Supplementary Application – Faculty of Engineering
A group of students on laptops doing lab work while their instructor supervises them

Supplementary application

What is the supplementary application?

The Supplementary Application is designed to assess competencies that aren’t captured on a transcript, including engagement, collaboration, innovation & creativity, and resilience. It helps us better understand each applicant and supports a more holistic admissions process.

If you’re applying to Engineering, Integrated Biomedical Engineering & Health Sciences (iBioMed), Computer Science, or the Bachelor of Technology, the Supplementary Application is a required part of your application. You only need to complete it once, even if you’re applying to multiple programs within the Faculty of Engineering. The application consists of four questions: three video responses and one written response. 

Below, you will find resources, deadlines and other information related to the supplementary application.

Important dates

Statistics

  • Early submission date

    We recommend submitting your supplementary application by November 26, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. (ET).

    Early submissions may allow your application to be reviewed sooner.

  • Supplementary application deadline

    Your supplementary application deadline is January 28, 2027 at 11:59 p.m. (ET).

  • Other dates and deadlines

    Visit the McMaster Future Students website for all other important dates, deadlines and application instructions.

Students studying in WBooth Grad Space

Accessing your supplementary application

After you submit your application to a Faculty of Engineering program, you’ll receive an email invitation from Kira Talent within 7-10 business days. This email will contain detailed instructions on how to access and complete your supplementary application. Be sure to check your junk folder or spam folder if you don’t see it in your inbox.  

 To complete the supplementary application, you’ll need access to a computer or laptop with a working webcam and microphone. We recommend finding a quiet, well-lit space where you can focus without distractions.  

If you still have not received your email invitation after this time, please notify us via this form.

Please note: The supplementary application will not open until October 1, 2026, and invitation emails will not be sent before this date.

Statistics

  • System requirements

    To complete the supplementary application, you’ll need access to a computer or laptop with a working webcam and microphone.

  • Application format

    The supplementary application consists of three video questions with a video-recorded response and one written question with a short answer response.

  • Submitting your answers

    For each video question, you’ll have 10 seconds to prepare and 2 minutes to respond. For the written question, you’ll have 10 minutes total to read and respond.

Preparing for your supplementary application

You will not be asked any skill-testing or technical questions, nor will you be required to solve engineering or technical problems. Instead, the questions will be interview-style, giving you an opportunity to demonstrate how you think, communicate, reflect and respond to different situations. Your responses will help us assess four key competencies.

There is no single right answer to these questions, and you do not need to have a specific type of experience to answer these questions well. Take some time to reflect on the experiences that have shaped you and what you have learned from them. Consider experiences from:

  • Extracurricular activities
  • School and academic experiences (e.g., group projects, etc.)
  • Part-time jobs or volunteer work
  • Athletics, clubs and teams
  • Leadership or community involvement
  • Personal experiences, challenges, and accomplishments

As you prepare, think about the situations you have encountered, the role you played, the decisions you made, and what you learned from the experience.

You can learn more about each competency and prepare for your supplementary application using the practice questions below.

Engagement

Engagement is demonstrated through active involvement beyond the classroom. This may include community activities, athletics, work, family responsibilities, creative pursuits or other commitments.

We value applicants who show dedication to their activities, contribute positively to others, and understand the broader impact of their actions.

Practice Question:

Think of an activity, role or responsibility you care about outside of the classroom. What have you learned from it, and how has it made a difference for others, like your teammates, friends or community?

Collaboration

Collaboration is demonstrated through effective teamwork and meaningful contribution within group settings. This includes working respectfully with others, valuing diverse perspectives, communicating constructively and helping to resolve challenges or disagreements. Collaboration may occur in clubs, athletics, employment, volunteer roles, family responsibilities, community activities or other team-based environments.

We value applicants who contribute to shared goals, foster inclusive participation, and positively influence outcomes wherever they work with others.

Practice Question:

Describe a situation where a group you were a part of faced a challenge or setback. How did you help the group move forward?

Innovation & Creativity

Innovation and creativity is demonstrated through thoughtful problem-solving and original thinking. Describe experiences where you questioned assumptions, explored new ideas or developed solutions to challenges. This may include academics, extracurricular clubs and teams, athletics, employment, family responsibilities, creative projects or other experiences.

We value individuals who demonstrate curiosity, critical thinking and the confidence to approach challenges in new and imaginative ways.

Practice Question:

Tell us about a time when you tested an idea or solution to see if it would work. Explain how you chose your approach and what you learned from the experience.

Resilience

Resilience is demonstrated through the ability to respond constructively to challenges, setbacks or mistakes. This may include learning from failures, persevering through difficulties, adjusting to new circumstances and using what they have learned to improve future actions.

We value applicants who show determination, self-awareness and a willingness to grow from their experiences.

Practice Question:

Tell us about a situation where something didn’t go according to plan. How did you respond and what did you learn from it? 

Information sessions

During our information sessions, we will provide you with resources and information in order to prepare for your supplementary application, including an opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the process. You can register for upcoming sessions below.

View upcoming webinars

Frequently asked questions

  1. What is the supplementary application?  

The Supplementary Application is designed to assess competencies that aren’t captured on a transcript, including engagement, collaboration, innovation & creativity, and resilience.  

  1. Why is the supplementary application required? 

The supplementary application helps us better understand each applicant and supports a more holistic admissions process. 

  1. How do I complete the supplementary application?  

After you submit your OUAC application to Engineering, Computer Science, Integrated Biomedical Engineering & Health Sciences (iBioMed) and/or Bachelor of Technology program(s), you’ll receive an email invitation from Kira Talent within 10 business days. This email will contain detailed instructions on how to access and complete your supplementary application. Be sure to check your junk folder or spam folder if you don’t see it in your inbox.  

To complete the supplementary application, you’ll need access to a computer or laptop with a working webcam and microphone. We recommend finding a quiet, well-lit space where you can focus without distractions. 

  1. What is the cost of the supplementary application?  

There is a $50 CAD fee for the supplementary application, which you’ll pay when submitting your application through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC). It will appear as a “McMaster program fee” on your payment summary. You only need to complete and play for one supplementary application, and that single supplementary application will be used to assess your application for all Faculty of Engineering programs you apply to. 

  1. How long do I have to prepare for each question? 

For each of the three video questions, you’ll have 10 seconds to review the question and 2 minutes to respond. For the written question, you’ll have 7 minutes total to read and respond. 

  1. Is there a word count/limit on the written portion of the supplementary application? 

There is no word limit for the written response. However, we encourage you to be concise and focus on providing a thoughtful answer. 

  1. When is the deadline to complete the supplementary application?  

Deadline for high school applicants: January 28, 2027 at 11:59 p.m. (ET)  
Deadline for upper-level transfer and second-degree applicants: April 15, 2027 at 11:59 p.m. (ET) 

  1. Is there a recommended submission date for the supplementary application? 

Yes, we do have a recommended early submission date that may allow your application to be reviewed sooner. The early submissions deadlines are as follows: 

Recommended Early OUAC Application Submission: Thursday, November 12, 2026  

Recommended Early Supplementary Application Submission: Thursday, November 26, 2026  

While submitting by this recommended early submission dates may allow your application to be reviewed sooner, it does not guarantee an earlier offer of admission. All applications are reviewed using a holistic process, and most admission decisions will still be released between March and May. 

  1. How should I prepare? 

You don’t need to memorize answers or try to present yourself in a certain way – just be yourself. Think about meaningful experiences where you solved a problem, worked with others, overcame a challenge, or learned something valuable.  

The STAR method (Situation, Task ,Action, Result) can be a helpful way to organize your thoughts and structure your responses. You can also practice speaking about your experiences out loud to feel more comfortable and confident before you begin the assessment. 

  1. Can I use Artificial Intelligence (AI) or external help when completing my supplementary application?  

No. We require that all answers submitted through the Kira Talent platform are entirely your own original work. Do not use AI tools, other people, or any external sources to write or generate your responses.  

The Kira platform monitors for suspicious activity, including but not limited to suspicious browser activity, unusual typing speeds, copying and pasting from the Kira platform, and plagiarism. 

  1. What are some tips for success?  

Here are some tips to help you prepare for your Supplementary Application and feel confident going into the assessment:  

  • Structure your responses. Consider using a framework such as the S.T.A.R. method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to organize your thoughts and communicate your experiences clearly.  
  • Practice speaking out loud.  Practicing your responses can help you feel more comfortable expressing your ideas clearly and confidently. When completing your assessment, choose a quiet, well-lit space where you can focus and respond without distractions. 
  • Be yourself. There’s no single right answer. We want to learn about your unique experiences and perspectives, so focus on providing authentic responses that reflect who you are.  
  • Give yourself enough time. Avoid waiting until the deadline to complete your supplementary application. Starting early gives you time to familiarize yourself with the platform, practice your responses, and address any technical issues that may arise. 

A helpful tip: Your experiences don’t need to be extraordinary. Strong answers can come from everyday situations at school, work, extracurricular activities, volunteering, athletics, hobbies, or personal experiences. What matters most is how you approached the experience, what you contributed, and what you learned 

  1. Can I see the questions ahead of time? 

No, the questions aren’t shared in advance. However, our website and webinars are packed with helpful tips and examples to support your preparation.   

  1. What devices and web browsers are supported for the Kira supplementary application?  

For the most current list of supported browsers and devices, please visit the Kira Talent Supported Browsers and Devices page. 

  1. I haven’t received my supplementary application email invitation yet. What should I do?  

After submitting your application through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC), you should receive an email invitation to complete the supplementary application at the email address you provided on your OUAC application within 10 business days. Please be sure to check your spam or junk folders, as the email may be filtered there. 

If you still haven’t received your invitation after 10 business days, please contact our Engineering Recruitment team at thinkeng@mcmaster.ca and note Supplementary Application in the subject line. Please send your email from the email address listed on your OUAC application. In your message, include your full name and McMaster Student Number, and mention that you’re inquiring about the status of your supplementary application.   

  1. What happens if I experience tech issues?  

For issues accessing your application (e.g., no email from Kira Talent), email us at thinkeng@mcmaster.ca with your full name and student number.  

For platform issues while you’re completing the application, contact Kira Talent Support through the “Live Chat” button (top right of screen) or email support@kiratalent.com.  

  1. Can I redo a question if I’m unhappy with my answer?  

No, once you submit an answer, you cannot redo or change your response for that question.  

  1. Can I take breaks during the assessment?  

When you start a question, you must finish that question. However, you can take breaks and come back to the assessment between questions.  

  1. Can I practice or get comfortable with the Kira Talent platform before doing the supplementary application?  

Yes. When you receive your invitation from Kira Talent, you’ll have the opportunity to complete practice questions. These let you test your camera and microphone and get comfortable responding on video.  

The practice questions are for familiarization only and are completely different from the assessment questions. questions allow you to test your camera and microphone and get comfortable responding on video before beginning the actual supplementary application. 

  1. How can I be sure my Supplementary Application was submitted properly? 

After you complete your Supplementary Application on the Kira Talent platform, you’ll receive a confirmation email from Kira confirming that your assessment is 100% complete. Receiving this email means your Supplementary Application has been successfully submitted. 

You can also confirm your submission by clicking the link in your original Kira Talent invitation. If your assessment shows 100% complete, your submission is complete and no further action is required.  

  1. My portal still says it’s incomplete. What do I do?  

If you have received the Kira Talent confirmation email stating that your assessment is 100% complete, your Supplementary Application has been successfully submitted. 

Your McMaster Student Centre or Applicant Portal may continue to show your Supplementary Application as incomplete while the submission is being processed. Portal updates can take several weeks, so this is normal.  

  1. What should I do if I have accessibility needs?  

If you need accommodations to complete the supplementary application, we’re here to help. Please complete the Request for Accommodations Form, and the Engineering Student Recruitment team will follow-up with you to make sure you’re fully supported. If you have any questions, email thinkeng@mcmaster.ca. We’re committed to making the admissions process fair and welcoming for everyone. 

Note: You must have submitted your application through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) to access the Request for Accommodations Form. Approved accommodations do not affect how your supplementary application is evaluated.  

  1. How is my personal information used and protected when I submit a Request for Accommodations form? 

When you submit a Request for Accommodations form, the information you share is collected and stored securely in accordance with the University’s Statement on Collection of Personal Information and Protection of Privacy. Any questions you have about the use of your personal information should be directed to thinkeng@mcmaster.ca. 

  1. How long is my supplementary application information retained, and how is it protected?  

When you submit your supplementary application, the information you provide is collected and stored securely on Canadian servers. Your supplementary application information will be retained for a period of two years. It will only be accessed and used by authorized staff for purposes related to the admissions process. Any questions you have about the use of your personal information should be directed to thinkeng@mcmaster.ca.  

  1. Is demographic information like race, gender or identity considered in the evaluation of the supplementary application?  

Demographic characteristics – such as race and gender identity – are not considered during the review of supplementary applications. Video responses are never used to infer personal characteristics. Their only purpose is to ensure the integrity of the application process by confirming that responses were completed by the applicant, if verification is ever needed.  

  1. Who evaluates the supplementary application?  

All supplementary applications are evaluated by a team of trained reviewers . 

  1. Can I see the rubric or find out the results of  my supplementary application?  

We do not share individual results or the evaluation rubric.  

  1. What are you looking for in the supplementary application answers?  

The Supplementary Application is an opportunity to demonstrate strengths that grades alone cannot capture. We use your responses to assess four key competencies: Engagement, Collaboration, Innovation & Creativity, and Resilience.  

There is no single “right” way to answer these questions. We want to hear about your experiences, how you approach challenges, and what you’ve learned along the way. Drawing on experiences from school, work, extracurricular activities, volunteering, athletics, or your personal life can help you demonstrate these competencies.   

  1. How is the supplementary application used in admissions?  

We use a holistic admissions process, which means we consider both your academic performance and your supplementary application together when making admission decisions.   

  1. How important is the supplementary application? 

The supplementary application is an important part of the admissions process and is reviewed carefully for every applicant alongside their academic record. 

  1. What if I apply to multiple Faculty of Engineering programs? Do I need to do multiple supplementary applications?  

If you have applied to multiple Faculty of Engineering programs, you are only required to complete one supplementary application.  

  1. Do BTech Degree Completion Program (DCP) students need to complete the supplementary application?  

No. The supplementary application is not required for students who are applying to the BTech Degree Completion Programs (DCP). However, students applying to any of the four-year BTech programs must complete the supplementary application. 

  1. Do upper-year transfer applicants need to complete the supplementary application? 

Yes, all upper-year external transfer applicants to our Faculty of Engineering undergraduate programs are required to complete the supplementary application.