Applying through OUAC for Fall 2026? Discover the most common mistakes students make, like wrong program codes, missed deadlines, and poor program ranking, and learn how to avoid them for a smooth Ontario university application.
Every year, thousands of students apply to Ontario universities through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC). While the platform is straightforward, many applicants make small mistakes that can lead to delays, extra costs, or even missed admission opportunities.
Whether you’re applying through OUAC 101 (Ontario high school students) or OUAC 105 (everyone else), understanding these mistakes, and how to avoid them, can save you stress and strengthen your application.
(First time using OUAC? Start with our OUAC 101 vs OUAC 105 Guide to make sure you’re filling out the right application form.)
Mistake 1: Choosing the Wrong Application Form
- Many applicants confuse OUAC 101 and OUAC 105.
- OUAC 101 is only for current full-time Ontario high school students completing their OSSD.
- OUAC 105 is for international students, Canadians outside Ontario, mature students, and transfers.
How to Avoid: Use the OUAC “Which Application” Tool to confirm your eligibility before you start.
Mistake 2: Using the Wrong Program Codes
OUAC uses unique program codes for every program at every university. A single typo could mean:
- Applying to the wrong program, or
- Applying to the wrong campus (e.g., U of T Mississauga vs U of T Scarborough).
How to Avoid: Double-check program codes directly on OUAC and on the university’s website before submitting.
Mistake 3: Missing the January 15 Deadline
For OUAC 101 students, January 15, 2026 is the equal consideration deadline. Late applications may still be accepted, but only if space remains. Many competitive programs (e.g., Engineering, Commerce, Health) fill up by this date.
How to Avoid: Submit early. Don’t wait until the last day, OUAC often slows down due to heavy traffic. Use our OUAC Deadlines 2026 Guide to keep track of every date.
Mistake 4: Ranking Program Choices Poorly
OUAC doesn’t prioritize your choices, it sends all your applications to universities equally. But some students accidentally:
- Put all three choices at the same university when they could have applied to more.
- Choose programs without thinking about backup options.
How to Avoid: Apply to a mix of competitive and less competitive programs. Spread choices across different universities to maximize admission chances.
Mistake 5: Forgetting Supplementary Applications
Many programs require extra documents, tests, or portfolios beyond the OUAC application, such as:
- University of Toronto Rotman Commerce – Supplemental application.
- University of Waterloo Engineering – Admission Information Form (AIF) + interviews.
- University of Western Ontario – Engineering – CASPer test required
- Queen’s Commerce/Health Sci – Supplementary Application Form (SAF).
- OCAD U – Portfolios.
How to Avoid: Check each university’s admissions page. Submitting OUAC by Jan 15 is not enough, supplementary deadlines (often February) are equally critical.
Mistake 6: Not Sending Transcripts Correctly
- Ontario high schools automatically send grades to OUAC.
- OUAC 105 applicants (international, transfer, mature) often forget they must arrange official transcripts directly.
How to Avoid: Confirm transcript submission requirements with OUAC and your university. Missing transcripts = incomplete application.
Mistake 7: Ignoring Application Fees & Extra Costs
The OUAC base fee ($156 for 3 choices) doesn’t cover everything. Additional costs include:
- $50 for each extra choice.
- $10 international service fee.
- Supplemental or document evaluation fees (varies by program/university).
How to Avoid: Budget for fees in advance. Read our full OUAC Fees 2026 Breakdown before applying.
Mistake 8: Not Reviewing Before Submitting
Students sometimes submit applications with spelling mistakes in their name, incorrect email addresses, or wrong program codes. These small errors can delay processing.
How to Avoid: Review every section carefully before you hit “Submit.” Save a PDF copy of your application for reference.
Quick Recap: OUAC Mistakes to Avoid in 2026
| Mistake | Impact | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Wrong form (101 vs 105) | Application delays | Confirm eligibility first |
| Wrong program code | Wrong program/campus | Double-check codes |
| Missed Jan 15 | No equal consideration | Apply early |
| Poor choice ranking | Missed opportunities | Apply strategically |
| Ignored supplements | Automatic denial | Check program sites |
Still confused about deadlines or worried you’ll miss one?
At Study Junction, we offer:
- Step-by-step OUAC application walkthroughs.
- Admission consultations to maximize your chances.
- Free and paid resources, including checklists and eBooks.
Book a consultation with Study Junction and let us create a personalized application timeline for you.
👉 Follow us on Instagram @studyjunction2024 for daily OUAC and admissions tips!
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