In addition to the academic requirements, the Admissions Committee evaluates the following areas in reviewing your application:

1. Written assignment
   You must complete the written assignment and return it with your supporting documents. Instructions are available on the Online Application & Procedures page. (Please note that Special Programs have their own application forms and deadlines.)

    

2. Work experience, talents, skills
   You are encouraged to have related experience working with children and youth. Classroom volunteer work with B.C. curriculum is strongly recommended. Certificates such as coaching, music and first aid are reviewed, along with parenting experience, languages spoken and travel experience.

    

3. Reference letters
   Two confidential letters of reference are required to support your application. You may submit an additional confidential reference, but no more than three references are permitted. One reference letter must come from an off-campus educator who has observed you interacting with children/adolescents in an educational setting (public and/or independent school). All references should be mailed directly by the referee to PDP Admissions in a sealed envelope. Instructions to be given to your referee are provided on the Referee page. Note: references from relatives and close friends are NOT accepted.

    

4. Grade point average
   We calculate your gradepoint average on the most recent two years (approximately 60 semester hours) of undergraduate coursework. (This may include post-degree coursework). Applicants with a gradepoint below 2.5 (on the 4 point scale) in this calculation will not be considered.

    

5. Academic preparation
   In addition to the published academic requirements for PDP (elementary and secondary level), prospective applicants are encouraged to have completed Education courses. Also, elementary applicants are encouraged to have Fine and Performing Arts (FPA) and Kinesiology (KIN) courses.

    

Successful applicants will be required to undergo a Criminal Records Check. If the Check indicates the applicant has a criminal record it may preclude continuation in PDP.

You do not need to apply to SFU Undergraduate Admissions before applying to the PDP. All applicants must be eligible for admission to SFU and must apply for admission or readmission to the University before the Undergraduate Admission deadline. "Eligible for admission" does not mean admitted and we encourage applicants to wait to apply to Undergraduate Admissions as we are almost always able to have decisions made before the Undergraduate Admissions deadline.