I chose the University of Toronto because it was easily accessible given my status in Canada. I also liked the flexibility I could have in terms of choosing my courses and deciding what my degree would look like. There were also many opportunities available around the city and I felt that it would enrich my uni experience greatly.
Course Curriculum
The course curriculum was quite comprehensive and there is a lot of flexibility to choose your own route. Connections at UofT allow for exposure to research or other similar experiences, but it depends on the individual to reach out to professors and seek out opportunities.
Exams
My application involved the online submission of my high school transcript. The University of Toronto specifically asked for my Grade 12 Calculus marks, as I was applying for the Life Sciences program. I also had to submit certification of English as Medium of Instruction to show that I did not need to take IELTS or TOEFL. I submitted my SAT score but it was not required for admission. A sample of my Graduation Certificate was also required. No CVs, LoRs, or any extra items were required.
Placement
I am unsure about the job prospects for students specifically from UofT.
Internship
I have not had an opportunity to be an intern yet.
Events
Because the school is so big, clubs and organizations tend to be small. It took a while for me to find a club that I felt I belonged to, but when I became part of the Cultural club for Filipino Students, it was very helpful for my overall uni experience.
Scholarship
I got a Gilson Seminar Scholarship in the first year. This was available to all first-year students at St. Michael's College at the University of Toronto. It was actually an application for a course (in the Fall and Summer), which included a $2000 scholarship and a trip to Rome as part of the seminar.
Faculty
For Life Science classes, the ratio ranges from 1:1000 to 1:60. Classes are very big but for the most part, professors make themselves approachable and available during office hours. Most professors go out of their way to help students out, not just with course content but also with career advice, research, etc.
Hostel
I lived in the dorm for my first year and had 1 roommate. It cost around CAD13,000 and included food for all weekdays. Other options are to rent a condo, which would cost around CAD2,000 a month and can be split 3 or 4 ways with roommates.
