OMSAS is the centralized application service that applicants will use to apply to the 6 Ontario medical schools: Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine (McMaster University); NOSM University; University of Ottawa; Queen’s University; University of Toronto; Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry (Western University).
OMSAS is managed by the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC). The OMSAS portal facilitates the application process to medical schools across Ontario as it uses one single platform to carry all of the data and documentation which will then be distributed to the appropriate medical schools.
The first official deadline, as per the OMSAS website, is August 22nd (for the most recent cycle). By this time, applicants with financial need can request an to have their application fees waived. While for the most recent cycle, the deadline for applications was October 2nd, this is subject to change so make sure to review the most recent OMSAS dates. At this point, the transcripts, references, and payments are due. Shortly after, on October 20th, OMSAS must have the MCAT scores. The final transcripts must be submitted by June 30th.
Each medical school in Ontario has its own set of prerequisites. While there is some overlap, it is crucial to be familiar with the nuances between each medical school which can be found in OMSAS’ Program Requirements Overview section.
It is important to acknowledge that medical schools may change their prerequisites and the information they require from candidates.
Now, given these many requirements, you might be wondering what resources are available to ensure you are fulfilling all the requirements in a high quality manner. Fortunately, Motivate MD has many resources to support students through this process including:
The Casper test is a situational judgment test that is designed to understand an applicant’s social intelligence to provide the admissions committee with a sense of who the applicant is (on a more social level) beyond how they can perform academically. The test consists of video and typed responses to 14 scenarios which test ethics, empathy, problem solving, and collaboration.
Individuals have varying opinions on whether or not to prepare for the Casper test. Ultimately, it depends on what you feel most comfortable with. However, if you do choose to prepare, it could be valuable to refer to a question bank such as this one.
In terms of the quartiles, 25% of applicants score in the first quartile, 25% of applicants score in the second quartile, 25% of applicants score in the third quartile, and the top 25% score in the fourth quartile.
First and foremost, it is crucial to show who you truly are through your application. This means showcasing your personality, your interests, and of course the events that led you to making the decision to apply to medical school.
Many people find it valuable to showcase themselves through the CanMEDS framework which is a framework that includes the traits/skills that physicians are expected to integrate into their care (linked here).
It is also crucial to research the school you are applying to and understanding what draws you to that school – how you align with its mission and values.
Applying to medical school is a rigorous and demanding process, but with careful preparation and attention to detail, you can navigate it successfully. Hopefully, this blog has provided you with insight into the OMSAS application components and answered some of your pressing questions.
For additional resources and support, refer to the FAQs published by OMSAS.
For more specific school-related questions, feel free to consult the admissions committee of the respective medical school!
Best of luck with your application process!
