At a time when many Ontario universities are grappling with stalled or declining enrolment due to limits on international students, Ontario Tech University in Oshawa is moving in the opposite direction, recording a strong surge in undergraduate applications.
The university reported a 5.3 per cent increase in applications compared to last year, more than double the provincial average. Even more striking, undergraduate applications have climbed 73 per cent since 2021, underscoring Ontario Tech’s rapid growth and rising profile within the post-secondary sector.
Applications for the upcoming academic year have reached 13,790, placing Ontario Tech among the fastest-growing universities in Ontario. University officials say the increase reflects growing recognition of the school’s focus on career-ready education and its close alignment with workforce demands.
Administrators point to programs that blend academic learning with real-world experience as a key driver of interest. Areas such as artificial intelligence, energy systems, engineering, health sciences, business, and other technology-driven fields continue to attract students looking for strong career outcomes and graduate opportunities.
Despite shifting enrolment patterns across the province, Ontario Tech is drawing a diverse range of applicants from various academic backgrounds. Interest is rising not only among traditional high school applicants, but also among transfer students, mature learners, and students from outside Ontario, suggesting the university’s appeal spans multiple stages of academic and professional life.
University leaders say today’s students are increasingly seeking flexible programs that offer experiential learning, interdisciplinary study, and strong industry connections. They believe Ontario Tech’s emphasis on hands-on education is resonating with learners who want practical skills, confidence, and meaningful pathways into the workforce.
As universities across Ontario adjust to changing enrolment dynamics, Ontario Tech’s continued growth highlights a model centered on innovation, applied learning, and preparing graduates for the evolving demands of a global economy.