University Sciences Diploma

Academic Requirements

To gain admission to the University Sciences Diploma program at Red Deer Polytechnic, applicants must meet specific academic requirements. The program is designed for students who have completed high school education and are looking to pursue a career in the biological sciences. Here are the key Academic Requirements:

• Minimum Average: Applicants must have a minimum average of 60% with no mark below 50%.
• Required Courses: The following courses are mandatory for admission:
  • Biology 30, or equivalent
  • Chemistry 30, or equivalent
  • ELA 30-1, or equivalent
  • Mathematics 30-1, or equivalent

For international students who may require academic upgrading or are missing equivalencies to the required courses, there is an alternative pathway available. This pathway allows them to take necessary courses to satisfy the Academic Requirements while still completing the program within two years.

Additionally, transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases. If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding the admission process, feel free to reach out to LOA Portal's advisors for support.

English Language Proficiency Requirements

At Red Deer Polytechnic, we support a diverse student population worldwide. Note: Applicants whose first language is English and who declared this on their application are exempt from English Language Proficiency requirements.

Certain RDP programs have unique ELP requirements; ensure you review the program-specific requirements below. Applicants must also meet all other program Academic Requirements to be considered for admission into the program.

Applicants applying to the Academic Upgrading program are not required to demonstrate English Language Proficiency at the levels noted for credit programs. Placement assessments are used for admission to these programs.

Understanding RDP's English Language Proficiency Requirements:

• Applicants whose first language is not English must provide ELP official documentation to the Office of the Registrar by email or regular mail after you have applied.
• ELP tests must be no older than two years before your program start date.
• The Office of the Registrar can review your “unofficial” or scanned documents to initially admit you to a program and provide a Letter of Acceptance. However, official documentation must be received before the deadline, or you will not be granted “clear” admission until this step has been completed.

Requirements by Program

• Applicants must meet English Language Proficiency requirements for admission to credit programs.
  • Note: RDP programs may have different or additional requirements.
• Applicants must also meet all other program Academic Requirements, including the English course and minimum percentage grade.
• All ELP tests must have been obtained within two years of the start date of the program.
• Applicants to the Academic Upgrading program are not required to demonstrate English language proficiency at the levels noted for credit programs.

Ensure you review the program-specific requirements below.

Approved English Proficiency Tests:

• IELTS Academic – International English Language Testing System: 6.5 with at least 5.5 on each band score
• Duolingo English Test: 115-125
• TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language: 83 iBT or 557 PBT
• CAEL – Canadian Academic English Language: 60 with at least 55 on each band score
• MET: 61 with at least 58 on each band score
• PTE: 59 with at least 56 on each band score
• Oxford: 7 overall

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.