September 22, 2026 to September 24, 2026 McMaster University Student Centre (MUSC) Atrium
Everyone’s career and education journeys are different — come explore your options with help from program reps
Explore your further education options by attending the Graduate and Professional Schools fair, where you can explore programs and find helpful information to guide your application process. Connect face-to-face with school reps, pick up brochures and expand your network while gaining insights to support what’s next.
Even if you haven’t made the final decision to continue your education after your undergrad, we still recommend attending the fair to explore your options and find out what opportunities may be available to you. This is a chance to gather information, ask questions and discover the paths you can pursue.
Three days full of opportunities to explore your options
September 22, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.: Want to pursue further education at Mac? Attend a full day for McMaster programs.
September 23 and 24, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.: Discover opportunities and programs from other schools and institutions.
Why attend?
Explore a range of further education options, from graduate, medical and professional schools to postgraduate certificate programs.
Ask school reps questions about applications and admissions.
Connect with SSC career counsellors and staff who can help guide you through the process.
How it works
The fair is taking place in the McMaster University Student Centre (MUSC) Atrium.
Review participating organizations and register in advance through OSCARplus (registration link coming soon).
Drop in at any time during the event to browse booths. Learn about different programs, chat with school reps and ask questions to help improve your application.
Remember to collect brochures, contact information and additional details from the schools and programs that interest you. This way, you’ll be prepared when it comes time to apply.
Tip: It’s normal to feel nervous or intimidated. The school reps are there to connect with you, answer your questions and share more about their programs, so they’re eager to meet you!
Not sure what to ask a representative? Here are some ideas
General
What do you wish more students would know about your program or the application process?
Can I follow up with you if I have more questions? What is the best way to reach you?
Are there any information sessions I should be aware of?
Grades
What advice can you give to students who are concerned with their GPA?
Besides my GPA, what else can I do to prepare a strong application?
Sometimes students experience a term of low marks for various reasons. Is there an area on your application that provides a space to explain extraordinary circumstances?
How do I know if my courses meet a prerequisite requirement?
How do you calculate the GPA? Is there a minimum GPA versus the reality of those accepted?
Will the spring/summer course grades be counted towards my admission average calculation?
How are second degrees or courses taken as a continuing student considered?
When I drop a course and/or withdrawn and/or cancelled, how is this considered?
General Application
What are some tips you have for selecting references?
At what stage do references become part of the selection process? How important is a strong reference?
What if I don’t have an academic reference?
Does my academic reference need to be from a subject area that aligns with my grad application?
How are my extracurricular and volunteer experiences considered in my application?
Do you accept applications after the deadline?
Diversity Recruitment
Do you have any access strategies that students might want to know?
What are your diversity recruitment streams? Can you share the advantages (or disadvantages) of applying through a particular stream?
Do you have resources (e.g., webinars, peer conversations) to assist me with my application process?
Internationally-focused Programs
For professional programs abroad, what are some advice you’d give to students who want to return to Canada? What due diligence should be done?
Employment Opportunities
What is the employment outlook for graduates from this program?
What kinds of career pathways do your grads end up pursuing?
Are there career services available?
Program Specific
What are some of your most popular programs?
How is the program structured (classes, projects, research, etc.?)
What is unique about the way the program is run compared to similar programs at other schools?
Does your program meet the requirements of the regulatory or licensing body (for regulated professional programs)?
Is there an opportunity for co-ops, placements, or internships as part of this program? What supports are offered to help students gain practical experience?
Do you have multiple start dates for program(s)?
Do you have any tips or advice for applicants?
Are you unsure about your options or suitability for career paths?
We have career counsellors that can help you navigate the career planning process.
Check OSCARplus for events, company recruitment sessions, workshops and job and volunteer postings to support your professional development.
One-on-one appointments
Are you unsure if further education is for you? Or maybe you want to chat with someone who can help you develop a plan to explore your options. Either way, our further education experts can help. Book an appointment on OSCARplus > Student Success Centre > Appointments > Careers.
Have just a few quick questions?
Our career drop-ins can provide answers to most simple further education questions. Drop-in chats: Tuesday and Thursday, 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in person (Gilmour Hall 110).
Further education support
Researching and applying for programs can be a lot to deal with — but you’re not in it alone. We offer workshops, one-on-one appointments and resources to help you with research, planning and program applications.Further Education | Student Success Centre | McMaster University
