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Why choose Open Studies?
Discover university-level courses with flexible enrollment tailored to your goals.
Open Studies gives you the freedom to explore university-level courses with flexible credit options that help you discover the perfect program fit. Whether you’re upgrading for university admission by completing Grade 12 equivalent courses or testing out different subjects before committing, Open Studies lets you take university courses without a full program commitment. Plus, the credits you earn can often be transferred to your future MRU degree or diploma — making your transition into post-secondary education smoother and more personalized.
Program highlights
- Explore university courses without committing to a full program
- Earn credits that can transfer to future MRU degrees, diplomas or certificates
- Customize your course load based on your goals — whether academic, career or personal growth
- Experience university learning through hands-on projects, labs and collaborative assignments
Future possibilities
Open Studies is not an accredited program but provides a pathway to further education and career development. Many students use it to:
- Complete admission requirements for MRU or other institutions
- Test out areas of study before committing to a major
- Gain transferable credit for a degree, diploma or certificate
- Earn credits for professional development or personal growth
- Enhance university applications with recent academic work
Take advantage of the flexibility to explore new interests or take classes you wouldn’t have otherwise. Use this as an opportunity to discover new interests while preparing for your dream program.
— Jazmyne Horbay-Verbonac
Current Aviation Diploma student, former Academic Upgrading and Open Studies student
Curriculum and courses
What courses will I take in open studies?
Choose from a wide range of university courses based on your interests or goals.
Example course areas include:
- business and accounting
- English and writing
- psychology and sociology
- science and technology
- communications and media
Experiential learning
Open Studies students benefit from engaging, hands-on learning experiences built into many courses:
- Participate in labs, case studies and projects
- Learn alongside degree and diploma students
- Apply concepts to real-life scenarios and challenges
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Get full access to MRU’s academic and student supports
Admission requirements
Requirements can vary, so it’s important to review what’s needed for your area of interest.
What are the requirements for Open Studies?
Open Studies applicants are not required to meet the General Admission Requirements for Mount Royal programs. Open Studies does not have specific course-based admission criteria, thereby providing students with an opportunity to upgrade and prepare for further post-secondary studies.
In addition, official transcripts from all high school and post-secondary institutions attended are required for 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 Open Studies 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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