In Short: Group A vs Group B OUAC Explained

• OUAC is the centralized system used to apply to Ontario universities, and students are classified as Group A or Group B based on their school type.
• Group A applicants are full-time Ontario day school students whose schools send transcripts directly to OUAC by firm mid-January deadlines.
• Group B applicants include OES, adult, homeschool, and international students who apply through the 105 portal. OES handles transcript submissions automatically through the Ministry’s secure system.
• OES allows students to enroll within 24 hours and finish courses in as little as four weeks, helping them fast-track credits and meet OUAC deadlines.

Applying to university in Ontario means navigating the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC)—the system every student must use to submit applications to Ontario universities. Understanding which category you fall under—Group A vs Group B OUAC—is essential to ensure your application is processed correctly and that your transcripts reach the right institutions on time.

The two groups may sound confusing, but they simply separate applicants based on their educational background. Once you understand which one applies to you, the entire university application process becomes far simpler to manage.

If you’re currently upgrading or completing your Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) online, Ontario eSecondary School (OES) can guide you through the OUAC process, send your grades directly, and help you stay on track with your post-secondary goals.

Keep reading to learn which OUAC group you belong to—and how to make sure your university application stands out.

What Is OUAC and How It Works

The Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) is the official organization that processes all undergraduate university applications in Ontario. Regardless of where you study—whether in a physical high school, online, or abroad—every student applying to an Ontario university must apply through OUAC.

OUAC collects applications, transcripts, and other documents on behalf of universities, ensuring consistency and accuracy across the province. It’s not responsible for admissions decisions; instead, it acts as a bridge between students and universities. Once your application is submitted, OUAC forwards your details to each university you apply to, and those institutions make the final decisions.

For OES students, OUAC accepts official electronic transcript submissions directly from OES once courses are complete.

Understanding the OUAC Application System

The OUAC application process begins by identifying which type of applicant you are—Group A or Group B. This initial step determines which portal you’ll use and how your documents are processed. Once submitted, OUAC forwards your application details and grades directly to each university.

You’ll create an OUAC account, pay your application fee, and select your preferred programs. From there, you can log in at any time to check your application status, track offers, and respond to university acceptances.

For students taking online or additional courses through OES, OUAC’s electronic system ensures that every grade you complete is updated accurately. This is especially helpful for those upgrading marks or finishing courses needed for university admission.

Group A vs Group B OUAC — What’s the Difference?

The Group A vs Group B OUAC distinction determines how you apply and who sends your documents. The two groups exist so OUAC can handle different types of applicants efficiently, based on whether you are currently in a full-time Ontario high school or not.

Group A corresponds to students still enrolled full-time at an Ontario day school who are completing their OSSD this academic year. Group B includes everyone else—students upgrading courses online through OES, adult learners, homeschoolers, and international students earning credits for Canadian university admission.

Related: understanding the deadline to accept university offers Ontario

Quick Overview (Formerly OUAC 101 vs 105)

Historically, OUAC used the terms OUAC 101 and OUAC 105. These correspond directly to the modern Group A and Group B categories.

Group A (101) students apply through a high school-generated account and receive a secure PIN from their guidance office. Group B (105) students create their own account through OUAC’s public portal.

Although OUAC now uses group terminology, universities and advisors still reference the older 101 and 105 labels, so it’s important to recognize both.

Eligibility, Transcript Process, and OUAC Deadlines for Group A vs Group B

Understanding the OUAC Group A eligibility criteria versus the OUAC Group B applicant definition ensures you apply through the right channel:

• Group A applicants are enrolled full-time in an Ontario day school, earning their OSSD, and haven’t attended post-secondary education. Their schools send marks directly to OUAC, and these students usually face strict deadlines, such as the mid-January cutoff for major programs. Guidance counsellors manage most of the coordination, so accuracy and timeliness are critical.
• For most Group B applicants, transcripts must be submitted directly to OUAC. OES students don’t need to handle this step—OES automatically uploads final grades and sends transcripts through the Ministry’s secure electronic system. Deadlines for Group B applicants vary by university and program, so completing courses early ensures your marks appear before admission reviews begin.

FAQ: Group A vs Group B OUAC

What is a Group B applicant in OUAC?

A Group B applicant is anyone not enrolled full-time in an Ontario high school—this includes OES students, adult learners, homeschoolers, and international students. These applicants use the 105 portal and are responsible for uploading or authorizing their transcripts, unless they’re enrolled with OES, which automatically uploads grades and sends transcripts through the Ministry’s secure system.

What is the difference between 101 and 105 applicants?

The main difference between 101 vs 105 OUAC applicants lies in their current schooling. 101 (Group A) applicants are in full-time Ontario high schools, while 105 (Group B) applicants are not. The application steps, deadlines, and transcript processes differ accordingly.

Does the order of choices on OUAC matter?

No. The order of your university program choices doesn’t affect admission decisions. Each university evaluates your application independently. You can rearrange your choices before the final submission deadline if needed.

Can I switch from Group B to Group A?

It’s rare, but possible if your enrollment status changes. For example, if you leave an online or adult program and rejoin a full-time day school, you might transition to Group A. However, OUAC doesn’t typically reclassify applicants mid-cycle. It’s best to contact OUAC or your guidance counselor before attempting to switch.

Can I get into a university with a 75 average in Ontario?

Yes. A 75 average meets the minimum for many Ontario university programs, though some competitive fields like engineering, business, or health sciences may require higher marks. If you need to raise your average, OES offers flexible online courses that allow you to upgrade marks on your own schedule.

Next Step: Apply to University with Confidence Through OES

Completing your OSSD or upgrading credits doesn’t need to be stressful. With OES, you can earn recognized Ontario credits from anywhere in the world, at your own pace.

How to Book a 15-Minute Guidance Meeting

If you’re unsure which OUAC group you belong to or want help planning your next steps, schedule a free 15-minute academic guidance meeting. A certified Ontario guidance counsellor will help you identify your OUAC group, select the right courses, ensure your transcripts align with your goals, and provide complete admissions counselling.

How OES Supports You Through the OUAC Process

OES supports every step of your academic journey—from earning your OSSD to submitting transcripts to OUAC. As a Ministry-inspected Ontario online high school, we ensure your courses are recognized by all Ontario universities.

With quick communication, accredited teachers, and flexible pacing, OES empowers students to meet admission requirements confidently. You can enroll in a course in as little as 24 hours and complete it in as little as four weeks, giving you the freedom to fast-track credits and stay on schedule for university applications.

For more insight on fast-tracking courses, upgrading marks, and navigating university admissions, explore the OES Blog. You can also visit our FAQ page for answers to common questions about enrollment, course timelines, and the OUAC process!