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Why choose the University Entrance Option?
Upgrade your grades and complete missing courses to qualify for admission into Mount Royal University programs.
Mount Royal University's University Entrance Option (UEO) is designed for students needing to meet admission requirements or improve grades. UEO offers a flexible curriculum with university-level courses (mostly transferable) and the chance to complete prerequisites. While it doesn’t guarantee admission, UEO supports skill-building, academic exploration and strengthening your application for future entry into an MRU degree or diploma program.
Program highlights
- Earn transferable credits while preparing for future degrees in arts, science, business and more
- Take university-level and high school equivalency courses tailored to your academic goals
- Experience campus life, access full student support and grow your academic readiness
- Get personalized guidance from advisors to help plan your path to future university admission
Future possibilities
While UEO is not a credentialed program, it can play a critical role in your academic and professional journey. Graduates often go on to pursue:
- Bachelor’s degrees in arts, science, business, communication, health or education
- Diplomas or certificates in child studies, social work or continuing education
- Career advancement through formal qualifications and improved eligibility
Curriculum and courses
What courses will I take in the University Entrance Option?
UEO course selection is based on your individual academic background and admission goals. You’ll work with an advisor to determine your optimal path.
Explore full curriculum and courses
Sample course pathways include:
- MRU university credit courses (e.g., GNED 1401, ECON 1101, PSYC 1103)
- Skill-building and preparatory electives (e.g. UGST 1001)
- High school equivalency courses (e.g., English 30-1, Math 30, Biology 30)
Experiential learning
Get a feel for university life while building the academic skills needed for future success.
- Attend lectures, labs and discussions alongside MRU program students
- Gain exposure to the pace and expectations of post-secondary learning
- Build confidence in a university classroom setting
- Access campus events, student services and study supports
- Develop time management, communication and critical thinking skills
Admission requirements
When you apply to MRU, you’ll need to meet both general admission requirements and any additional criteria specific to your chosen program. Requirements can vary, so it’s important to review what’s needed for your area of interest.
Select your admission category:
High school
Post-secondary transfer
Mature student
What are the requirements for University Entrance Option?
Admission category: High school
Admission to the University Entrance Option is competitive. The grade 12 subjects which may be presented for evaluation for admissibility include the following courses from Group A, B, and C. To allow applicants who are missing a specific course requirement or require a higher grade in a specific course an opportunity to upgrade their course(s), specific subjects such as English, mathematics, etc. are not required for admission.
- Group A course
- Group A course
- Group A course
- Group A or B course
- Group A, B, or C course
Although Conditional Admission may be granted in advance of receipt of final/official transcripts, confirmation of the achievement of the course requirements above will take place after all final/official transcripts have been received by the University. Applicants who do not meet these requirements will be denied admission.
Admission category: Post-secondary transfer
Applicants who have completed four (or more) post-secondary courses by December 31 for the Fall Semester or August 31 for the Winter Semester are not eligible for the University Entrance option. Therefore, there is no post-secondary admission route available. All applicants will be considered on the basis of high school or mature standing above.
Admission category: Mature student
Admission to the University Entrance option is competitive. The grade 12 subjects which may be presented for evaluation for admissibility include the following courses from Group A, B, and C. To allow applicants who are missing a specific course requirement or require a higher grade in a specific course an opportunity to upgrade their course(s), specific subjects such as English, mathematics, etc. are not required for admission.
- Group A course
- Group A course
Although Conditional Admission may be granted in advance of receipt of final/official transcripts, confirmation of the achievement of the course requirements above will take place after all final/official transcripts have been received by the University. Applicants who do not meet these requirements will be denied admission.
If English is not your first language, you’ll need to meet two separate English requirements to be admitted to Mount Royal:
- You’ll need to successfully complete an English course if it’s part of your program’s admission requirements
- Show that you meet Mount Royal’s English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements
Admission deadlines
Fall 2026 intake
Early admission
Oct. 1, 2025 - Feb. 1, 2026
Ongoing admission based on program space and availability
Feb. 2, 2026 - programs closed
What is early admission?
During the early admission period, all applications are treated as though they were received at the exact same time. This means all competitively qualified applicants will be accommodated. At MRU, we actually receive most of our applications and fill many of our programs from applications submitted during early admission. It is an ideal time to apply and helps expedite the process so you hear back earlier too.
Early admission deadlines
Fall Semester:
Early admission is open from Oct. 1 to Feb 1.
Winter Semester:
Early admission is open from Oct. 1 to Nov. 1.
Costs
We know your investment in post-secondary education is a big deal. Make sure you’re on the right financial track by reviewing the costs, scholarships and financial support available.
How much does University Entrance Option cost?
The cost of your studies depends on a few things, like the program you choose and whether you’ll live at home or in Residence.
To get a better idea of what you might spend, try using our first-year student budget estimator. It gives a detailed breakdown of estimated costs.
You can also visit our tuition and costs page for full details on tuition and fees for a full year.
Does MRU offer scholarships or financial aid?
At Mount Royal, we want you to focus on your education, not worry about how to pay for it. There are many ways to help cover the cost of your studies.
Scholarships and bursaries
Mount Royal gives out over $5 million each year in scholarships and bursaries! These awards look at things like your grades, financial need and your involvement in school or the community.
Financial aid
There are financial aid options from the provincial and federal governments for both full-time and part-time students. These include student loans, grants and bursaries.
Other resources
You can also explore other ways to pay, like using RESPs (Registered Education Savings Plans) or CPP (Canada Pension Plan) benefits.
How do I apply for scholarships and bursaries?
To be eligible for scholarships and bursaries, you must apply for Early Admission from Oct. 1 to Feb. 1. You can apply for scholarships and bursaries from Nov. 1 to March 1.
Have questions?
Our info sessions are a great way to explore MRU programs, learn how to apply and connect with people who are here to help.
Book an info sessionConnect with the Admissions and Recruitment Office for more one-on-one support.
Contact us
Why MRU
At MRU, learning is about more than lectures and textbooks. It’s about evolving through experience. With small class sizes, supportive faculty and hands-on opportunities, students are encouraged to think critically, push boundaries and uncover what they’re capable of. MRU helps students build the skills, confidence and curiosity to shape meaningful futures in Calgary and beyond.
Discover why MRULearn about the additional supports and services we have available specifically for:
International students Indigenous studentsFind your path
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to starting university. If you don’t yet meet the admission requirements or the competitive average for your desired program, MRU’s alternative entrance options can help get you where you want to go.
Virtual information sessions
Select a session that suits you. Choose from general information, specific by program, drop in Q&A, or attend an Indigenous or international student session.
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