Application Procedures

Researchers are advised to submit their Application for Research Ethics Approval in a timely manner. Completed applications are to be submitted to the Research Ethics Board Administrator for approval. If you wish to conduct research at more than one college, you must apply to the research ethics boards at each of the colleges involved.

Please ensure that your application meets the following guidelines:

  • Your application file is labelled as: YEAR-MONTH-LASTNAME (of the Principal Investigator). For example, 2024-JAN-SMITH.
  • All documents are merged into one PDF in a logical order. We can only accept one document.
  • Be sure to include in your appendices a copy of your TCPS 2 Tutorial Course on Research Ethics (CORE) completion certificate, which is required by Algonquin College for all researchers (principal investigators, student researchers, and all other research team members).
  • All supporting documents, such as consent forms, recruitment material, surveys / questionnaires, and other documents are included in the one merged document.

* If Algonquin College faculty and students wish to conduct a course-based research project involving human participant, please ensure that you are using the applicable forms that can be found in Forms, following Guidelines for Ethical Review of Course-Based Research Involving Human Participants.

* All questions and inquiries can be directed to the Research Ethics Board Coordinator at REBadmin@algonquincollege.com.

Processing Times

Minimal‑risk applications

  • The initial review generally takes 3–6 weeks.

  • Once revisions are submitted, the second review typically takes 2–4 weeks.

Greater than minimal‑risk applications

  • The initial review and all subsequent reviews generally take 4–12 weeks.

Important note

  • Processing times can vary and may exceed 12 weeks during periods of high workload.

  • After you submit your application, you will receive an estimated turnaround time.