All Engineering students begin with a common foundation year, regardless of program of study. During the foundation year students will learn about the various Engineering programs available. Students have access to new, modern buildings, libraries and innovative labs, including: ACE Climatic Wind Tunnel, Clean Energy Research Laboratory (CERL), Energy Systems and Nuclear Science Research Centre (ERC), Ontario Power Generation (OPG) Engineering Building, Partners for the Advancement of Collaborative Engineering Education (PACE) laboratories, Electric Machines, Microwave and Communication Systems Lab.

Current Ontario secondary school students must complete the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with six 4U or 4M credits including English (ENG4U) with a minimum grade of 60 per cent, Advanced Functions (MHF4U), Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U), Chemistry (SCH4U), and Physics (SPH4U). In addition, a combined minimum 70 per cent average in prerequisite math and science courses is required, with no grade below 60 per cent. Applicants with credentials from outside Ontario should visit the Admissions section. Note: Admission is competitive. The specific average or standing required for admission varies from year to year. Students are selected by taking into consideration a wide range of criteria including school marks, distribution of subjects taken, and performance in subjects relevant to the academic program. Possession of the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Preference will be given to applicants with the best qualifications.