, HBSc 2016

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Apply to U of T

Important application dates.

Updated application dates for the 2025-26 cycle will be available soon.

The university application process starts in the fall of the year before you intend to begin your studies. Be sure to start looking into scholarships as well , as some have early deadlines.

Below is a list of our application and supporting document deadlines. We encourage you to submit your application, the appropriate application fee, and your supporting documents well in advance of posted deadlines. Admission decisions will be released starting in the new year and will continue through to late May. If we receive your application from OUAC after the program is closed, your application will be cancelled with no refund.

Approximately one week after we receive your application, we will send you an email acknowledgement including your JOINid/UTORid, your University of Toronto applicant number, and full information about the next steps in the application process.

Learn more about the different applications and which you are eligible to submit.

Application Deadlines for Undergraduate Programs

Full-time studies – undergraduate application/international/internal.

Part-time Studies (Summer and Fall sessions)

Non-Degree (Summer and Fall sessions)

Deadlines to Submit Supporting Documentation

Admission decisions will be released in rounds starting in the new year and through to late May. The document deadline is February 1, however we recommend that you submit your required documents by December 15. Applicants who submit required documents early are able to maximize their opportunities for admission consideration. Documents received after the published deadlines will be considered as space allows.

Find out which application you should use , depending on whether you’re a current Ontario high school student, an applicant from another Canadian province or territory, an international applicant, or in another circumstance.

Make sure you check the Important Application Dates to find out when your application, required documents, and other supplementary documents are due.

It depends on what you’re applying to, but most programs do not require additional applications. Some programs, colleges and campuses ask students to fill out an added application or profile. You should receive an email that will indicate if you need to fill out an application, where you can find it and what the deadline is. You can also find this information by looking up your intended program’s requirements in the Program Finder .

Find out about academic requirements for applicants from outside Canada .

Find out about U of T’s English Language Requirements and proof of English facility .

If you have completed college or university studies, AP, IB, GCE, CAPE, or French Bacc. examinations you may be eligible for transfer credit at the University of Toronto. Transfer credits are assessed after admission.

Find out more about transfer credits at U of T.

All changes to your application should be made before the application deadline .

If you have applied using the OUAC Undergraduate Application and wish to make changes to your initial application, you must do this by logging in to the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre website .

All other applicants (International/Internal/Part-Time/Non-Degree) should log onto JOIN U of T , click on Check Status, and follow the instructions for making changes to your application.

We do not accept any changes or corrections via email or telephone.

You will receive an acknowledgment from U of T, with login instructions for our applicant website, JOIN U of T , about two weeks after you submit your application.

Telephone & In-Person Inquiries We are available for telephone and in-person inquiries.

Email Inquiries Connect with us by email for:

• Admissions: apply.adm.utoronto.ca/register/questions
• Ask a Student: apply.adm.utoronto.ca/register/askastudent

Contact Client Services for financial aid inquires including:

• OSAP (Ontario Student Assistant Program) full and part-time
• BSWD (Bursaries for Students with Disabilities)
• UTAPS (University of Toronto Advanced Planning for Students)
• Part-Time Financial
• OOP Funding for other provinces outside of Ontario
• US student aid – for United States citizens (US Federal Student Aid loan opportunities, private loans (non-government), Veteran Affairs certification requests for benefits & education tax credit

Your feedback is important to us. Please take a couple of minutes to let us know how we did by completing our  University Admissions and Outreach Satisfaction Survey .

If you are unable to begin your degree studies in the fall, you may request a one-year deferral of your offer of admission. Deferrals are not guaranteed and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Check out further information on deferring an offer of admission .