University Of Waterloo: Open Doors For Us Students

The University of Waterloo is a diverse campus, with more than 25,000 students from 120 countries. The university offers over 100 undergraduate programs in areas such as health, humanities and social sciences, business, engineering, the environment, mathematics, and science. Waterloo is ranked among the world's top universities for many of its programs. It is ranked as Canada's most innovative university and is one of the country's best overall universities. The university is known for its co-op programs, which are open to both Canadian and international students. International students must meet certain English language requirements and may need to apply for a study permit.

Admission requirements for US students

The University of Waterloo is home to a diverse community of students, professors, and researchers from across Canada and around the world. With more than 25,000 students from 120 countries, you'll be sure to find a welcoming community. The University of Waterloo is ranked as the Top Comprehensive Research University in Canada, and its international reputation for excellence and innovation attracts inspiring and creative graduate students and researchers from all over the world.

To apply to the University of Waterloo as a US student, you will need to meet the following requirements:

• English Language Proficiency: As an international student, you must provide proof of English language proficiency. The University of Waterloo may accept certain English language tests, such as the TOEFL or IELTS. Check the university's website for the specific requirements and minimum scores needed.
• Academic Credentials: You will need to submit your official high school transcripts and graduation diploma. The university may also require you to provide course-by-course evaluations to ensure you meet the necessary academic standards.
• Standardized Test Scores: Depending on your chosen program, you may be required to submit scores from standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT. Check the specific requirements for your intended program.
• Letters of Recommendation: Some programs may require letters of recommendation from your teachers or counsellors. These letters should speak to your academic abilities, extracurricular achievements, and personal qualities.
• Statement of Purpose: You may be asked to submit a statement of purpose or personal statement, outlining your reasons for applying to the University of Waterloo and your academic goals.
• Application Form and Fee: Complete the application form through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) and submit the required application fee.
• Study Permit: As an international student, you will need to obtain a valid study permit to study in Canada. Ensure that you review the Government of Canada's requirements and allow sufficient time for processing.
• Financial Documentation: You may be required to provide proof of financial resources to cover your tuition and living expenses during your studies.
• Supplementary Forms: Depending on your chosen program, there may be additional requirements, such as portfolios, auditions, or interviews. Check the specific requirements for your program of interest.

It is important to note that the University of Waterloo may have specific additional requirements for certain programs, such as Engineering or Architecture. Ensure that you carefully review the admission requirements for your chosen program on the University of Waterloo's website. The website also offers resources and tips for international students, including information sessions and guides to help you through the application process.

Application process

The University of Waterloo is a diverse academic community with over 25,000 students from 120 countries. The university is open to US students, and the application process is outlined below.

Firstly, it is important to note that applications to Waterloo and all other Ontario universities are handled by the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC). Applying through the OUAC allows you to apply to multiple programs at Waterloo or other Ontario universities with a single application.

To begin the application process, review Waterloo's admission requirements for your program(s) of interest. Then, review the OUAC's Undergraduate Application Guide, create an account, and submit your application on the OUAC website. If you are applying to a co-op program, remember to check the co-op box on your application. Ensure that you apply by the application deadline.

Within two weeks of receiving your information from the OUAC, the University of Waterloo will email you with your student number and the next steps in the application process.

If you are applying from outside of North America, be sure to learn how to protect yourself from fraud. Additionally, if you are applying from outside of Canada, you can email or book an online meeting with one of Waterloo's international student recruiters.

If you are an Ontario student completing the IB program, you would follow the admission requirements for Ontario high school students. Your high school will convert your International Baccalaureate (IB) courses and grades to the equivalent Ontario U and M courses and grades. If you are taking IB math, your school will convert this course to MCV4U, MHF4U, and/or MDM4U. If math is required for your chosen program, you can take any IB math course and be eligible for admission as long as you receive an Ontario credit for the required math course(s).

To be considered for potential transfer credits, you will need to have your official IB results sent directly from the IBO to Waterloo. If you receive an offer of admission, you must have your official IB results sent directly to the University of Waterloo by the IBO to be considered for potential transfer credits.

If you are applying to the School of Architecture, the university will use your grade 11 and grade 12 grades to select students for the interview and portfolio stage of the application process.

If you are applying to the Faculty of Mathematics or Software Engineering, you are encouraged to participate in Waterloo's math and computing contests. The results of these contests will be used in scholarship decisions and possibly admission decisions.

If English is not your first language and your four most recent years of full-time education have not been in an English-language school system, you will be required to provide an English proficiency test score.

If you are an international student, you must have a study permit to attend university in Canada. It is recommended that you apply for your study permit as soon as possible after receiving an Offer of Admission and Letter of Acceptance to Waterloo, as processing times can vary.

The University of Waterloo also offers a Letter of Permission process, which allows students to take Waterloo courses toward a degree at their home university.

English language requirements

The University of Waterloo requires proof of English language proficiency from applicants whose first language is not English and who have not studied in an English-language school system in the four most recent years. The university accepts various English language tests, including IELTS, TOEFL, CAEL, PTE Academic, Cambridge English test, and Duolingo English test.

For undergraduate programs, the IELTS requirement is a minimum overall score of 6.5, with no sub-score below 6.0. The postgraduate IELTS requirement is a minimum overall score of 7.0, with no sub-score below 6.5.

If applicants do not meet the English language requirements, they may be considered for admission to the university's English-language pathway program, the Bridge to Academic Success in English (BASE). This program allows students to work towards a Waterloo degree while improving their English skills and developing academic skills.

Students who have studied full-time in an English-language school system for the four most recent years preceding their studies at Waterloo are exempt from the English language requirements. Additionally, Francophone Canadians and students who have studied in Canada with English as their first language are also exempt.

Fees and scholarships

The University of Waterloo charges tuition fees on a term-by-term basis. The fees for the fall, winter, and spring terms are due before the start of each respective term. The fees vary depending on the program and the type of student. For instance, for the 2024-2025 academic year, the estimated tuition and incidental fees for international students for two terms (eight months) were around $50,000 to $52,000. These fees are paid in Canadian dollars.

Co-op students pay a fee of $865 per term to cover some of the costs of the co-op program. However, they do not pay tuition during their co-op work terms. Additionally, Native American students from the continental United States are eligible to pay Ontario tuition rates instead of international student tuition, in recognition of the Jay Treaty.

The University of Waterloo offers a range of scholarships for international students. Most scholarships automatically consider applicants, including the President's and Merit scholarships. However, some scholarships require a separate application. The University of Waterloo Scholarship 2025-2026 is a fully-funded scholarship for international students, offering up to $10,000 for undergraduate, master's, and PhD studies. The David Johnston–Lebovic Foundation International Experience Awards are also available for highly successful candidates, supporting Canadian and international students with up to $10,000 for a two-term work or volunteer experience.

The University of Waterloo also offers various faculty-specific scholarships, such as the Faculty of Engineering International Student Entrance Scholarships, the Faculty of Mathematics Global Scholarships, and the Faculty of Science International Student Scholarships. These scholarships range in value from $10,000 to $80,000. Additionally, there are scholarships specifically for Black students and students of African, African American, Afro-Latine, Black Canadian, Caribbean, or other African descent.

Student visas

The University of Waterloo is home to a diverse community of students, professors, and researchers from across Canada and around the world. The university offers North America's largest co-op (paid internship) program, which is open to both Canadian and international students.

If you are a US student interested in attending the University of Waterloo, here is some information about student visas:

• Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL): As an international student, if you receive an offer of admission from the University of Waterloo, you will need to begin the process of applying for a study permit. The first step is to take a quiz to determine if you need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL). The PAL confirms that you will be studying at a college or university and is required by the Government of Canada. For Waterloo students, the PAL will be provided by the Government of Ontario.
• Offer of Admission and Tuition Deposit: If you are required to request a PAL, you will need to accept your Offer of Admission and submit a tuition deposit of $2,500. You can then access your PAL through Waterloo's Quest website.
• Study Permit Application: Once you have received your PAL, you can submit your study permit application. It is important to note that the Canadian government will return your application if it does not include the required PAL. The application process can take several months, so it is recommended to apply as early as possible.
• Co-op Work Permit: If you are admitted to a co-op program, you will need to apply for a co-op work permit as part of your study permit application. This is required for all co-op work terms or degree-required internships.
• Financial Requirements: When applying for your study permit, you must meet certain financial requirements. You can find detailed information about these requirements on the Government of Canada website.
• US Visa Options for Graduating Students: After completing your studies, if you are looking for job opportunities in the United States, you may need to apply for a US visa. The University of Waterloo provides resources and workshops to help students understand the US immigration process and visa options, such as the J-1 visa and the H1-B visa. However, it is recommended to consult with a licensed US immigration professional for specific advice.

Frequently asked questions