Top 10 Questions to Ask at OUF

Sept. 3, 2026

On Sept. 26-27,the upcoming Ontario Universities' Fair (OUF) will bring together 21 Ontario universities at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC). One of the largest educational fairs in North America, it features countless programs, hands-on opportunities and insights to discover.

So how do you spark helpful conversations and get what you need? Come prepared with these 10 questions guaranteed to get results. (Golden tip: ask anyone you meet at a booth if they can scan yoru OUEvents Pass so you can keep in touch.)

1. Do you offer the program I want to study?

Sounds obvious, right? But you’d be surprised how many people pick a university based on its reputation only to find out it doesn’t actually offer the program they want.

2. How can your university help me achieve my career goals?

If you’re not sure exactly which program you want, but are convinced you want to be a doctor, data scientist or lawyer, tell university staff about those dreams. Then let the schools help you decide which programs might be a good fit.

3. What are the admission requirements for my program?

Requirements often depend on the program, whether it’s a certain grade point average or extras like audition tapes, portfolios or entrance essays. Understanding requirements early can help you select the right grade 12 courses and set yourself up for success.

4. What can I do to improve my chances of admission?

The best thing about OUF? There’s the opportunity to talk directly to people who actually make decisions about who gets an offer of admission. Pick their brains, find out what they’re looking for, then deliver.

5. What bursaries, scholarships and financial aid opportunities are available?

Here’s your chance to tell experts about yourself and find out if they offer financial assistance geared toward your strengths. Much better than scrolling online through long lists, which might not even apply to you.

6. What kind of hands-on learning and work experiences do you offer?

From co-op and internships to experiential learning and community placements, many of today’s universities give your career a leg up even before you finish school. Ask for the specifics and find out if your program offers any real-world experience.

7. How can I customize my degree to match my interests and career goals?

Minors and program enhancements can help you carve your own path and create a career-driven degree that reflects your passions. For instance, maybe you’re into psychology and video game design and are excited to develop cutting edge gamified mental health apps. Look for a university that can get you where you want to be.

8. When should I apply and what are the key application deadlines?

Some programs require applications earlier or later than others, so it’s not a bad idea to find out in advance, just in case.

9. What is student life really like at your university?

If you're looking for "the tea" on everything from residence and food to the social scene, be sure to find a current student ambassaor. Get the conversation started by ask questions like:

• Why did you choose this university? How did it meet (or not meet) your expectations?
• What’s the food really like on campus?
• What’s your favourite place to study?
• If you lived in residence, what was it like?
• What are the other students like?
• What do you do on weekends?

10. When can I visit campus and experience the university for myself?

Finally, have universities you're interested in scan your OUEvents Pass to receive updates about campus tours, open houses and other opportunities to explore campus. Then, mark your calendars because imagining yourself at a school is one thing but setting foot on campus could be the first step to your future at the right university.