A.10 Equitable and Inclusive Admission Process


The University of Calgary is committed to establishing an equitable, diverse, and inclusive campus that is accessible to all. We strive to remove barriers that have been, and continue to be, encountered by members of equity deserving groups including, but not limited to, women, Indigenous peoples, visible/racialized minority persons, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQ2S+ persons.

The Equitable and Inclusive Admission Process acknowledges that students have diverse identities, backgrounds and experiences that have shaped opportunity structures. It intentionally pursues inclusive excellence in our admissions practice. This admissions process will consider factors that may have impacted a student’s access, opportunities, and ability to succeed. We encourage and welcome applications from students from communities that experience social barriers, marginalization and systematic discrimination. We also commit to review applicants in an equitable and inclusive manner, where all students feel valued, respected, and supported.

A student’s application will not be delayed or negatively impacted by adding the Equitable and Inclusive pathway. Students who apply with Equitable and Inclusive qualifications will first be considered through the competitive admission process and may be considered for additional pathways:

  • Admission to their first-choice degree program

  • Admission to their first-choice degree program through bridging with possible additional requirements

  • Admission to another degree program aligned with their interests

  • Admission to Open Studies

Some examples of students who have had their previous academic journey impacted and may benefit by applying through this process are:

  • Students who have shown perseverance under difficult circumstances; or

  • Students whose previous academic performance has been impacted and is not reflective of their full potential; or

  • Students with refugee backgrounds; or

  • Students with learning exceptionalities; or

  • Students who have displayed dedication to learning in the face of socio-economic challenges; or

  • Students who have overcome systemic barriers and/or sociocultural adversity.

  • Students who have shown a commitment to extracurricular activity or artistic endeavor; or

  • Students who have shown high potential in academic/research activities; or

Additional information about the process:

  • Students who wish to apply through the Equitable and Inclusive admission process must indicate this in the application and provide a personal profile in the format of the student’s choice (oral, written, video) outlining circumstances, personal achievements, and educational goals, demonstrating how their experiences could contribute to their success in their chosen program. Additional components, including references or an interview, may be requested by the reviewing committee.

  • Students must present the successful completion of English 30-1 (or equivalent) and at least two other 30 level (or equivalent) approved courses including required courses for admission through this pathway as specified in section A.5.4 Adult Student Admission for undergraduate admission or A.15 Admission to Open Studies (Degree holder and Non-Degree holder) for Open Studies admission. Faculties with bridging programs that provide academic upgrading may consider courses at the 20 level. Students with prior post-secondary must present prerequisite courses. Faculties may waive course requirements when a progression pathway is in place.

  • Students must meet the University’s English Language Proficiency requirement

  • Students who are unable to obtain transcripts due to reasons beyond their control may complete a statutory declaration to have their application considered without them.

  • A faculty-specific admission committee will review all complete applications submitted.

Support for the Equitable and Inclusive admissions process is available through the Community Engagement Recruitment Advisor. For further information about the Equitable and Inclusive Admission Process and application deadlines, visit: Equitable and Inclusive Admission Process | University of Calgary (ucalgary.ca).


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