Winter break is just around the corner, offering you the chance to recharge and reflect with friends and family before diving into your final term of high school—an important time that brings you closer to graduation and your future as a university student. Take a deep breath, savour this special moment, and focus on making the most of this holiday season.

The Ontario university application deadline is only one month away (!!) so the countdown is on to ensure you're doing everything possible to maximize your chances of getting offer letters from your top-choice universities.

Here are some ways you can head into this busy season feeling prepared and confident:

Strengthen your application with a background summary

Grades are important — but what about the rest of your experiences and achievements? The Applicant Background Summary (ABS) gives you the opportunity to tell us all about what makes you an incredible, involved and inspired individual outside of the classroom. We use your grades first for admission consideration, and then your ABS is considered. Marks are important to all universities, but at Wilfrid Laurier University, we find that well-rounded students with a wealth of life experience are often our highest-flying Golden Hawks.

Make money moves by applying for scholarships and bursaries

By pursuing a university education, you're investing in your future—and Laurier is here to invest in you, too. We're ranked top 5 nationally for total dollars provided to support students — so we really are putting our money where our mouth is with scholarships and bursaries to support your journey.

Winter break is the perfect opportunity to apply for the funding you may need to make your future a reality. Here's how, in four simple steps:

1. Do some research on available scholarships

Research the scholarships available to you—check university websites (learn more about Scholarships and Bursaries at Laurier), community organizations, and national databases, like ScholarshipsCanada.com..

2. Double-check the requirements

Review the requirements for each award that interests you, and begin preparing the necessary paperwork.

3. Polish your resumé / CV

Update your resumé to highlight recent achievements and experiences, and reach out to potential references, giving them plenty of time to write a recommendation.

4. Gather your other documents

Gather any transcripts, personal statements, or additional documents needed, so you're ready to submit polished, complete applications before the deadlines arrive.

Get the grades: finish your final term strong

As the school year enters this final stretch, it's important to stay focused and organized so you can finish strong. Remember, this is no time to coast — your marks have an impact on scholarship applications, meeting admission conditions, and that feeling you get when you see what you're really capable of.

Make the most of this winter break by balancing prep work with well-deserved time away from the classroom. Enjoy your time with your loved ones, sip some hot cocoa and binge a few favourite festive flicks — but don't forget to stay motivated and stay golden — you've got this!

Check out the admission process checklist to feel confident you're not forgetting anything while you enjoy a wonderful winter break.