FAQs

Who can apply?
Post-secondary students who are permanent residents of Ontario, and currently enrolled in a recognized post-secondary institution (college or university).

I go to University in Ontario but I am from another province/country. Can I apply?
No, if you are from another province/country you are not eligible.

I am from Ontario but go to university/college in another province/country. Can I apply?
Yes, if you are a permanent resident of Ontario but go to university or college in another place, you can apply.

I participated in the Model Parliament Program last year.  Can I apply again?
No, if you have already participated in the Model Parliament Program you cannot apply again.

What is the application process?
The applicant must complete and submit an online application, including a response to an essay question (450-500 words). In addition, the applicant must submit proof of enrollment at a post-secondary institution and sign a Code of Conduct Form. Applicants will also need a letter of recommendation written by a professor, lecturer, teaching assistant or program coordinator. First year students may submit a letter written by a grade 12 teacher. This letter should be uploaded on the online application form.

I participated in the high school Model Parliament Program.  Can I apply for the post-secondary program?
Yes, you can apply to the post-secondary program.

Will any of my transportation costs to Toronto be covered?
Yes, for participants who live further than 50 km from Toronto, one return trip for the student from the participant's permanent or current address within Ontario to Toronto will be reimbursed. Train, bus, air and GO Transit travel will be reimbursed; mileage will not be reimbursed.  Receipts must be provided.

I don’t live near Toronto, where will I stay?
It is the responsibility of each student attending the Model Parliament Program to find accommodation while in Toronto.

If I’m selected, which political party will I belong to?
Participants of the Model Parliament Program will undertake an exercise to determine which political party best suits their interests. The four parties currently sitting in the provincial Legislature (Progressive Conservative, New Democratic Party, Liberal and Green Party) will be the parties of choice.

If I am selected, may I play a specific role in the Model Parliament Program?
Yes, there will be a variety of roles available including party leader, Cabinet Minister, opposition critic, Deputy Leader, House Leader and Caucus Chair.

Will I get to meet Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs)?
Yes, over the course of the program you will have the opportunity to meet MPPs.

How much time will I need to commit to the Model Parliament Program?
Aside from the three days in Toronto, virtual meetings will be held weekly in the months leading up to the Model Parliament Program. Participants will be expected to prepare for and participate in these virtual meetings and check their messages frequently.

Can my family come and watch me in action?
Family members are welcome to watch the Model Parliament proceedings from the public galleries. Names of all guests must be provided in advance. Visitors must check in with security and must provide government issued photo id.

How will I know if I have been selected?
All applicants will be contacted via email.

Will I get to debate in the Legislative Chamber?
Yes, on the last day of the Model Parliament Program students will take on the role of an MPP and participate in a parliamentary simulation in the Legislative Chamber.

Will I receive a certificate to add to my portfolio?
Yes, all participants will receive a certificate of participation from the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.

Who can I contact if I have more questions about the Model Parliament Program?
Should you have any questions, please email: modelparliament@ola.org.

Documentation