Applicants currently completing high school must submit a record of all studies from at least grade 10 onward. These transcripts should include at least mid-term or first semester grades for the graduating year.

All high school applicants must have completed grade 12 (or the highest grade level required for secondary graduation) with an average of 70% or higher, including a minimum grade of 70% in grade 12 English for university preparation. Advanced Placement (AP) courses with a grade of 4 or higher are eligible for transfer credit.

An International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma with a minimum grade of 24 is acceptable for entry to NSCAD. Higher Level courses with a grade of 5 or higher are eligible for transfer credit. IELTS - At least 6.5 with no test less than 6.0, TOEFL - At least 90 with no test less than 20, CAEL - At least 69 with no test less than 60