OCAD University: Tuition, Programs, and Life in Toronto for International and Domestic Students

OCAD University, located in the heart of Toronto, Canada, stands as the country's largest university of art and design. It is dedicated to applying the power of imagination to education, research, and creative enterprise. Founded in 1876, OCAD U's past provides a rich tradition into which the community can tap as it explores new opportunities, technologies, and media. Central to its constant evolution is the belief that educational and cultural institutions must look outward, nurturing ideas that will take root in the world. OCAD U's mandate is not simply to imagine the future, but to help create it.

A Hub for Art and Design

OCAD University (OCAD U) had a long history of over a century when it was established as the Ontario Society of Artists in Toronto. Beginning with only 14 students, the university has undergone expansions and name changes over the years, including the decision to add the term ‘design’ in its title to reflect the influx of design programs. OCAD University is a world-famous hub for art, design, digital media, research, innovation, and creativity. OCAD U currently has over 4,500 undergraduate students enrolled in its 17 programs. Plus, many students in their final year participate in the Experiential Learning Placement opportunity, which connects industry and community partners with students soon to graduate.

As one of the largest higher educational institutes in the field of art, design, and media in the country, OCAD U calls itself “the University of Imagination.” Technical, studio-based, and aesthetic training is complemented by training in theoretical and critical knowledge. Located in the heart of the bustling capital city of Toronto, the university is also home to an architectural landmark.

Academic Programs

OCAD U's bachelor's and master's degree programs allow students to benefit from an interdisciplinary university education that blends academic rigor with the experimental freedom of the studio. The university offers a wide range of programs across various disciplines. International students have access to the full range of 17 undergraduate and 7 postgraduate programs at OCAD University. If you want to know what other academic programs OCAD University offers, please visit the bachelor’s and master’s course pages.

One of OCAD University’s most unique programs is its Master of Design: Design for Health.

Application Process and Requirements

If you wish to study at OCAD University, you’ll need to know the admission process, requirements, and other relevant information. Moreover, the process and requirements for OCAD University international admission may differ from domestic admission. To help you find all the admission-related information, we’ve compiled the bachelor's and master's admission pages of OCAD University.

OCAD University has a recommended application deadline of February 1, but applications may be considered after that date if there’s space. In addition to standard application documents, many programs require students to submit a portfolio or writing sample. Submit a program application through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) at ouac.on.ca.

Tuition and Fees

Although this range provide a good estimate of tuition costs at OCAD University, the actual fees depend on your chosen program.

Student Life in Toronto

OCAD University is located in the heart of Toronto, Canada's largest centre for design, culture, and business. As one of the world's most multicultural cities, Toronto is a vibrant nexus that brings a diversity of creative forces together. Toronto is a city of 2.79 million, representing 7.6% of Canada’s total population. It’s home to the third-largest community of visual artists and entertainment professionals in North America.

According to the QS Best Student Cities Rankings 2025, Toronto ranks 11th among international students, up two spots from the previous year.

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Accommodation

Although OCAD University doesn’t provide student accommodations, there’s lots of housing options in Toronto. Interested in finding a place? OCAD University has also partnered with Places4Students.com, a platform with a real-time vacancy database for off-campus housing. Customize your search to find properties with specific features. You can also use Places4Students to look for roommates or search sublet opportunities. Some students may choose to live further from campus, while others may want to live closer to Toronto’s downtown. In any case, living near public transit is helpful. The closest subway station is St. Patrick.

Like many large cities, Toronto is a city of neighbourhoods. As you travel to different parts of the city, the architecture, environment, people you see, and even the languages you hear can change. When considering where to live, research different neighbourhoods to find one that fits your budget and lifestyle.

Arts and Culture

OCAD University’s downtown campus positions international students in a thriving art scene, both in and out of classes. The Art Gallery of Ontario, showcasing over 90,000 works of art, is next door, and OCAD U students may visit for free. Look a little further, and students can find 26 more public galleries and 86 commercial galleries in the city.

Thanks to campus events like the Cultural Community Expo (CCE), students don’t have to build a community on their own. The CCE brings together Toronto’s art and cultural sector to prepare students for a career in the arts. Students can connect with prominent alumni, guests, studios, cultural organizations, and production centres at this event.

Diversity and Inclusion

As an international student in Toronto, you’ll be part of an increasingly diverse population: In 2016, Statistics Canada reported that 47% of the city’s residents identify as immigrants. This number is only growing. More than 50% of Torontonians were not born in Canada. People here come from more than 200 countries and speak more than 160 languages.

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Career Opportunities

OCAD University offers career-related services to help graduates land meaningful jobs, set up businesses, and advance their professional practice. New graduates also keep access for one year to valuable programs like Office 365, Freshbooks, and Adobe Creative Cloud. The university’s RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designers (CEAD) also supports the early careers of all students and recent alumni.

International students who want to work in Canada after graduation may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). After graduation, OCAD University will share everything new grads need to know about applying for PGWP in a written communication. But, if you have questions before then, contact OCAD U International Student Services.

Why Choose OCAD University?

OCAD University stands out as a leading institution for art and design education. With a global rank of 4143 and a score of 51.5, it offers a dynamic curriculum that integrates creative practice with critical thinking. The university's location in a vibrant urban setting provides students with ample opportunities for experiential learning and engagement with the arts community. OCAD University fosters innovation and creativity, encouraging students to explore their artistic potential while preparing them for diverse careers in the creative industries.

With more than 4,500 students, 17 undergraduate programs, and over 400 faculty who are practicing artists and designers in their fields, OCAD U provides a supportive and fun campus life experience with small class sizes and skilled technical staff in all their shops and studios.

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