The University of Waterloo is known for its prestigious programs in computer science, engineering, math, and cooperative education, with an acceptance rate of 53%. However, admission to certain programs, such as Waterloo Mathematics, is extremely competitive, with only 4.3% of applicants being accepted. As a result, prospective students must meet certain GPA requirements to be considered for admission to the university.
For admission to the University of Waterloo, applicants must have a minimum GPA of 70%. This GPA requirement is higher than most Canadian universities, as Waterloo aims to recruit students who demonstrate exceptionally high academic achievement. In addition to GPA, Waterloo considers the applicant’s entire academic record when making admissions decisions, looking for evidence of consistent academic excellence.
The admissions process at the University of Waterloo is highly competitive, particularly for programs in the Faculty of Mathematics. Students must meet the minimum GPA requirement of 70% and demonstrate exceptional academic achievement to be considered strong applicants. While there is no waitlist for later consideration, prospective students should be prepared to meet or exceed the university’s GPA standards in order to increase their chances of admission.
Evaluation of the University of Waterloo Admissions
The University of Waterloo is known for its prestigious programs in computer science, engineering, mathematics, and cooperative education. With a 53% acceptance rate, it is considered a challenging college for admissions. The Faculty of Mathematics, including programs in computer science, is particularly competitive, accepting only 4.3% of applicants.
Quality of Education at University of Waterloo
The stringent admission requirements at the University of Waterloo, such as a minimum GPA of 70%, ensure that students admitted demonstrate an exceptionally high degree of achievement. The university considers the entire academic record of applicants, emphasizing academic excellence in its selection process. International students must maintain a GPA of at least 3.7, highlighting Waterloo’s commitment to academic rigor.
Data Table on University of Waterloo Admissions
Acceptance Rate | 4.3% |
---|---|
Minimum GPA | 70% |
Required GPA for International Students | 3.7 |
Overall Acceptance Rate | 53% |
Students who enroll at this university will be able to explore new ideas about math concepts through their studies with faculty members who are experts in their respective fields or specialties. Students will also have access to excellent facilities such as classrooms equipped with state-of-the-art technology like computers and smart boards; lecture halls that can accommodate large numbers of students; computer labs; libraries that contain books on all subjects related to math; student lounges where you can relax with your friends during breaks between classes; athletic facilities that include gymnasiums where you can exercise during breaks between classes; an auditorium where
University Of Waterloo Acceptance Rate Mathematics
If you love numbers, symbols, and equations, we talk your language. At Waterloo — the world’s largest centre for education in mathematics and computer science — we offer more than 300 different math courses.
After first year, you’ll focus on one of the majors listed below. Depending on which one you choose, you can gain two years of paid work experience through Waterloo’s co-op program, the largest of its kind in North America, or fast track your degree by choosing the regular system of study.
When you graduate, you’ll have all kinds of career options. Mathematics is the foundation of many fields of study, such as commerce, computing, engineering, and science — and essential for asking many fundamental questions about how our world works.
Where the general acceptance rate of the institute touches around 53%, the individual acceptance rate for admission into its renowned programs like Computer Science, Engineering, Maths, and Co-op courses is merely 4.3%.
university of waterloo math courses
In the Faculty of Mathematics there are some common first year courses, such as Calculus, Algebra, and Computer Science, which every student in the Mathematics faculty must take in order to build a solid foundation in mathematical understanding.
For a major in Applied Mathematics these are the courses that should be taken in the first year:
- MATH 135: Algebra for Honours Mathematics
- MATH 136: Linear Algebra 1 for Honours Mathematics
- MATH 137: Calculus 1 for Honours Mathematics
- MATH 138: Calculus 2 for Honours Mathematics
- CS 135: Designing Functional Programs
- CS 136: Elementary Algorithm Design and Data Abstraction
- PHYS 121: Mechanics and Waves 1 ¹
- Three elective courses
A typical first year schedule would look like this:
Term | Courses | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1A | MATH 135 | MATH 137 | CS 135 | PHYS 121 | Elective |
1B | MATH 136 | MATH 138 | CS 136 | Elective | Elective |
1. Students planning on taking the Scientific Computation/AMATH program are not required to take first year physics.
Advanced level courses:
If you are interested in doing a double major with Pure Mathematics, or if you want a more rigorous introduction to Algebra and Calculus in first year, you can request permission to enrol in the advanced level versions of first year Algebra and Calculus, numbered:
MATH 145, MATH 146, MATH 147, and MATH 148
university of waterloo requirements
General requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent with a minimum of six Grade 12 U or M courses, including all required courses.
- Grade 12 U or M courses must be completed through schools that are accredited by the Ontario Ministry of Education.
- Admission averages depend on the number of applications received and the number of spaces available. The range listed above is based on previous years.
- Repeated courses may be taken into consideration depending on the program.
North American students
International students
- Transfer credits for students with Advanced Level (A-Level), Advanced Placement (AP), Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), International Baccalaureate (IB), and university/college transfer credits
- International high school students
- American Degree Program (ADP) in Malaysia
Other admission requirements
uwaterloo math degree requirements
Plan | Requirements | Method of declaring major |
---|---|---|
Actuarial Science https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/YnDcLkPRml0?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | Outlined on the department website.See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Plan modification form signed by the plan advisor. |
Applied Mathematics https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/yA6h0dIP-LM?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | Applied Mathematics (including Biology and Economics specializations)Completed all first-year math courses: Math 135, 136, 137, 138, CS 115/135, 116/136MAV* of 65% Applied Mathematics/Physics SpecializationCompleted all first-year math courses: Math 135, 136, 137, 138, CS 115/135, 116/136Completion of PHYS 121 and PHYS 122MAV* of 65% Applied Mathematics/Engineering SpecializationCompleted all first-year math courses: Math 135, 136, 137, 138, CS 115/135, 116/136Completion of PHYS 121 and PHYS 122Completion of GENE 123MAV* of 65% Applied Mathematics/Scientific ComputingCompleted all first-year math courses: Math 135, 136, 137, 138, CS 115/135, 116/136MAV* of 65%See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Plan modification form signed by the plan advisor. |
Business Administration & Computer Science Double DegreeDOUBLE DEGREEBCS/BBA | Outlined on the department website.See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Limited enrollment. Speak with the BCS Double degree advisor. |
Business Administration and Mathematics Double DegreeDOUBLE DEGREEBMath/BBA | Outlined on the department website.See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Limited enrollment. Speak with the BMath Double degree advisor. |
Bachelor of Mathematics – Data Sciencehttps://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/rxqA0TqrToA?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | Apply in the term you are taking CS 136.See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Limited enrolment/competitive entry. Complete form by the last day of classes in the term you are taking CS 136. |
Combinatorics and Optimizationhttps://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/JFVxvwvQ6ZA?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | At least 2A standingHave MAV* of 65%+Strongly recommend that you complete MATH 239 and/or CO 250 before declaring CO as your major.See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Plan modification form signed by the plan advisor. |
Computational Mathematics https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/n3SAUJ48jKE?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | At least 2A standingCompleted all first-year math courses: Math 135, 136, 137, 138, CS 115/135, 116/136Have MAV* and CAV* of 60%+See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Plan modification form signed by the plan advisor. |
Computer Science https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/7E3efVfRi6o?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | Apply in the term you are taking CS 136.See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Limited enrollment/competitive entry. Complete form by the last month of term. More information available here. |
Computing and Financial Management https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/Xnxs9BeQL2c?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | Outlined on the department website.See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Limited enrollment. Speak with the CFM program manager. |
Financial Analysis and Risk Management https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/Nc1YNybvinQ?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | Outlined on the department website.See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Complete a plan modification form and then email it to FARM advisors. Note that you must declare FARM in 2A term. |
Information Technology Management https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/VehB1TbCgSg?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | Outlined on the department website.See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Plan modification form signed by the plan advisor. |
Mathematical Economics https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/4qGIUfTCMTM?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | Outlined on the department website.See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Plan modification form signed by the plan advisor. |
Mathematical Finance https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/CyNLgks_mRI?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | At least 2A standingCAV* of 60%+Completed at least 3 math courses with an average of 70%See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Plan modification form signed by the plan advisor. |
Mathematical Optimization https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/MmPxMaXLnhU?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | At least 2A standingHave MAV* of 65%+Strongly recommend that you complete CO 250 before declaring MO as your major.See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Plan modification form signed by the plan advisor. |
Mathematical Physics https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/YyeYrriqA1Q?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | Completed all first-year math courses: Math 135, 136, 137, 138, CS 115/135, 116/136Completion of PHYS 121 and PHYS 122MAV* of 65%See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Plan modification form signed by the plan advisor. |
Mathematical Studies https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/3aQi5FlBy0I?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | At least 2A standingCompleted all first-year math courses: Math 135, 136, 137, 138, CS 115/135, 116/136Have MAV* and CAV* of 60%+See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Plan modification form signed by the plan advisor. |
Mathematics/Business Administration https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/suRACX5wFfg?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | Outlined on department website.See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Plan modification form signed by the plan advisor. |
Mathematics/Chartered Professional AccountancyMath/CPA | Not applicable.See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Due to high demand, it is not possible to join this program after first-year. |
Mathematics/Teaching https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/CEhSNpmpWsY?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | Be in the co-op program**Submit an application in 2A** Students in CPA would need to switch to Honours Math/Teaching. Recommend CS students also switch to Honours Math/Teaching.Difficult for DD students to complete all requirements so not recommended.Students can do a Major/Teaching degree. Would follow Major course requirements plus some Math/Teaching requirements.We encourage you to speak with the plan advisor.See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Interview process with director of the Math/Teaching program. |
Pure Mathematicshttps://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/gWo2ngCrfCk?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | At least 2A standingCAV* of 60%+Completed at least 3 math courses with an average of 65%See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Plan modification form signed by the plan advisor. |
Statistics https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/lTLPQXxSXtg?rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fuwaterloo.caWatch video on YouTube | Outlined on department website.See Undergraduate Calendar for more details. | Plan modification form signed by the plan advisor. |
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.
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 5,42,136 |
Master of Engineering [M.Eng], Mechanical Engineering | INR 13,68,204 |
Master Of Applied Science [M.ASc], Electrical and Computer Engineering | INR 6,93,849 |
Master of Science [M.S], Data Science and Artificial Intelligence | INR 22,62,440 |
Master of Taxation ( M.Tax) | INR 5,19,433 |
Master of Applied Science [M.ASc], Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering | INR 6,93,849 |
Master of Mathematics [M.Math], Computer Science | INR 11,04,068 |
Master of Applied Science [M.Asc], Civil Engineering | INR 12,65,831 |
Master of Engineering [M.Eng], Chemical Engineering | INR 6,93,849 |
Master of Architecture [M.Arch] | INR 11,41,300 |
Master of Mathematics [M.Math], Applied Mathematics | INR 10,40,743 |
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.