Graduate Studies at UBC Sessions

Applying to grad school at UBC

Friday, 10 October 2025 10:00 – 11:00 am

Start your journey to graduate studies at UBC with confidence! Join us for an informative session where we will demystify the intricacies of the application process and equip you with the tools to enhance your application.

This session will cover:

  • Overview of the application process
  • Online application - what to expect
  • Understanding admissions requirements
  • Crafting a compelling statement of interest
  • Finding the right supervisor
  • Effective supervisor outreach
  • References - what we look for and who you should ask
  • Application dos and don’ts

Who is this webinar for?

This webinar is tailored for individuals who are gearing up to apply to graduate school, offering invaluable insights and practical advice to elevate your application strategy. Whether you're a prospective UBC graduate student or have started the application process, this session is designed to empower you with the knowledge and insights needed for a successful application.

Join us as we demystify the path to graduate school at UBC and set you on the road to academic success! 

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Graduate Student On Campus Housing

Friday, 10 October 2025 3:00 – 4:00 pm

It's not too early to explore your options for accommodation, particularly if you are hoping to live on campus, in residence at UBC. Typically, about 1300 graduate students live in residence at UBC. Learn about the UBC student residences available for graduate students, the application process, waitlist logistics, and more in this 1-hour webinar presented by UBC Student Housing and Community Services. 

*Please note that this is a repeat of our October 6th session*

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How to find and reach out to a supervisor

Thursday, 16 October 2025 10:00 – 11:00 am

For many research-based graduate programs you’ll need to find and secure a supervisor before submitting or during your application. In this webinar we take a close look at how to search for a supervisor and once you have found them how to reach out. We’ll also discuss the importance of having good references as part of your application and how to identify and approach referees.

This session will cover:

  • How to find a supervisor using UBC’s supervisor database.
  • What to consider when looking for a supervisor.
  • Who makes a great referee?
  • Advice on reaching out to referees
  • Q&A

Who is this webinar for?

This webinar is for anyone who needs to secure a supervisor as part of the graduate program application to UBC. You can check if your program of interest requires this step by looking at the program’s admission information and requirements on the program page. Find your program at grad.ubc.ca/prospective-students/graduate-degree-programs 

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How to write a statement of interest

Tuesday, 21 October 2025 10:00 – 11:00 am

The statement of interest (SOI) is an essential part of a graduate school application. In this session, we take a closer look at the statement and provide advice on how to make yours as strong as possible. 

This session will cover:

  • What is the SOI of interest and what should it include?
  • What contributes to a compelling SOI?
  • Differences between SOI’s for thesis and course-based programs.
  • Strategies for writing your SOI.
  • Q&A

Who is this webinar for? 

This webinar is for anyone who has started or plans to start a graduate school application and wants advice on approaching an important part of the application, the statement of interest. Applicable for research and course-based programs. 

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Applying to research based graduate programs

Thursday, 23 October 2025 10:00 – 11:00 am

Are you considering a research-based master’s or doctoral program at UBC? These programs combine coursework with a significant research project or thesis, offering a deep dive into your chosen field of study.

In this webinar, we’ll guide you through the application process for research-based graduate programs.  

What you’ll learn:

  • Key differences between research-based and course-based programs
  • What makes a research program application unique
  • How to write a compelling statement of interest
  • Tips for identifying and contacting potential supervisors
  • What makes a strong reference – and who to ask
  • How to prepare for interview
  • Q&A

Who should attend? 
This session is ideal for prospective graduate students interested in research-based master’s or PhD programs at UBC who want practical tips and strategies for crafting a competitive application. 
 

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Plan ahead - creating a financial plan for grad school

Tuesday, 28 October 2025 10:00 – 11:00 am

It’s important to plan ahead and create a solid financial plan for your graduate program. Understanding the financial picture before you start will help you make informed decisions to ensure financial stability, allowing you to devote the necessary time to your academic work while also reserving time for personal health and well-being.  

In this session, we'll offer practical strategies to create your own multi-year financial plan. We’ll also hear from current grad school students on how they live and make things work in Vancouver - from budgeting tips to cost-saving ideas.  

This session will cover: 
•    Creating a pre-arrival budget and multi-year financial plan  
•    Understanding the cost of living in Vancouver 
•    Tips on managing day-to-day expenses during grad school 
•    Funding options
•    Working during grad school 
•    Advice and insight from current UBC grad students 

Who is this webinar for? 
All prospective students and applicants to UBC graduate programs who wish to build a financial plan as they prepare for their studies. 
 

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