MacEwan University info sessions can help. Info sessions give you the opportunity to learn about programs, admission requirements and what you’ll study. We’re not going to lie. These sessions are jam-packed with information, and it can be hard to figure out in the moment exactly what you want to know.
Whether you’re attending an info session at Open House, during Info Session Week or elsewhere throughout the year, here is a list of questions to ask yourself before – and after – attending.
Before your info session
1. What do I want to learn?
That’s up to you! “Info sessions are about so much more than just admission requirements,” says Student Recruitment Advisor Sharlene Engel. “You can ask about study options and career opportunities and connect with representatives from the programs in real time.”
You might also be curious about MacEwan’s atmosphere and amenities. If that’s the case, consider dropping in for a campus tour or attending a Welcome to MacEwan information sessions to explore services, supports and extra-curricular activities.
You can also take the approach of looking at your interests and building your potential career from that. There’s no wrong way to go about it, so consider all your options, explore what interests you, and don’t limit yourself.
2. What happens at an info session?
MacEwan.ca has a lot of information about programs, admission requirements, study options and career opportunities, but attending an info session is your chance to hear these things explained by a faculty member who knows the ins and outs of their program – and related careers.
3. I’ve already applied — should I still check out an info session?
You don’t have to, but it can’t hurt, and all info sessions are free to attend. “Info sessions are a great opportunity to ensure you’re on track with deadlines and next steps,” says Engel. “Some programs have additional admission criteria that have to be submitted after an application.” If you haven’t applied, you can ask about early admission to the program.
Even if you spoke to a friend who attended the same program or picked up information from a recruiter who came to your school, an info session is an opportunity to delve into the information you need to know.
“It’s also a chance to connect with faculty members and program advisors – maybe even meet other students looking to start at the same time as you,” says Engel.
After the session
1. What if I have more questions?
Explore your program’s web page or contact the program for more information.
2. How am I going to afford this?
If you need help finding the funds to pay for university, contact a financial aid advisor. They assist students with everything from accessing funding to planning a student budget. Once you’ve applied to your program, be sure to reach out.
If you need information about student loans, or accessing RESPs or scholarships, awards and bursaries, visit Fees and Financial Information.
3. Should I submit my application early?
Wait, what does “early” mean? MacEwan begins accepting applications on October 1 (for the next fall term), February 1 (for the next winter term) and May 1 (for the next spring/summer term). We encourage you to apply as soon as possible after applications open in order to improve your chances for admission.
Whether you choose to apply early is up to you, but there is an advantage — you can ensure a smoother transition into your university life. “The sooner you get an admission decision, the quicker you can coordinate actions on anything that is related to your new student experience, like residence/living arrangements, funding/financial aid, etc.,” says Lauren Melnyk, academic advisor.
4. Should I still apply for a program if my average is not within the competitive admission range?
A program with competitive admission means that there are more applicants than available seats, and you may need to meet additional admission criteria to get in. But don’t let that stop you from applying.
“Students shouldn’t be discouraged from applying as long as they meet the minimum admission average, because that competitive average may shift in the admission cycle – it all depends on the applicant pool,” says Melnyk. “Some years the applicant pool is strong, so the competitive admission average won’t shift much, but in other years it may not be as strong, and may end up closer to the minimum admission average.”
5. How do I apply?
When you’re ready, follow the instructions at MacEwan.ca/Apply. Afterward, check out MacEwan.ca/GettingStarted to find out what comes next.
We look forward to answering more of your questions at an info session! Visit MacEwan.ca/InfoSessionWeek to check for upcoming info sessions.