January marks one of the busiest points in the university admissions process. With deadlines approaching, documents moving between schools, and scholarship opportunities still available, staying organized is essential. At Options Solutions, our educational consultants recommend focusing on these five key tasks this month:
1. Finish all applications, supplements, interviews, and portfolios
January is the final deadline for many Canadian universities and competitive programs. Make sure all components, applications, essays, video interviews, and portfolios, are completed and submitted on time. If you need help reviewing materials or finalizing your submissions, our consultants are here to support you through every step.
2. Confirm grades and transcripts have been received
Most universities require first-term or mid-year grades in January. Confirm that your school has submitted them and that they appear correctly in each university’s portal. If anything is missing or incorrect, contact your school right away.
3. Read all emails and check all applicant portals
This month, universities often send reminders, document requests, and next steps. Make a habit of checking your email and all applicant portals regularly so nothing gets missed. If you’re unsure how to interpret a message or what to upload, our consultants can walk you through it.
4. Continue to apply for late scholarships
Even after the new year, many awards are still open. Take time to review late-opening scholarships and prepare strong applications where you’re a good fit.
5. Try to keep calm as you wait for admissions decisions
Once applications are submitted, the waiting begins, and it can feel stressful. Focus on your coursework, stay engaged in your extracurriculars, and try to keep perspective. Admissions decisions roll out at different times depending on the university, so hearing back at different times is completely normal. If you’re feeling uncertain, our team can help you understand timelines and what to expect in the months ahead.
January is all about finishing strong. By completing your applications, checking all required documents, and staying on top of communications, you’ll set yourself up for a confident transition into the next phase of the admission cycle. And remember, Options Solutions educational consultants are here to guide you each step of the way.
