Apply to AUArts - Fall 2026 Admission

Alberta University of the Arts (AUArts) accepts applications annually for a Fall (September) intake. Admission is competitive and based on academic achievement and the strength of your portfolio.

You can apply to only one degree program per academic year, so it’s important to choose the program that best fits your interests and goals.

Applicants must apply directly to a Bachelor’s degree program and declare their major and concentration (if applicable) at the time of application.

You may apply as a first-year student or a transfer student if you have completed 24 or more Post-Secondary credits applicable to an AUArts Bachelor’s degree program. Not sure which category you fall under? Please contact the Recruitment and Admissions office for help.

Step 1: Review admission requirements and deadlines

• Priority admission: October 1 to February 1
  (Scholarship tip: Complete all application steps by February 1 to be automatically considered for entrance scholarships)
   
• General admission: October 1 to June 1
  (Applications accepted while seats remain)
   
• Review:
  • Academic requirements
  • Portfolio submission guidelines
  • English language proficiency requirements

Step 2: Submit your application form and fee

• Domestic Applicants
  (Canadian citizens, permanent residents, refugees)
  Apply via Apply Alberta
  Application Fee: $110 CAD (non-refundable)
   
• International Applicants
  (non-Canadian citizens)
  Apply via apply.auarts.ca/apply
  Application Fee: $150 CAD (non-refundable)

Step 3: Access the AUArtsApply Portal

• Immediately after completing step 2, you will be granted access to the AUArtsApply Portal. An email containing deadlines and a direct link to the AUArtsApply Portal will also be sent by email within 1 business day.
• The AUArtsApply Portal is your home base to upload application documents, track your application status, and make updates to your personal information.
• Important Email Tip: Certain email providers may send AUArts emails to your junk or spam inboxes. To avoid missing emails from us, add @auarts.ca and @mail.apply.auarts.ca to your safe senders list and check your spam/junk folders regularly.

Step 4: Submit your portfolio and required documents

Log into the AUArtsApply Portal to submit the following:

• Portfolio: After applying, you will receive a link to the AUArtsApply Portal via email, containing portfolio upload instructions.
• Alberta transcripts: AUArts automatically receives transcripts from Alberta schools.
• Other transcripts (non-Alberta and international): Upload scanned copies in the AUArtsApply Portal
• English Language Proficiency (ELP): Required if your primary language of instruction wasn't English. View ELP exemptions.
• Final transcripts: Must be sent directly from your educational institution or Ministry of Education to the AUArts Admissions office by August 1.

English translations: All transcripts issued in a language other than English must be accompanied by notarized English translations.

Check your AUArtsApply Portal to confirm we’ve received your:

• Portfolio
• Statement of intent
• All interim transcripts
• English Language Proficiency test (if required) 

The AUArtsApply Portal is also where you will find all application status updates and admission decisions.

When will I hear back about my application?

Applications are reviewed upon receipt of a completed application (application, transcripts, portfolio, and English proficiency). Admission decisions and entrance scholarships are released following the February 1 application deadline, and can be accessed via the AUArtsApply Portal.

I attended high school in Alberta. Do I need to submit transcripts?

No. AUArts will automatically receive both in-progress and final official transcripts once your application through Apply Alberta is complete.

What if I went to school outside of Alberta?

Ask your school or Ministry of Education to send your official transcripts to us directly. They can email  admissions@auarts.ca or send by mail in a sealed envelope.

Can I receive transfer credit for AP (College Board), IB (International Baccalaureate) or accredited Post-Secondary courses? 

Yes, you can submit a Transfer Credit Request form by May 1 to have previous coursework evaluated for credit toward your AUArts degree. Late submissions may be considered for the Winter term if received by September 1.

I am an international student. How do I submit my transcripts?

Contact your school or educational authority to send your transcripts to AUArts. In-progress transcripts are required if you are still in high school. If transcripts are not in English, include a translated and notarized copy. Learn more about the requirements for international students.

Can I study at AUArts with a study permit?

Yes. Our bachelor degree programs are designated and eligible to receive foreign nationals on a study permit.

Do you have questions about our programs or application process? Would you like to discuss your portfolio? You can schedule an appointment to meet with one of our Recruitment Officers via MS Teams video conferencing.

Book an appointment