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University of Waterloo: Rankings, Cost, Programs, Reviews
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Last updated on 17 Apr '25WaterlooWhat’s new?
- University of Waterloo application deadline for most postgraduate programs offered is Jun, 01 2025.
- International students who wish to study at UOW can apply through the Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC), which handles applications to each of Ontario's universities.
- About University of Waterloo
- University of Waterloo Programs
- Waterloo Student Reviews
- University of Waterloo Scholarships
- University of Waterloo Admissions 2025
- + 8 more items
About University of Waterloo
Established in 1956, the University of Waterloo is one of the top public universities located in Waterloo, Canada. When it comes to University of Waterloo rankings, it is a part of the top 150 global universities. The University of Waterloo University’s international reputation for innovation and excellence attracts creative and inspiring graduate students and researchers around the world. For University of Waterloo admissions, international students must meet the English proficiency requirements as well as the entry requirements. According to the official Shiksha Popularity Rankings, the University of Waterloo has an overall ranking of #5 in Canada. The University of Waterloo's acceptance rate stands at 55%, which indicates that securing admission to this university is moderately competitive.
University of Waterloo History
Initially founded as Waterloo College, the University of Waterloo dates back to 1956. In 1958, Waterloo University's first building was established for Chemistry and Chemical Engineering courses. In 2004, Biologist John Thompson discovered gene eIF5A — a death switch in plants and animals that determines whether cells live or die which also enhances crop yields and combat cancer and other diseases. In 2006, Canada’s only pharmacy co-op program the School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Campus came into existence in downtown Kitchener. In 2007, the largest amount awarded to any Canadian university, the Canadian Foundation for Innovation announced a USD 33M grant to the University of Waterloo. In 2013, the first and only live-in campus-linked accelerator in Canada St. Paul’s Green-House Social Impact Incubator was founded by the university. Now, the University of Waterloo has a rich alumni base of over 203,000 graduates from 152 countries around the globe.
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
Q: Is University of Waterloo hard to get into?
The University of Waterloo acceptance rate is 53%, so, for every 100 applicants, 53 are admitted. This means the school is moderately selective. This justifies that the university is moderately selective when it comes to admission. The parts of an impressive application include high school grades or other academic qualification scores, English language proficiency scores, letter of recommendation, personal essay, extra-curricular, etc.
Upvote 
Q: How can I get admission to University of Waterloo for Masters?
The minimum requirements to take admission to University of Waterloo Master of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence are given below:
- The applicants must have an honors bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics or a related field, with a 78% minimum overall average
- Apart from the above requirement, the applicants must have experience at the senior level in at least one Computer Science or Statistics
- Proof of English Language proficiency
- Resume / CV
- Academic Transcripts
- Letter of Recommendation
- Supplementary Information Form
Upvote Q: Is Waterloo the MIT of Canada?
Located within the famous technology triangle of Canada, the University of Waterloo is known as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) of Canada. When we speak of innovation, then the University of Waterloo was one of the first universities that had an entire faculty dedicated to the study of the environment and according to Maclean’s magazine, it has been placed at the 1st rank in Canada in the innovative universities category. Here you study with some of the brightest minds of the world and here you are taught by Canada's top professors who are known for their research and teaching.
Upvote Q: How much is the application fee for Waterloo University?
The applicants looking to pursue undergraduate studies at the University of Waterloo need to apply and pay their application fee by OUAC. The base application fee while applying at OUAC is CAD 156 to apply for the initial three programme choices. To apply for a graduate programme at the University of Waterloo, the applicants are required to pay CAD 125 per program.
Upvote Q: Is it hard to get into the University of Waterloo?
According to unofficial sources, the University of Waterloo acceptance rate is 53%. So, for every 100 applicants at the University of Waterloo, 53 are admitted. The acceptance rate proves that the University of Waterloo is moderately selective when it comes to admissions. So, if any applicant exceeds the eligibility requirements of a program, there is a high chance of getting into the university. The University of Waterloo admission averages range from the low 80s and mid-90s. Note that the admission averages can vary depending on the number of applications the University of Waterloo receives, the number of spaces available in each program, and the grades of the applicants. Smaller or highly competitive programs shall have higher admission ranges.
Upvote University of Waterloo Programs
The University of Waterloo is known for offering the best academic courses to its students. The University of Waterloo Canada offers more than 100 undergraduate programs, from Digital Arts, Robotics & Biotechnology, to Health, Data Science, and Sustainability. On the other hand, more than 180 graduate programs and doctoral programs are offered at the University of Waterloo. Some of the study areas for the master’s and doctoral programs are Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Economics, etc.
|
Course Level |
Count of Programs |
|---|---|
|
Undergraduate |
More than 100 |
|
Master’s and doctoral programs |
More than 180 |
The University of Waterloo Popular Programs Chosen by Alumni:
According to Shiksha Popularity Rankings, the University of Waterloo programs are ranked as follows:
|
Type of Programs |
Shiksha Popularity Rankings |
|---|---|
|
MS |
4 |
|
Biology |
12 |
|
Physics |
3 |
|
M.Arch |
4 |
|
M.A. |
10 |
|
Computer Science Engineering |
2 |
|
Mathematics |
3 |
|
Politics |
11 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
3 |
3.84 - 5 years
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4.212 months - 2 years
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Explore courses offered by University of Waterloo
Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
Q: What are the popular majors offered by the University of Waterloo?
Waterloo University is highly regarded for offering the best academic programs for its international and domestic students. The University of Waterloo offers various undergraduate and postgraduate programs for its students. Additionally, the University of Waterloo Canada offers more than 100 undergraduate and 180 postgraduate programs for its students. Some of the top majors at the University of Waterloo are as follows:
- Science
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Mathematics
Upvote Q: What are the most popular programs among international students at the University of Waterloo?
The University of Waterloo offers a variety of programs at undergraduate and postgraduate levels for its international students. Waterloo University offers over 100 undergraduate and 180 postgraduate programs for its international students. Moreover, Waterloo University's most popular programs among international students are as follows:
- Science
- Electrical & Electronic Engineering
- Energy & Fuel
- Mechanical Engineering
Furthermore, the top programs chosen by Waterloo alumni are as follows:
Upvote Q: Is the University of Waterloo good for Computer Science Masters?
Yes, pursuing a Master of Mathematics – Computer Science from the University of Waterloo is worth an investment. This is because after pursuing this course students will advance into senior industry roles quickly. Furthermore, students can command a larger salary. After pursuing this course, the graduates can go for industry work with advanced knowledge in Computer Science.
Upvote Q: What courses does the University of Waterloo offer?
The University of Waterloo offers more than 100 undergraduate programs in areas from health, business, engineering, to humanities and social sciences, mathematics, science, and the environment. The course duration ranges from 4 to 5 years depending on the course you are pursuing.
Upvote Q: What is the ranking of University of Waterloo by Shiksha Popularity Rankings?
The University of Waterloo is among the top universities for higher education in the United Kingdom. The university offers a variety of programs at undergraduate and postgraduate levels for its international students. The University of Waterloo top programs are ranked by top ranking authorities. According to Shiksha Popularity Rankings, the University of Waterloo top programs rankings are listed below:
Type of Programs | Shiksha Popularity Rankings |
|---|---|
MS | 4 |
Biology | 12 |
Physics | 3 |
M.Arch | 4 |
M.A. | 10 |
Computer Science Engineering | 2 |
Mathematics | 3 |
Politics | 11 |
Mechanical Engineering | 3 |
Upvote WaterlooStudents Ratings & Reviews
17 Verified Reviews
- Academically oriented
- Friendly
- Liberal
- Multi-dimensional
- 35% students never faced discrimination in this university
WaterlooUniversity of Waterloo Scholarships
The University of Waterloo offers a range of scholarships for its international and domestic students. Additionally, University of Waterloo scholarships for international students are offered at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Moreover, Waterloo University considers international students for scholarships such as Merit and President’s scholarships that range from USD 1,000 - 5,000 (INR 83,814 – INR 4,19 lakh). Furthermore, Waterloo University scholarships for international students are as follows:
|
Type of Scholarships |
Eligibility |
Scholarship Award |
|---|---|---|
|
Faculty of Science International Student Scholarships |
Most programs in the Faculty of Science |
55 scholarships of USD 15,000 - 40,000 (INR 12.57 L - 33.52 L) |
|
All programs |
20 scholarships valued at USD 10,000 each (INR 8.38 lakh) |
|
|
Faculty of Engineering International Student Entrance Scholarships |
All Engineering programs except Architecture |
Up to 20 valued at USD 10,000 (INR 8.38 lakh) |
|
Faculty of Mathematics Global Scholarships |
Most programs in the Faculty of Mathematics |
Up to 10 valued at USD 12,000 - 40,000 (INR 10.5 L – 33.52 L) |
|
Faculty of Mathematics International Awards: India |
Most programs in the Faculty of Mathematics |
Up to 15 valued at USD 20,000 to USD 40,000 (INR 16.76 L - 33.52 L) |
Conversion used: USD 1 - INR 83.81
University of Waterloo Admissions 2025
University of Waterloo admission process varies for undergraduate and graduate students. Candidates applying for Bachelor's courses can apply through UOAC. Whereas, graduate students planning to pursue master's courses can apply through the Official Application Portal.
University of Waterloo Application Deadline 2025 for International Students
|
Particulars |
Deadlines |
|---|---|
|
Postgraduate |
Jun 01, 2025 |
University of Waterloo Admission Requirements for International Students
University of Waterloo admission requirements vary as per the choice of course. Hence, students are advised to go through the Waterloo University eligibility requirements before applying.
- For admission into undergraduate programs, students must have a first or second division in any one of the following: All India Senior School Certificate offered by CBSE, ISC Certificate awarded by CISCE, or any other pre-university certificate awarded after 12 years of academic studies.
- Indian students applying for the graduate programs, should have completed a minimum 4-year honors bachelor’s degree or equivalent with at least 75%.
University of Waterloo English Language Requirements
University of Waterloo accepts major English language exam scores as proof of proficiency in the language. The minimum score requirement at the university is as follows:
|
English Proficiency Exam |
Minimum Score Requirements |
|---|---|
|
TOEFL (iBT) |
90 or higher |
|
IELTS Academic |
6.5 or higher |
|
CAEL |
70 or higher |
|
63 or higher |
|
|
Cambridge English Test |
180 or higher |
|
120 or higher |
University of Waterloo Acceptance Rate
The University of Waterloo's acceptance rate stands at 53%.
University of Waterloo Application Fees
The University of Waterloo application fee for graduate programs is CAD 125 (INR 7,559).
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
Q: What are some helpful tips for students starting their first year at University of Waterloo?
University of Waterloo is one of the top public universities in Canada and students across the world desire to study here. As per some Waterloo University student reviews, listed below are some helpful tips for students starting their first year at University of Waterloo:
- Students are recommended to stay in university residences and befriend the people they meet there;
- Join clubs and participate actively in co-curricular activities;
- Build a schedule and stay organized;
- Do not procastinate studying; and
- Find out a way to de-stress and engage in fun activities/events.
Upvote Q: Is it hard to get into the University of Waterloo?
The University of Waterloo is one of Canada's most reputable universities for higher education. The University of Waterloo acceptance rate of 55%. This means that, out of every 100 applicants, only 55 are admitted to the University of Waterloo. Although this figure represents slightly more than half of all applicants, it still indicates that the University of Waterloo is competitive to get into. International students are advised to apply before the university’s application deadline to ensure a smooth admission process.
Upvote Q: What are the admission requirements for international students at the University of Waterloo?
University of Waterloo admission requirements vary as per the choice of course. International students must meet the admission requirements at the university. Moreover, the admission requirements for UG and PG programs are listed below:
- For admission into undergraduate programs, students must have a first or second division in any one of the following: All India Senior School Certificate offered by CBSE, ISC Certificate awarded by CISCE, or any other pre-university certificate awarded after 12 years of academic studies.
- Indian students applying for the graduate programs, should have completed a minimum 4-year honors bachelor’s degree or equivalent with at least 75%.
Upvote Q: What are the application deadlines for international students at the University of Waterloo?
The University of Waterloo is one of Canada's most reputed universities for higher education. For University of Waterloo admissions, international students must meet the English language requirement and entry requirements. Moreover, students for the UG programs can apply through OUAC, and for PG programs via the Official University Portal. Furthermore, the University of Waterloo application deadline for international students is listed below:
Particulars | Deadlines |
|---|---|
Undergraduate | Jan, 2026 (tentative) |
Postgraduate | Jun 01, 2025 |
Upvote Q: How much is the University of Waterloo application fee for Master of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence?
The University of Waterloo application fee for Master of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence is 125 CAD. This is a non-refundable application fee and can be paid via the following payment modes:
- Visa
- Mastercard
- Visa Debit
- American Express
- Debit Mastercard
- Union Pay
Upvote University of Waterloo Fees
University of Waterloo tuition fee & duration vary from program to program. The University of Waterloo fee for Indian students is affordable. Additionally, the average tuition fee for undergraduate programs at the University of Waterloo ranges from INR 24.85 L - 44.35 L. Moreover, the University of Waterloo’s average tuition fee for postgraduate programs ranges from INR 9.35 L - 42.13 L. Check the table mentioned below to know more about the courses, fees, and duration & eligibility:
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
B.E. / B.Tech(17 courses) | INR 25 L - 44 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4-5 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 63 & Above |
MS(20 courses) | INR 13 L - 29 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 12 months-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 - 7.5, TOEFL: 90 - 100, PTE: 63 - 68 |
B.Sc.(36 courses) | INR 25 L - 31 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4-5 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 63 & Above |
B.A.(27 courses) | INR 25 L - 34 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4-5 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 63 & Above |
M.A.(18 courses) | INR 13 L - 22 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 12 months-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 - 7.5, TOEFL: 90 - 100, PTE: 63 - 68 |
MASc(6 courses) | INR 9 L - 15 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 8 months-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 - 7, TOEFL: 80 - 90, PTE: 60 - 63 |
BBA(12 courses) | INR 25 L - 44 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4-5 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 63 & Above |
B.Pharma(2 courses) | INR 26 L - 30 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 63 & Above |
MBA/PGDM(9 courses) | INR 13 L - 41 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 1 year-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 - 7.5, TOEFL: 90 - 100, PTE: 63 - 68 |
MIM(9 courses) | INR 13 L - 41 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 1 year-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 - 7.5, TOEFL: 90 - 100, PTE: 63 - 68 |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
Q: How much does Waterloo cost for international students?
When we look at the University of Waterloo tuition fees for international students, then for undergraduate studies, the approximate tuition fee ranges from USD 45,000 - 70,000. On the other hand, the tuition fee for international graduate students vary from programme to program. If we consider the cost of living for undergraduates, then the average personal expenses shall be around USD 3,000, the books and supplies will be USD 2,370 (higher for some courses), the meal expenses shall range from USD 5,050 - 5,850 and residence cost will range from USD 6,128 - 8,155.
Upvote Q: What is the tuition fee at Waterloo University?
The table given below can be referred to know about the University of Waterloo fees for Indian students (first-year) for the popular courses along with their duration.
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
MS (23 courses) | INR 13 L - 34 L |
MIM (8 courses) | INR 13 L - 43 L |
BE / BTech (17 courses) | INR 26 L - 42 L |
BSc (36 courses) | INR 25 L - 33 L |
MASc (6 courses) | INR 13 L - 16 L |
MA (18 courses) | INR 13 L - 23 L |
BA (27 courses) | INR 25 L - 33 L |
BBA (12 courses) | INR 25 L - 42 L |
B.Ed (2 courses) | INR 25 L - 28 L |
MEng (5 courses) | INR 30 L |
BJMC (1 course) | INR 25 L |
B.Arch (3 courses) | INR 25 L - 38 L |
The estimated study and living cost of the graduate and doctoral students of University of Waterloo are given below.
Expense | Estimated Cost (one year) |
|---|---|
Off-campus housing (shared) | CAD 9,600 - 21,600 |
Food (Groceries) | CAD 4,380 |
Telephone | CAD 1,200 |
Entertainment / Recreation | CAD 1,680 |
Personal Care | CAD 900 |
Clothing | CAD 1,500 |
Laundry | CAD 480 |
Transportation | CAD 360 |
Books and Supplies | CAD 2,820 |
Also, in addition to the above study cost there will be some additional one-time costs applicable such as computer, security deposit, home decor, and winter clothing.
Upvote Q: What are the admission requirements to study in Canada?
As per the choice of course and university, the eligibility requirements to study in Canada varies. For international students, some of the basic admission requirements to study in Canada are given below:
- Academic transcripts
- Standardized test scores - SAT
- Aptitude test scores - GRE / LSAT
- English language proficiency test score
- Statement of Purpose
- Essay
- Letter of Recommendation
- Copy of valid passport
- Proof of finances
Upvote Q: What are my chances of getting admission to the University of Waterloo?
The chance of getting admission to the University of Waterloo is moderate for international students and depends on students' academic performance, course type, standardized scores, extracurricular activities, and relevant experience. However, standardized test scores are not mandatory for all programs but submitting them may impact positively during admissions.
Upvote Q: What is the University of Waterloo's acceptance rate?
The University of Waterloo acceptance rate is 53% which showcases moderate selection criteria. Students with high GPA, standardized scores, and relevant experience have a high probability of getting admission. In addition, students who have been involved in extracurricular activities enhance their chances of getting selected. The University of Waterloo admission requirements include high school transcripts, English language requirements, and GPA scores.
Upvote University of Waterloo Placements
The University of Waterloo is highly regarded for offering the best placement rate across the nation. The university placement rate is the main attraction for international and domestic students. Additionally, the University of Waterloo placement rate is 91.3% with 6 months of graduation. Moreover, within 2 years of graduation, the University of Waterloo placement rate is 95.5%.
- The University of Waterloo graduate students work in top companies such as Google, Amazon, Microsoft, etc.
- Moreover, the University of Waterloo students are placed in leading working sectors that include Engineering, Information Technology, and more.
- Also, the University of Waterloo graduate students are highly skilled in Leadership, Project Management, Communication, etc.
- The top program preferences of the University of Waterloo alumni are Computer Science, Mathematics, Computational Science, and more.
Alumni Statistics: Sectors Placed
ROI After Education from the University of Waterloo
The average annual salary of University of Waterloo graduates is CAD 67,000 (INR 41.51 lakh) annually. The average salary of University of Waterloo graduates is given below:
|
Job Title |
Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
|
Software Developer |
CAD 71,943 (INR 44.58 lakh) |
|
Software Engineer |
CAD 76,124 (INR 47.17 lakh) |
|
Data Analyst |
CAD 58,719 (INR 36.38 lakh) |
|
Project Engineer |
CAD 74,136 (INR 45.94 lakh) |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
CAD 64,749 (INR 40.12 lakh) |
|
Sr. Software Engineer / Developer / Programmer |
CAD 93,357 (INR 57.85 lakh) |
|
Project Manager |
CAD 73,763 (INR 45.70 lakh) |
The conversion used: CAD 1 – INR 61.97, Source: the above table is curated from payscale
The University of Waterloo's Top Employers
Some of the top employers at the University of Waterloo are as follows:
- Amazon
- Microsoft
- Apple
- Deloitte
- Meta
Top Recruiters
Commonly asked questions On Placements
Q: How much do Waterloo graduates make?
The University of Waterloo average salary is around CAD 67,000 or INR 41.38 L for graduate students. The table below includes the University of Waterloo average salary offered by popular employers:
Popular Companies | Average Salary (in C$) | Average Salary (in INR) |
|---|---|---|
Manulife | 61,871 | 38.21 L |
Loblaw's Company Limited | 65,244 | 40.29 L |
TD Canada | 64,964 | 40.12 L |
Sun Life Financial Inc. | 59,294 | 36.62 L |
RBC Bank | 77,500 | 47.86 L |
WSP Global Inc. | 90,915 | 56.15 L |
TD Financial Group | 70,791 | 43.72 L |
Upvote Q: How are the University of Waterloo placements?
The average annual salary of University of Waterloo graduates is CAD 67,000 (INR 41.51 lakh). According to unofficial sources on the web, the average salary of University of Waterloo graduates is given below:
Job Title | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
Software Developer | CAD 71,943 (INR 44.58 lakh) |
Software Engineer | CAD 76,124 (INR 47.17 lakh) |
Data Analyst | CAD 58,719 (INR 36.38 lakh) |
Project Engineer | CAD 74,136 (INR 45.94 lakh) |
Mechanical Engineer | CAD 64,749 (INR 40.12 lakh) |
Sr. Software Engineer / Developer / Programmer | CAD 93,357 (INR 57.85 lakh) |
Project Manager, (Unspecified Type / General) | CAD 73,763 (INR 45.70 lakh) |
The conversion used: CAD 1 – INR 61.97, Source: the above table is curated from payscale
Upvote Q: Which companies are the top recruiters of University of Waterloo graduates?
The University of Waterloo is one of the most esteemed universities in Canada. Additionally, the university has one of the highest placement rates in Canada. The University of Waterloo placement rate is 91.3%, and the graduates are employed within 6 months of graduation. Moreover, the top employers at the University of Waterloo are as follows:
- Amazon
- Microsoft
- Apple
- Deloitte
- Meta
- Amazon Web Services
- Tesla
- Scotiabank
Upvote Q: What is the placement rate of University of Waterloo?
The University of Waterloo is renowned for having the highest placement rate in Canada. Additionally, the University of Waterloo graduates are consistently in high demand all over the world. Moreover, the University of Waterloo placement rate stands at 91.3%. In addition, the graduates got employed within six months of graduation. Furthermore, within 2 years of graduation, the University of Waterloo placement rate is 95.5%, which is increased by 2.2% within just 18 months.
Upvote Q: Is the University of Waterloo good for placements?
The University of Waterloo is good for placements as the graduates are placed at top organizations. The University of Waterloo placement rate is 96% as Biotech, CFM, AFM, and MAcc grads are employed within 6 months of graduation. Top employers like Coursera, Microsoft, Intel, Facebook, etc. hire the University of Waterloo graduates and offer them better salary packages. Check the infographic below for more details about the University of Waterloo average salary by job:
(Source: emolument)
Upvote University of Waterloo Ranking 2025
University of Waterloo is considered to be one of the top universities in Canada. According to Shiksha Popularity Ranking, University of Waterloo ranking stands at #5 in 2025, at national level. Apart from this, the university is also ranked by QS 2025 at #115 for World University Ranking category. The university ranking for QS at World University Ranking level for 2024 was #112. This shows that the university's position has witnessed a declined trend this year.
ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) also ranks the university among the top names. In 2024, University of Waterloo ranking stood at #151 for Universities Rankings category, showcasing a stagnant trend when compared to the last year.Moreover, a few of the University of Waterloo courses are also ranked by Shiksha Popularity Ranking. Below are the course rankings:
| Course name | Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2025 |
|---|---|
| MIM | #11 |
| MS | #4 |
| Others PG | #14 |
| M.Arch | #4 |
| M.A. | #10 |
#5
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
Q: Why is Shiksha Grading for University of Waterloo better than other ranking bodies?
Shiksha Study Abroad has launched Shiksha Grading. University ranking is one of the most important factors that students consider when choosing an international university. University ranking highly influence student’s decision to study abroad. There are several ranking authorities available on the web. Multiple rankings create confusion in student’s minds. Therefore, Shiksha Grading has categorized their ranking into 9 different grades which are A+, A, B+, B, C+, and C. Shiksha Grading grades universities as per their particular country. Moreover, courses offered by the universities are also graded as per the availability at the respective college in a specific country. This will remove the necessity for students to visit various ranking agencies to find out universities and colleges rankings.
Upvote Q: What is the ranking of Waterloo University?
The University of Waterloo has been ranked #112 overall in the 2024 QS World University Ranking, a significant improvement from last year's place at 154. QS has also ranked Waterloo among the top five universities in Canada. Waterloo has performed on parameters like international faculty ratio, international student ratio, sustainability and citations per faculty.
Upvote The University of Waterloo Vs McMaster University Vs York University: Which is better?
The University of Waterloo, McMaster University, and York University are among the most esteemed universities across the globe. Students need to check several parameters such as Shiksha Grading, salary, popular courses, location, and more. Furthermore, check the comparison stated below of these universities. Moreover, this will surely help students to gain more clarity on these respective universities:
Compare Waterloo with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Shiksha Grade | Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| INR 25.26 L - 44.06 L | A | #60 QS, 2025 | |
| INR 17.87 L - 23.38 L | A | #100 QS, 2025 | |
| INR 16 L - 39.61 L | A+ | #15 QS, 2025 | |
| INR 19.25 L - 28.83 L | A+ | #58 QS, 2025 | |
| INR 9.24 L - 11.96 L | -/- | -/- | |
| INR 10.76 L - 14.49 L | B+ | #401 THE, 2025 |
CompareCommonly asked questions On Comparisons
Q: Is the University of Waterloo better than the University of Toronto?
University of Waterloo as well as the University of Toronto are two well-known universities in Canada and great study abroad options for students. When it comes to rankings, Toronto University beats the Waterloo University with the rank #21 in QS World University Rankings for the year 2024. Whereas, the latter has been ranked #112 in the same category.
Mentioned below is the comparison between both the universities on the basis of some other parameters that can help you choose the better university for you:
Parameters | University of Waterloo | University of Toronto |
|---|---|---|
World Ranking (QS 2024) | #112 | #21 |
World Ranking (US News 2023) | #191 | #18 |
Acceptance Rate | 53% | 43% |
Average GPA/Grades Required | 3.7 GPA | 70% |
Annual Tuition Fee (MS) | INR 13 L - 34 L | INR 19 L - 41 L |
Overall, the University of Toronto is considered to have an upper hand among both the universities due to its high ranking, academic excellence, renowned alumni, experienced faculty, vibrant campus life, and more.
Upvote Q: Which University is better: the University of Waterloo or McMaster University?
Both the University of Waterloo and McMaster University have their advantages and disadvantages. Moreover, it depends on each student’s requirements and their respective needs. Additionally, some factors that may influence student’s decisions are program, location, tuition fee, ranking, etc. In terms of ranking McMaster University stands taller than the University of Waterloo. According to the official Shiksha Grading, the University of Waterloo has an A ranking and McMaster University has an A+ ranking. Furthermore, the detailed comparison between these respective universities are listed below:
Upvote WaterlooStudying in Canada
Key Facts About Canada
Insights on education, demographics & weather.
Commonly asked questions On Study in Country
Q: Which are the top 5 universities in Canada?
According to the QS World University Rankings 2025 and Times Higher Education (THE) - World University Rankings 2025, the top 5 universities in Canada are:
University | QS World Ranking 2025 | THE Ranking 2025 |
|---|---|---|
#25 | #21 | |
#29 | #45 | |
#38 | #41 | |
#96 | #116 | |
#115 | #163 |
Compared to the US, Canadian universities provide cheaper tuition fees, easy application process, and more opportunities for permanent residency after graduation.
Upvote Q: Why should I study in Canada?
Some of the benefits of studying in Canada for international students include:
- World-class universities: Canadian universities are ranked among the top universities in the world. In the QS World University Rankings 2025, a total of 11 Canadian universities are within the first 200 ranks. Whereas, in the Times Higher Education (THE) World Universities Rankings 2024, a total of 8universities are in the top 200 ranks.
- Affordable education: Compared to the US and UK, the tuition fee in Canada is fairly cheaper. If we consider the return on investment, Canada is quite a viable option for Indian students. One can also apply for a range of Canadian scholarships to cut down the educational expenses.
- Cultural diversity: There are very welcoming and warm people who come from varied ethnic groups with different cultures and lifestyles. This multicultural environment in Canada is one of the noteworthy factors that attract international students as it promotes friendliness and peaceful living like no other country. In Canada, there are more than 250 ethnic origins along with 200 languages from around the world and 70 indigenous languages spoken.
- Lively and vibrant campus life: At Canadian universities, students can expect fests, events, and activities to be conducted throughout the year. This creates a lively and happy environment for all the students as it helps in making a network and meeting new people, whilst keeping the homesickness away.
- Immigration opportunities: The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP Canada) in Canada shall allow students to stay there and get some work experience after the completion of graduation. The maximum length of a PGWP is three years.
Upvote Q: What are the admission requirements to study in Canada?
As per the choice of course and university, the eligibility requirements to study in Canada varies. For international students, some of the basic admission requirements to study in Canada are given below:
- Academic transcripts
- Standardized test scores - SAT
- Aptitude test scores - GRE / LSAT
- English language proficiency test score
- Statement of Purpose
- Essay
- Letter of Recommendation
- Copy of valid passport
- Proof of finances
Upvote University of Waterloo Notable Alumni
The University of Waterloo is one of the oldest universities in Canada. Additionally, the university has more than 250,000 alumni who are living worldwide. According to the University of Waterloo, the alumni network represents over 154 countries. Some of the famous personalities that are part of the university alumni network are Rasmus Lerdorf, Chamath Palihapitiya, Steve Smith, and more. Furthermore, some notable alumni of the University of Waterloo are mentioned below:
|
Name of Personality |
Profession |
Picture |
|---|---|---|
|
Mike Lazaridis |
Canadian Businessman and Investor |
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|
George Elliott Clarke |
Canadian Poet and Playwright |
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|
Kevin O'Leary |
Canadian Businessman |
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Chamath Palihapitiya |
Canadian-American venture capitalist |
|
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Rasmus Lerdorf |
Danish-Canadian computer programmer |
 |
|
Steve Smith |
Canadian Actor and Writer |
 |
|
Erik Demaine |
Canadian-American professor |
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Cyd Ho |
Hong Kong politician |
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Robert Tibshirani |
Professor |
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|
Ingrid Mattson |
Former president of the Islamic Society of North America |
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|
Heather Moyse |
Canadian Athlete |
 |
|
Heather Dale |
Canadian musician and author |
 |
Commonly asked questions On Alumni
Q: Which famous personalities graduated from the University of Waterloo?
The University of Waterloo is among the best universities for pursuing higher education. Additionally, various famous personalities have graduated from the university such as Gary Goodyear (Canadian Member of Parliament), Rick Green (Comedian and member of The Frantics), Chris Hadfield (Astronaut), etc. Moreover, the University of Waterloo is proud to announce that 40% of students at their campus are international students from over 84 countries. Furthermore, the students work in top sectors such as Business Development, Engineering, Information Technology, and more.
Upvote Q: How many students attend the University of Waterloo?
The University of Waterloo is one of the most prominent universities in Canada. It is highly regarded for offering top academic programs to both international and domestic students. According to the university, over 42,500 students attend the University of Waterloo annually. Additionally, the university has more than 250,000 alumni in over 154 countries. Furthermore, university graduates work in leading companies such as Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, and more.
Upvote Q: How many alumni does the University of Waterloo have?
The University of Waterloo is one of the oldest universities in the nation. Additionally, the university is highly regarded by international and domestic students. Moreover, the university has over 250,000 alumni from all over the world. Furthermore, the university alumni are highly skilled in Leadership, Teamwork, Strategic Planning, Management, etc.
Upvote WaterlooDetails
Commonly asked questions On Others
Q: Which University is better: the University of Waterloo or McMaster University?
Both the University of Waterloo and McMaster University have their advantages and disadvantages. Moreover, it depends on each student’s requirements and their respective needs. Additionally, some factors that may influence student’s decisions are program, location, tuition fee, ranking, etc. In terms of ranking McMaster University stands taller than the University of Waterloo. According to the official Shiksha Grading, the University of Waterloo has an A ranking and McMaster University has an A+ ranking. Furthermore, the detailed comparison between these respective universities are listed below:
Upvote Q: Is the University of Waterloo better than the University of Toronto?
University of Waterloo as well as the University of Toronto are two well-known universities in Canada and great study abroad options for students. When it comes to rankings, Toronto University beats the Waterloo University with the rank #21 in QS World University Rankings for the year 2024. Whereas, the latter has been ranked #112 in the same category.
Mentioned below is the comparison between both the universities on the basis of some other parameters that can help you choose the better university for you:
Parameters | University of Waterloo | University of Toronto |
|---|---|---|
World Ranking (QS 2024) | #112 | #21 |
World Ranking (US News 2023) | #191 | #18 |
Acceptance Rate | 53% | 43% |
Average GPA/Grades Required | 3.7 GPA | 70% |
Annual Tuition Fee (MS) | INR 13 L - 34 L | INR 19 L - 41 L |
Overall, the University of Toronto is considered to have an upper hand among both the universities due to its high ranking, academic excellence, renowned alumni, experienced faculty, vibrant campus life, and more.
Upvote Waterloo FAQs
Q: Is the University of Waterloo a good place to study for Indian students?
If you are looking to pursue higher education in Canada, then the University of Waterloo is one of the top schools to study. University of Waterloo offers over 100 undergraduate programs and over 180 master’s and doctoral programs to international students. Apart from this, when it comes to career success, the University of Waterloo has been ranked #24 in Canada for graduate employment rate as per the QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2024.
Upvote Q: Is the University of Waterloo a top university?
The University of Waterloo has been placed among the top 200 universities in the world in the QS World University Rankings and US News & World Report’s global universities ranking. If we talk about the University of Waterloo QS ranking, then the university ranks at the #112th position in 2024 and in the US News & World Report, it ranks at the #191st position for 2023 in the global universities category. Waterloo improved its QS ranking significantly to #112 from #154 in 2023.
Upvote Q: Is the University of Waterloo good for Indian students?
According to input from an Indian graduate from the University of Waterloo’s Faculty of Engineering, the university is a good fit for students who are looking for a new experience, are looking for a solid start for their careers, and are not scared of change. As the undergraduate study is important in a student’s life, the University of Waterloo aims to be perfect for that. Indian students can bond with other people easily and comfortably at the University of Waterloo. According to the University of Waterloo’s facts of 2022/23, the total graduate international student population was 41% and 19% was the undergraduate population.
Upvote Q: Is Waterloo University good?
As per the Research Infosource 2022, the University of Waterloo has been Canada's top research university for 14 years. Waterloo University has been ranked among the top 200 universities in the world by top publishers like QS (Top Universities), THE (Times Higher Education), and US News & World Report.
Upvote Q: What are the English language requirements at the University of Waterloo?
The University of Waterloo takes admission for international students in three intakes: Fall, Winter, and Spring. International students must meet the English language requirements at the University of Waterloo. International students whose native language is not English must submit proof of English language test at the University of Waterloo. Furthermore, the minimum score requirements of the English proficiency test are as follows:
English Proficiency Exam | Minimum Score Requirements |
|---|---|
TOEFL (iBT) | 90 or higher |
IELTS Academic | 6.5 or higher |
CAEL | 70 or higher |
63 or higher | |
Cambridge English Test | 180 or higher |
120 or higher |
Upvote Q: What is the tuition fee for international students at University of Waterloo?
The University of Waterloo public research university in Canada.
Additionally, University of Waterloo tuition fees for international students and domestic students can vary from one programme to another. Moreover, international students must refer to the specific programme fee page. Furthermore, the University of Waterloo tuition fee for undergraduate and postgraduate programs is listed below:
| Course level | Annual Tuition Fee in INR |
|---|---|
| UG | INR 24.85 L - 44.35 L |
| PG | INR 9.35 L - 42.13 L |
Upvote Waterloo
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered a month ago
The University of Waterloo is one of the best business schools in Canada. Waterloo University placement rate attracts international students the most. The University of Waterloo placement rate stands at 91.3%, and the graduates secured employment within 6 months of graduation. Moreover, the business
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Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
The University of Waterloo is known for offering the highest placement rate in Canada. The business school placement rate attracts international students the most. The University of Waterloo placement rate is 91.3%, and the graduates are employed within 6 months of graduation. According to unofficia
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
The University of Waterloo is among the top universities for higher education in Canada. Waterloo University graduates work for top companies such as Meta, Deloitte, Apple, University of Toronto, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Shopify, Tesla, WAT.ai, etc. The University of Waterloo placement rate is 91.
M
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
The University of Waterloo is among the top universities for international students to continue higher education in France. The business school graduates work for top companies all over the world. Moreover, the graduates are constantly in high demand. According to student's reviews on Shiksha, Unive
S
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
There are no GPA requirements at the University of Waterloo, however, students must aim GPA equivalent of 70% in high secondary school as a basic eligibility requirement. Along with this, students must submit all the necessary documents including Admission Information Form (AIF), English language re
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Contributor-Level 7
About the author
Waterloo
University Campus
University Campus
University South Campus
WaterlooLocation
| University City | Waterloo, Ontario, Canada |
| Size of city | Medium |
| Population of City | 1,04,986 |
WaterlooCampuses
University of Waterloo, Stratford Campus - 125 St. Patrick Street Stratford, ON N5A 0C1
Visit official siteWaterlooContact Information
200 University Avenue West, Waterloo Ontario, N2L 3G1
Waterloo ( Ontario)
In which sectors do University of Waterloo graduates work?