The University of Guelph will welcome the largest-ever incoming class to its Guelph campus in the fall.

According to data released today by the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC), a record number of Ontario high school students – 5,899 – have accepted offers of admission to U of G’s main campus.

“We are delighted that so many motivated and qualified students are interested in a University of Guelph education,” said Dr. Gwen Chapman, provost and vice-president (academic).

“It reflects the excellence of our educational and research offerings, our outstanding faculty and staff, and our reputation for providing a supportive, enriching living and learning environment.”

OUAC’s confirmation figures, released in mid-June each year, are intended to help universities with enrolment planning. They are based on data as of June 1, the date by which Ontario high school students are expected to accept offers of admission.

Following two years of a pandemic, there was uncertainty about whether students would approach university in the same way as in the past, Chapman said.

“As a result, we were more proactive in our recruitment efforts and in making more and earlier admission offers,” she said.

“With these numbers, we now know that students are keen to come back for the fabulous student experience offered at U of G.”

The University will accommodate the growth while ensuring outstanding quality and the health and well-being of the campus community, Chapman said.

“We are planning and working to ensure that everyone – especially first-year students – has a signature student experience this fall.”