Application Process
- Fall 2025 applications open: October 1, 2024 (12:00 AM ET)
- Application deadline: December 2, 2024 (11:59 PM ET)
• Fall 2025 applications open: October 1, 2024 (12:00 AM ET) • Application deadline: December 2, 2024 (11:59 PM ET)
Entry Requirements
Applicable to All Concentrations
All applicants must have:
Completed or be the process of completing an appropriate undergraduate degree for the concentration they are applying to.
A standing equivalent to at least B+ (U of T 77-79%) in their final year (i.e., two terms) of study (the equivalent of 5 full credits, or 10 half credits).
If you completed your undergraduate degree outside of Canada, please use the University of Toronto’s International Credentials Equivalencies Tool to determine what credentials are required for admission.
Achieved English-language proficiency according to the requirements set by the School of Graduate Studies.
Work experience (including co-op placements or internships) is preferred, but not required.
Research experience (including summer research assistantships or internships) is preferred, but not required.
Applicants are required to submit the following documents:
Copies of all academic transcripts pertaining to qualifications gained from undergraduate onwards (high school certificates are not required).
Resume/CV (1–2 pages in length)
Answers to the program-specific questions addressing their interest in the preferred concentration(s) and objectives for the program.
Details of three referees (names, affiliations i.e university/company, and e-mail addresses).
English Language Proficiency (ELP) test scores (if applicable).
Applicants are also welcome to share any other relevant information with the admissions committee e.g. links to projects, research papers, personal Github repos, etc.
Program-Specific Questions
For admission into the MScAC program, applicants must provide answers to program-specific questions. This is an opportunity to explain how personal goals and interests align with the program and why a student should be admitted. Additionally, students are encouraged to use their answers to demonstrate a commitment to quality and skills in English.
Points students will be required to address:
An understanding of the requirements of graduate school in general and the MScAC program.
The appropriateness of the program for personal career aspirations.
Reasons why they have chosen the specific concentration and any appropriate research/applied research/industry experience, including their contributions.
Specific details regarding their research area(s) of interest and an understanding and awareness of any industry trends in relation to this.
Innovative projects and solutions they have worked on.
Teamwork and leadership skills they have demonstrated.
References
The MScAC program requires three letters of support from faculty members and/or employers. Ideally, at least two of the referee letters should be academic references. However, given the nature of the program, it is entirely appropriate to use referees who have an industry background and been in a senior or supervisory capacity. If a referee does not have an institutional email and is using a non-institutional e-mail address (Gmail, Hotmail, etc.), details of their professional profile, such as a faculty/LinkedIn page, must be included in the “Additional Information” section of the application form.
English Language Requirements and Submission
The admitting degree for the MSc in Applied Computing program is the qualification considered equivalent to a University of Toronto four-year undergraduate degree. The admitting degree is what the requirement for English-Language Proficiency tests is based on.
Requirements for proof of English Language Proficiency:
If the undergraduate degree was earned at a university where the language of instruction and examination is not English, an acceptable ELP Test must be passed.
If the undergraduate degree was earned at a university where the language of instruction and examination was uniformly English, an applicant may be exempt. However, a letter confirming the language of instruction and examination may still be required and must be provided by the applicant’s home institution.
If a degree was earned in a program split between two institutions, where one of the institution’s languages of instruction and examination was not uniformly English, language scores must be provided.
Other, non-university education programs – community college, continuing education studies etc. – do not normally qualify to exempt an applicant from ELP requirements.
If English-language scores are required, the MScAC application is not complete until successful scores have been submitted.
Canadian citizens who studied at a Canadian university where the language of instruction is French are exempt from these requirements.
Requirements Specific to Each Concentration
An appropriate bachelor’s degree from a recognized university in a related area such as applied mathematics, computational mathematics, computer science, mathematics, physics, statistics, or any discipline where there is a significant mathematical component.
The completed bachelor’s degree must include coursework in advanced and multivariate calculus (preferably analysis), linear algebra, and probability. There should also be a demonstrated capacity in programming and algorithms. In addition, there should be some depth in at least two of the following six areas:
analysis (for example, measure and integration, harmonic analysis, functional analysis);
discrete math (for example, algebra, combinatorics, graph theory);
foundations (for example, complexity theory, set theory, logic, model theory);
geometry and topology;
numerical analysis; and
ordinary and partial differential equations.
Applicants must satisfy the admissions committee of their ability to be successful in graduate courses in computer science and mathematics, and in an industrial internship in applied mathematics. Applicants should be able to demonstrate a potential to conduct and communicate applied research at the intersection of computer science, mathematics, and a domain area. Applicants may be asked to do a technical interview as part of the application process.
Three letters of reference from faculty and/or employers, with preference for at least one such letter from a faculty member in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics.
Applicants must indicate a preference for the concentration in Applied Mathematics in their application. Admission is competitive, and students who are admitted to the MScAC program are not automatically admitted to this concentration upon request.
An appropriate bachelor’s degree from a recognized university in a related area such as physics, computer science, mathematics, statistics, engineering, or any discipline where there is a significant quantitative component.
The completed bachelor’s degree must include significant exposure to computer science or statistics or engineering including coursework in advanced and multivariate calculus (preferably analysis), linear algebra, probability and statistics, programming languages, and general computational methods.
It is preferred that applicants have completed relevant senior-level coursework, research, or have industry experience related to the field of Artificial Intelligence.
Three letters of reference from faculty and/or employers, with preference for at least one such letter from a faculty member in Artificial Intelligence.
Applicants must indicate a preference for the concentration in Artificial Intelligence in their application. Admission is competitive, and students who are admitted to the MScAC program are not automatically admitted to this concentration upon request.
An appropriate bachelor’s degree from a recognized university in a related area such as Life Sciences, Biochemistry, Medical Sciences, Computer Science, Biotechnology, Biostatistics, Engineering, or related disciplines.
Background academic preparation to be successful in graduate level AI in Healthcare program would include undergraduate courses in the following areas:
Programming (proficiency in programming equivalent to a second year CS Software Engineering course that includes experience with software design), active proficiency programming in Python achieved through coursework and/or experience). The reason for this requirement is the necessity to have programming skills to be able to take AI courses and later code AI approaches and use appropriate packages during the internship. Bridging opportunities are being developed by the MScAC program as well.
Calculus (equivalent to MAT135H1 or higher)
Linear Algebra (equivalent of MAT223H1 or higher)
Healthcare or a life science course (e.g., equivalent of BIO230H1 or higher) is a plus
Applicants must satisfy the Admissions Committee of their ability to be successful in graduate courses in AI and an internship in healthcare. Exceptional applicants who may lack the precise background above may be asked to participate in a rigorous technical interview as part of the admissions process. The decision to conduct the technical interview will be made by the admissions committee based on the application materials submitted by the applicant.
Three letters of reference from faculty and/or employers, with preference for at least one such letter from a faculty member in biology or data science.
The admissions committee may grant conditional admission to applicants who are otherwise qualified but lack the appropriate background pending satisfactory completion of specific coursework as judged by the admissions committee before the start of the program.
The program will consider admitting candidates without an undergraduate degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Life Sciences, or a related field, but who show a demonstrated aptitude demonstrated aptitude to excel in the fields pertaining to medicine and healthcare. Such applicants should demonstrate a potential to conduct and communicate applied research at the intersection of computer science, statistics, and life sciences.
Applicants must indicate a preference for the concentration in Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare in their application. Admission is competitive, and students who are admitted to the MScAC program are not automatically admitted to this concentration upon request.
An appropriate bachelor’s degree from a recognized university in Computer Science or a related discipline.
In general, you must show knowledge equivalent to at least three senior level computer science courses. Ideally, these should be as follows:
Three letters of reference from faculty and/or employers, with preference for at least one such letter from a faculty member in Computer Science.
Applicants must indicate a preference for the concentration in Computer Science in their application. Admission is competitive, and students who are admitted to the MScAC program are not automatically admitted to this concentration upon request.
An appropriate bachelor’s degree from a recognized university in a related area such as statistics, computer science, mathematics, or any discipline where there is a significant quantitative component.
The program will consider admitting candidates without an undergraduate degree in computer science, statistics, or a related field, but who show a demonstrated aptitude to be an excellent data scientist. Applicants should be able to demonstrate a potential to conduct and communicate applied research at the intersection of computer science, statistics, and a domain area. Background academic preparation to be successful in graduate-level computer science and statistics courses typically, though not always, includes intermediate or advanced undergraduate courses in the following topics:
Algorithms and Complexity, Database Systems, or Operating Systems.
Statistical Theory/Mathematical Statistics, Probability Theory, or Regression Analysis.
Applicants must satisfy the admissions committee of their ability to be successful in graduate courses in computer science, statistics, and an industrial internship in data science. Applicants may be asked to do a technical interview as part of the application process.
Students who are otherwise qualified but lack the appropriate background may be granted conditional admission, pending successful completion of additional background material as judged by the admissions committee.
Three letters of support from faculty and/or employers with preference for at least one such letter from a faculty member in Computer Science/Statistical Sciences.
Applicants must indicate a preference for the concentration in Data Science in their application. Admission is competitive, and students who are admitted to the MScAC program are not automatically admitted to this concentration upon request.
An appropriate bachelor’s degree from a recognized university in a related field such as Life Sciences, Biochemistry, Medical Sciences, Computer Science, Biotechnology, Biostatistics, Engineering, or other related disciplines.
Background academic preparation to be successful in graduate level Computer Science, Statistics, and Cell and Systems Biology, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, and Molecular Genomics courses typically including intermediate or advanced undergraduate courses in the following topics:
Third-year Algorithms and Complexity (such as CSC373H1)
Second-Year (or higher) level systems (such as CSC207H1: Software Design or equivalent, CSC209H1: Software Tools and Systems Programming or equivalent, CSCB58H3: Computer Organization or equivalent)
At least one third-year or fourth-year biology course (with the appropriate prerequisites; courses with a molecular biology focus are recommended)
Note that students meeting the admissions prerequisites must have courses in calculus, linear algebra, and probability/statistics
Applicants must satisfy the Admissions Committee of their ability to be successful in graduate courses in Computer Science, Statistics, Cell and Systems Biology, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Molecular Genomics, and an industrial research internship in Biological Data Science. Exceptional applicants who may lack the precise background above may be asked to participate in a rigorous technical interview as part of the admissions process. The decision to conduct the technical interview will be made by the admissions committee based on the application materials of the student.
Three letters of reference from faculty and/or employers, with preference for at least one such letter from a faculty member in biology or data science.
Students who are otherwise qualified but lack the appropriate background may be granted conditional admission, pending successful completion of additional background material as judged by the admissions committee.
The program will consider admitting candidates without an undergraduate degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Life Sciences, or a related field, but who show a demonstrated aptitude to be an excellent biological data scientist. Such applicants should demonstrate a potential to conduct and communicate applied research at the intersection of computer science, statistics, and life sciences.
Applicants must indicate a preference for the concentration in Data Science for Biology in their application. Admission is competitive, and students who are admitted to the MScAC program are not automatically admitted to this concentration upon request.
An appropriate bachelor’s degree from a recognized university in a related area such as physics, computer science, mathematics, or any discipline where there is a significant quantitative component.
The completed bachelor’s degree must include significant exposure to physics, computer science, and mathematics, including coursework in advanced quantum mechanics, multivariate calculus, linear algebra, probability and statistics, programming languages, and computational methods.
Three letters of reference from faculty and/or employers, with preference for at least one such letter from a faculty member in Physics.
Applicants must indicate a preference for the concentration in Quantum Computing in their application. Admission is competitive, and students who are admitted to the MScAC program are not automatically admitted to this concentration upon request.
Application Process
Fall 2025 applications open: October 1, 2024 (12:00 AM ET)
Application deadline: December 2, 2024 (11:59 PM ET)
Please note that this program has one intake (Fall) only, we do not accept applications for a Winter or Summer start.
Students with additional questions are encouraged to review the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section.
Program Fees
For the September 2024 program start date, tuition and fees for the entire 16-month MScAC program are estimated at approximately:
$26,300 CAD for domestic students (Canadian citizens and permanent residents)
$77,800 CAD for international students
Fall-term tuition fees are posted to the University of Toronto Student Accounts website in mid-July each year and are subject to change.
Funding Your Studies
Scholarships and Awards
Students are encouraged to apply for all university graduate scholarships they are qualified for.
Canadian citizens/permanent residents of Canada
Domestic students can apply for the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) or the equivalent in their home province/territory.
International students
International students may be eligible to apply from international student loan companies, such as Prodigy Finance or MPOWER Financing. Please note that, while both companies have indicated a willingness to consider loan applications from MScAC students, the MScAC program has no formal agreement or partnership with either company. All loans, as well as decisions regarding approval and eligibility, are governed by the respective loan company.
In addition, many countries provide loans or scholarships specific to their citizens. The MScAC does not guarantee, co-sign, nor endorse any of these specific programs for funding.
For the purpose of financial planning, students should know that it is common to receive a salary during the internship phase of the program (semesters 3 and 4). Currently, the average salary earned by students over this period is $65,000.
General Tuition Fee Payment Schedule
Semester 1 (Fall) – tuition fees due by mid-September of year 1
Semester 2 (Winter) – tuition fees due by the end of November of year 1
Semester 3 (Summer) – no payment required
Semester 4 (Fall) – tuition fees due by mid-September of year
Prepare the supporting documents for the application:
Academic transcripts
Applicants can upload an official or unofficial scan or PDF version of their academic transcripts during the application process. Paper copies are not required. The academic transcripts provided by applicants should only be those gained at the undergraduate level and above.
Applicants who receive a conditional offer of admission will be asked to submit official copies of all final transcripts (and in some cases, degree certificates) by August 31st.
CV/Resume
Applicants will need to provide a resume or CV detailing educational, professional, and other experience. Depending on their personal experiences, this may include:
Employment history i.e. relevant co-op placements, internships and full-time employment.
Projects they have worked on (either in class or for interest) that demonstrate an interest in the field
Links to public repositories such as Github where we can see examples of projects they have worked on.
Research Assistantships (RAships) they have completed.
Conference and journal publications with complete citations including all authors, the publication venue, date, page numbers, and whether it was peer-reviewed.
Conference talks they have given, including the name of the conference, and the length of the talk.
English Language Proficiency (ELP) test scores (if applicable)
The admitting degree for our masters degree program is the qualification considered equivalent to a University of Toronto four-year undergraduate degree. The admitting degree is what the requirement for English-Language Proficiency tests is based on.
Requirements for proof of English Language:
If your admitting degree was earned at a university where the language of instruction and examination is not English, you must pass an acceptable English Language Proficiency Test.
If your admitting degree was earned at a university where the language of instruction and examination was uniformly English, you may be exempt. However, we may still require a letter confirming the language of instruction and examination and this must be provided directly to the graduate unit by the applicant’s home institution.
In the event that you have earned a degree in a program split between two institutions, where one of the institution’s language of instruction and examination is not uniformly English. This applies even if the degree is awarded by an English-medium institution.
Other, non-university education programs (community college, continuing education studies, etc.) do not normally qualify to exempt you from ELP requirements.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores (if applicable)
Unless a student has (or is about to get) a degree from a Canadian university, it is strongly recommended that GRE test scores are submitted. This is not a mandatory requirement, but good scores will strengthen an application.
In all cases, if students submit GRE scores and receive an offer of admission, it will be conditional on the program receiving official verification of GRE scores electronically.
Names and e-mail addresses of three references
We require three letters of support from faculty members and/or employers. You should choose referees who will best represent you through their references and can provide commentary that reflects that you are a suitable candidate for graduate school and the MScAC Program.
Ideally, at least two of the referee letters should be academic references. However, given the nature of the program, it is entirely appropriate to use referees who work in an industrial environment and have worked with you in a senior or supervisory capacity.
If your referee does not have an institutional email and is using a "free" e-mail address (Gmail, Hotmail, etc.), please include details of their professional profile, such as a faculty/LinkedIn page, in the "Additional Information" section of your application form.
Apply to the School of Graduate Studies (SGS)
Applications to the MScAC program are made through the University of Toronto’s School of Graduate Studies (SGS). You must submit your application and pay the non-refundable application fee of $125 CAD application fee by the application deadline. This application fee is administered by SGS, and as such, the MScAC program does not have the option to waive this fee for applicants.
Applicants wishing to be considered for both the MScAC program and the MSc/PhD programs in the Department of Computer Science must complete separate applications.
Creating your account
If you are a first-time applicant, click the link to Create an Account to begin your application. You will receive a verification code via e-mail as part of the account creation process. After entering your verification code, you will create a password for your account.
Application
The School of Graduate Studies application form requires applicants to provide all supporting documentation, as listed on the Entry Requirements page.
You may save and return to the application at any point in the process.
To view the status of your application, including outstanding requirements, please log in to your account to view your applicant status portal.
Applicants who submit an application and payment after the deadline will not be considered.
Do not pay the application fee for a late or incomplete application. Your application will NOT be accepted and your payment will NOT be refunded.
Referees
You will be required to enter information for three referees. While the system will accept up to five names for other graduate programs that require this, for the MScAC program, we request you only enter three. Your referees will immediately and automatically receive a notification email that they have been requested to complete a reference for your application, along with instructions to submit their reference letter in the application system.
If you need to send a reminder e-mail to your referees, you can do so through your applicant portal after submitting your application.
Indicating Your Concentration Preferences
Applicants are required to rank their top three concentrations in the preferred order they would like to be considered for each one.
We strongly recommend that, ahead of confirming the ranking, applicants review the concentration pages and conduct a realistic self-assessment of which concentrations might be appropriate, given their academic experience and background.
Final decisions on which concentration will be offered to a successful applicant will be made by the committee, taking the applicant’s preference into consideration as much as possible
English-Language Test and GRE Scores
If you are reporting test scores in your application, please arrange to have the official scores sent electronically to the University of Toronto.
English-Language Proficiency Testing
We accept multiple English proficiency tests, including the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic).
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) — Institution and Department Codes
Institution code: 0982
Department code: 78
International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic)
Select “University of Toronto (Undergraduate and Graduate programs)” from the list of options when submitting.
Other English-Language Proficiency Tests
For a full list of accepted tests, their requirements, and how to submit scores, visit the School of Graduate Studies English-Language Proficiency Testing page.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
Submitting GRE results is optional, although good scores can help strengthen your application. Unless you have (or are about to get) a degree from a Canadian university, then it is highly encouraged to submit your GRE test scores.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) — Institution and Department Codes
Institution code: 0982
Department code: 0402
Program-Specific Questions
In the MScAC program application, applicants must provide answers to program-specific questions. These questions function in place of a statement of purpose and they are your opportunity to explain why you should be admitted.
Note: We are looking for the next generation of world-class innovators, so we admit only superior students who demonstrate a strong commitment and interest in the concentration(s) to which they are applying. Some points you will be required to address and demonstrate:
You understand the requirements of graduate school in general and the MScAC program in particular.
The appropriateness of the program for you and its alignment with your career aspirations.
Reasons why you have chosen the specific concentration and any appropriate research/applied research/industry experience, including your particular contributions.
Specific details regarding your particular area of interest and an understanding of an awareness of any industry trends in relation to this.
Innovative projects and solutions you have worked on.
Teamwork and leadership skills you may have.
The questions are also an opportunity to show us your commitment to quality and your skills in English. Poorly written, error-filled answers will result in you not being admitted to the program. We strongly advise that you carefully proofread your answers before submitting your application.
Program Interviews
After the application deadline has passed, the admissions committee will select applicants for an interview with one or more members of the MScAC program team. The interview is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and gauge whether you would be a good fit for the program. It may also test your technical knowledge.
Due to the volume of applications we receive, not all applicants will be contacted for an interview. Interviews are scheduled at the request of the admissions committee and no candidates will be admitted without completing the interview phase.
Progressing to the interview stage is indicative that the admissions committee are seriously considering your application; however, it is not an indication that you are definitely going to receive an offer. The interview is part of the decision-making process and will be used in conjunction with your application to decide whether you should be admitted.
Interviews take place on a rolling basis between December – April.
Results
Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis, meaning that there is no fixed date on which all decisions are announced. Instead, these are issued at the request of the admissions committee as applications and interview results are reviewed and final decisions are reached.
Offers are usually issued between mid-December – April, and all applicants can normally expect to hear from us by no later than April, irrespective of what the decision is.
Admitted Student Profiles
Admissions to the MScAC program are extremely competitive, with only 5 – 10% of all applicants being made an offer of admission each year.
Previous Education
MScAC students admitted to the program since 2010 have applied with undergraduate degrees, as well as pre-existing Masters and PhD qualifications. While all students have covered senior level courses relevant to their concentration, they have also come from a broad range of disciplinary backgrounds. These include:
| Advanced Systems Engineering | Aeronautical Engineering | Aerospace Engineering |
| Applied Linguistics | Applied Mathematics | Automation |
| Bioengineering | Biomedical Computing | Biophysics |
| Civil Engineering | Computational Mathematics | Computer Engineering |
| Computer Science | Computer Science & Biology | Computer Science & Physiology |
| Computer Security | Control Theory & Control Engineering | Economics |
| Electrical Engineering | Electronics & Communication Engineering | Geophysical & Computer Engineering |
| Informatics & Applied Mathematics | Information Engineering | Information Security |
| IOT Engineering | Integrated Sciences | Mathematics (Pure, applied, computational) |
| Mechanical Engineering | Mechatronics | Neurosciences |
| Physics | Quantitative & Computational Finance | Quantitative Biology |
| Software Engineering | Statistics | Systems Engineering |
Prior Work Experience
Admitted MScAC students come from a wide range of backgrounds. The vast majority of students will often have between one and four years of work experience from industry, and this can include internships completed during undergraduate studies. We also admit a number of students who do not have industry experience but have demonstrated excellence in academics and/or research, as well as admit students who have extensive work experience in industry.
FAQ Topics
- About the MScAC Program
- Admissions — General
- Admissions — Canadian & US Applicants
- Admissions — Overseas Applicants
- Test Scores: GRE
- English Language Proficiency Testing
- Newly Admitted Students
- Courses
- Costs: Tuition, Living Expenses, Housing
- Scholarships and Financial Aid
- Supervisors
- The Internship
- After Graduation
About the MScAC Program
Applicants who wish to explore how state-of-the-art research can be applied in a real-world setting should consider applying to the MScAC program. In lieu of a thesis, the MScAC requires students to complete a mandatory applied research internship in an industrial setting. This provides students with the opportunity to experience industrial Research and Development (R&D) and gain immediate access to top R&D groups across an array of industries. Many MScAC graduates are now working in an industry-based R&D role with some students going on to do a PhD.
Applicants who wish to produce original research in the field of computer science should consider applying to one of the research programs in the Department of Computer Science. These are suited to those students who are thinking about pursuing a career in academia although some end up working in industry.
The MSc in Computer Science and MScAC programs have a similar structure: students in both programs must pass four (4) graduate half-courses as part of the degree. Students in both programs have access to the same schedule. MScAC students must complete an additional two (2) graduate courses in professional skills, an eight-month applied research internship, and conclude the program by submitting a final report detailing their contributions during the internship. MSc students must submit a major research paper.
Traditionally, graduate studies in computer science and related fields are either research-intensive programs (MSc program) or course-based (sometimes referred to as a professional program).
The MScAC program takes a unique approach. The thesis requirement from the MSc program is replaced with an applied research internship. There is emphasis on identifying novel opportunities for the internship across a range of industries to satisfy the interests of students.
Some students have developed novel research and published research papers at top tier conferences (Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition Conference, Association for Computational Linguistics) based on their internships.
No. However, students can apply for the regular PhD program upon completion of the MScAC.
The MScAC is not a terminal degree and will fulfil the minimum entry requirements for the PhD program.
The MScAC is offered on an in-person “attending” basis only.
The MScAC program is a 16-month (four semesters) applied research program. It combines eight months of advanced technical graduate courses with an eight-month applied research internship in industry.
No, the MScAC is offered on a full-time basis only.
The MScAC program provides students with an exciting academic experience. MScAC students learn from world-class faculty across top-tier departments at the University. The academic workload in the program is designed for students wishing to explore the state-of-the-art more thoroughly. Students should be prepared for a heavy workload where they will be challenged.
In addition to the academic and professional training delivered during the first eight months (Semesters 1 & 2), MScAC students will be preparing for the internship phase of the program. Students are expected to interview with companies over this period – the highest volume internship-finding activities are in the Winter semester.
The program is based on a cohort-model, so all students in the program are expected to meet the program milestones at the same time.
Admissions — General
Usually, MScAC admissions open in early October and close in early December. Dates are published on the website in late September.
Most applications are reviewed once the admissions deadline has passed. For further details of the application process, please review the Application Process page.
No, students are only offered a Fall (September) entry round of admission.
Yes. Students who have not yet completed their bachelor’s degree (or master’s degree, if applicable) at the time of application to the MScAC program, should request transcripts from their university showing the work completed to date. Applicants should include any courses not listed on the transcript that are going to be completed in subsequent semesters, and when the results will be available.
If an offer of admission is received, it will be based on the coursework to date. Degree requirements must be completed before August 31. Final transcripts, which include the degree and the date it was awarded, should be sent to the MScAC program.
At the application stage, applicants should upload unofficial electronic scans or summaries of their transcript(s). If an offer of admission is made, official transcripts (paper or electronic sent directly from the issuing institution) will be formally requested. Note that all offers of admission are conditional upon receiving and authenticating official transcripts and degree(s).
U of T graduates are not required to purchase an official transcript of their academic record at this institution.
Applicants who completed part of their studies at a different institution are required to provide transcripts. This includes transcripts from exchange semesters abroad.
It is possible to apply to the program with a bachelor’s degree in a discipline other than computer science. In the past, applicants with degrees in related disciplines such as mathematical sciences or engineering were accepted. Each concentration has specific requirements for computer science proficiency, so applicants are encouraged to review the Entry Requirements before applying. Applicants may review the Admitted Student Profiles to see which academic backgrounds students have been drawn from in the past.
The department’s minimum academic requirement is a B+ average achieved in the final year of full-time study (the equivalent of 5 full credits). The program is highly competitive (only 5-10% of applicants are admitted each year) and in recent years, students admitted to the program have shown considerably greater proficiency than the minimum requirements.
Work experience is preferred but not accepted as a substitute for academic qualifications.
In previous years, applicants wishing to strengthen their application have considered taking senior level undergraduate courses. Applicants wishing to follow this route at the University of Toronto should be advised that the process for enrolling into undergraduate Computer Science courses is complex and competitive. In order to be eligible for these courses, one must first be admitted into the Faculty of Arts and Science as a non-degree student. Once admitted, undergraduate Computer Science course enrolment advice can be sought from the Undergraduate Program office at cs.undergrad@utoronto.ca. As priority for enrolment is given to current undergraduate degree students who meet the course prerequisites, it is possible that non-degree students would not be able to enrol in these courses.
It is important to note that grades alone do not guarantee admission.
Note: The original undergraduate degree (i.e. the qualifying degree) is the qualification on which the final year GPA calculation is based. While courses completed in subsequent qualifications will be considered, those grades will not be included in the GPA calculation.
Students in the MScAC program must complete four (4) technical graduate half-courses and two mandatory half-courses. You may be able to obtain transfer credit for graduate courses completed but not counted towards the requirements of another academic qualification.
MScAC students can only apply for transfer credits post-admission. The Associate Chair of Graduate Studies and Academic Director, Professional Programs will evaluate these requests.
For further details, please review the Application Process page.
Yes. Please note that the two programs have separate application forms, and payment of the application fee is required for both.
While applicants can use the same referees for both applications, given the difference between the two programs, it would be advisable to outline the structure and intent of both programs to the intended referees before requesting they submit the references. They may wish to tailor their references to the specific programs.
References cannot be transferred between applications.
Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis, meaning there is no fixed date on which decisions are announced. All applicants can normally expect to hear from us by no later than April.
Currently, 5-10% of MScAC program applicants are admitted each year.
The application form will accept non-institutional e-mail addresses such as from Hotmail, Gmail, etc. If a referee is using a non-institutional e-mail address, please include details of their professional profile, such as a faculty/LinkedIn page, in the “Additional Information” section of the application form.
The MScAC admissions committee prefers two of the references used be academic i.e., from people that have taught/supervised an applicant in an educational institution. However, given the nature of the program, it is entirely appropriate for applicants to use referees who have an industry background and been in a senior capacity during co-ops, internships or full-time work experience.
Yes. Several mature students have been successful in their applications to the MScAC program. Their experience is considered an asset within the MScAC cohort.
Admissions — Canadian & US Applicants
An applicant’s eligibility cannot be determined until a complete application is submitted, but in general:
- Students from Quebec will qualify with a two-year CEGEP and a three-year bachelor’s degree.
- Applicants with a three-year bachelor’s degree from a North American university likely do not have the depth of knowledge in computer science that the MScAC program requires. Applicants should see if their home institution offers an option to upgrade a three-year degree to a four-year degree by completing additional studies.
Maybe.
In addition to the University of Toronto’s minimum admission requirements for graduate studies, several factors are taken into consideration while assessing college degrees: the level of affinity between the degree and the MScAC program requirements; the academic content of third- and fourth-year courses, and other indicators that an applicant is prepared for the MScAC program.
Admissions — Overseas Applicants
The department accepts applications from around the world and can accept qualifications gained from overseas institutions. For information on degree and grade equivalencies, please use the University’s International Degree Equivalencies Tool.
Yes. Applicants with three-year Bologna-compliant bachelor’s degree, or a three-year UK degree preceded by the GCE A-levels, are encouraged to apply.
In addition to the University’s minimum admission requirements for graduate studies, several factors are taken into consideration while assessing degrees: requirements for gaining admission to the degree, content of the degree, duration of the degree, and more.
Eligibility cannot be determined until a complete application is submitted.
Test Scores: Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
Applicants who have not previously gained (or are about to gain) a degree from a Canadian university are encouraged to submit GRE test scores. Scores are not mandatory to provide and will not be taken as a substitute where academic grades do not meet the eligibility requirements. However, good scores strengthen applications. Serious applicants from outside Canada are assumed to have taken the GRE and have scores to submit. Average scores are within the 80th percentile for Verbal (158+) and 95th percentile for Quantitative (168+).
It is not mandatory for applicants with degrees from Canadian institutions to provide GRE scores, however, if they have been obtained then applicants are welcome to do so.
Applicants reporting test scores in their application, should arrange to have the official scores sent electronically to the University of Toronto.
Institution code: 0982
Department code: 0402
GRE scores are valid for 5 years, from the date of being issued.
No. GRE results are preferred.
English-Language Proficiency (ELP) Testing
The admitting degree for the MScAC program is the qualification considered equivalent to a University of Toronto four-year undergraduate degree. The admitting degree is what the requirement for English-Language Proficiency (ELP) tests is based on.
Requirements for proof of English-Language Proficiency:
- If the undergraduate degree was earned at a university where the language of instruction and examination is not English, an acceptable ELP Test must be passed.
- If the undergraduate degree was earned at a university where the language of instruction and examination was uniformly English, an applicant may be exempt. However, a letter confirming the language of instruction and examination may still be required and must be provided by the applicant’s home institution.
- If a degree was earned in a program split between two institutions, where one of the institution’s languages of instruction and examination was not uniformly English, language scores must be provided.
Other, non-university education programs – community college, continuing education studies etc. – do not normally qualify to exempt an applicant from ELP requirements.
If English-language scores are required, the MScAC application is not complete until successful scores have been submitted.
Applicants must achieve the English test scores outlined by the School of Graduate Studies (SGS). A higher minimum score is not required. Common tests applicants provide are International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic) Academic and Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
Institution code: 0982
Department code: 78
Scores are valid for two years from the test date. Scores must be valid at the time of application for admission to graduate studies. Scores more than two years old cannot be verified and the applicant will be required to re-take an ELP test.
Scores may be added to an application even after the deadline (applications are processed on the assumption that satisfactory scores can be obtained), but no offer will be made (including a conditional offer) until official notice of the scores is received.
Yes. The program considers other academic qualifications, essay questions, and references, rather than basing a rejection on one element of the application. It is up to an applicant whether an application is submitted with the test scores already obtained. Applications are viewed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions Committee.
Newly Admitted Students
Deferrals are granted at the discretion of the Program Director, in line with the deferral policy applicable to the respective admissions cycle. Deferrals are usually only permitted once and are valid until the following academic year.
International students in the MScAC program require a study permit for the full 16 months of the program. To be eligible for a study permit, certain immigration requirements must be satisfied. These include proof of:
- Acceptance by the University of Toronto to the MScAC program
- Adequate funds for tuition fees, living expenses, etc.
- Medical clearance
Admitted students should begin the visa application process once an offer of admission and the welcome letters for the MScAC program are received. Processing times vary across visa offices.
Details of how to apply for a study permit can be found on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
Note: MScAC students are also required to be in possession of a work permit that allows them to work full-time during their eight-month internship. For further information regarding the study permit and the work permit, please consult U of T’s Centre for International Experience website.
International MScAC students are required to have the following:
- A study permit valid for the duration of the program
- A separate work permit (usually termed the “co-op work permit”) that will allow full-time work during the internship in the second eight months of the program.
Some students may also be required to obtain an entry visa to enter Canada, subject to the country-specific requirements.
- The work permit can be applied for at the same time as the study permit and will usually be issued, along with the study permit, at immigration on arrival in Canada. If the work permit is not issued at immigration, students can make a subsequent application once in Canada.
Students are permitted to accept employment either on/off-campus for a co-op, internship or professional experience. To be eligible for the internship work permit, students must:
- Have a valid study permit
- Obtain a letter from the MScAC program indicating that employment is an integral part of the program. This information is contained in the offer package sent to admitted students.
For this type of work permit, the University of Toronto will be listed as the employer and the expiry date should match the one on the study permit. The co-op work permit is fee-exempt, so no processing fee is required.
Once the study permit has been granted, spouses or common-law partners may apply for a work permit. The work permit will be valid for the same period as the study permit, and no job offer is required to apply for this. More information on work permits for spouses and common-law partners can be found on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website.
Yes. In late August, the MScAC program, collaborating departments, and the School of Graduate Studies (SGS) have Orientation events that students are expected to attend.
Courses
Students are required to take certain courses depending on the concentration they have been admitted into. Visit each specific concentration page for a list of course enrolment requirements.
Courses from departments alternative to those stipulated in the concentration requirements may be substituted in (and counted) towards the concentration course requirements. This is subject to Program Director and concentration lead approval.
Yes. Guidance and support are provided to MScAC students throughout the program, from issues around course selection, to interview training, to facilitating the internship search.
Courses and internship selection will depend on a student’s individual interests and strengths. If the aim is to gain an internship and pursue a career in a particular area, then related courses should be selected. Most organizations, including MScAC partner organizations, have many types of projects going on at a given time. For example, game development companies have software engineering projects, companies doing machine learning research have database management projects. Students are encouraged to attend the various program events hosted to assist with internship finding, including the MScAC Internship Expo. Students are encouraged to ask organizations if they have projects in an area of interest, even if they don’t mention it in their project description.
The MScAC is a full-time program and the number of hours per week during the first eight months is comparable with other graduate programs. Study time varies based on course selection and personal study habits. The internship is full-time employment, so students will be working 35 – 40 hours a week, depending on the company.
Costs: Tuition, Living Expenses, Housing
The University of Toronto supports several payment methods, which can be found listed on the Student Accounts website.
The deadline to pay/defer fees for the academic session is usually mid-September.
U of T’s Fees & Costs page is a great source for details about living costs.
U of T Housing Services offers information, resources and support with all housing-related issues, both for on-campus and off-campus accommodation.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
MScAC students are not eligible for departmental funding. However, MScAC students are eligible for several provincial and University of Toronto scholarships. For a detailed list, please visit the School of Graduate Studies’ Scholarships and Awards page.
Remuneration for the internship cannot be guaranteed, but to date students have successfully gained employment in paid internships that offset their tuition and fees.
Domestic students can apply for the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP).
International students may be eligible to apply for scholarships offered by their home government or loans provided by international student loan companies such as Prodigy Finance.
Supervisors
All MScAC students are assigned an interim academic supervisor on admission (usually the Academic Director, Professional Programs and respective concentration lead) who guides them through the early stages of the program. Upon accepting an internship offer from a company, students are expected to find two new supervisors:
- An industry supervisor who is appointed by the company, to whom the student will report routinely.
- An academic supervisor with whom the student will collaborate to address the intellectual challenges of the research to be performed over the internship. This will usually be someone whose research and work aligns with the nature of the internship.
It is beneficial, but not required, for the academic and industry supervisors to meet and establish an effective way to guide a students’ work during the internship.
Once an internship is secured, students should reach out to potential supervisors that might be a good match, typically a faculty member doing research in the related field. The MScAC team can help advise in supervisor selection.
The Internship
The internship is a mandatory requirement of the MScAC program. To date, 100% of the program’s graduated students have secured an internship, with an average total salary of $65,000 per eight-month internship in 2024. Remuneration cannot be guaranteed, but this is a reasonable expectation based on the experiences of previous cohorts.
It is ultimately a student’s responsibility to secure an internship. Students are encouraged to begin their search from the start of the program. However, the program facilitates many opportunities to interact with organizations looking for MScAC students and solicits custom-built applied research internship projects. These projects will be available to students throughout the first two semesters.
The program does not place students in internships and all students will be required to attend interviews with the companies they are interested in working with.
Students are expected to leverage their graduate academic training and past experiences to engage in applied research in the service of the company. As interns, MScAC students explore new initiatives, improvements in process or product, and new designs that could potentially impact the company.
This imposes a higher standard of creative or intellectual exploration than would normally be encountered in a co-operative (co-op) work term.
After Graduation
Historically, almost all MScAC graduates have either continued at their internship company or moved to another company directly after finishing their internship.
Students progress onto a variety of jobs within the technology sector or related industries. Many have continued in a development or engineering role at their internship company. Others have progressed on to more technical/leadership-oriented roles, some go on to management or consultancy, and some have also started their own companies.
After completing the MScAC program, most students are eligible for the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP). To date, all MScAC students who have applied for the PGWP have been granted a permit that is three-years in length. Students who wish to stay in Canada for longer than the duration of the PGWP and apply for permanent residency, may be eligible for several other immigration programs.
