by Youthfully
Last updated September 8, 2024
When applying to Ontario universities through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC), students must rank their university choices.
This often raises a common question: Does the order of your university choices on OUAC matter for admission? We’ll clarify which universities care about ranking and which do not.
If you’ve been on Reddit, you’ve probably seen many students asking whether their OUAC rankings will affect their chances of getting into their top-choice university.
In most cases, Ontario universities do not consider your OUAC ranking when making admissions decisions.
This ranking is primarily used for your own organization of preferences, and most universities have policies in place that state they will not penalize or prioritize students based on the order of ranking in the OUAC application. However, some universities may offer further details about how they interpret or use ranking in specific circumstances.
Here’s a breakdown of how some universities treat OUAC rankings:
| University | Ranking Consideration |
|---|---|
| University of Toronto | Typically, they do not consider ranking on the OUAC application. For the Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering, applicant choice may be a small factor as part of a broad-based admission approach. Where we have a select number of spaces to offer to students that are equally competitive, we give preference to those applicants who have listed U of T Engineering as one of their top 3 choices. |
| McMaster University | McMaster does not factor OUAC ranking into its admission process. Your ranking order will not affect your chances of admission. |
| University of Waterloo | Waterloo will not consider the ranking of your application. They only assess your academic and supplementary materials. |
| Western University | Western does not take your OUAC ranking into account. Your rank order has no impact on the decision-making process. |
| Queen’s University | Queen’s University follows the same rule: OUAC rankings do not affect admissions decisions. Applications are assessed based on academic merit. |
| University of Ottawa | They will evaluate all applications but may only consider the top 3 choices for the wait list for more competitive programs, such as Computer Science, Software Engineering or Nursing. |
| York University | York University does not use OUAC rankings as part of their admissions decisions. All applications are evaluated equally. |
| Wilfrid Laurier University | Your OUAC ranking does not influence admissions decisions at Wilfrid Laurier. Each application is considered fairly. |
| Carleton University | Carleton University does not consider the OUAC ranking in its admissions process. Your academic performance and supporting materials are what count. |
| Toronto Metropolitan University | Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson) does not take your ranking into account when reviewing applications. |
| University of Guelph | Guelph states clearly that OUAC rankings have no bearing on their admission decisions. |
| Nipissing University | Nipissing does not factor in the OUAC ranking order for admission purposes. |
Does OUAC Ranking Ever Matter?
For the vast majority of programs and universities, the ranking you assign to schools in your OUAC application does not affect whether you get in.
The only ones where it does are UOttawa, which may only consider the top 3 choices for the wait list for more competitive programs, such as Computer Science, Software Engineering or Nursing; and UofT Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering, where applicant choice may be a small factor as part of a broad-based admission approach.
They have a select number of spaces to offer to students that are equally competitive, they give preference to those applicants who have listed U of T Engineering as one of their top 3 choices.
The OUAC system is designed so you can manage your preferences largely without universities using your ranking in admissions decisions. However, students should be mindful of deadlines and submit their applications on time to ensure they are considered fully.
When Should You Care About OUAC Ranking?
While rankings do not affect admissions, they can be useful for managing offers once they start arriving. If you’re accepted into multiple programs, the ranking may help guide your own decision-making process.
Remember that you can hold multiple offers but must confirm your final choice by the stipulated deadlines.
Final Thoughts on OUAC Ranking and Admission
In conclusion, most Ontario universities do not consider your OUAC ranking when making admission decisions.
They focus solely on your academic qualifications, supplementary applications, and other required materials. Be sure to review the specific policies of the universities you’re applying to for any unique considerations, but rest assured that your ranking will likely not play a role in your acceptance.
The Youthfully Advantage
At Youthfully, we specialize in helping students understand the complexities of the admissions process. From navigating the OUAC system to crafting outstanding supplementary applications, our experienced coaches are here to guide you every step of the way.
With our insights and personalized approach, we ensure you’re presenting your best self to each university on your list. Let’s help you maximize your chances of success.
