News & Events
Admissions questions? The benefits of applying early.
October 30, 2022
If you’re thinking about applying to the MEL or MHLP, you likely have some questions about the admissions process. In this series, we chat with some of our team members about the eligibility requirements and application process for the Master of Engineering Leadership (MEL) and Master of Health Leadership and Policy (MHLP) degrees.
We spoke with former MEL & MHLP Senior Program Assistant, Valentina Martinez about why you should apply early.
Tell us about your job.
A big part of my role is reviewing applications as they come in to make sure they are complete before I send them on to the admissions committee. If there are any elements missing, I’ll contact the applicant so they can forward us the missing information. I was recently appointed to the position of Senior Program Assistant, and I’m excited to have more opportunities to support students throughout their degrees.
What are the admission deadlines?
We have three admission deadlines. The first and second application deadline rounds are for all international and domestic applicants. The third application deadline is for Canadian citizens, permanent residents of Canada and American citizens only.
Why do you think it’s a good idea to apply early?
There are many good reasons to apply early in the year!
First, it means that if any part of your application is incomplete, you’ll have time to forward us the missing documentation before the deadline.
And even if we don’t get the required documentation until after that particular deadline, we may be able to include your application in the next round for consideration, depending on if you are an international or domestic applicant.
If you live outside of Vancouver, applying early can give you the time you need to apply for housing on campus or to find a place to live.
If you’re an international student, an early application will also give you the time you need to apply for a study permit.
No matter which round you apply in, it’s also a good idea to submit your application well before the deadline. We require three reference letters, but the application system doesn’t contact your referees until we have received your complete application and you have paid the application fee. When you apply before the deadline, your referees have lots of lead time to write and submit their references.
Finally, I think there’s value in applying to the MEL or MHLP in one of the earlier application rounds as it gives you more time to prepare yourself financially, professionally and personally for your upcoming year as a student.
Whether that means arranging a move to Vancouver, letting your employer know well in advance about your plans or putting aside extra savings, it’s always nice to be able to make decisions when you aren’t in a rush.
Any other advice for those who are applying?
The application checklist on our website is a great resource. You’re more likely to have everything in order if you follow it along.
One of the most common requirements that people overlook is providing us with transcripts for transfer credits. This would apply if you completed some of your undergrad education at one institution and then transferred to a second university to complete your degree. We need official transcripts from all of the post-secondary institutions you have attended.
What do you like most about your job?
I find it very rewarding to follow students throughout the process – from when they first reach out to us with questions, to reviewing their applications and seeing them admitted, and then watching them thrive in the program and their careers as alumni.
Application Deadlines
2023 Application Deadlines
The online application portal for 2024 admission opens on January 1, 2023.
Round 1: March 30, 2023
Round 2: June 30, 2023
Round 3 (Canadian Citizens, Permanent Residents of Canada, and US citizens only): August 30, 2023
See how to apply section for full details.
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