How to Get Accepted to McGill

Established in 1821, McGill University is one of the oldest schools in Canada. Ranked among the top 3 universities in Canada, it’s a dream school for many. Here at GrantMe, we’ve helped many students apply to and get into McGill University. Here’s our top advice on how to get accepted to McGill.

Program Requirements

Your first step in how to get accepted to McGill is to check out the admissions requirements for the programs that interest you! Most McGill programs require you to have completed a few specific high school courses. They also require you to achieve a minimum grade point average (GPA). This minimum GPA is typically around 90%. 

The higher your grades, the better your chances are to get into McGill. This also increases your eligibility for academic scholarships! Check out our guide on how to win McGill major entrance scholarships here!

Check out the academic requirements for your program on their website here!

General Application

Once you’ve checked the program requirements and ensured that you’re eligible, it’s time to get started on the real process of how to get accepted to McGill!

To apply for most programs at McGill, all you need to do is fill out some basic information about yourself and your prior schooling. You will then need to upload your transcripts to verify your grades. 

You can apply to McGill via GrantMe while also getting guidance and support along the way!

Extenuating Circumstances

You might encounter a setback in how to get accepted to McGill if your grades aren’t the greatest. However, not to fear. You can still have a chance at admission by submitting extenuating circumstances with your application.

McGill describes extenuating circumstances as any events that had a negative impact on your academic performance. This could include:

• significant medical, personal or learning difficulties
• the death or grave illness of someone close to you 
• a family move during the school year
• involvement in training for high-level athletics or performing arts

If you submit additional information with your application, McGill will consider these circumstances when they review your admissions application.

The first step is a written statement. The prompt reads as follows:

Submit your own descriptive statement (maximum two pages) describing the nature and chronology of the circumstances, their impact on your academic record and your readiness to undertake university study.

You’ll also need to submit documentation to substantiate your statement. This could be a letter or summary from a physician, school counsellor, psychologist, trainer or social worker, or a death certificate.

Feel free to be really honest and authentic about your circumstances in your written statement. Provide the reader with a glimpse of your character and who you are. It’s also important to emphasize the last part of the prompt: your readiness to undertake university study. 

How will you use your experiences to make an impact on campus? What experiences or skills will you contribute to academics? How will you promote student engagement? 

Aim to demonstrate why you should be a student at McGill!

Supplementary Application

If you’re applying to a few select programs, you may need to submit an additional application. These programs include Architecture, Education, Music, Nursing, Physical & Occupational Therapy, Religious Studies, and Social Work. This may include a portfolio, audition, additional test, CV, or personal statement. 

If a supplementary application is necessary for you, try to demonstrate what makes you an excellent fit for McGill. Make sure to highlight what you will contribute to the university. How will you use your previous volunteer experience to make an impact on campus? What experiences or skills will you contribute to academics? How will you promote student engagement? 

For more specific tips on crafting a stellar resume and a winning essay, check out our other blog posts!

To access in-depth coaching and guidance on your writing, check out the GrantMe platform! Our trained essay editors know exactly what the selection committees look for and can help you draft a winning supplementary application.  We also provide personalized scholarship matches, essay editing, and mentorship from past winners to maximize your success. Complete our short scholarship eligibility quiz to learn more about how GrantMe can help you achieve your post-secondary goals.