Transcript: Students may upload unofficial transcripts (such as those downloaded from your university-s student portal) in WebAdvisor. Should the department decide to make an offer of admission, formal transcripts will be required and must meet the following criteria. All transcripts will be verified for authenticity. All transcript information is confidential; envelopes must not be opened. Transcripts must show all courses, all marks and the awarding of degree(s). If the transcript and degree certificate are not in English, a certified translation (signed and stamped/sealed) must also be included with the original language documents. All documents and transcripts submitted to the University of Guelph become the property of the University and will not be returned. Personal Statement: Draft of your statement of interest/plan of study/letter of intent. Recommendation Letter: Requesting References Reference Letters - Tips for Students/Applicants References are a CRITICAL component of any application to graduate school and to external awards bodies such as OGS and SSHRC. The following guidelines will help you through the process: 1. Choose faculty carefully 2. Request references early 3. Information/materials to provide about yourself 4. Information/materials to provide about the program(s) to which you are applying 5. Confirmation Brief Summary: Brief summary (1/2 page) of your key strengths/areas that you think should be emphasized; especially note any outstanding accomplishments you may have had in the course(s) taught by this particular faculty member