University of Waterloo
University of Waterloo overview
The University of Waterloo began in 1957 in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, set up to meet the country's growing demand for engineering and technical education. It pioneered cooperative education (co-op programs), which combine academic study with real-world work experience.
Today it is one of Canada's top universities, recognized above all in computer science, engineering, business, and mathematics. Its Cheriton School of Computer Science and Faculty of Engineering rank among the best in North America. Both draw top students and faculty from around the world.
Waterloo has played a key role in major technological advances, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and quantum computing. The university is home to the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics and the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC). Both are among the world's leading research centers in their respective fields.
The university has also produced many influential alumni. Among them are Mike Lazaridis, co-founder of BlackBerry, and David Cheriton, a billionaire investor and one of Google's first backers. Another is Chamath Palihapitiya, a prominent venture capitalist.
About University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo began in 1957 in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, set up to meet the country's growing demand for engineering and technical education. It pioneered cooperative education (co-op programs), which combine academic study with real-world work experience.
Today it is one of Canada's top universities, recognized above all in computer science, engineering, business, and mathematics. Its Cheriton School of Computer Science and Faculty of Engineering rank among the best in North America. Both draw top students and faculty from around the world.
Waterloo has played a key role in major technological advances, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and quantum computing. The university is home to the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics and the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC). Both are among the world's leading research centers in their respective fields.
The university has also produced many influential alumni. Among them are Mike Lazaridis, co-founder of BlackBerry, and David Cheriton, a billionaire investor and one of Google's first backers. Another is Chamath Palihapitiya, a prominent venture capitalist.
University of Waterloo faculties and programs
Planning
Combinatorics and Optimization
Business Administration and Computer Science
Sociology
Geomatics
Geography and Aviation
Applied Mathematics
Environment and Business
Climate and Environmental Change
Social Development Studies
University of Waterloo scholarships and financial aid
The University of Waterloo offers scholarship opportunities to international students. Keep in mind that these programs have limited funding and capacity. Scholarships are awarded on need and merit, and admission standards are high. If you want to apply, you can reach the relevant programs at the link below.
University of Waterloo Exam Requirements
Submitting at least one of the exams below with the required score is a prerequisite for application. The score threshold may vary by program.
How to get into University of Waterloo
If you are an international student applying to an undergraduate program at the University of Waterloo, you must meet the following admission requirements.
- Completion of 12 Years of Basic Education
- 4-Year High School Diploma
- High GPA
or - International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma
or - IGCSE/International A-Level Diploma
or - French Baccalaureate Diploma
or - Advanced Placement (AP) + SAT/ACT Score
- If you are in the Advanced Placement program, you must have taken and completed the exams for courses related to the program you apply to at university.
- English Language Proficiency Certificate
- An English proficiency certificate earned through an exam such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, CAE, or CPE
- Official transcripts showing the courses you took in high school and the grades you received
If you are an international student applying to a graduate program at the University of Waterloo, you must meet the following admission requirements.
- 4-Year Bachelor's Degree Diploma
- High GPA
- Official transcripts showing the courses you took during your undergraduate studies and the grades you received
- English Language Proficiency Certificate
- An English proficiency certificate earned through an exam such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, CAE, or CPE
- GRE/GMAT scores may be required, depending on the admission requirements of the program you apply to.
Application Deadlines
* These dates are subject to change. Get in touch with our Dream Uni advisors to learn the up-to-date deadlines and all the details about the University of Waterloo application process.
Take a closer look at University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo (UW) has a main campus of 1,000 acres in Waterloo, Ontario, with state-of-the-art facilities and modern academic buildings.
Six faculties sit on the main campus, among them the well-known Faculty of Engineering, the Cheriton School of Computer Science, and the Faculty of Mathematics.
Notable buildings include the Davis Centre, a hub for computer science and engineering students. The Mike & Ophelia Lazaridis Quantum-Nano Centre supports advanced research in quantum computing and nanotechnology.
Hagey Hall and the Conrad School of Entrepreneurship and Business serve students in business and leadership studies. The main campus also features Dana Porter Library and the Student Life Centre (SLC). The SLC is the heart of student activities, with dining options, study spaces, and event venues.
In Kitchener, the Health Sciences Campus is home to the School of Pharmacy, one of Canada's leading centers for pharmacy education and research.
The Stratford School of Interaction Design and Business, in Stratford, Ontario, focuses on digital media, design, and business innovation. It prepares students for careers in technology and the creative industries.
The Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association (WUSA) supports more than 200 student clubs. They cover a wide range of interests, including academics, cultural connections, creative arts, environmental initiatives, and recreation.
These clubs give you a platform to connect with like-minded peers, discover new passions, and enrich your university experience.
For example, clubs like the Cheese Club, the A Cappella Club, and the Cooking Club serve specific interests. Groups such as the African Students Association and the Chinese Students Association offer cultural engagement and support.
WUSA also organizes events such as the Clubs and Societies Fair, where you can discover and join clubs that match your interests. Athletics plays an important role at UW, building school spirit and promoting a healthy lifestyle among students.
The university's sports teams, known as the Waterloo Warriors, compete in the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) conference. They play a range of sports, including basketball, soccer, hockey, and swimming.
The women's ice hockey team won the first McCaw Cup in 2024. That marked a milestone in program history.
UW offers state-of-the-art sports facilities such as the Physical Activities Complex and Columbia Icefield Arena. Both serve as venues for varsity competitions and recreational sports.
The university also encourages students to take part in intramural sports and fitness programs, which support an active campus life.
The University of Waterloo has a broad alumni network of people who have reached outstanding success in many fields. Its notable alumni include:
- Mike Lazaridis
- Kevin O'Leary
- George Elliott Clarke
- Rasmus Lerdof
- Heather Moyse
- Steve Smith
- Erik Demaine
- Gary Goodyear
among others.
University of Waterloo Frequently Asked Questions
University of Waterloo Location
Waterloo, ON, Canada
University of Waterloo Contact
University of Waterloo
Take a Closer Look
How to Get Into University of Waterloo
In your first meeting with a Dream Uni advisor, your academic background, goals, and expectations are analyzed in detail.
By assessing your English level and academic grades, your eligibility for the universities and colleges Dream Uni partners with is determined.
The application process is managed meticulously by our professional team, and your acceptance letter is delivered to you.
Why University of Waterloo?
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