OCAD University

Location Ontario
Established 1876
Famous For Art and Design

Overview

OCAD University, also known as Ontario College of Art & Design University, is a public university dedicated to the study of art and design. It is located in Toronto, Ontario and was founded independently in 1876 by the Ontario Society of Artists. Being Canada’s oldest and largest educational institution for art and design, it was granted University status in 2002.

The main campus of the university is located adjacent to the Art Gallery of Ontario, which is within the Grange Park neighbourhood. OCAD U offers a multitude of courses through their Faculties of Art, Liberal Arts, Design and Sciences, apart from alternative programs.

OCAD U has an expansive list of student-exchange partnership programs, developing more study-abroad courses and internships and expanding their innovative model of course-based online international collaborations.

Services for International Students

Growth options for students at OCAD University are especially impactful with the kind of study and practice available to the students that develop their skills to examine and analyse through the various perspectives shaped by culture, language, faith, experience and place. 

All international students are required to take the mandatory health plan, known as the University Health Insurance Plan, which provides the basic medical coverage for almost all doctor and hospital services in Ontario. Students can take the help of the International Student Support Office to gain information on study permits, work permits, UHIP health insurance, visas and overall adjusting to student life in Canada.

Ranking

  • 51-100th in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023 for Art and Design

Accommodation

OCAD University does not have on-site accommodation, but can assist students finding off site housing.

About Location

OCAD University is located in Toronto, and the current campus consists of a north campus and a south campus.

The north campus has the Main Building and Sharp Centre for Design, Annex Building, Butterfield Park, the Rosalie Sharp Pavilion, Inclusive Design Institute, Student Centre and the Continuing Education Centre. The south campus includes buildings that are located on Richmond Street West and the proposed Mirvish-Gehry on King Street. The nearest airport to Toronto is the Billy Bishop Toronto City (YTZ) Airport.

Alumni

  • Madeline Ashby- Science Fiction Writer
  • Myfanwy Ashmore- Conceptual artist
  • Yank Azman- Actor
  • Jack Bush- Member of the Painters Eleven and Abstract Expressionist Artist
  • Franklin Carmichael  Member of the Group of Seven and Painter
  • Robin Cass- Producer and Filmmaker

Increase your chances of success when applying

SI-Canada specializes in selecting the right Canadian university or college for international students by reviewing your academic background, discussing your career goals and helping you apply. Our application services can help you achieve your dream of studying in Canada.

"Everything was explained well to me by Vidushi. There was a 100% transparency in everything and Vidushi was highly responsive throughout the process making it smooth and hassle free for me. Rahul from the Visa team also was really patient in the entire process and made sure I understood and get things done timely."

Amanpreet KaurInternational Business Management (May 2024 intake)

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