Frequently Asked Questions

• What is TYP?
• Who is TYP for?
• What are the eligibility and requirements to get into TYP?
• What is the admission procedure to apply to TYP?
• How long is the program?
• When does the program start and end?
• How many students are admitted each year?
• When, where and how do I need to apply?
• Can I take the program on a part-time basis?
• Do I have to attend an information session to get an application?
• What will I learn in the information session?
• When are the TYP information sessions?
• How long are the information sessions?
• Can I arrange an information session over the phone?
• Do I need to have community work experience to apply for TYP?
• Can I receive information in the mail?
• Is there a fee associated with application to TYP?
• If I have a criminal record, can I still apply to TYP?
• What should my personal statement include?
• Who can give a personal reference?
• Can anyone at TYP look over my application before I hand it in?
• Should I hand in all components of my application at the same time?
• Can I fax my school transcript(s)?
• What if I can't get a copy of my transcript?
• Will incomplete applications be considered?
• I went to TYP years ago but didn't complete the program; how/when can I reapply?
• I have been away from school for a while, how will this impact my application?
• I haven't finished high school, how will it affect my application?
• I haven't performed well in high school or don't have at least two grade 11 credits in "academic" subjects (math, English, history etc), what do I need to do?
• Can I take my General Educational Development (GED) test in Ontario?
• I have (haven't) completed my high school abroad, how will it impact my application?
• Would a person with a degree from another country qualify for TYP?
• I didn't make it to TYP, what do I need to do now?
• Where would I be able to upgrade?
• What is the minimum grade I need in GED (or any other course I need to upgrade)?
• Do I receive a certificate at the end of the program?
• When is the deadline to submit applications for 2013-2014?
• When will I find out about the Admission Committee's decision in regards to my application?
• If I am not accepted, is there any way I can appeal the decision?
• I have been accepted, what is next?
• What is Orientation?
• What if I missed Orientation?
• What is the required minimum grade to get recommended for admission to Faculty of Arts and Science (FAS)?
• How many and what courses do I take at TYP?
• What are the option courses?
• How much does the program cost?
• Am I eligible to apply for Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) for TYP?
• OSAP, my band or other provincial student aid funding doesn't meet my basic necessities; will I qualify for any financial assistance from the University?
• When and where do I need to apply for OSAP (band or other provincial student funding)?
• When and where can I get help with OSAP application?
• What if I don't qualify for OSAP (band or other provincial student funding)?
• How do I apply for supplementary financial aid if government or band funding is not enough to meet my needs?
• What kind of support is provided by TYP faculty/staff?
• What is the difference between the Academic Bridging Program and TYP?
• Can I do any university program after completion of TYP?
• Will Life Sciences be available to me after graduation from TYP?
• Can I apply to other faculties (engineering, dentistry, music, law etc) after graduation from TYP?
• I don't have the required high school course (e.g. math) for taking a course (e.g. PSY100) or program (e.g. Mathematics) at Faculty of Arts and Science, what should I do?
• I have a concern about my math, is there any help before I start the program?
• How will TYP communicate with the applicants?
• Will I have access to all of UofT amenities if I am accepted at UofT?
• Can I join the Varsity team?
• Can I work while I am at TYP?
• Is TYP building wheel chair accessible?
• Can I stay in UofT residence if I choose to?
• What other access programs are available in Toronto?

• What is TYP?

  The Transitional Year Programme (TYP) at the University of Toronto is a special access program for adults who do not have the formal educational background to qualify for university admission directly. TYP offers an intensive, 8-month, full-time course of studies leading to entrance to an Arts and Science degree program.

• Who is TYP for?

  It is aimed specifically at those who did not have an opportunity to finish high school or have the grades necessary to directly apply to the university because of financial prob­lems, family obligations or other circumstances beyond their control. The Programme actively encourages applications from members of the Native Canadian, African-Canadian, Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual/Transgendered/Queer (LGBTQ), other minority communities, people with disabilities and from sole-support parents.

• What are the eligibility and requirements to get into TYP?

  Eligibility:

  The need of applicants – which includes (but is not limited to) considerations of race, class origins, parental status, community of origin and community of residence – is the first consideration in the selection of new TYP students. The TYP admissions committee uses no fixed standard for admission. Instead, it considers each application individually in order to assess the need of candidates. Considerations for each applicant include:
  • Level of motivation
  • Commitment and academic promise
  • Existing academic skills

  Minimum application requirements:
  
  The applicant:
  • Must be at least 19 by September 30 of the year of admission
  • Must be a Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident (a.k.a. landed immigrant) or Protected Person (a.k.a. refugee)
  • Must have been away from regular high school for at least one year; this excludes any academic upgrading prior to applying
  • Must have left school early for reasons connected with social or economic difficulties, illnesses or some other personal problem mainly beyond their control
  • Must have at least two high school courses at Grade 11 or higher level in academic subjects (in the current Ontario system there would be 3U or M or 4U or M subjects), or an equivalent from another school system, and/or suitable life and/or work experience & TYP must be the only feasible way for the applicant to have access to a university education*

  * Candidates who have completed at least three Grade 11 courses in academic subjects or higher level in academic subjects (in the current Ontario system there would be 3U or M or 4U or M subjects) or the equivalent in another school system OR who can satisfy the Admissions committee that they have achieved equivalent academic skills by some other means will be considered to meet the minimum academic skills required for the programme. Those lacking this skill may be referred to an appropriate academic upgrading program. TYP reserves the right to hold a place for future admission for those who successfully complete the recommended courses or programs. (Please note that meeting the minimum academic requirement DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMISSION.)

• What is the admission procedure to apply to TYP?

  Admission procedure is:
  
  The applicant must submit the following documents before the application deadline for Admission Committee's review. Your application will be deemed incomplete and will not be considered by the Admission Committee if any of the following items are missing without any explanation. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that all the documents are received at TYP on time and as prescribed.
  
  1. Completed TYP Application Form
  2. A personal statement detailing barriers and challenges (i.e. personal, family, financial, social, racial, cultural etc.) you have faced. Your personal statement need to address the following questions:

  • • Who are you and what do you do presently?
  • • Why can you not apply directly to a post-secondary institution? (Any barriers/challenges during high school?)
  • • How these barriers and challenges affected your studies/grades in high school?
  • • How have these challenges changed recently?
  • • Why are you considering this program?
  • • Why do you regard the TYP as the only means by which you can gain entry to a university?
  • • What are your goals in life both academic- and career-wise?

  3. Original School Transcripts (translated/notarized copies of foreign transcripts or examination certificates)
  4. Two Letters of Recommendation (in signed and sealed envelopes, or sent directly by the referee)
  5. Up-to-date resume (if applicable)
  
  Please note applicants are required to attend one of the mandatory two-hour long writing sample sessions which will happen in April. The applicants' writing sample will be attached to their applications for review by the Admission Committee. The writing sample is administered in a supervised environment at TYP to gather evidence of the applicant's writing ability. The applicants will be given a choice of 4 to 5 general topics to write about. Completion of a writing sample is usually necessary for consideration for admission.

• How long is the program

  The Program takes about a year to complete. The bulk of the courses are taken during Sept-Apr – Fall/Winter Term. Some students take classes during Summer Term as well. Students with a documented disability may be permitted to complete the Transitional Year Programme in two years, if it is so recommended by Accessibility Services in the University of Toronto.

• When does the program start and end?

  The start and end dates are early-September and end-April respectively.

• How many students are admitted each year?

  TYP accepts approximately 70 students per year. However, we often receive far more applications from the qualified applicants for the 70 places available in the program. The qualified applicants who don't make it in the first try due to space and academic resource limitations at TYP will be encouraged to reactivate their application the following year. Reactivation of application entails filling out an updated application form and providing us a summary of activities/accomplishments since their last application. In such cases, Admission Committee, at its sole discretion, will offer qualified students guaranteed spot in the following year. Those applicants who do not get accepted by the program because they do not meet the admission criteria will receive advice from the Admissions Committee about how to prepare for future admission into the program. Recommendations range from upgrading their education, to working to stabilize/normalize their life etc.

• When, where and how do I need to apply?

  Application forms will be available from TYP from January until the end of April. However, the applicants are strongly encouraged to start the application process as soon as possible to ensure that the application and the necessary supporting documents get to us before the application deadline. Normally we offer the hard-copy of the application to people who attend an information or recruitment session, and who seem to be good prospects for the program. Send an email to typ.info@utoronto.ca to have a soft copy emailed to you or download it from our website in January. Once the application is completed, it should be brought/mailed to TYP along with all the required documents. All the applications should be received at TYP by the first Monday of May; however, sometimes the application deadline may be set earlier than that. Please ensure you check our website for the up-to-date details on the application deadline. Late applications are not considered. It is ultimately the applicant's responsibility to ensure that all the required documents are received on time and complete and to advise the TYP staff if there are any extenuating circumstances resulting in delays in submitting their application and/or a component of it (transcripts, reference letters etc).

• Can I take the program on a part-time basis?

  TYP offers an intensive, 8-month, full-time course of studies. Only students with documented disability can arrange to complete the program over two years. The applicants who are interested in a part-time entry program should investigate the Academic Bridging Program offered by Woodsworth College at the University of Toronto. This is a part time program designed for students who do not meet the established direct entry admission requirements, and each course is intended to bridge the gap between a student's prior education and the requirements of first year university courses in Humanities and Social Sciences.

• Do I have to attend an information session to get an application?

  Applications will be given to the applicants who are a good fit for the program. Therefore, all applicants from the GTA are required to attend a TYP information session. Special arrangements can be made for interested individuals from outside the region.

• What will I learn in the information session?

  You will learn about the program, its mission, structure, expectations what can result after completing the program. Also prospective applicants get a chance to ask any pertinent questions.

• When are the TYP information sessions?

  These sessions happen on various weekday evenings and Saturdays 3-5pm from February to end of April. Refer to the "TYP Important Dates and Events" page for session times. There are additional info sessions held at various agencies across Toronto.

• How long are the information sessions?

  Typically information sessions are from 1.5 to 2 hours long.

• Can I arrange an information session over the phone?

  Yes, you can. However, if possible, please go through the material on our website (www.utoronto.ca/typ) as a first step as it may answer most of your questions.

• Do I need to have community work experience to apply for TYP?

  No - although it can count as a reason in favour of accepting you into TYP.

• Can I receive information in the mail?

  Yes. However, applicants can find much of the information they may want on the TYP's website (www.utoronto.ca/typ) as well.

• Is there a fee associated with application to TYP?

  There is no fee associated with the application for the TYP application.

• If I have a criminal record, can I still apply to TYP?

  Yes, you can. Historically, TYP has admitted some applicants with previous criminal records into the program. All judgements of admissibility into the program are made strictly on the basis of academic readiness, previous barriers to education, absence of more suitable alternatives and current stability of life situation. Any information in regards to the crime/offence will be held in strict confidence in accordance to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (the Act). Beginning June 10, 2006 Ontario universities, including the University of Toronto, are covered by the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (the Act), which supports access to University records and protection of privacy.

• What should my personal statement include?

  Your personal statement should include your career goals and the importance of TYP in achieving those goals. In addition, it needs to detail the nature of barriers and challenges – be it personal, family, financial, social etc - that had affected your high school education adversely. For further information, please look above under the Admissions.

• Who can give a personal reference?

  Anyone not related to you.

• Can anyone at TYP look over my application before I hand it in?

  Yes.

• Should I hand in all components of my application at the same time?

  It is preferred if you submit all the components of your application at the same time. However, if you foresee that some of the components of your application will be delayed/take longer to get it to us, you need to submit your application and advise TYP staff as to the approximate time to expect the outstanding required documents.

• Can I fax my school transcript(s)?

  You may fax your school transcript(s) to ensure that we have the information in good time. However, we also require the original or certified copy of transcript(s) in a sealed envelope. Foreign transcripts that are in languages other than English or French should be translated and notarized before submission to TYP since we have limited capacity for reading such documents here. If you cannot provide a copy of your transcript, we will accept the best evidence you can provide of your academic record.

• What if I can't get a copy of my transcript?

  Any other form of evidence of substantial secondary school achievement (e.g. official reports of results of formal exam) will be accepted in lieu of a transcript.

• Will incomplete applications be considered?

  No. It is applicant's responsibility to ensure that all their documents are received by TYP by the deadline.

• I went to TYP years ago but didn't complete the program; how/when can I reapply?

  You must apply during the ordinary recruitment period by May 1, 2012 deadline. In many cases, it will not be necessary to provide all the documents expected of new applicants. It is necessary in every case to submit an up-to-date application form and statement of activities since last application. Other requirements will depend on the specific case.

• I have been away from school for a while, how will this impact my application?

  By itself, this should not affect your application, although we look favourably on candidates who have done some recent academic upgrading. Please click here for a list of institutions for academic upgrading.

• I haven't finished high school, how will it affect my application?

  The program is aimed specifically at those who did not have an opportunity to finish high school and/or their high school grades had suffered because of financial problems, family difficulties or other circumstances beyond their control.

• I haven't performed well in high school or don't have at least two grade 11 credits in "academic" subjects (Math, English, History etc.), what do I need to do?

  Applicants are advised to upgrade or write General Educational Development (GED) before applying to TYP. However, we consider any form of evidence that you have the academic skills to take our courses.

• Can I take my General Educational Development (GED) test in Ontario?

  The General Educational Development (GED) test is an international secondary school equivalency examination program for adults. The GED tests cover what secondary school graduates are expected to know in mathematics, writing, science, literature, and the arts. Candidates who successfully complete the tests can earn the Ontario High School Equivalency Certificate. The GED tests are offered in English and French, and testing sites are located in Toronto, Mississauga, Sudbury, Ottawa, Thunder Bay, and Windsor. For detailed information, visit the General Educational Development page of the Independent Learning Centre.

• I have (haven't) completed my high school abroad, how will it impact my application?

  This will not have any bearing on your application as long as you provide the notarized translation of your high school transcript, diploma etc. Please be sure to explain the lack of any required document due to extenuating circumstances. In some cases completed secondary school in another country may be sufficient for direct entry into a university degree program, provided that you can show a sufficient competence in English.

• Would a person with a degree from another country qualify for TYP?

  Those with a degree from another country should directly apply to the University. Please visit the Office of Admissions and Awards at the University of Toronto for further information.

• I didn't make it to TYP, what do I need to do now?

  If you have been advised to undertake certain form of upgrading or writing General Educational Development (GED) test and you have done it (or you are successfully engaged in it), you may reapply in a subsequent year(s). You need to complete another application and provide a statement of activities since you last application. It will not be necessary to provide a new high school/college transcript(s), high school/college diploma, personal statement or letters of reference in that case as we already have them on file.

• Where would I be able to upgrade?

  Applicants may upgrade at an Independent Learning Center, Community College or High School. Please click here for a list of institutions for academic upgrading.

• What is the minimum grade I need in GED (or any other course I need to upgrade)?

  Even though we have no minimum GED grade, we do not consider a candidate who has not passed the English or Mathematics component of the test.

• Do I receive a certificate at the end of the program?

  Students admitted to the program will receive either certificate of participation or completion. The certificate of participation is conferred to the students who didn't complete the program but have significantly participated/attended in the program.

• When is the deadline to submit applications for 2013-2014?

  The application period for 2013-2014 is from early January to May 1, 2013.

• When will I find out about the Admission Committee's decision in regards to my application?

  You will be informed of the decision about your application by late June. The decision will be mailed to the mailing address on your application form. Please be sure to update us should your address change. If you do not wish to receive the decision in the mail, please advise TYP staff in advance and indicate it on your application form.

• If I am not accepted, is there any way I can appeal the decision?

  Yes, but the burden is on the applicant to provide a good reason why they should have been accepted in the program.

• I have been accepted, what is next?

  Applicants who have been accepted into the program are required to attend a series of events such as Orientation Day, OSAP Info Session and the like in order to get essential information prior to starting the program. As most of the communication will be via email, prospective students are required to regularly check their emails for any updates and news from TYP.

• What is Orientation?

  TYP orientation is typically a series of events and activities specifically designed to help newly admitted students explore all that the University offers in terms of resources and services on campus, and to meet fellow students, faculty, staff members and others associated with the program. It will also help the new students explore opportunities for involvement on campus and successfully connect with and adjust to their new community. These events and activities not only prepare the new students for the start of school in September, but also throughout the year. The events will help them make informed choices about their Option courses, to deal with the complexities of the financial aid system, to find their way around campus and to learn about what is expected of university students.

• What if I missed Orientation?

  It is highly encouraged that students attend the orientation events and activities. Many have greatly benefited from attending orientation throughout their time at the University. Please contact TYP staff in advance should you anticipate missing an orientation event.

• What is the required minimum grade to get recommended for admission to Faculty of Arts and Science (FAS)?

  Students who complete the program satisfactorily with a pass in all courses, at least a 60% in the Arts and Science option course and an overall average of at least 65% are eligible for admission to the Faculty of Arts and Science at the University of Toronto.

• How many and what courses do I take at TYP?

  Full-time students will take a full slate of courses; a total of 5 full-credit equivalent courses, 3.5 of which are offered by TYP and 1.5 of which is offered by the Faculty of Arts and Science at the University of Toronto. Please check the Courses section of the website for further information on TYP courses and their description. Students with documented disability can enroll in the part-time program and take 2-3 courses to complete the program over two years.

• What are the option courses?

  Option courses are a selection of entry-level courses offered by the Faculty of Arts and Science, that TYP students may choose and for which TYP faculty members provide special academic support. Every student must complete at least one of these courses as part of the program. Please refer to the Courses section of the website for details.

• How much does the program cost?

  The tuition fee is approximately $5500. This does not include textbooks and other related expenses. For up-to-date and accurate information on tuition fee, please refer to Student Accounts at the University of Toronto.

• Am I eligible to apply for Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) for TYP?

  Students admitted to TYP are eligible to apply for OSAP (or other Provincial/Federal student aid programs if they are not Ontario residents). First Nations students may qualify for band support funding. First Nations students are encouraged to contact First Nations House (FNH) at the University of Toronto for information on and/or assistance with the band support funding application, and/or other student funding opportunities available through FNH.

• OSAP, my band or other provincial student aid funding doesn't meet my basic necessities; will I qualify for any financial assistance from the University?

  University of Toronto is committed to ensure that students who have received OSAP, band funding or other Provincial/Federal student funding programs but still have financial difficulties will be eligible to apply for bursary, grants and/or scholarships to meet their needs. To apply for TYP grants and bursuries, please use the bursury/grant form (completed forms should be submitted to the Registrar's Office along with the relevant supporting documentation).

• When and where do I need to apply for OSAP (band or other provincial student funding)?

  You should apply for funding from the Province or Territory where you have resided for the past 12 months. You should apply in May after completing & submitting your application. Do not wait to find out if you have been accepted in the program to apply for OSAP. To apply for OSAP funding, visit OSAP website: http://osap.gov.on.ca

• When and where can I get help with OSAP application?

  You can get help with filling out an OSAP application during OSAP Information Session which will happen in late June or early July. Usually this will take place in a computer lab where students have access to a computer to be able to access their OSAP online application and ask any questions related to their application.

• What if I don't qualify for OSAP (band or other provincial student funding)?

  Admitted students who do not qualify for Government (i.e. Provincial and/or Federal) student aid programs should consider personal funding (i.e. savings, loans from friends and/or family etc) or defer to another year.

• How do I apply for supplementary financial aid if government or band funding is not enough to meet my needs?

  Application for the University's supplementary student aid (University of Toronto Advance Planning for Students (UTAPS)) is automatic if you have applied for OSAP and receive the maximum amount. Applications for other forms of financial assistance offered by the University are made through the Registrar's Office using the bursury/grant form.

• What kind of support is provided by TYP faculty/staff?

  TYP provides a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone. Every student will be assigned to an Academic Advisor who is typically a TYP faculty member, and advises the students on wide range of academic and related matters. These advisors meet students regularly and, where appropriate, make referrals to other appropriate offices within UofT for further counseling and advice. TYP staff will serve as a first point of contact for all student support including dealing with the issues and referral as appropriate.

• What is the difference between the Academic Bridging Program and TYP?

  The Academic Bridging Program is a part-time program offered at Woodsworth College, one of the University of Toronto's undergraduate colleges. The program offers two application periods: the regular program (8-month long program) runs from September to April and intensive program (4-month long program) runs from January to April. Admitted students will take one course for the entire program. Upon successful completion, the students will be eligible for admission to degree programs in the Faculty of Arts and Science at the University of Toronto. It is ideal for those who would like to pursue part-time studies due to work and/or personal/family commitments, particularly if they are confident about their academic skills. On the other hand, TYP is a full-time program for the students who have been away from school for a while and/or need more help to acquire/enhance their academic skills (especially writing, reading, analytical etc).

• Can I do any university program after completion of TYP?

  Students who complete the program satisfactorily with a pass in all courses, are only eligible for admission to the Faculty of Arts and Science at the University of Toronto. Other first-entry programs at the university are not usually available. However, many universities will accept TYP graduates for programs similar to those offered by Faculty of Arts and Science at the University of Toronto.

• Will Life Sciences be available to me after graduation from TYP?

  If you can acquire the pre-requisites for the crucial introductory courses you will be able to take them. However, TYP is not required to provide that preparation directly.

• Can I apply to other faculties (engineering, dentistry, music, law etc) after graduation from TYP?

  In most cases we can only prepare students to enter the Faculty of Arts and Science. It is the largest first entry faculty at the University of Toronto.

• I don't have the required high school course (e.g. math) for taking a course (e.g. PSY100) or program (e.g. Mathematics) at Faculty of Arts and Science, what should I do?

  Students who lack specific pre-requisites for course or program must make them up on their own if they wish to take the course and/or program of their choice. In some cases, there is more than one way to do so. TYP and the relevant departments can provide specific advice pertinent to students' unique situations.

• I have concern about my math, is there any help before I start the program?

  Yes, TYP will offer pre-program math sessions to help students with their math skills. Please note that these are non-credit sessions to brush up on the basic math skills to prepare students for a smooth transition.

• How will TYP communicate with the applicants?

  Mainly TYP will communicate to the students through email and phone. Please ensure that you check your messages regularly and follow-up promptly on any outstanding issues in regards to your application.

• Will I have access to all of UofT amenities if I am accepted at UofT?

  Yes. You are students of the University and pay fees for the services and facilities just as do other students.

• Can I join the Varsity team?

  Technically you would be eligible but it is not recommended during the TYP year.

• Can I work while I am at TYP?

  It is not recommended to work, since the course load is heavy at TYP. Returning to studies, especially after a prolonged gap, can be challenging to some students. Students need to dedicate as much time as possible to their studies. Some students have both worked part-time and finished TYP successfully, but it has been a considerable struggle for many of them.

• Is TYP building wheel chair accessible?

  Yes on the ground floor. Other UofT buildings are mostly accessible too.

• Can I stay in UofT residence if I choose to?

  Yes. However, since most residences are administered by the undergraduate colleges in the Faculty of Arts and Science, you should indicate your interest as early as possible. If you are in a long-term relationship when accepted or have children, you are eligible for student family housing. There may be a waiting list for a place in it, however.

• What other access programs are available in Toronto?

  Academic Bridging Program at Woodsworth College at the University of Toronto
  Transition Year Program at the York University
  Various other access programs through Chang School of Continuing Education at the Ryerson University