Applying to medical school in Ontario is a rigorous process, and one of the most critical components of your application is the submission of official transcripts. The Ontario Medical School Application Service (OMSAS) has strict guidelines and deadlines for transcript submissions, and failure to comply can result in disqualification from the admissions process.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about OMSAS transcript requirements, including what qualifies as an official transcript, how to submit transcripts from different institutions (Ontario, Canadian, U.S., and international), and how to ensure your documents are received on time.
TL;DR
You Must Submit Transcripts From:
- Every postsecondary institution attended
- Courses taken via exchange, transfer, or Letter of Permission
Deadlines:
- October 1, 2024: All transcripts must be received by OMSAS.
- June 30, 2025: Final transcripts due for continuing applicants.
Submission Methods:
- Ontario: Online request via OMSAS application
- Other Canadian: Direct request from registrar
- U.S.: Direct request from registrar
- International: WES evaluation required
Key Deadline: October 1, 2024
OMSAS must receive all required transcripts and/or attendance statements by October 1, 2024. This deadline is non-negotiable, and it is your responsibility to ensure that all documents are received on time.
Read more on: OMSAS Deadline 2026: Timeline, When It Will Open and More
What is an Official Transcript?
An official transcript is a document issued by the registrar’s office of your academic institution that meets the following criteria:
- Sent directly from the registrar’s office to OMSAS.
- Printed on official transcript paper, or:
- Imprinted with the institution’s seal and/or
- Bears the appropriate signatures.
- Alternatively, sent electronically through an approved digital credential provider.
OMSAS does not accept:
- Transcripts submitted by applicants.
- Photocopies or faxes.
- Transcripts uploaded via Secure Applicant Messaging (SAM).
Only one copy of each transcript is required.
Institutions Requiring Transcripts
You must submit transcripts from every postsecondary institution you have attended, including:
- Colleges
- Universities
- CEGEPs
- Junior colleges
- Graduate schools
This includes:
- Exchange programs
- Transfer credits
- Courses taken on a Letter of Permission
Even if these credits appear on your home school transcript, you must submit a separate transcript from the institution where the course was originally taken.
Note: OMSAS does not require International Baccalaureate (IB) or Advanced Placement (AP) transcripts unless the courses are prerequisites.
How to Submit Your Transcripts
Ontario Universities and Colleges
If you attended an Ontario university or college, you must request your transcript through your OMSAS application.
Steps:
- Log in to your OMSAS application.
- Navigate to the “Transcripts” section.
- Complete the online transcript request.
- Pay the transcript request fee.
By doing this, you authorize the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) to request and send your transcript to OMSAS.
Deadline: OMSAS must receive your online transcript request by October 1, 2024.
Transcript Request Fees
- Fees vary by institution.
- All fees are non-refundable.
For a full list of fees, visit the Transcript Request Fees page.
Important: Once submitted, transcript requests cannot be canceled or changed.
Canadian Institutions Outside Ontario
If you attended a Canadian institution outside of Ontario, you must:
- Contact the registrar’s office directly.
- Request that your official transcript be sent to OMSAS.
Electronic Submissions:
OMSAS has arrangements with approved distribution centres for the delivery of electronic transcripts. However, this is not automated. Ensure the document is available to OMSAS by the deadline.
Paper Submissions:
If your institution does not offer electronic delivery, request a paper copy to be mailed to:
OMSAS
170 Research Lane
Guelph, ON
N1G 5E2
Canada
U.S. Institutions
If you attended a U.S. college or university:
- Contact the registrar’s office to send your transcript to OMSAS.
- OMSAS accepts electronic or paper transcripts.
OMSAS will convert grades from accredited U.S. institutions. You do not need a WES evaluation.
International Institutions (Excluding the U.S.)
If you attended an international institution (outside the U.S.), you must:
- Obtain a WES course-by-course evaluation.
- Ensure the evaluation includes:
- A copy of your official transcript.
- An overall GPA.
Exceptions:
- If your exchange was 2 semesters or less, and you’re applying to NOSM University, a WES evaluation may not be required.
- Contact WES Canada or call 416-972-0070 for assistance.
WES evaluations must be sent directly to OMSAS and received by the application deadline.
Submitting Final Transcripts
If you are still being considered for admission after the academic year ends, you must submit a final transcript by June 30, 2025.
- This applies even if you already submitted an earlier transcript.
- If your degree has been conferred, ensure this is noted on the transcript.
- If you attend an Ontario institution, use the online transcript request.
Failure to submit your final transcript will result in disqualification from schools such as Western University and NOSM University.
Special Cases and Exceptions
Institutions That Do Not Issue Transcripts
If your institution does not issue transcripts:
- Request an official statement of attendance and degree granted from the registrar’s office.
- This must be sent directly to OMSAS.
Transcript Changes After Submission
If your transcript changes after the application deadline:
- Request a new transcript using the same procedures.
- Email the relevant medical schools to inform them of the update.
Approved Transcript Distribution Centres
Some institutions use third-party digital credential providers to distribute transcripts. These are considered official if:
- The registrar’s office authorizes the distribution.
- The provider is approved by OMSAS.
Check your institution’s website or contact the registrar to determine if this option is available.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Transcript Submission
- Start early: Contact your registrar’s office well in advance.
- Track your documents: Use the Document Tracking feature in your OMSAS application.
- Verify accuracy: Always request a personal copy to check for errors.
- Use approved channels: Only use official or OMSAS-approved delivery methods.
- Stay informed: Regularly check OMSAS updates and your email for communications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I submit my transcript myself?
No. All transcripts must be sent directly from the registrar’s office or via an approved third-party provider. Transcripts submitted by applicants are not accepted.
2. Do I need to submit a transcript for exchange or transfer credits?
Yes. Even if the credits appear on your home institution’s transcript, you must submit a separate transcript from the institution where the course was taken.
3. Do I need a WES evaluation for U.S. transcripts?
No. OMSAS will convert grades from accredited U.S. institutions. A WES evaluation is only required for international transcripts outside the U.S.
4. What happens if my transcript is late?
If OMSAS does not receive your transcript by October 1, 2024, your application may be disqualified. OMSAS does not notify applicants of missing transcripts at the deadline.
5. Can I cancel or change a transcript request after submission?
No. Once a transcript request is submitted via the OMSAS application, it cannot be canceled or modified. Ensure all information is correct before submitting.
Final Thoughts
Submitting your transcripts to OMSAS is a vital step in your medical school application journey. Understand the requirements, plan accordingly, and use the correct submission methods to avoid unnecessary delays and ensure your application is complete and competitive.
Remember, OMSAS will not chase you for missing documents. The responsibility is yours—so act early, double-check everything, and give yourself the best chance at success.
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