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University of Waterloo

Waterloo, Ontario · Public University · Est. 1957

QS World #112 Star rating 6/6 Universities Canada Admissions open
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Type
Public University
Founded
1957
Students
42,000
International
8,500

Overview

Waterloo is Canada’s innovation university, famous for the world’s largest post-secondary co-op program and its powerhouse programmes in computer science, engineering and mathematics.

Ranking figures are indicative and provided for general guidance — always verify current positions with the official QS rankings and the university.

Programs at Waterloo

20 programs across 3 study levels.

Bachelor's Degree

Bachelor's Degree Architecture

Bachelor of Architecture

University of Waterloo

⏱ 3–4 years 🎓 Full Time 💰 CAD 197,750 total
Bachelor's Degree Geology

Bachelor of Geology

University of Waterloo

⏱ 3–4 years 🎓 Full Time 💰 CAD 197,750 total
Bachelor's Degree Physical Fitness

Bachelor of Physical Fitness

University of Waterloo

⏱ 3–4 years 🎓 Full Time 💰 CAD 197,750 total

Master's Degree

Master's Degree Civil Engineering

Master of Civil Engineering

University of Waterloo

⏱ 1–2 years 🎓 Full Time 💰 CAD 101,700 total

PhD / Doctorate

PhD / Doctorate Actuarial Analytics

PhD in Actuarial Analytics

University of Waterloo

⏱ 3–5 years 🎓 Full Time 💰 CAD 203,400 total
PhD / Doctorate Civil Engineering

PhD in Civil Engineering

University of Waterloo

⏱ 3–5 years 🎓 Full Time 💰 CAD 316,400 total
PhD / Doctorate Geology

PhD in Geology

University of Waterloo

⏱ 3–5 years 🎓 Full Time 💰 CAD 203,400 total
PhD / Doctorate Physical Fitness

PhD in Physical Fitness

University of Waterloo

⏱ 3–5 years 🎓 Full Time 💰 CAD 203,400 total

Tuition fees & costs

Indicative annual tuition

CAD 45,000 – CAD 68,000/yr

Premium tuition

Indicative living cost

CAD 15,000–24,000/yr

On-campus accommodation

Fees vary by programme and are indicative. Confirm exact fees with the university before applying.

Admission requirements

High-school diploma (undergraduate) or a relevant bachelor’s degree (postgraduate) meeting the programme’s minimum GPA; programme-specific prerequisites apply.

English: IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL iBT 86–90 / Duolingo 115 (programme-dependent). French-language proof at Québec institutions.

How to apply

  1. 1Check the entry requirements and intake dates for your chosen programme on the official website.
  2. 2Confirm you meet the entry requirements: High-school diploma (undergraduate) or a relevant bachelor’s degree (postgraduate) meeting the programme’s minimum GPA; programme-specific prerequisites apply..
  3. 3Apply directly through the university admission portal (international students may apply via IRCC).
  4. 4Submit your transcripts and English-proficiency scores (IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo English Test) and pay the application fee.
  5. 5On receiving your offer letter, accept it and, if international, begin your study permit process via IRCC.

For international students

International students need a Canadian study permit. Most programmes are taught in English (French at Québec institutions), and graduates may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

Read the study permit & IRCC guide →

Scholarships at Waterloo

Last updated 14 Aug 2026. Information is provided for guidance — verify with official sources before applying.