Adler cannot guarantee admission to any of its graduate degree programs, but we can provide recommendations to strengthen your application. Adler has a holistic admissions process, and takes all aspects of an application into consideration when making admissions decisions.
Full admissions requirements are listed here. Please review this list thoroughly before applying.
Introduction to psychology course
If your undergraduate degree was not in psychology, and you never completed an introduction to psychology course at the undergraduate level, we recommend completing one prior to applying. The introduction to psychology course should be at least 36 hours of instruction, must be at the undergraduate level, and must be offered by an accredited, degree-granting institution. Many institutions offer this course through their continuing education department.
Grade point average (GPA)
Undergraduate GPA is an indicator of academic success at the graduate level, and is a factor in determining whether candidates will be a good fit for Adler’s graduate programs. Adler’s admissions committee is looking for a 3.0 GPA or better on a 4.0 scale.
If your GPA is lower than a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, we recommend completing additional undergraduate-level psychology courses for credit at an accredited, degree-granting institution prior to applying, to increase your GPA and demonstrate your academic ability. Please submit those transcripts along with your undergraduate transcripts when applying to the program.
Clinical experience
Adler doesn’t require volunteer hours for your application, but it is encouraged to get some clinical volunteer experience before applying, such as at a volunteer crisis or helpline. Here are some examples of organizations where past prospective students have volunteered: the Distress Centres of Greater Toronto, Kids Help Phone, and the Certified Listeners Society. Completing volunteer work is not a guarantee that your application will be successful, but it is great experience and can strengthen your application.
Casper assessment
We recommend signing up for your Casper assessment early in the cycle. We recommend not using any third-party preparation services to study for the Casper, as it is not necessary and can actually hamper your performance.
We do recommend reviewing the Acuity Insights website thoroughly before taking the Casper to familiarize yourself with the test and requirements. There is also a practice test that you can take here.
Statement of intent
The statement of intent is an important part of your application. This is where you can introduce yourself to the admissions committee and let your voice shine through. Emphasize what makes you a good candidate and why you believe you are a good fit for the program and the profession as a whole. The admissions committee wants to get to know you as a person and learn why you are passionate about psychology and/or psychotherapy. It can sometimes help to have others who know you well read your statement for editing and feedback.
The use of generative AI is prohibited.
Knowledge of the program
If you are applying to any of Adler’s degree programs, we strongly encourage you to educate yourself about the school and the MPsy program before applying. If you haven’t already, attending an information session is a great way to learn about Adler and get a feel for whether this program and field is right for you. You can sign up for an information session here.
Here are some relevant links you should review before applying:
MPsy Program general information (scroll down for tuition)
Differences between the streams (PSY vs. PTH)
Clinical Psychology stream schedule
Transitional equivalency (TEQ) bridging program – if applicable