Application Insights: Applying Early
The benefits of applying early.
If you’re thinking about applying to the MEL or MHLP, you might have questions about the two application deadlines. As Clement Yim, MEL & MHLP Program Manager, explains in this article, there are definite advantages to applying in the first application round.
What are the admission deadlines?
We have two application deadlines for you to choose from. Both application deadlines are open to international and domestic applicants.
However, we highly recommend applying in round one.
Why should I apply in round one?
There are many reasons to apply early in the year!
First, if you apply in round one, you will receive an admission decision in May. This gives you eight months to plan out the details of your transition to UBC. There could be many things to consider, from moving to Vancouver and arranging your finances, to negotiating with your employer if you are planning on taking a leave of absence from your job.
If you live outside of Vancouver, an earlier application decision can give you the time you need to apply for housing on campus or find a place to live.
And if you’re an international student, it gives you a better chance of receiving your study permit before you move to Canada.
Students who apply in round one will also have earlier access to course registration than those who apply in round two. This means you’re more likely to be able to enrol in your preferred courses than round two applicants.
Why should I submit my application ahead of the actual deadline?
No matter which round you apply in, it’s also a good idea to submit your application well before the deadline – we recommend one month in advance. Think of it as the deadline before the deadline.
We must receive your three references by the application deadline, but the automated application system will not contact your referees until you have submitted your application and paid the application fee. That means you need to actually apply before the official deadline so your referees have lots of lead time to write and submit their references on time.
Finally, if you apply ahead of the deadline, we’ll have time to let you know if one or more parts of your application are incomplete. That will enable you to provide any missing elements or documents before the deadline and still be considered for admission.
What about housing and child care?
If you are moving to Vancouver and will need housing or child care, start looking early! You can apply to UBC Student Housing even before you have submitted your application to the MEL or MHLP. The sooner you apply, the more likely you are to secure housing for your intended start date.
The same goes for child care. If you have children who will need child care, we highly recommend that you put your name on child-care wait lists as soon as possible.
