Adult Students

Wilfrid Laurier University does not have a policy for mature students. Refer to this section on adult students. 

Applicants who do not possess the necessary minimum requirements for admission to the university and have not attended any post-secondary institutions may be considered for admission as an adult student. Adult students are normally considered for admission to part-time studies.

Admission Requirements

Adult students may be considered for admission if they meet either of the following conditions:

1. Have graduated from high school without at least six OAC and/or 12U and/or 12M courses (or equivalent) and have two or more years work experience prior to the first day of classes; or
2. Are at least 21 years old and have at least two or more years of work experience prior to the first day of classes
   

The university will admit only those applicants who, in the opinion of the Admissions Committee, are adequately prepared to undertake university courses on the basis of previous academic training and/or life-skill experience.

Applicants must submit a personal assessment letter outlining the following:

1. why they feel they may be successful at university
2. current career aspirations; and
3. work experience since the most recent attendance at a school

Applicants are encouraged to describe any employment experiences, leisure activities or volunteer work/community service that demonstrates good citizenship and leadership qualities.

Admission Condition(s) – Adult

Adult students admitted to part-time studies must initially take courses without being registered in a specific degree or diploma program. For registration in a specific program, the student's performance is subject to a successful review by the appropriate admissions committee. During the initial period of assessment, adult students registered in part-time studies may register in a maximum of two 0.5-credit courses or the equivalent in a term.

In order to continue registration at the university, all students must attain the following:

A minimum 4.00 (C-) GPA on 4.0 credits. If this is not achieved, they will be required to withdraw from the university.

Transferring from Part-Time to Full-Time Studies

Adult students in part-time studies, who wish to transfer into full-time studies, will require a higher academic standing than noted above. The application to transfer is available from the Office of the Registrar.

If approved, the adult student must register in a specific degree or diploma program and must adhere to the same regulations that apply to regular students.