MScSM | General Information & Process

Our next available MScSM program begins in September 2025 and the online application system for that program opened on October 1, 2024 and will close March 15, 2025.

 

Admission - Process and General Information

 

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The MScSM Program has only one start date each year: Fall/September.

We do not have a January (Winter) or May (Summer) start.

MScSM only accepts applications through the UofT online application system.

The online application is open from October 1 to March 15 each year. For example, for the next available program that begins in September 2025, the online application system opened on October 1, 2024 and will close March 15, 2025 (no late applications will be accepted or considered).

The Admissions Committee only reviews and considers completed application files that are submitted by the application deadline. Completed application files consist of all required documents that meet our minimum admission standards, and including payment of the application fee ($125 CDN - this fee may change in 2024).

The MScSM Program is designed for intellectually curious students with a high potential for "outside the box" thinking and actions. The program admission committee considers an applicant's academic credentials, personal achievements, ability to work in teams, leadership potential, and interest in integration of different disciplines to solve sustainability issues.

The admission committee takes a holistic approach to admissions and considers each applicant individually with the goal of admitting the most exceptional candidates. Candidates are evaluated on a total portfolio of previous academic performance, personal characteristics and life experiences including a demonstrated interest in sustainability, as well as academic and/or professional references, and a letter of intent. International students must submit an Official IELTS or TOEFL score report that meets our minimum standards in all sections.

Once a completed application is reviewed, qualified applicants will receive an invitation to a Virtual interview before the Admissions Committe makes a final decision on his/her application. Please note that not all applicants will receive an invitation to a Virtual interview. Here are some helpful tips when invited to a Virtual interview.

Admission to our MScSM Program is competitive; we receive many applications (about 400+ per year) and can only extend offers to the most qualified applicants. We generally admit 35 - 40 students per year.

If we extend an offer of admission, applicants must accept (or decline) our offer in a timely fashion (within 3 weeks) and submit a $500 non-refundable deposit.

We do not grant deferrals. Interested students are expected to apply in the year they are available and ready to start the program.

Please also consider viewing our short video that highlights our program and answers the question, "why should I apply?". In addition, we have we have a PowerPoint Presentation that offers information.

Please refer to our FAQ page and our Application Essentials page for more information. In addition, please contact an Admission officer at mscsm.utm@utoronto.ca with any questions!