First year candidates are students who are currently still completing their final year of high school, have graduated high school, but not yet pursued post-secondary studies or have started to pursue post-secondary studies but have attempted less than 24.0 units. At Queen's one semester-long course is typically 3 units. Applicants can apply to a maximum of three different programs at Queen's.

Upper year transfer candidates include those who have attempted 24.0 units or more at an accredited university or degree granting college. At Queen's 24 units are typically four full-year courses (one course taken over two terms) or 8 one-term only courses. Upper-year candidates have generally attended university for a minimum of two terms. If you have attempted fewer than 24.0 units, you are considered a first-year applicant