| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 5 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | - | |
| First Year Total Fees: | ₹ 2275000 | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 5 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | - | |
| First Year Total Fees: | ₹ 2958000 | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 1 Year | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | - | |
| First Year Total Fees: | ₹ 3365000 | |
Location: Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
Established: 1957
Type: Public research university
Motto: "Concordia cum veritate" (In Harmony with Truth)
Students: Over 40,000+, including 8,000+ international students
Campuses: Main campus in Waterloo + satellite campuses in Cambridge, Stratford, and Kitchener
The University of Waterloo is recognized internationally for its engineering, computer science, co-op programs, and entrepreneurship.
QS World University Rankings: Top 150–200 globally
Times Higher Education (THE): Top 200 worldwide
U.S. News & World Report: Among top 10 in Canada
Ranked #1 in Canada for Computer Science, Engineering, and Mathematics (based on several metrics)
Waterloo has six main faculties:
Engineering – One of Canada’s largest and most prestigious engineering schools
Math – Home to the world’s largest academic math faculty
Science
Arts
Health
Environment
Also home to the School of Computer Science, School of Accounting and Finance, and Conrad School of Entrepreneurship and Business.
Waterloo is the #1 co-op university in the world with over 7,000 employers globally. Students alternate between academic terms and paid work terms (up to 2 years of work experience during their degree).
Fields like Computer Science, Engineering, and Business are especially well-known for high co-op earnings and job placement rates.
Undergraduate: CAD $40,000 – $60,000 per year (especially for Engineering and CS)
Graduate (Master's/PhD): CAD $15,000 – $30,000 per year depending on program and thesis/course-based stream
Large, modern campus with tech labs, libraries, student centers, and green spaces
200+ clubs and societies, strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship
Home to Velocity, Canada's most productive startup incubator
Residences available for first-years; support for off-campus housing too
Computer Science
Data Science
Statistics
Computational Mathematics
Mathematical Finance
Actuarial Science
Mathematics/Business Administration (Double Degree)
Software Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Mechatronics Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Nanotechnology Engineering
Systems Design Engineering
Most Engineering programs offer mandatory co-op (up to 2 years of paid work)
Psychology
Economics
Political Science
English Literature
Sociology and Legal Studies
Digital Arts Communication
Global Business and Digital Arts (Stratford Campus)
Biology
Chemistry
Physics and Astronomy
Earth and Environmental Sciences
Pharmacy (Pre-professional)
Life Sciences
Environmental Science
Sustainability and Resource Management
Geography and Environmental Management
Planning (Urban & Regional)
Health Sciences
Public Health
Kinesiology
Recreation and Leisure Studies
Waterloo offers more than 180 graduate programs, including:
Master of Engineering (MEng)
Master of Applied Science (MASc)
PhD in Engineering (various specializations)
Master of Mathematics (MMath) in Computer Science
MSc in Statistics, Actuarial Science, and Data Science
PhD in Computer Science
Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology (MBET)
Master of Quantitative Finance
PhD in Economics or Management Sciences
MSc in Biology, Chemistry, Physics
PhD in Science programs
Master of Public Health (MPH)
MSc and PhD in Kinesiology, Public Health, Recreation
MA and PhD in Psychology, Sociology, Political Science
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
Bachelor of Computer Science |
4–5 years |
$50,000 – $54,000 |
|
Bachelor of Software Engineering |
5 years |
$52,000 – $56,000 |
|
Bachelor of Mechatronics Engineering |
5 years |
$50,000 – $55,000 |
|
Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering |
5 years |
$50,000 – $55,000 |
|
Bachelor of Electrical Engineering |
5 years |
$50,000 – $55,000 |
|
Bachelor of Biomedical Engineering |
5 years |
$51,000 – $56,000 |
|
Bachelor of Mathematics (Pure Math, Stats, etc.) |
4–5 years |
$42,000 – $46,000 |
|
Bachelor of Actuarial Science |
4 years |
$42,000 – $46,000 |
|
Bachelor of Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) |
4 years |
$41,000 – $45,000 |
|
Bachelor of Health Sciences |
4 years |
$40,000 – $44,000 |
|
Bachelor of Environmental Science |
4 years |
$40,000 – $44,000 |
|
Bachelor of Arts (Economics, Psychology, etc.) |
4 years |
$39,000 – $43,000 |
|
Bachelor of Global Business and Digital Arts |
4 years |
$41,000 – $44,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Computer Science (MCS/MMath) |
2 years |
$15,000 – $18,000 |
|
Master of Engineering (MEng – Various Fields) |
1–2 years |
$22,000 – $25,000 |
|
Master of Applied Science (MASc – Engineering) |
2 years |
$15,000 – $18,000 |
|
Master of Business, Entrepreneurship & Technology (MBET) |
1 year |
$33,000 – $36,000 |
|
Master of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence |
1 year |
$30,000 – $32,000 |
|
Master of Mathematics (MMath – Pure/Applied) |
2 years |
$14,000 – $17,000 |
|
Master of Public Health (MPH) |
2 years |
$20,000 – $24,000 |
|
Master of Environmental Studies |
2 years |
$15,000 – $18,000 |
|
Master of Management Sciences (MMSc) |
1–2 years |
$22,000 – $25,000 |
|
Master of Science (MSc – Biology, Physics, Chem) |
2 years |
$15,000 – $18,000 |
|
Master of Architecture (MArch) |
2 years |
$20,000 – $24,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Computer Science |
4–6 years |
$6,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Electrical & Computer Engineering |
4–6 years |
$6,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering |
4–6 years |
$6,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering |
4–6 years |
$6,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Mathematics (Pure, Applied, Stats) |
4–6 years |
$6,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Physics, Chemistry, or Biology |
4–6 years |
$6,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Public Health or Health Studies |
4–6 years |
$6,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Psychology, Sociology, or Political Science |
4–6 years |
$6,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Economics or Management Sciences |
4–6 years |
$6,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Architecture or Planning |
4–6 years |
$6,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Environmental Studies or Geography |
4–6 years |
$6,000 – $8,000 |
Waterloo is often ranked as Canada’s most innovative university, and it's especially renowned for programs in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, and Mathematics. It also has a strong reputation in Business, Health Sciences, Environment, and the Arts.
The university is located in Waterloo, Ontario — part of Canada’s tech triangle — and is surrounded by leading tech companies, startups, and research hubs. This gives students access to real-world industry experience right from campus.
One of the biggest attractions for international students is Waterloo’s co-op education system — the largest in the world. Students alternate between study and paid work terms, graduating with up to 2 years of paid experience and strong job prospects.
You can choose from over 100+ undergraduate and 180+ graduate programs, many of which allow you to tailor your education with minors, certificates, and co-op options.
Waterloo provides strong support through its International Student Experience (ISE) team. Some of the services include:
Help with study permits, visas, and immigration
Pre-arrival webinars and online orientation
Language support and academic workshops
One-on-one advising and cultural transition programs
Health insurance and on-campus medical services
There are also international student clubs and cultural associations that help you feel at home.
Life at Waterloo is active and diverse, with over 200 student clubs, sports teams, and events throughout the year. Whether you're into coding, music, business competitions, or cultural celebrations, there's something for everyone.
The campus is large and modern, with advanced labs, innovation hubs (like Velocity, one of Canada’s top startup incubators), and comfortable housing. International students can choose between on-campus residences or off-campus housing, with lots of support for finding a place to live.
Thanks to the co-op system, Waterloo students are highly employable. Many students get job offers before graduation. The university has partnerships with over 7,000 employers, including Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Facebook, Shopify, and Canadian government and research institutions.
International graduates are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to work in Canada for up to 3 years after finishing their studies.
Globally ranked in top 200 universities
Leader in tech, science, and innovation
Strong co-op and career services
Welcoming campus and diverse community
High return on investment in education
Visit the official Waterloo website to explore undergraduate or graduate programs. Each program may have different admission requirements and deadlines, so make sure to read the program-specific details carefully.
A high school diploma or equivalent (e.g., A-Levels, IB, CBSE, etc.)
Competitive grades (typically 85% or higher for most programs)
Specific subject requirements (e.g., Math and Physics for Engineering)
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
A bachelor’s degree (minimum B+ average or equivalent)
Program-specific prerequisites and research background
For research-based programs, a supervisor may be required before applying
Statement of Intent/Research Proposal, CV, Letters of Reference
IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
TOEFL iBT: 90 (25 writing and speaking recommended)
Duolingo: 120+ (accepted by many programs)
You may need:
Academic transcripts
English test scores
Passport copy
Personal statement or statement of purpose
Letters of recommendation (mostly for graduate programs)
Resume/CV
Portfolio (for design/media programs)
Apply via the OUAC (Ontario Universities' Application Centre) portal:
www.ouac.on.ca
Application fee: CAD $156 for 3 programs + additional fees per program
Apply directly via the Waterloo Graduate Application Portal
Application fee: CAD $125 per program
Most programs: January 15 (for Fall/September start)
Engineering, Math, and Computer Science may have earlier document submission deadlines
Deadlines vary by program, typically December to March for a September intake
After submitting your application:
You’ll receive a Waterloo ID to access your applicant portal
Upload any required documents and track your application status
If accepted:
You'll receive an Offer of Admission
Accept the offer through your student portal or OUAC
Pay any required tuition deposit
Use your Offer of Admission to apply for a Canadian Study Permit via IRCC
Include:
Letter of acceptance
Financial proof
Passport and other ID
Waterloo offers:
Pre-arrival sessions
Airport pickup
Orientation for international students
Housing support (on and off campus)
Primary intake for almost all undergraduate and graduate programs
Most course offerings and co-op opportunities are available in this term
Highly recommended for international students
Available for select graduate programs only
Limited availability; undergraduate programs typically not offered
Limited intake for certain graduate programs (mostly research-based)
Not commonly available for undergraduates
Academic Requirements:
High school diploma (or equivalent)
Minimum academic average: usually 85% or higher (some programs like Computer Science or Engineering may require 90%+)
Program-specific prerequisites (e.g., Math and Physics for Engineering, Calculus for Computer Science)
English Language Proficiency (if required):
IELTS: Minimum 6.5 overall, with no band below 6.0
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 90 (some programs may require 100+)
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 120
Additional Requirements for Some Programs:
Admission Information Form (AIF) – required for Engineering, Computer Science, and other competitive programs
Euclid Math Contest – recommended for Math and CS applicants
Interview or portfolio – for programs like Global Business and Digital Arts
Academic Requirements:
A recognized bachelor’s degree for Master’s programs (minimum 75% average or equivalent)
A recognized Master’s degree for PhD programs
Research experience for thesis-based programs
Supervisor confirmation may be required before applying (for research-based grad programs)
English Language Proficiency:
IELTS Academic: 7.0 overall preferred (6.5 minimum)
TOEFL iBT: 90–100 minimum, depending on the program
Duolingo: 120+ (accepted by many departments)
Supporting Documents:
Statement of Purpose / Research Proposal
Letters of Recommendation (usually 2–3)
Resume or CV
Portfolio (for design/media-related grad programs)
Ranking Organization |
Global Rank |
National Rank (Canada) |
Category |
|---|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Top 150 – 200 |
Top 6 – 7 |
Overall |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Top 200 |
Top 7 – 9 |
Global Universities |
|
Times Higher Education (THE) |
Top 200 – 250 |
Top 7 – 8 |
World University Rankings |
|
Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) |
Top 200 – 300 |
Top 8 – 10 |
Academic/Research Performance |
|
QS Graduate Employability Rankings |
Top 25 – 50 |
Top 1 – 2 |
Graduate Employability |
Scholarship Name |
Level |
Value (CAD) |
Eligibility Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
International Student Entrance Scholarships |
Undergraduate |
$10,000 (one-time) |
Based on academic merit; automatic consideration |
|
President’s Scholarship of Distinction |
Undergraduate |
$2,000–$5,000 + research bonus |
95%+ admission average |
|
Merit Scholarships (General) |
Undergraduate |
$1,000 – $2,000 |
85–94.9% admission average |
|
Faculty-Specific Entrance Awards |
Undergraduate |
Up to $5,000 |
For programs like Engineering, Math, Environment |
|
David Johnston International Experience Awards |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
(up to $2,500) |
For international experience/study abroad |
|
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships |
PhD |
$50,000/year (3 years) |
National-level, high academic and research profile |
|
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) |
Master’s/PhD |
$15,000/year |
Based on academic merit; full-time grad students |
|
University of Waterloo Graduate Awards (UWGA) |
Graduate |
$5,000 – $15,000/year |
Internal departmental awards for research students |
|
Master’s Award of Excellence (IQAP) |
Master’s (research-based) |
$2,500/term (max 5 terms) |
Based on academic excellence; international only |
Residence Name / Area |
Accommodation Type |
Room Style |
Cost/Year (CAD) |
Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Village 1 (V1) |
Traditional Residence |
Single/Double Shared Washroom |
$6,500 – $8,000 |
First-year focused, dining hall included |
|
Ron Eydt Village (REV) |
Traditional Residence |
Single/Double Shared Washroom |
$6,500 – $8,000 |
Close to classes and campus amenities |
|
UW Place (UWP) |
Suite-Style/Apartment |
2–5 Bedroom Apartments |
$8,000 – $10,000 |
Upper-year & grad students, kitchen included |
|
Claudette Millar Hall |
Modern Traditional |
Single Room, Shared Washroom |
$7,500 – $8,500 |
One of the newest residences |
|
Mackenzie King Village (MKV) |
Suite-Style |
2–3 Bedroom Apartments |
$8,000 – $10,500 |
In-suite kitchen, private bedrooms |
|
Columbia Lake Village (CLV) |
Townhouse/Apartment |
2–4 Bedroom Units |
$8,500 – $11,000 |
Family and graduate housing available |
|
Minota Hagey Residence |
Suite-Style |
Shared/Private Apartments |
$9,000 – $11,000 |
Quiet, ideal for upper-year students |
Plan Type |
Cost/Year (CAD) |
Includes |
|---|---|---|
|
Full Meal Plan |
$5,000 – $5,500 |
Unlimited dining hall access |
|
Light Meal Plan |
$3,000 – $4,000 |
Declining balance for occasional use |
Waterloo is known for its academic rigor, especially in STEM, business, and innovation-focused programs. You'll be studying alongside some of the brightest students in Canada and beyond. The campus encourages critical thinking, entrepreneurship, and real-world problem solving. Many students are involved in research projects, hackathons, case competitions, and startups — often while still in undergrad.
There are over 200 clubs and student-run societies, ranging from robotics and finance to cultural groups, environmental activism, arts, and gaming. Whether you’re into K-pop, coding, meditation, or debate — there’s something for you.
Waterloo also hosts:
Cultural festivals and international nights
Student-run conferences and career expos
Comedy shows, concerts, and themed parties
Orientation Week (O-Week) to welcome new students
The Federation of Students (FEDS) supports all student-led initiatives and is your go-to resource for getting involved.
The Warrior Recreation Centre offers:
Gym and fitness classes (yoga, spin, Zumba, etc.)
Indoor track, swimming pool, and climbing wall
Intramural leagues (soccer, volleyball, basketball, etc.)
Competitive varsity teams for those interested in athletics
There are also many outdoor spaces and trails near campus — great for jogging, biking, or just taking a mental break.
With over 8,000 international students, Waterloo is proudly global. You’ll find cultural groups, mentorship programs, and language exchanges to help you settle in.
The International Student Experience (ISE) office provides:
Orientation programs for newcomers
Immigration and visa advising
Cross-cultural workshops and community events
Peer mentorship programs for social and academic support
Waterloo prioritizes student mental health and well-being. You’ll find:
Counseling and mental health support
Peer-to-peer programs like MATES
Health Services on campus
Meditation and mindfulness workshops
Academic help is always nearby too — through tutoring centers, writing help, study groups, and teaching assistants.
Campus life includes plenty of dining options, from all-you-can-eat dining halls to coffee shops and cultural food spots. Students often hang out at:
Dana Porter Library rooftop
The Student Life Centre (SLC)
Village Green and Columbia Lake for walks or hangouts
A major part of life at Waterloo is co-op culture. You’ll constantly hear about internships, job interviews, and startup projects. The energy on campus is career-driven, and students are motivated to gain real-world experience.
Co-op students get access to support services like:
Resume and cover letter reviews
Mock interviews
Job portals and employer events
Career fairs and alumni panels
Waterloo’s co-op program is the largest of its kind in the world, with more than 7,000 active employer partners. Co-op allows students to:
Alternate between study terms and paid work terms
Gain up to 2 years of full-time, paid experience before graduating
Build a strong resume and professional network during university
Fields like Computer Science, Engineering, Math, and Business have particularly high co-op earnings and job placement rates.
96–98% employment rate within 6 months of graduation (in many programs)
Students graduate with an average of 6 co-op work terms
Many students receive job offers from their co-op employers before graduation
High starting salaries, especially in tech-related fields
Microsoft
Amazon
Facebook (Meta)
IBM
Shopify
Deloitte
Tesla
Canadian and Ontario government departments
RBC, TD, Scotiabank, and other major banks
Startups through Waterloo’s Velocity incubator
International students can participate in co-op programs and also receive:
Work permit support (Co-op Work Permit + PGWP)
Career counseling, resume building, and interview prep
Job fairs, employer events, and alumni networking opportunities
After graduation, you’re eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing you to work in Canada for up to 3 years.
This is Waterloo’s official job platform where students can:
Apply for thousands of co-op and full-time jobs
View salary statistics
Schedule career advising sessions
Track application statuses and interview timelines
Computer Science & Software Engineering: Very high employment rates with tech giants
Mechatronics & Mechanical Engineering: Sought after in automation and robotics
Mathematics & Actuarial Science: Strong placements in finance, insurance, and analytics
Business (AFM, MBET): Co-op and networking lead to major corporate roles
Health and Environmental Sciences: Growing placement options in public health, sustainability, and research
General undergraduate acceptance rate: 53% – 60%
This includes a wide range of programs, from arts and humanities to STEM fields
Some programs at Waterloo are extremely competitive, especially those with co-op and high job placement potential. Here's a general idea:
Computer Science: ~10% – 15%
Software Engineering: ~15% – 20%
Engineering (Mech, Mechatronics, Civil, etc.): ~30% – 40%
Mathematics & Actuarial Science: ~30% – 35%
Health Sciences & Life Sciences: ~40% – 50%
Arts & Social Sciences: 65% – 75% (generally more accessible)
High school grades (competitive programs often require 90–95%+ averages)
Completion of required courses (e.g., Calculus, Physics, Chemistry)
Admission Information Form (AIF): Mandatory for many programs, especially in Engineering, CS, Math
Supplemental tests (e.g., Euclid Math Contest recommended for Math/CS)
English language proficiency (if applicable)
Waterloo is international-student friendly, but the admission bar is high, especially for top-tier programs like Computer Science and Engineering. International students are evaluated based on their country's curriculum equivalency, and strong academic performance and English scores are essential.
Address:
200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada
Setting:
Suburban/urban blend — surrounded by parks, tech hubs, and residential areas, with easy access to downtown Waterloo and nearby Kitchener
Campus Size:
Over 1,000 acres, including academic buildings, research labs, libraries, residences, and green space
Stratford School of Interaction Design and Business
Location: Stratford, Ontario
Focus: Global Business and Digital Arts, MBET, Digital Media programs
Cambridge School of Architecture
Location: Cambridge, Ontario
Home to the School of Architecture, a prestigious design-focused campus
Kitchener Health Sciences Campus
Location: Downtown Kitchener
Home to the School of Pharmacy and health-related research centers
UWaterloo at the Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI)
Location: Uptown Waterloo
Research and policy-focused, with programs in international affairs and global governance
Closest Major City: Toronto (~1.5-hour drive)
Transit: Waterloo is well-connected via GO Transit, GRT buses, ION Light Rail, and VIA Rail
Airports Nearby:
Region of Waterloo International Airport (~20 mins)
Toronto Pearson International Airport (~1.5 hours)
