University of Waterloo
Waterloo, Canada
University of Waterloo
Waterloo, Canada
Founded
1957
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
42,000+
Acceptance Rate
~53%
Discover the University of Waterloo: A Global Leader in Innovation and Co-op Education
Discover the University of Waterloo: A Global Leader in Innovation and Co-op Education
Founded in 1957, the University of Waterloo opened its doors with just 74 engineering students and a bold vision for co-operative education. Today, it has grown into one of Canada's most respected public research universities, with more than 42,000 undergraduate and graduate students from over 120 countries attending annually.
Waterloo is renowned for operating the largest post-secondary co-operative education program in the world, allowing students to alternate between academic study and paid work terms with over 8,000 employers in more than 70 countries. This experiential learning model gives graduates up to two years of professional experience before they even receive their degree.
As a member of the U15 group of Canadian research-intensive universities, Waterloo has earned a strong global reputation particularly in computer science, engineering, and mathematics. The university has been named Canada's most innovative university by Maclean's for 30 of the last 33 years, and its alumni have founded hundreds of startup companies that have collectively raised billions of dollars in venture capital.
Key Milestones
- 1957: University founded as Waterloo College Associate Faculties, opening with 74 engineering students and pioneering co-operative education in Canada.
- 1959: Officially incorporated as the University of Waterloo through the University of Waterloo Act passed by the Ontario Legislature.
- 1967: The College of Optometry of Ontario relocated from Toronto to Waterloo, expanding the university's health sciences offerings.
- 2018: Professor Donna Strickland awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics, becoming the third woman ever to receive the honour in that field.
Academic Faculties and Programs at the University of Waterloo
Academic Faculties and Programs at the University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo is organized into six main faculties, offering over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs. Students can choose from a wide range of disciplines, with most programs offering a co-op option that integrates academic learning with real-world work experience. The university also includes four affiliated university colleges: Conrad Grebel, Renison, St. Jerome's, and St. Paul's.
Faculty of Engineering
One of Canada's largest and most respected engineering schools, offering programs with mandatory co-op and strong ties to industry leaders in technology and infrastructure.
- Mechanical Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
Faculty of Mathematics
Home to the renowned David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science, this faculty is globally recognized for its programs in mathematics, computer science, and actuarial science.
- Computer Science
- Actuarial Science
- Data Science
Faculty of Science
Offers rigorous programs in the natural and physical sciences, with access to advanced research facilities including the Quantum-Nano Centre and Earth Sciences Museum.
- Physics and Astronomy
- Biology
- Chemistry
Faculty of Arts
The largest faculty by enrolment, providing diverse programs in the humanities, social sciences, languages, and fine arts, with strong interdisciplinary opportunities.
- Psychology
- Economics
- English Language and Literature
Faculty of Environment
Canada's only standalone faculty of environment, offering unique programs that address sustainability, planning, and environmental management challenges.
- Environment and Business
- Planning
- Geography and Environmental Management
Faculty of Health
Delivers programs across public health, kinesiology, recreation, and the health professions, including Canada's only Doctor of Optometry program and the School of Pharmacy.
- Public Health
- Kinesiology
- Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Application PortalOntario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC)
- Application FeeCAD 156
- Academic RequirementStrong secondary school grades; competitive programs typically require 85%+ average
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5 (writing 6.0+) or TOEFL iBT 90 (writing 25+)
- Supplementary MaterialsAdmission Information Form (AIF), video interview, or portfolio depending on program
Graduate Admission
- Application PortalUniversity of Waterloo Graduate Studies online portal
- Application FeeCAD 125
- Minimum GPAB+ average (75% or equivalent) in the last two years of study
- English ProficiencyIELTS 7.0 or TOEFL iBT 90+ (varies by program)
- Supporting DocumentsTranscripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and CV/resume
Deadline for most undergraduate programs for fall admission through OUAC. Some programs such as Engineering have earlier document deadlines (January 30).
All offers of admission for fall entry are finalized by mid-May once updated grades are received from schools.
Graduate program deadlines vary by department and intake term. Check the specific program page for exact dates.
Admitted undergraduate students must typically accept their offer by the date specified, usually around June 1, to secure their place.
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition at the University of Waterloo varies by program and residency status. Fees are charged per term (three terms per year), and co-op students do not pay tuition during work terms. All amounts shown below are annual estimates in Canadian dollars for two terms of full-time study. Contact the university's Finance office for the most current fee schedules.
| Fee Category | Canadian Students (Annual) | International Students (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Arts Programs | CAD 7,000 - 9,000 | CAD 40,000 - 48,000 |
| Engineering Programs | CAD 17,000 - 20,000 | CAD 64,000 - 70,000 |
| Mathematics / Computer Science | CAD 8,000 - 11,000 | CAD 55,000 - 65,000 |
| Incidental & Co-op Fees (per term) | CAD 1,000 - 1,500 | CAD 1,000 - 1,500 + CAD 836 co-op fee |
| Total | CAD 9,000 - 22,000 (varies by program) | CAD 42,000 - 72,000 (varies by program) |
International Student Entrance Scholarship
All international fee-paying students admitted to full-time first-year degree studies automatically receive a CAD 10,000 scholarship for their first year. No separate application is required.
- Award Value: CAD 10,000
- Eligibility: All admitted international first-year students (most programs)
- Application Required: No — automatically awarded upon admission
International Master's Award of Excellence (IMAE)
A prestigious scholarship for outstanding international graduate students, valued at CAD 2,500 per term for up to six terms. Students are automatically considered based on their admission application.
- Award Value: CAD 2,500 per term (up to 6 terms)
- Eligibility: International master's students with academic excellence
- Application Required: No — departments nominate candidates based on admission application
Campus and Facilities at the University of Waterloo
Campus and Facilities at the University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo's main campus spans over 1,100 acres in the city of Waterloo, Ontario, featuring more than 70 buildings that house modern classrooms, research labs, libraries, and student spaces. The campus also includes an environmental reserve, extensive green areas, and satellite campuses in nearby Cambridge, Kitchener, and Stratford.
A state-of-the-art research facility housing quantum computing and nanotechnology labs, representing Waterloo's leadership in cutting-edge science.
The central hub for student activities, clubs, and essential services, operating as a 24/7 gathering space for the university community.
Home to one of Canada's top engineering programs, featuring advanced labs, design studios, and collaborative workspaces for hands-on learning.
Housing and Dining
On-Campus Residence
On-campus residence is guaranteed for first-year and transfer students. Waterloo offers a variety of residence styles from traditional dormitories to suite-style and apartment living, all designed to foster community connections.
- Guaranteed housing for all first-year students
- Multiple residence styles including traditional, suite, and apartment options
- Graduate student housing available on and near campus
Dining and Services
The campus features numerous dining options from cafeterias and food courts to coffee shops and restaurants. Meal plans are available for residence students, and the surrounding university district offers many additional choices.
- Flexible meal plans for residence students
- Multiple on-campus dining halls and food courts
- Tim Hortons, Starbucks, and other popular outlets on campus
Student Life at the University of Waterloo
Student Life at the University of Waterloo
Student life at Waterloo is vibrant and diverse, with over 250 student clubs and organizations catering to a wide range of interests. The Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association (WUSA) and the Graduate Student Association (GSA) provide services, advocacy, and programming that enrich the student experience beyond the classroom.
Waterloo, Ontario: Canada's Innovation Corridor
Waterloo, Ontario: Canada's Innovation Corridor
Life in Waterloo
Waterloo is a dynamic, youthful city with over 50,000 university and college students. Located in the heart of Canada's Technology Triangle alongside Kitchener and Cambridge, the region is home to residents from over 200 cultural backgrounds and features a thriving tech ecosystem with more than 1,000 startup companies.
Proximity to Toronto
Less than 120 km west of Toronto, Waterloo is easily accessible via GO Transit, the ION light rail, and Highway 401, making weekend trips to Canada's largest city convenient.
Tech Hub and Innovation Ecosystem
The Waterloo Region is one of Canada's leading technology corridors, home to Google's Canadian engineering headquarters, numerous startups, and the David Johnston Research + Technology Park.
Affordable Student Living
Compared to Toronto or Vancouver, Waterloo offers a more affordable cost of living while still providing excellent restaurants, shops, cultural venues, and transit options geared toward students.
Natural Beauty and Recreation
The region offers easy access to the Grand River, numerous parks and trails, and is within driving distance of the Great Lakes and Niagara Falls for outdoor adventures year-round.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Top Employers Hiring Waterloo Graduates
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
Waterloo has one of the highest study permit approval rates in Canada at approximately 81%. The university provides guidance on study permit applications and immigration processes, and 70% of international students gain Permanent Resident status in Canada.
If you meet academic requirements but not English language requirements, the BASE program helps you build the language skills needed for full admission to your degree program at Waterloo.
International co-op students can earn between CAD 9,600 and CAD 22,800 per four-month work term. The university assists with co-op work permits and provides access to WaterlooWorks, the internal job portal connecting students with 8,000+ employers.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Waterloo World Rankings
University of Waterloo World Rankings
The University of Waterloo consistently ranks among the top universities in Canada and globally. It is recognized particularly for its strengths in engineering, computer science, mathematics, and its unmatched co-operative education program. Waterloo has been named the most innovative university in Canada by Maclean's for 30 of the last 33 years.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | THE World University Rankings | #43 |
| Engineering and Technology | QS World University Rankings | #38 |
| Mathematics | QS World University Rankings | #47 |
| Electrical Engineering | QS World University Rankings | #30 |
Features
Established in 1957, the University of Waterloo currently hosts a total of 40,513 students. The institution employs 1,355 academic staff members to support its diverse educational programs and research initiatives. This significant academic community reinforces the university's position as a global leader in innovation and experiential learning.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
February - March
12 week
Location
200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
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