@arkm110
The video interview is a new requirement for people applying for the fall 2015 semester (I think). I’m pretty sure it will remain a requirement. Basically, they implemented this because they were receiving a lot of international applicants who would have outstanding grades and test scores, but couldn’t function socially or communicate/be understood. The video interview is more of a video essay I would say. Basically you are given a few minutes to prepare. The first question has a two minute time limit. My question was along the lines of “tell us about yourself and why U of T is a good fit for you”. Then you have two wrote an essay in ten minutes. I forget my question. Next you have a 3 minute video. My question was more of a problem solving question. Not sure the specifics. But keep in mind, you don’t need to speak for the whole time, so when you finish what you want to say you can end early. The video thing is part of the second application you fill out for the engineering department after you send in your OUAC application.
Also, you can only do the video essays once, so if you mess up on it, you can’t redo it, you just have to keep going. I would prepare for this, just have your friend/ a family member help you by asking questions and timing you.