The University of Waterloo, located in Ontario, Canada, is a prominent public research university renowned for its commitment to innovation and academic excellence. Established in 1957, it has consistently been recognized as Canada's most innovative university by Maclean's Magazine for over three decades. The institution offers a diverse array of over 100 programs across various disciplines, including engineering, computer science, business, health sciences, and the arts.
A distinctive feature of Waterloo is its extensive co-op program, the largest of its kind globally, which integrates academic studies with practical work experience. This program involves alternating four-month academic terms with four-month paid work terms, providing students with valuable industry exposure and enhancing their employability upon graduation.
The university's main campus spans 404 hectares and is complemented by three satellite campuses in Kitchener, Cambridge, and Stratford, offering specialized programs in health sciences, architecture, and digital media.
Waterloo's international reputation is bolstered by its membership in the U15, a group of Canada's leading research-intensive universities, and its active engagement in global partnerships and research initiatives.
| Intakes | September |
|---|---|
| All Campuses | Waterloo (Main), Kitchener, Cambridge, Stratford |
| Website | uwaterloo.ca |
| Monthly Living Cost | CAD 1,470 |
| Funds Requirements for Visa | CAD 20,635 |
| Application Fees | CAD 150 |
| Currency | |
| Is Lang Mendatory | Yes |
| Part Time Work Details | 20 hours per week |
Times Higher Education World University Rankings: Ranked among the top universities globally, reflecting its strong academic performance and research output.
QS World University Rankings by Subject: Notable rankings in engineering, computer science, and mathematics, highlighting its strengths in these areas.
UK University League Table: Not applicable as the University of Waterloo is based in Canada.
The Guardian University Rankings: Not applicable as the University of Waterloo is based in Canada.
The University of Waterloo requires international students to demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests. Accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE. For IELTS, a minimum overall score of 7.0 with no band below 6.0 is required. Specific score requirements may vary by program.
Waterloo offers a range of scholarships for international students, including entrance scholarships and need-based bursaries. The value of these scholarships varies, with some renewable based on academic performance. For instance, the Faculty of Science International Entrance Scholarships range from CAD 25,000 to CAD 80,000. Applications are typically submitted through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC).
Annual tuition fees for international students at the University of Waterloo range from CAD 48,000 to CAD 71,000, depending on the program. These fees are subject to change and may vary based on the chosen course of study. Students are encouraged to consult the university's official website for the most current fee structures.
Prospective students should apply through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC). The application process includes submitting academic transcripts, standardized test scores, and proof of English language proficiency. Additional documents may be required depending on the program. It is advisable to check the specific requirements for the chosen program on the university's website.
Yes, the University of Waterloo accepts online applications through the OUAC portal. Applicants should ensure they meet all deadlines and provide complete and accurate information to facilitate the admission process.
The university provides comprehensive support for international students through its International Student Guide. Services include assistance with study permits, visa applications, and orientation programs to help students acclimate to life in Canada. Detailed information and resources are available on the university's official website.
The University of Waterloo was established in 1957 as the Waterloo College Associate Faculties, evolving into a fully autonomous institution in 1959 through the University of Waterloo Act. Its creation was driven by a vision to address Canada's postwar need for skilled engineers and technicians. The university's founders, including J. Gerald Hagey and Ira G. Needles, emphasized innovation and practical experience, leading to the introduction of the world's first co-operative education program in 1957. This program integrated academic studies with paid work terms, setting a precedent for experiential learning. Over the decades, Waterloo expanded its academic offerings, establishing the first Faculty of Mathematics in North America in 1967 and creating the world's first Department of Kinesiology in 1968. The university's commitment to innovation continued with the development of the Mike & Ophelia Lazaridis Quantum-Nano Centre in 2012, a state-of-the-art facility for quantum information science and nanotechnology research.
The University of Waterloo is renowned for its academic rigor, innovative research, and commitment to student success. Students are attracted to its unique co-op programs, diverse academic offerings, and the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research. The university's strong industry connections and emphasis on experiential learning provide students with valuable real-world experience, enhancing their employability upon graduation.
Waterloo comprises six faculties: Applied Health Sciences, Arts, Engineering, Environment, Mathematics, and Science. Each faculty offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and research. Notable institutions include the Institute for Quantum Computing and the Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, which contribute to the university's leadership in research and innovation.
The University of Waterloo offers various financial aid options, including entrance scholarships, need-based bursaries, and awards based on academic achievement. International students are eligible for specific scholarships, such as the International Student Entrance Scholarships, which range from CAD 25,000 to CAD 80,000, depending on academic performance.
On-campus housing is available in various residence buildings, offering single and shared rooms. Residence fees vary by building and room type, with costs typically ranging from CAD 6,000 to CAD 8,000 per academic year. Living on campus provides students with a supportive community and easy access to university facilities.
Off-campus housing options are abundant in the surrounding Waterloo region. Students often choose to rent apartments or houses, with costs varying based on location and amenities. Living off-campus offers greater independence and flexibility, though it requires more proactive management of housing arrangements.
CampusWaterloo (Main), Kitchener, Cambridge, Stratford
Entry Score7.0
Course LevelUndergraduate
Total Course Fee40900
CampusWaterloo (Main), Kitchener, Cambridge, Stratford
Entry Score7.0
Course LevelUndergraduate
Total Course Fee42700
CampusWaterloo (Main), Kitchener, Cambridge, Stratford
Entry Score7.0
Course LevelUndergraduate
Total Course Fee42700
CampusWaterloo (Main), Kitchener, Cambridge, Stratford
Entry Score7.0
Course LevelUndergraduate
Total Course Fee48000
CampusWaterloo (Main), Kitchener, Cambridge, Stratford
Entry Score8.0
Course LevelPostgraduate
Total Course Fee16265
CampusWaterloo (Main), Kitchener, Cambridge, Stratford
Entry Score7.0
Course LevelUndergraduate
Total Course Fee57462
Canada
