Skip to main content
4 answers
5
Asked 653 views

Do Canadian Universities take into consideration the SAT?

If I take my SAT do Canadian universities use it as a big factor of admission or do they not care as much? What are other big factors that Canadian universities take into consideration for admission?

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you

5

4 answers


0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Bright’s Answer

This is what I know so far. Here’s a summary regarding Canadian university admissions and the SAT:

SAT in Canada:

Most Canadian universities do not require the SAT but will consider it if submitted.
It’s more relevant for U.S.-style programs or international applicants without standard Canadian credentials.
Key admission factors:

High School Grades: Your GPA and course rigor matter most.
Prerequisite Courses: Focus on grades in subjects related to your desired program.
Extracurriculars: leadership, volunteering, or unique achievements.
Personal Statement: Some schools (e.g., UBC) value personal profiles.
Focus on Academics: Canadian universities emphasize grades over standardized tests.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Zoraya!

Do Canadian Universities Take into Consideration the SAT?

Overview of SAT Usage in Canada

Canadian universities generally do not place as much emphasis on the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) as many universities in the United States. While some institutions may accept SAT scores as part of their application process, they typically rely more heavily on other factors such as high school grades, provincial exam results, and other standardized tests that are more relevant to Canadian education.

Factors Influencing Admission Decisions

High School Grades: The most significant factor for admission into Canadian universities is usually the applicant’s high school academic performance. Universities often look at the overall average of courses taken in the final years of secondary school (typically Grade 11 and Grade 12). Specific courses required for particular programs (like mathematics or sciences for engineering) are also critically evaluated.

Provincial Exams: In several provinces, standardized provincial exams contribute to a student’s final grade in certain subjects. For example, in British Columbia, students take the Graduation Literacy Assessment and other subject-specific assessments that can influence their admission prospects.

Supplementary Applications: Some programs, particularly competitive ones like nursing or engineering, may require supplementary applications that include additional essays, references, or portfolios demonstrating relevant experience or skills.

Extracurricular Activities: While not always a formal requirement, involvement in extracurricular activities can enhance an application. Leadership roles, volunteer work, and participation in clubs or sports can demonstrate a well-rounded character and commitment to community engagement.

Personal Statements and Essays: Many universities require personal statements or essays where applicants can express their motivations for choosing a particular program and how their experiences have shaped their aspirations.

Letters of Recommendation: Some programs may ask for letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors who can vouch for the applicant’s academic abilities and character.

Standardized Tests Other than SAT: Certain programs might require specific standardized tests like the ACT (American College Testing) or subject-specific tests depending on the field of study.

Conclusion

In summary, while some Canadian universities may consider SAT scores if submitted, they are not a primary factor in admissions decisions compared to high school grades and other criteria mentioned above. Students interested in applying should check individual university requirements since policies can vary widely between institutions.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question

Universities Canada: A national organization representing Canadian universities that provides information about admissions processes across various institutions.

Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC): This source offers detailed guidelines on application procedures for Ontario universities including what factors are considered during admissions.

British Columbia Ministry of Education: This government body outlines educational standards and assessment methods used within British Columbia’s secondary schools which impact university admissions there.

Probability that the answer is correct: 95%

✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|======= ====GOD BLESS YOU, RICHLY ~ SIMPLY BECAUSE GOD CAN!==============|
|==James Constantine Frangos ~ " THE LITTLE OLD AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN"==|
|==Increasing Your Capacities By Programming For Your Nutrition Education ~ Since 1972!==|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Patrick’s Answer

Canadian universities generally do not place as much emphasis on the SAT as universities in the United States do. While some institutions may accept SAT scores as part of the application, it is not typically a major factor in the admission process, especially for students applying from Canada. Instead, Canadian universities tend to focus more on other aspects of your academic background and achievements.
The primary factors that are considered in the admission process for Canadian universities include:

1. High School Grades: Your academic performance, particularly in courses relevant to the program you're applying for, is usually the most important factor. Universities will look closely at your Grade 12 (or equivalent) marks and any prerequisites for your chosen program.
2. Prerequisite Courses: Most programs have specific high school course requirements. For example, if you're applying to a science program, you will need to have completed certain math and science courses.
3. Personal Statement/Essays: Some universities, especially for competitive programs, may ask for a personal statement or an essay. This gives you the chance to explain why you are interested in the program and what you can bring to the university community.
4. Extracurricular Activities and Experience: While not always required, involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, volunteer work, and other experiences can enhance your application and demonstrate your commitment, passion, and ability to balance academics with other interests.
5. Reference Letters: Some programs, particularly more competitive ones, may require one or more reference letters from teachers, mentors, or others who can speak to your character, work ethic, and academic capabilities.
6. Program-Specific Requirements: Certain programs may have additional requirements such as portfolios (for art or design programs), auditions (for music or performing arts programs), or supplementary applications.

That said, while the SAT is not a major factor in Canadian university admissions, it may still be useful in certain cases—particularly if you're applying from outside of Canada, or if you're applying to a highly competitive program or institution that might consider it as part of a broader academic profile.

In summary, Canadian universities generally prioritize high school grades, course prerequisites, and overall academic performance over standardized test scores. If you’re concerned about the role of SAT scores, I recommend checking the specific requirements for each institution or program you're interested in to see if they are considered at all.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Martha’s Answer

Hi Zoraya - there are excellent opportunities for higher education in Canada so good for you for inquiring. I would like to build on Bright's advice.

Just like US schools have slightly different admissions criteria, Canadian schools do also. The College Board link below addresses the SAT, but advises you to look at the website of the specific college/university that interests you. How much they count standardized tests may vary. The fact that you are from another country may work in your favor.

I found the second link, University Study Canada, on the College Board site. That lets you compare Canadian schools and retain the results in one place. There are other links on the College Board site so I suggest spending time to explore it. Note that some Canadian schools will require knowledge of French.

Good luck!

Martha recommends the following next steps:

College Board - https://international.collegeboard.org/students/study-in-canada#:~:text=How%20Canadian%20Universities%20Use%20College,and%20some%20may%20require%20them.
University Study Canada - https://universitystudy.ca/
0