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University of Waterloo International Admissions
Admission Portal: Apply online at the official website using OUAC 105 application.
Application Fee: 125 USD (includes 8 USD International Student Fee).
Basic Academic Requirement: Higher Secondary School Certificate.
Admission Process
Application process at the University of Waterloo is straightforward and well defined. Candidates do get complete guidance on how to apply to the university.
The process of admission, right from submitting your application to accepting the offers, looks like this:
- Apply through a OUAC (Ontario Universities Application Centre) after ensuring you meet the basic admission requirements.
- Within 2 weeks of receiving your application, the university will send further instructions via email from the address myapplication@waterloo.ca.
- Applicants must use the information received for creating a Guest Account and use it for uploading documents and tracking application status.
- An ‘Application Information Form’ can also be filled for further strengthening the chances of admission.
- Complete the final step of admission process by uploading official transcripts and submitting the English Proficiency Test Scores.
- Selected candidates will be sent an offer of place on their university accounts which shall be accepted within the specified period of deadlines.
- Students can then proceed with submitting their tuition fee and applying for residence and study permit.
Admission Information Form at University of Waterloo
For seeking enrolment at the university, a candidate’s Admission Information Form (AIF) can play a significant role by adding value to the individual’s application.
Precisely, the form is given to the candidate by the institute where-
- Candidates can introduce themselves in a personalized and better manner.
- Candidates can mention about their extra-curricular activities.
- Candidates can also mention some other factors which they want to highlight during their evaluation.
The form, later on, acts as an important document for availing faculty scholarships as well.
English Proficiency Requirements
Being a university in Canada, English is the only language that is used for academic and official purposes at the institute. Therefore, a candidate desirous of studying at the institute must be proficient in the language.
International candidates can prove their efficiency in the English Language by achieving good and acceptable scores in various English Proficiency Tests. Some tests acceptable as language proof at the university as as tabulated below.
| Acceptable Exams | Score |
|---|---|
| Internet-Based TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language | 90 overall; writing 25; speaking 25 |
| IELTS Academic – International English Language Testing System | 6.5 overall; writing 6.5; speaking 6.5 |
| PTE Academic – Pearson Test of English | 63 overall; writing 65; speaking 65 |
Visa Application Process
International aspirants seeking enrolment into a program of duration of 6 months and more requires a study permit and visa to study in Canada. Visa can be obtained from the nearest Canadian Embassy and should be applied for as soon as you receive the offer of place.
If you’re a legal resident of coming from countries including China, India, Morocco, Pakistan, the Philippines, Senegal, or Vietnam, you can also apply via Student Direct Stream (SDS) for processing your permit faster.
To qualify for SDS, following are the documents that are mandatory specifications and must be submitted.
- Copy of acceptance letter.
- Proof of first year paid tuition fee.
- Proof of Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) for 7,500 USD.
- Medical exam.
- Qualifying language test score
English – 6.0 or more in each skill (IELTS)
French – TEF score equal to a Canadian Language Benchmark minimum score of 7 in each skill.
Note that candidates failing to meet SDS requirements can always apply through the regular process, either online or at Visa Application Centre.
University of Waterloo Graduate Admissions
Admission Portal: Apply online at the official website using OUAC application.
Application Fee: 94 USD.
Basic Academic Requirement: 75% or above in the last two years, in a 4-year bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Additional Requirement: Minimum 2 letters of reference (preferably academic).
Admission process:
- Apply at least 2 weeks prior to the deadline by creating an OUAC account.
- Choose your program of choice carefully and fill in the other mandatory information.
- Submit the completed application with the required amount of nonrefundable fee.
- Wait for 1 to 2 business days to receive your ID and Password for accessing your Quest account, the university’s official student information system.
- Use this account to upload necessary documents, admission-related updates and for accepting or declining the offer of a place.
Program-wise specifications for graduate-level admission into diverse programs are tabulated as follows:
| Requirements | Masters in Pharmacy | Masters in Electrical and Computer engineering | Master of Architecture | Masters in Economics | Master of Mathematics in Statistics |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Average Score | 78% | 75% | 75% | 75% | 78% |
| Transcripts | Required | Required | Required | Required | Required |
| GMAT/GRE | – | – | – | Recommended | – |
| Resume/CV | Required | Required | Required | Not Required | Required |
| LORs/References | 2 (academic) | 2 (at least 1 academic) | 2 (academic) | 2 (academic) | 3 (academic) |
| Supplementary information form | Required | Required | Required | Not Required | Required |
| Additional Requirements | – | – | Portfolio | University level courses like advanced microeconomics, macroeconomics, mathematical economics | Interview |
How is an application considered at the University of Waterloo?
The university has not defined how an application is considered for Undergraduate Admissions. But, a very straightforward path for Graduate Admissions has been laid down.
For Graduate Admission, an application is evaluated and processed in 3 steps: –
- The first step is the review by the academic unit (concerned faculty or school). It takes into account various factors like course taken, overall performance, references, research, etc.
- After this, The Associate Dean’s Office reviews the application for admission requirements.
- If approved by ADO, the application is sent to the Graduate Studies Office, where it is again evaluated. Here, activities like verifying the admissibility, evaluation departmental requirements etc. are done. If approved by GSO, an offer for admission is issued.
For Undergraduate Admissions, a general evaluation procedure will include – Checking general admission requirements, checking program-specific requirements, evaluation of academic performance and English proficiency scores.
UWaterloo while offering admissions doesn’t look out for mere bookworms and seeks competent sociable leaders in its students. To satisfy its specifications, the institute wants its aspirants to possess strong STEM credentials.
The university also pays quite a weightage on extracurricular activities, references and essays, and encourages its aspirants to appear for an interview in order to elaborate on their strengths. This not only helps the university make a better and just decision, but it could also bring you one-step closer to landing one of the high-paying jobs in Canada within a few months of graduating from the university.
University Of Waterloo
University of Waterloo is a renowned public research university in Canada. It is the most innovative university according to Macleans, 2022. The campus of University of Waterloo exhibits 100+ buildings with 6 faculties. University of Waterloo houses 42,000 full-time and part-time students. Over 4,500 of these students are from international background. Explore: University of Waterloo Programs
The estimated cost of attendance at the University of Waterloo including books and supplies varies between 25 to 39 Lakhs INR. With University of Waterloo scholarships, students can receive award benefits up to 6 Lakhs INR. The university receives direct industry and Government funding of over 64 millions. The university also records public and private research funding of 247.7 million making it one of the best research institutes in Canada.
View the video evaluation we made of University of Waterloo below
International students can choose from over 100 undergraduate courses and nearly 200 graduate programs. Master of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at University of Waterloo is one of the most coveted courses offered by the University of Waterloo. 73% students pursuing undergraduate courses at University of Waterloo are enrolled to co-op programs. Know More: University of Waterloo Admission
96% of the co-op graduates of the university secured jobs within 6 months of graduation. Top employers of University of Waterloo includes Apple, Google, Pfizer, Deloitte, Bank of Montreal, and Johnson and Johnson. University of Waterloo stimulates a strong startup culture in its students. In the last decade, Waterloo Entrepreneurship Program has generated over 7,500 jobs and revenue worth 2.3 billion CAD. Check: University of Waterloo Placements
University of Waterloo Courses
University of Waterloo offers over 100 undergraduate courses and over 200 graduate courses to the international students. Computer Science program of the university is ranked #1 by Maclean’s in 2022.
The university is known for its graduate courses in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence to cope up with the modern technological issues. Robotics, Biotechnology, Data Science are some of the most popular undergraduate programs at University of Waterloo. The university is also known for offering more than 70% undergraduate students with co-op programs.
University of Waterloo Top Programs
| Programs | Total Annual Fees |
|---|---|
| Master of Science [M.S], Quantitative Finance | INR 5,49,568 |
| Master of Engineering [M.Eng], Mechanical Engineering | INR 13,86,962 |
| Master Of Applied Science [M.ASc], Electrical and Computer Engineering | INR 7,03,362 |
| Master of Science [M.S], Data Science and Artificial Intelligence | INR 22,93,458 |
| Master of Taxation ( M.Tax) | INR 5,26,555 |
| Master of Applied Science [M.ASc], Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering | INR 7,03,362 |
| Master of Mathematics [M.Math], Computer Science | INR 11,19,205 |
| Master of Applied Science [M.Asc], Civil Engineering | INR 12,83,185 |
| Master of Engineering [M.Eng], Chemical Engineering | INR 7,03,362 |
| Master of Architecture [M.Arch] | INR 11,56,947 |
| Master of Mathematics [M.Math], Applied Mathematics | INR 10,55,012 |
University of Waterloo Rankings
University of Waterloo ranks at #154 in QS Global World Rankings, 2023. Following are some of the top rankings of the university according to various reputed ranking agencies:
- #1 in Most Innovative University by Maclean’s 2022
- #1 in Experiential Learning by Maclean’s 2022
- #1 in Computer Science by Maclean’s 2022
- #1 in Canada for Graduate Employment Rate according to QS Graduate Employability Ranking, 2022
- #24 in QS Graduate Employability Ranking, 2022
- #201-250 in Times Higher Education World Rankings, 2022
- #199 in Best Global Universities by U.S. News and World Report, 2022
- #8 in Best Global Universities in Canada by U.S. News and World Report, 2022
Read more: University of Waterloo Subject Rankings
The subject-specific ranking comparison of University of Waterloo with some of the top universities in Canada are as follows:
| Subject | University of Waterloo | University of Toronto | McGill University |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | #42 | #37 | #120 |
| Space Science | #201 | #14 | #68 |
| Chemistry | #119 | #37 | #131 |
| Physics | #220 | #31 | #125 |
Also Check the following comparison:
| University of Waterloo vs York University | University of Waterloo vs University of Alberta | University of Waterloo vs University of Toronto |
University of Waterloo Campus
The main campus of University of Waterloo is a huge area of 1000 acres (404 hectares) and lies in the city of Waterloo, Ontario. The campus is surrounded at the borders by Waterloo Park, Wilfrid Laurier University, and Laurel Creek Conservation Area. With 3 numbered roads intersecting the main campus, it is easily accessible via public transport.
- Majority of the teaching facilities available at the institute are centered on a ring road which lies in its southern area. While most of the campus buildings are new, there are buildings that send nostalgic vibes and are as old as the 19th century.
- Other university campuses include
- School of Architecture
- Health Sciences Campus & School of Pharmacy
- Stratford School of Interaction Design & Business
- The institute also has its own ‘Earth Sciences Museum’ and the largest Centre for Quantum Research under its ‘Mike & Ophelia Lazaridis Quantum-Nano Centre’.
- With more than 200 academic, charitable, social, political, sports, and cultural student clubs, and over 100 volunteer services, the university campus is a thriving site of learning and growth.
- Over a dozen restaurants, cafés, music venues, at a 20-minute distance from campus ensures there is never short of fun and recreational activities for students.
- On-campus meals comprising halal, kosher, vegan, vegetarian, and customized options are a must-try by every on-campus resident.
University of Waterloo Accommodation
The university offers both on-campus and off-campus accommodation options to its aspirants which are available in different styles and with different facilities at varying prices. Candidates can choose the available option as per their needs and pocket.
On-Campus Accommodation
- The university guarantees on-campus residence to its 1st-year students plus the added benefits of personal and academic support in a culturally enriching environment.
- The accommodation is offered in either the main residences or the 4 on-campus University Colleges, with the student capacity of 320 to 1,380 and 142 to 360, respectively.
- The available residencies have various alternatives like single and double-sharing rooms, apartments or suites, and traditional dorm-style rooms to choose from.
- The cost for on-campus accommodation depending upon the term, hall, and room of choice ranges around 2,400-3,200 CAD per term.
The cost of residing on campus for 2023 is tabulated below:
| Room Type | Fall (INR) | Winter (INR) | Spring (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Room (Village 1) | 2.54 lakhs | 1.69 lakhs | 1.69 lakhs |
| Interconnecting (Village 1) | 2.43 lakhs | 1.62 lakhs | 1.62 lakhs |
| Double Room (Village 1 and Ron Eydt Village) | 2.28 lakhs | 1.52 lakhs | 1.52 lakhs |
The residence meal plan allowance details at University of Waterloo is explained in the following table:
| Meal Plan | Pay Per Term | Meal | Flex | Overhead | Price Reduction |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lite | 1.72 lakhs | 83,600 | 0 | -83,600 | 50% |
| Average | 1.84 lakhs | 83,600 | 12,400 | -83,600 | 50% |
| Hearty | 1.96 lakhs | 83,600 | 24,800 | -83,600 | 50% |
Note: The fixed overhead deduction is applied on the total cost at the beginning of the term.
Off Campus Accommodation
- The institute also provides off-campus housing for international students. Homestays are a good option for candidates who want to live near campus yet experience their privacy by not exactly staying on campus.
- The average rent in the city is cheap and easy, especially in the summers, and quite affordable for the ones who can cook their own meals. The estimated cost of off-campus housing with basic utilities is as mentioned below:
- Off-campus housing rent and utilities can cost 600 CAD per month.
Read: Cost of Living in UWaterloo
University of Waterloo Admission Process
There is a single intake for undergraduate level courses, the deadline for which is February 1 (except in few cases). The application deadlines for graduate level courses are program specific. The application process for admission in a few easy steps:
- Apply online by creating an OUAC account.
- Select a program of choice (for every program after 3 choices, an additional fee of 36 USD is charged).
- Submit the completed application along with an application fee of 117 USD and an International student fee of 8 USD.
- Keep updated with the inbox of personal email id for application status.
Undergraduate Admission Requirements:
- Minimum final grade of 85% in all standard XII subjects
- Minimum final grade of 90% in 2 major subjects related to the undergraduate program
- An Admission Information Form (AIF)
- English proficiency requirements
- Personal skills and other course-specific requirements
Graduate Admission Requirements:
- 75% overall score in last 2 years of study
- 2 LOR for masters and 3 LOR for PhD (professional LOR is required for select programs)
- Immigration details
- GRE/GMAT score (optional)
- Personal statement
- English proficiency requirements
University of Waterloo Application Deadlines
Admission to first-year students is offered around the world only for the term scheduled to begin in the month of September. The upcoming deadlines for seeking admission at the university are as follows:
| Program Type | Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| Most programs | February 1 |
| Optometry | October 1 |
| Pharmacy | January 10 |
Note: Applications might be considered post the above-mentioned deadlines until the availability of seats in corresponding programs.
University of Waterloo Cost of Attendance
University of Waterloo Tuition Fee
The tuition fee for various programs varies as per their level and duration. The estimated range for international applicants hoping to enroll in a program at University of Waterloo is 40,900 to 61,300 CAD per academic year. Subject-wise tuition cost for some of the undergraduate and graduate programs is tabulated below according to the faculty.
| Name of Program | Tuition Fee (in INR Per Academic Year) |
|---|---|
| Faculty of Engineering, Software Engineering | 36.67 lakhs |
| Accounting and Financial Management | 24.46 lakhs |
| Computer Science, Business Administration (Laurier) and Computer Science (Waterloo) Double Degree | 36.66 lakhs |
| Global Business and Digital Arts | 26.97 lakhs |
| Faculty of Applied Health Sciences and Arts | 24.46 lakhs |
Unversity of Waterloo Living Expenses
An estimated cost of living in Canada to be considered, apart from tuition fee, in order to survive a term at the university is as tabulated below.
| Type of Expenditure | Cost (in INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 1.43 lakhs to 1.91 lakhs |
| Books and Supplies | 29,900 to 59,000 |
| Meals | 56,240 |
| Other personal expenses | 92,150 |
| Total | 3.21 lakhs to 3.99 lakhs |
University of Waterloo Scholarships
The university offers international students financial aid in the form of bursaries and scholarships to study in Canada. Various awards offered are merit-based and can be availed by any candidate in need of financial help. Some of the Waterloo Scholarships available at the time of admission are described below:
| Name of Scholarship | Amount (in CAD) | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| International Student Entrance Scholarships | 10,000 each | An international student enrolled in a 1st-year full-time undergraduate degree program; Score of 90% and above. |
| President’s Scholarship | 2,000 each | Early May admission, 1st-year full-time undergraduate degree student; Score of 90 to 94.9%. |
| Merit Scholarship | 1,000 each | 1st-year full-time undergraduate degree program students who have applied in early May admission; Average score of 85 to 89.9%. |
Note: The institute also provides multiple application-based scholarships. Students can avail these awards by filling their respective forms.
University of Waterloo Placements
The University of Waterloo ranks amongst the world’s top 50 universities for its graduate employability. University of Waterloo welcomes 73% of its undergraduate students to co-op programs. The university received the title of #1 hands-on experiential learning opportunity in Canada according to McLeans National Survey. University of Waterloo graduates earn annual salaries ranging from 40,000 to 90,000 CAD per annum.
University of Waterloo has an excellent academic syllabus and goes the extra mile to ensure its students are well-prepared to tackle the unsettling challenges of the real world. Waterloo as a city is equally awesome and offers some great fishing and hiking opportunities, while simultaneously being one of the safest and affordable places in Canada.
However, candidates applying to the university must remember that being empty sponges will lead them nowhere. The university requires its applicants to put in additional effort and hard work in order to achieve academic excellence and promises to reciprocate the gesture in equal measure.
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