Selecting a Second Program Choice

The University of Calgary will make every attempt to admit as many qualified applicants as possible for Fall 2012. However, as admission is competitive, we recommend that all applicants consider identifying a second program choice on their application for admission in the event that they are not successful in being admitted to their first program choice. Applicants can identify a second choice at any point in time during the admission process until the application deadline for that program:

April 1: Arts (Dance), Engineering, or Medicine (BHSc), Science (Neuroscience), Social Work. Note that Medicine (BHSc) and Social Work programs are not available as second choices. 

May 1: all other programs. 

If the applicant does not indicate a second program choice by the application deadline, our Recruitment and Admissions Office will process the application, assuming that the applicant is stating that he/she is requesting to be considered for the single choice that they have indicated on their application.

Suggestions

To assist all applicants in making second choice decisions, we suggest the following:

1. All applicants should refer to the 2011 and 2010 final averages when making this decision.

2. An appropriate second choice program is:

a. One that requires a lower average than that of their first choice, based on cut-off averages of other years.

b. One in which the applicant has a realistic chance of being admitted, based on current academic performance.

c. One with which the applicant will ultimately be satisfied in the event that they are not admitted to their first choice.

Important Notices

In identifying a second choice, applicants are reminded that they must meet the specific subject requirements and other supplementary criteria (e.g., auditions, personal statements, etc.) for that second choice as well as those required for their first choice by the appropriate deadline date.

It is also important to note that if the applicant is admitted to their second program choice, they must adhere to all the requirements of that faculty/program, including registration in appropriate courses.

All applicants who have further questions regarding the selection of second program choices should contact the Recruitment and Admissions Office.