Applying to MEERL is a simple, guided process. The steps below outline everything you need to prepare and submit your application.
The program begins each year in August, and applications are now open for the August 2026 intake.
Application Deadlines
MEERL has two application deadlines for the 2026 intake:
February 28, 2026
Recommended for applicants who already know they want to join the program and for international applicants who will need a study permit.
May 31, 2026
Final deadline for all applicants.
Find out if you're eligible
Before you apply, learn more about the eligibility requirements of the MEERL program.
Step 1 - Online Application
Submit your application through the and pay the application fee to get started.
You will provide contact information for two referees in the online application form. After you submit your application and pay the application fee, your referees will be contacted automatically. They will receive an online reference form with instructions and will be asked to answer a series of questions, with the option to attach a reference letter. Referees may be professional or academic.
A complete application must include official, up-to-date transcripts for all current and previous post-secondary studies listed in the Academic Background section of your application.
Uploading transcripts to the online application
You can upload scanned PDF copies of your transcripts directly to the online application. Uploaded PDFs are accepted for the application review stage only. If you receive and accept an offer of adÑý¼§Ö±²¥, you must submit final, official transcripts sent directly from each issuing institution.
Sending official hard copy transcripts
You are responsible for arranging for official hard copy transcripts from each institution you attended to be sent directly to the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs. These can be sent directly by email or mail.
Email Address: sgspa.reception@queensu.ca
Mailing Address:
School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs
Queen’s University
Gordon Hall, Room 425
74 Union Street
Kingston, Ontario
Canada K7L 3N6
Additional notes
- Transcripts in languages other than English or French must include a certified translation from the issuing institution.
- If your transcript does not list your degree and graduation date, a degree or graduation certificate must also be provided.
- Applicants who studied at Queen’s University do not need to submit Queen’s transcripts. These records will be accessed internally.
Applicants whose first language is not English must submit an approved English language proficiency test. You may request an exemption if, within the past 12 months, you completed at least one full year of study at a post-secondary institution where English is the official language of instruction. The Director of AdÑý¼§Ö±²¥s will review exemption requests.
To confirm the tests Queen’s University accepts, the minimum scores required, and how to submit your results, please visit the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs website for the most up-to-date information.
Step 2 - Email to the Program
Send your resume and statement of interest as PDFs to meerl@queensu.ca.
Please use the subject line MEERL Application – Your Name, and include your name in the file name so we can process your application efficiently.
A current resume that includes academic experience, work experience, memberships in professional associations, and volunteer and community activities.
Your Statement of Interest should be 700 to 1,000 words and address the following:
- Your interest in the program.
- Why are you interested in the MEERL program?
- How do you see the program supporting your career and professional goals?
- Why is this the right next step for you?
2. What you will contribute.
- What skills and experience will you bring to the program?
- How can you contribute to the learning of your fellow students?
- How have your education, work, and life experiences prepared you for success in the program
Important Considerations​
An application is considered complete only when all components have been received, including the online application and fee, transcripts, references, Statement of Interest, and résumé. Applications are reviewed only once complete. The adÑý¼§Ö±²¥s committee may request additional documentation or an interview to support its assessment.
Indigenous Applicant
Applicants seeking consideration under the Indigenous Student AdÑý¼§Ö±²¥ Regulation must self-identify as Indigenous in the online application. For this regulation, Indigenous refers to First Nation, Métis, and Inuit (FNMI).
International Students
The MEERL program does require a study permit for international students, since the program exceeds six months in length, even though the program is delivered primarily online. Some applicants may also need a temporary resident visa. The Queen’s University International Centre (QUIC) provides guidance on these requirements.
Want to Learn More?
Stay connected with MEERL by filling out our contact form to receive program updates and important dates.
Book a virtual consultation
Want a more personalized conversation? Speak with our team about program fit, deadlines, and next steps.