✏️ Why Do Canadian Universities Require a Supplementary Application?

If you’re a high school student applying to competitive undergraduate programs in Canada, you’ve probably come across something called a supplementary application. It might include personal essays, video interviews, or a list of extracurriculars. And if you’re wondering why universities ask for more than just your grades—you’re not alone.

At first glance, it might feel like an extra hoop to jump through. But there’s a reason behind it—and if you approach it strategically, your supplementary application could be what sets you apart and gets you that coveted offer of admission.

In this post, we’ll explain why these applications exist, which programs use them, what they’re looking for, and how to craft a strong response.

What is a Supplementary Application?

A supplementary application is an additional set of materials—usually essays, short-answer questions, videos, or résumés—submitted alongside your main university application. While not all programs require them, they’re commonly used by selective or high-demand undergraduate programs where academic averages alone aren’t enough to assess applicants.

Depending on the school and program, supplementary materials might include:

• Short personal statements (300–500 words)
• Leadership and extracurricular activity profiles
• Video interviews recorded through platforms like Kira Talent
• Resume or portfolio submissions
• Situational or ethical reasoning questions

These materials give schools a deeper sense of who you are beyond your transcript.

Examples of Supplementary Applications in Canadian Universities

Queen’s University – Smith Commerce

Queen’s Commerce is one of Canada’s most competitive business programs. The application includes two written questions, typically focusing on your experiences, leadership, and goals, plus one video response to assess your communication skills and motivation.

👉🏻 Learn more about Queen’s Smith Commerce Supplementary Application Guide

Western University – Ivey AEO (Advanced Entry Opportunity)

Ivey’s AEO stream requires a detailed leadership profile where students explain their extracurriculars, work experience, and community involvement. A formal résumé and reflective responses are part of the process. Ivey looks for initiative, impact, and personal growth.

👉🏻 Learn more about Ivey AEO Supplementary Application Guide

University of Toronto – Rotman Commerce and Engineering

Rotman Commerce includes written and video responses through the Kira Talent platform. These assess your interests, goals, and interpersonal strengths. U of T Engineering applicants complete an optional personal profile and may also be asked for video responses to better understand their problem-solving and communication skills.

👉🏻 Learn more about the U of T Rotman Commerce Supplementary Application Guide

University of British Columbia – Sauder School of Business (BCom)

UBC’s Personal Profile is an integral part of the admissions process. Students answer questions about leadership, challenges they’ve faced, and their involvement outside the classroom. It’s not just about listing activities—it’s about explaining what those experiences taught you.

👉🏻 Learn more about the UBC Sauder BCom Program Supplementary Application Guide

Why Do Universities Ask for Supplementary Applications?

Grades Alone Aren’t Enough

In competitive programs, it’s common for hundreds—or thousands—of students to apply with averages above 90%. Supplementary applications help admissions teams understand who you are beyond academics. They allow schools to assess your character, commitment, and potential.

They Want to See Leadership and Impact

Many supplementary questions are designed to reveal how you’ve made a difference in your community. Have you led a school club, organized a fundraiser, worked part-time, or supported your family? These experiences tell schools more about your values and readiness for university life.

Communication and Critical Thinking Matter

Written responses and video interviews reveal how well you express ideas and respond under pressure. It’s not about saying the perfect thing—it’s about showing you can think clearly, speak with purpose, and bring energy to a conversation.

It Levels the Playing Field

Not all students have access to the same resources. The supplementary application gives you space to explain challenges you’ve overcome or context behind your achievements. It allows admissions teams to see your full story—not just your grades.

What Makes a Strong Supplementary Application?

A great supplementary application is thoughtful, honest, and focused. You don’t need to be overly formal or try to sound like someone else. The best responses are specific, reflective, and grounded in your real experiences.

Here are a few key tips:

• Be specific. Talk about exactly what you did in your activities and what the outcome was.
• Reflect. Go beyond listing achievements—what did you learn? How did you grow?
• Connect to the program. Show why this particular school or major is a good fit for you.
• Prepare for video. Practice answering questions out loud, keep responses organized, and let your personality come through.

Remember, admissions teams aren’t expecting perfection—they’re looking for clarity, self-awareness, and potential.

How Myls Interview Can Help You Succeed

At Myls Interview, we know how stressful the supplementary application process can feel—especially when deadlines are tight and you’re balancing school, clubs, and family life. That’s why we offer targeted support through our Myls Interview initiative.

We help students by:

• Sharing real interviews with successful applicants who explain what worked for them
• Providing 1-on-1 support to plan, write, and revise personal profiles and essays
• Practicing video interview and written responses in simulated settings
• Giving AI-generated Assessment Reports which have helped students get into programs like Queen’s Commerce, UBC Sauder, and Ivey AEO

You don’t need to do this alone. With the right guidance, your story can shine—and your application can rise to the top of the pile.

Ready to Stand Out?

If you’re applying to a program with a supplementary application, don’t wait until the last minute. A strong application takes time, thought, and the right kind of feedback.

Sign up today and get personalized support for your next big step!