By JASON COSTA


Staff Writer

Although the Feb. 1 deadline has passed, students are still urged to apply as soon as possible. 

“Applications received by Feb. 1 will receive equal consideration, while those received after that date will be considered on a first-come first-serve basis,” according to a Niagara College press release.

Niagara College’s Registrar Bob Hann states, “This is especially important for our competitive programs, where the number of qualified applicants typically exceeds the number of spaces available. I urge those who wish to begin their studies this Fall to apply early, and bolster their chances of acceptance into their programs of choice.”

Now that the date has passed, Hann’s opinion remains the same. “Get your application in. Sooner is better. Don’t let it discourage you from applying.” Niagara College is “in the middle” of college-wide discussions involving student services, academic departments and the registrar’s office regarding “the school’s capacity to accept students.” “In setting enrolment plans for 2010-2011, this office is working to help set capacity as early as possible,” Hann says.

In trying to avoid large waitlists due to rising applicant numbers – a seven per cent increase over last year – Hann ensures future applicants that consideration is being placed into growing programs “so students will have access to the programs they want. Our interest is in serving students. We want them in the program which they want and qualify for.”