University of Waterloo Overview

University of Waterloo, established in 1957, is a public research university located in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. It is globally recognized for its innovation, co-operative education programs, and strong emphasis on STEM fields. The university has a diverse student body and maintains strong industry connections, making it a leader in experiential learning.

University of Waterloo Offered Programs

  • Accounting and Financial Management
  • Actuarial Science
  • Architecture
  • Arts
  • Biology
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Computer Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Data Science
  • Dentistry
  • Environment and Business
  • Environmental Studies
  • Health Sciences
  • History
  • Legal Studies
  • Management Engineering
  • Mathematics
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Pharmacy
  • Physics
  • Psychology
  • Public Health
  • Software Engineering
  • Urban Planning

University of Waterloo Tuition Fees

Program TypeCanadian Citizens & Permanent Residents (CAD/year)International Students (CAD/year)
Undergraduate$7,000 – $10,000$45,000 – $53,000
Graduate$5,000 – $9,000$9,000 – $30,000

University of Waterloo Required Documents and Admission Requirements

  • Completed application form
  • Official high school or post-secondary transcripts
  • Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL) for international students
  • Supplemental applications for some programs (e.g., Architecture)
  • Letters of recommendation (graduate programs)
  • Personal statement (graduate programs)
  • Resume or CV (graduate programs)
  • Application fee payment

University of Waterloo Deadlines

Application TypeStart DateDeadline
Fall UndergraduateSeptemberJanuary 15
Winter UndergraduateOctoberSeptember 30
Graduate ProgramsVariesVaries by program

University of Waterloo Scholarships Offerings

  • President’s Scholarship of Distinction
  • International Student Entrance Scholarships
  • Waterloo Undergraduate Awards
  • Graduate Fellowships and Assistantships
  • Need-based bursaries
  • Co-op and work-study scholarships

University of Waterloo Rankings

Ranking BodyCountry RankWorld Rank
Times Higher Education5th (Canada)201-250
QS World University6th (Canada)201-250
Academic Ranking of World Universities7th (Canada)201-300

University of Waterloo Acceptance Rate

The overall acceptance rate is approximately 53%, varying by program competitiveness. Engineering and Computer Science tend to have more selective admissions.

University of Waterloo Student Campus Life

The campus life at University of Waterloo is vibrant and inclusive with over 200 student clubs, recreational facilities, and cultural events. The university’s co-op program enables students to gain work experience during their studies.

Accommodation options include:

  • On-campus residences with traditional dorms and apartment-style housing
  • Off-campus housing in nearby Waterloo and Kitchener neighborhoods
  • Family housing units
  • Graduate student housing

University of Waterloo Cost of Living

Living in Waterloo is generally affordable compared to larger Canadian cities. Students typically spend on rent, food, transport, and leisure. Public transit and bike-friendly routes are widely available.

Expense CategoryEstimated Monthly Cost (CAD)
On-Campus Housing$700 – $1,100
Off-Campus Rent$800 – $1,200
Food and Groceries$300 – $500
Utilities and Internet$80 – $150
Transportation$60 – $100
Personal Expenses$150 – $250

University of Waterloo Contact Informations

Phone Number: +1 519-888-4567
Email Address: admissions@uwaterloo.ca
Address: 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada

University of Waterloo Online Application

Applications are submitted online through the university’s application portal. Applicants must create an account, fill in academic and personal information, upload documents, and pay the application fee. Application status and admission decisions are communicated via the portal and email.