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Supplementary Application

Each applicant is required to complete a Supplementary Application. The purpose is to gain insight on an individual’s potential over and above what is demonstrated in grades.

The Supplementary Application is delivered through Kira Talent, an online platform which includes ability to practice and prepare, as well as submit their Supplementary Application.

There are two components:

  1. Timed written response
    Applicants will have 10 minutes to write and submit their written response
  2. Timed video response
    Applicants will have 2 minutes to prepare, followed by 2 minutes to record their video response

Supplementary Application Assessment

Written Response

Score  Criteria
Exceptional (5)
  • The applicant shares a compelling, authentic account of a significant challenge.
  • Demonstrates exceptional initiative, adaptability and/or persistence.
  • Problem-solving is appropriate, thoughtful, and shows planning or creativity.
  • Reflects meaningfully on what they learned and how it shaped their perspective or behavior going forward.
Strong (4)
  • The applicant presents a specific, well-articulated example of a significant challenge.
  • Demonstrates clear initiative, adaptability, and/or persistence in overcoming obstacles.
  • Problem-solving is thoughtful and appropriate.
  • Demonstrates some reflection on what they learned and how it shaped their perspective or behavior going forward.
Competent (3)
  • The applicant describes a clear and relevant challenge.
  • Demonstrates some initiative, adaptability and/or persistence.
  • Problem-solving that shows some effort and thought, as appropriate.
  • Reflection includes a few insights into what they learned and/or connection to personal growth.
Basic (2)
  • The applicant identifies a challenge with some detail but gives a limited or surface-level. description of their actions.
  • Demonstrates minimal initiative, adaptability and/or persistence.
  • There is an attempt at problem-solving.
  • Minimal reflection and/or connection to personal growth.
Developing (1)
  • The applicant provides a vague or superficial account of a challenge or does not address the specific question being asked.
  • Shows little to no evidence of initiative adaptability, and/or persistence.
  • Little attempt at problem-solving.
  • Lacks meaningful reflection or learning.

Video Recorded Response

Score  Criteria
Exceptional (5) 
  • Presents a vivid, authentic, and reflective example.
  • Demonstrates maturity, self-direction, and creativity or composure under pressure.
  • Handles setbacks or complexity with clarity and purpose.
  • Reflects meaningfully on what they learned and how it shaped their perspective or behavior going forward.

Strong (4)
  • Shares a thoughtful, specific example.
  • Shows strong initiative, adaptability, and appreciation for the perspectives of others.
  • Takes ownership of their actions and has a strong understanding of their impact on the team.
  • Demonstrates some reflection on what they learned and how it shaped their perspective or behavior going forward.
Competent (3)
  • Provides a clear and relevant example.
  • Demonstrates reasonable adaptability and respect for others’ contributions.
  • Takes some responsibility for their actions and understands their impact on the team.
  • Reflection includes a few insights into what they learned and/or connection to personal growth.
Basic (2)
  • Describes an example with limited detail or does not directly answer the question.
  • Shows some ability to appreciate others’ perspectives.
  • Shows some awareness of their own contributions and impact to the team.
  • Minimal reflection and/or connection to personal growth.

Developing (1)
  • Provides a vague or superficial example or does not address the specific question being asked.
  • Shows little appreciation of others’ perspectives.
  • Little awareness of their own contributions or impact on the team.
  • Lacks meaningful reflection or learning.

Questions?

Undergraduate Admission

If you have questions about the application process, please visit Queen’s Undergraduate Admission.

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For information about Smith Commerce or to book an appointment with an Academic Advisor, contact the Smith Commerce team.

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