Getting started
Admission requirements
Becoming an Athabasca University student is easy – our open admission policy means if you’re 16 or older, you will be accepted as a student.
For undergraduate programs, be sure to review your program’s regulations carefully so you can meet all the necessary requirements in time for your application deadline.
Requirements for graduate programs are listed on each graduate program’s website. Because program regulations can change, students are required to complete the program regulations in effect at the time of their enrolment. Students who are admitted to a program that has any entrance requirements for admission will follow the degree regulations in effect upon completion of the transfer credit evaluation.
Did you know?
Becoming an Athabasca University student is easy – our open admission policy means if you’re 16 or older, you will be accepted as an undergraduate student.
What kind of student are you?
Before getting started on your application, make sure you understand the different types of student categories and which one applies to your unique situation. This will determine whether you apply as a program or non-program student.
How to apply
The application process is a little different depending on what level you wish to study(undergraduate or graduate), where you live, and if you want to take a full program or just some courses.
If you are applying to become an undergraduate program student your online application will redirect you to Apply Alberta, Alberta's provincial online application system. Be prepared to indicate the program you are interested in prior to submitting your application and paying the one-time non-refundable application fee. If you need help selecting a program, contact Counselling Services prior to submitting your application. After being admitted to AU, you will be immediately assigned an AU student ID number to confirm your admission.
Graduate programs have a multi-step application process. Most programs have application deadlines and intakes happen on a specific schedule. You can get started on your application at any time.
Students may not enrol in an AU undergraduate degree program while they are enrolled in another degree program at another post-secondary institution. If you need assistance in deciding if you are ready to transfer into an AU program, our program advisors can give you some guidance on how to proceed.
When you are ready to apply, find out more about our payment methods.
Looking for financial support?
Your application process is the same as other students, but you’ll need to start early. Once you’re admitted, you’ll need to apply for your loan and complete a loan study plan. It can take up to 12 weeks to process a financial aid application, so you should apply for funding at least 4 months before you plan to start your studies.
More information for international studentsThinking about graduate studies?
To make it easy to find the assistance you need to reach your graduate studies goals, we've created a package that outlines all the awards and scholarships available to AU learners.
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Updated September 02, 2021 by Digital & Web Operations (web_services@athabascau.ca)