Applying to GBDA

We're excited that you're thinking of applying to the Global Business and Digital Arts program! GBDA is a full-time, on-campus program. We admit students to the fall (September) term only.

Step 1 - Understanding our Admission Requirements

Ontario High school students

Required courses Admission Average Required
Six 12 U or M level subjects including:
12 U English

Grade 12 U English = minimum of 75%

Overall in top 6: Low 80s

Not an Ontario High School Student?

Please use our Admission Requirement Table to determine equivalencies and admission requirements for other systems of study (i.e., international or out-of-province high school, college/university).  

English Language Requirements

If English is not your first language, you may be required to demonstrate proof of English language proficiency. For information, please visit English language requirements.

How to Apply

For application instructions, visit applying to Waterloo. You’ll also need to ensure that you meet the necessary application deadlines.

Step 2 - Application Deadlines and the Admission Process

Apply By January 15th, 2025

You are:  

  • Currently taking 1 or more courses at an Ontario high school and 

  • You are under 21 on or before December 31st. 2024 and 

  • You have an OSSD OR are working toward an OSSD with 6 4U/M courses

Apply By January 31st, 2025

You are:  

  • Not currently taking a course at an Ontario high school 

  • A Canadian outside of Ontario 

  • An international applicant 

  • A transfer student 

  • A mature applicant 

  • 21 or over on or before December 31st, 2024  

  • And taking a course at an Ontario high school.  

February 15th, 2025

Your application documents are due! 

  • English Language test results: If your first language is not English or if requested by the admissions office, you may need to submit English language scores. 

  • Transcripts:  

  • Requests for special consideration – if you had significant circumstances that affected your grades and you did not receive an accommodation, you can request special consideration in the application process  

  • If you're not currently registered in an Ontario high school or if requested by the admissions office, you'll need to submit transcripts. 

Step 3 – Apply! 

You’ll apply to Global Business and Digital Arts through the Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC)  

  • The OUAC will send your application information to each Ontario University you apply to  

  • To apply to co-op, check the co-op box on your application  

  • Within two weeks of receiving your application from the OUAC, you’ll receive an email from us with your Waterloo student number and any actions you might need to take

Step 4 - You've Applied - Now What?

  • We are so excited you have applied to the Global Business and Digital Arts program. While you wait for an admission decision, you should:  

    • Create your Quest Account 

    • Quest is the University of Waterloo’s online student information system.  

    • You’ll use it to submit documents and check your application status over the next few months! 

  • Keep an eye on the email associated with your UW application  

    • We will send important updates about your application, documents and deadlines. 

  • Interested in receiving an update about your application, or have questions?  

    • Contact our centralized Admissions Team at myapplication@uwaterloo.ca  

    • Please ensure to include your name and your University of Waterloo Student ID Number  

  • When can I expect an admissions decision?  

    • Applicants can receive an admission decision as early as December, with all final decisions sent out in May.