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University of Waterloo

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University of Waterloo Admission

Latest Update: To apply for undergraduate programs, it is important to note that the deadline for submitting documents is February 16th, 2024. 

 

The University of Waterloo, a public research university founded in 1957, is located in Ontario, Canada. It strongly emphasises cooperative education and experiential learning and produces successful graduates. 

 

The university offers over 100 programs through 13 schools across 6 faculties, including Arts, Engineering, Mathematics, Environment, Health, and Science. It also has research institutes and centres specialising in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and environmental sustainability. 


The University of Waterloo is a highly competitive institution with a low acceptance rate. The acceptance rate for undergraduate programs is around 53%.

Scholarships

Deadline

2023-02-26

Awarded

Varies

Amount

₹8.92L

Deadline

2023-04-01

Awarded

1

Amount

₹89.46K

Deadline

2023-03-31

Awarded

Varies

Amount

₹8.97L

Deadline

2023-06-01

Awarded

22

Amount

₹2.98L

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Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about University of Waterloo
Q. What documents must international students submit in their application process at the University of Waterloo?

A. International students must submit official transcripts, English language proficiency test scores, letters of recommendation, personal statement and proof of finances to support their studies at the University of Waterloo.

Q. Does the University of Waterloo require an SAT exam?

A. The University of Waterloo does not require applicants to submit SAT scores for admission to undergraduate programs. Instead, they consider a student's academic performance in high school and other factors such as extracurricular activities and relevant experiences. It's always best to check the program you're interested in for the most accurate and up-to-date admission requirements. 

Q. How much does the University of Waterloo cost for international students?

A.  The cost of studying at the University of Waterloo for international students varies depending on the program of study. International undergraduate students' average pay is around CAD 55,000 to 70,000 (INR 34L to 43L) annually, excluding living expenses.

Q. What is the worldwide ranking of the University of Waterloo?

A. The University of Waterloo is ranked #112 worldwide in the 2024 QS World University Rankings. The ranking is based on several factors: academic reputation, employer reputation, faculty-to-student ratio, citations per faculty, international-faculty ratio, and international-student ratio. The university's focus on research and innovation is reflected in its high score in the citations per faculty category. The University of Waterloo is particularly well-known for its engineering, computer science, and mathematics programs.

Q. Where is the University of Waterloo located?

A. The University of Waterloo is a public research university in Ontario, Canada. Its main campus is in Waterloo, while the university has satellite campuses in other cities across Ontario. The university is known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning and cooperative education, producing successful graduates in various fields. 

Q. Does the University of Waterloo require the GRE/GMAT exam for international students?

A. Generally, the University of Waterloo doesn’t require a GMAT/GRE, but you should check your preferred program as this may vary according to the program of study. Students should check the program-specific admission requirements to confirm whether they must take these exams.

Q. What happens if I get an offer from the University of Waterloo?

A. If you are offered admission to the University of Waterloo, you will receive instructions on accepting the offer and enrolling in your program. The university will provide all the details on how to proceed with enrollment. Complete all the steps on time to secure your spot in the program.

Q. What is the average salary for the University of Waterloo graduates?

A.  The average salary for University of Waterloo graduates varies depending on their program of study and industry. According to reports, the average starting salary for the University of Waterloo graduates is about 67,000 CAD (INR 40L) per year.

Q. Is the University of Waterloo hard to get into?

A. The University of Waterloo is a moderately competitive institution. The acceptance rate for undergraduate programs is around 53%, which means getting into the university is challenging. However, more than minimum requirements are needed, as admission decisions are based on a holistic application review, including academic performance, extracurricular activities, and relevant experiences.

Q. Is Waterloo the MIT of Canada?

A. Yes, the University of Waterloo is often compared to MIT for its emphasis on innovation and technological advancement. Still, it also has its unique strengths and areas of expertise. Both universities strongly focus on research and produce successful graduates in various fields. However, while there may be similarities, each institution's distinct culture and approach to education sets it apart.

Q. Does Waterloo provide scholarships?

A. Yes, the University of Waterloo offers a variety of scholarships and awards to support students in their studies. Students should check the university's website for more information on available scholarships, such as the International Student Scholarship.

Q. What are additional application requirements beyond academics?

A. The University of Waterloo evaluates applications based on academic and non-academic factors. In addition to academic transcripts and test scores, non-academic factors such as extracurricular activities, volunteer workleadership experience, and personal statements are also considered. Some programs may require additional materials such as essays, portfolios, or interviews. Applicants must review the specific requirements for their program of interest to ensure they submit a complete and competitive application.

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