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Waterloo Admissions 2025: Application Deadline, Requirements & Costs

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  • Estd. 1956
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Waterloo Admissions
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Graduate international applicants can take the University of Waterloo admission in the Spring, Fall, and Winter semesters. The undergraduate and graduate applicants can refer to the University of Waterloo application deadline below:

Undergraduate Deadline:

  • UG: Closed

Postgraduate Deadline:

  • Masters: Varies as per the programs

University of Waterloo Admissions 2025

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Commonly asked questions
On Admissions
Q:   How much is the tuition fee at the University of Waterloo?
A: 

The University of Waterloo tuition cost ranges between INR 24L and INR 43L for UG, and INR 9L and INR 41L for PG. Students can check the tuition cost of the popular programs in the below table:

Courses

1st Year Tuition Fees

MS (20 courses)

INR 13 L - 29 L

MBA/PGDM (9 courses)

INR 13 L - 41 L

B.E. / B.Tech (17 courses)

INR 25 L - 44 L

MEng (5 courses)

INR 29 L - 30 L

B.Sc. (36 courses)

INR 25 L - 31 L

BBA (12 courses)

INR 25 L - 44 L

B.A. (27 courses)

INR 25 L - 34 L

M.A. (18 courses)

INR 13 L - 22 L

MASc (6 courses)

INR 9 L - 15 L

MIM (9 courses)

INR 13 L - 41 L

Q:   What are the requirements to get into the University of Waterloo?
A: 

International students must fulfill the eligibility criteria and submit the required documents for the desired programme at the University of Waterloo. The University of Waterloo requirements for UG and PG for international students are given below:

Undergraduate requirements:

  • Admission Information Form (AIF)
  • English language requirements
  • Transcripts
  • Program-specific requirements

Graduate requirements:

  • Unofficial transcripts (including awarding of degree/degree certificate) 
  • Reference
  • Supplementary Information Form (SIF)
  • Resume
  • Writing Sample
  • English language requirements
  • GRE/GMAT score
  • Resident card
  • Portfolio (For March., MFA)
Q:   Is IELTS required at the University of Waterloo?
A: 

The University of Waterloo requires a minimum of 6.5 scores in IELTS for UG and PG programs. Along with that, students must submit TOEFL, Duolingo, and PTE scores to submit proof of English language proficiency. The English language requirements for UG and PG programs at the University of Waterloo are given below:

English Language Test

UG Score

PG Score

IELTS

6.5 or above

6.5 or above

IELTS

90 or above

83 or above

PTE

63 or above

59 or above

Duolingo

120 or above

-

Q:   What GPA does the University of Waterloo accept?
A: 

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 requirements, transcripts and other program-specific requirements.

University of Waterloo MS Admissions 2025

20 courses 12 months - 2 years
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13.1L - 28.7L

iconEligibility Criteria

  • Undergraduate Degree with 75% aggregate
  • Accepting Exams: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, GRE
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Commonly asked questions
On MS Admissions
Q:   How can I get admission to University of Waterloo for Masters?
A: 

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
Q:   What is it like to study computer Science at the University of Waterloo?
A: 

As per Maclean's 2024, the Computer Science programme at the University of Waterloo ranked #1. As per the student's review, the university offers one of the best Computer Science programs to international students. Through more than 70 courses, students will not only gain a general grasp of Systems, Networks, Algorithms, and Programming, but they may also customize their degree by adding majors and specializations that fit their interests and abilities.
Students will learn the Mathematics that forms the foundation for cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning by combining theory and practical application.

Q:   How can I apply to the University of Waterloo Master of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence?
A: 

In order to apply to the University of Waterloo Master of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence program, follow the steps given below:

  • Apply at least two to four weeks ahead of your programme deadline so that there is enough time to upload the supporting documents, and the referees have time to submit their reference forms
  • Then, create an application account
  • Next, select the programme and enter all the required application information
  • Lastly, pay the application fee

University of Waterloo Application Process 2025

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Commonly asked questions
On Application Process
Q:   What GRE score is required for the University of Waterloo?
A: 

There is no GRE requirements for graduate candidates at the University of Waterloo. Instead, they must have a bachelor's degree from a recognised university or equivalent and submit the document requirements such as unofficial transcripts (including awarding of degree/degree certificate), reference, Supplementary Information Form (SIF), resume, writing sample, English language requirements, GRE/GMAT score, Resident card, and portfolio (For March., MFA)

Q:   How hard it is to enroll at the University of Waterloo?
A: 

As per an unofficial source, the University of Waterloo acceptance rate is 52%. This demonstrates that the university is moderately hard to get into and students must perform excellently in academics and take part in extracurricular activities to stand out. The university follows a holistic admission process that includes students' eligibility and other university entry requirements. Postgraduate students must have a bachelor's degree from a recognised university or an equivalent qualification. In addition, undergraduate students must score 70% in the Higher Secondary School Certificate or hold an international baccalaureate diploma.

Q:   What is the University of Waterloo's acceptance rate?
A: 

An unofficial source claims, the University of Waterloo's acceptance rate is 52%. This indicates that admission to the university is rather difficult, and to stand out, students must achieve academically and participate in volunteer work or extracurricular activities. Students' eligibility and other university admittance requirements are part of the comprehensive admissions procedure that the university uses. A bachelor's degree from an accredited university or an equivalent credential is required of postgraduate students. Undergraduate students also need to have an international baccalaureate Diploma or a 70% Higher Secondary School Certificate.

Q:   How much is the University of Waterloo application fee?
A: 

The University of Waterloo application fee is CAD 150 (INR 9K) for UG programs and CAD 125 (INR 7.6K) for PG programs. Students must fulfill the eligibility and submit all the required documents asked by university including transcripts, certificates, English language requirements, references, and more. On the other hand, students must have a bachelor's degree from a recognised university or an equivalent qualification and proof of high school completion for PG and UG eligibility respectively. (CAD 1=INR 61.18)

Waterloo
Students Ratings & Reviews

3.9/5
Verified Icon17 Verified ReviewsInfo Icon
Vibe of Campus
  • Academically oriented
  • Friendly
  • Liberal
  • Multi-dimensional
Student Views
  • 35% students never faced discrimination in this university
Internships3.9
Part time work3.6
Post study jobs4.2
Quality of faculty4.2
Student Life4
Value for money3.6
Public transportation4.4
Safety4.1
Indian Food3.7
Permanent Immigration3.5
A
AnonymousVerified Icon
Master of Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering - Batch of 2024
4.4
Prerequisites to adapt well and basic requirements.
Tips: Be very active in terms of studying, and be on top of your courses and assignments. You will feel the cultural difference, so be prepared to need some time to adjust to your life here. It is a great university with lots of courses offered. Plan your term courses selection way ahead keeping your work permit and specialisation requirements in mind so as to select the needed course in the term offered and plan it according to courses offered based on which term the professor is available. All this information is available on the University Website. The healthcare infrastructure here is not very good, carry your basic needed medicine along with a doctor's prescription from India. It is a cold country, so be well prepared in terms of warm clothes and gear. Also, bring basic utensils if you are planning to cook your meals, you might not immediately find the kind of utensils you use back home here. Also if wanting to stay off campus, start looking for accommodation well in advance through the Facebook marketplace or other WhatsApp groups present. Living within a 1.5 km of radius University will be a better choice in terms of time spent and winters.
Likes (Post study jobs): We don't need a sponsorship visa to work. Can apply for a Post Graduate Work permit, which has a set of guidelines on the duration of the course, field of study and an English Proficiency IELTS exam which makes you eligible to apply. Stay updated with the guidelines from the government regarding this. You can apply for Post graduate work permit once you are just 2 - 3 months away from graduation. Apply well in advance, once you are eligible as it takes time to get approved.
Dislikes (Part time work): Too many students but too few vacant jobs available. Sometimes job might not hire you as other experienced people are already working. However, start looking for it well in advance. It is unannounced on the University Website when they are hiring for what and which positions. Keep an open eye on it.
Reviewed on 25 Feb 2025Read more
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A
AnonymousVerified Icon
Computational Mathematics - MMath - Batch of 2026
4.2
University of Waterloo is great for STEM and the industry.
Tips: University of Waterloo with its coop programme is a very STEM and industry-oriented university. Many students through their coops will get work experience and skills that they then use to get full-time jobs and a lot do internships also offer students full-time offers if they do well. Overall the courses offered are useful and helpful, but the best part about the university is the coop programme.
Likes (Public transportation): So with your student card, you can use all the public transport in Waterloo for free. There is a bus system that connects very well all across the city to the university and is especially useful in the winter when it's hard to walk outside. There are also tunnels and indoor bridges that connect different campus buildings so it's easier to travel in the winter and there is also a tram that runs between big hubs.
Dislikes (Student Life): I put a 3 on student life because the University of Waterloo is very study-oriented. There is often a lot of work pressure and multiple things at once for students, so we don't get the chance to enjoy other aspects of university life, like events and going out.
Reviewed on 1 Nov 2024Read more
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A
Ayush Verified Icon
Bachelor of Applied Science in Nanotechnology Engineering - Batch of 2024
3.3
Good experience and good, understanding and thoughtful faculty.
Tips: Waterloo has a big community and it really prioritises education and academics. You will be expected to have a self-reliant attitude and engage yourself in other activities and extracurriculars necessary for personality development. The city is beautiful and you should explore it.
Reviewed on 17 Jul 2024Read more
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S
Sanjay Wadhwa Verified Icon
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry - Batch of 2024
3.5
Great experience, the curriculum is good and the faculty is really helpful.
Tips: The University of Waterloo has got to be one of the best experiences I've had so far. You are certain to find people you gel with but it is important to remember that academically, courses are quite hard to keep up with. Also before you commit, you must remember that Canada has become very firm with immigration. The public transportation is flexible and affordable so you can explore the city. Overall, I am satisfied with my experience.
Reviewed on 19 Jul 2024Read more
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A
Anurag Aggarwal Verified Icon
Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Physics - Batch of 2025
3.5
Got to explore my potential and grow as a person.
Tips: Students should know that the people are polite and welcoming so you don't need to worry about feeling too out of place. You will be expected to prepare well for your classes to keep up with your coursework. Finding jobs is a big challenge and I feel it has become extremely expensive to survive here so if you can avoid Canada then you should consider that option.
Dislikes (Internships): You are going to have a hard time finding internships here since the college doesn't actively provide internships for students, you are left to your own devices which becomes even harder as we are international students and our options become limited.
Reviewed on 18 Jul 2024Read more
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A
AnonymousVerified Icon
Computational Mathematics - MMath - Batch of 2024
3.4
The university provides a strong community spirit.
Tips: If you are creative and keen on embarking on research, this is a good place to consider. I do feel that it is extremely expensive and although placements were usually pretty good, it's no longer the same because of how strict the policies have become and how difficult it is to immigrate anywhere.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): Getting any kind of long-term employment opportunity especially as an Indian is going to be a very tricky and unlikely task. They have become extremely particular and your chances of moving here to immigrate are slim to none. It is better to plan an alternative instead.
Reviewed on 22 Jul 2024Read more
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University of Waterloo Admission 2024 FAQs

Q:   What are the top reasons international students study at the University of Waterloo?
A: 

Some of the reasons as to why international students study at the University of Waterloo are:

  • The University of Waterloo has been listed among the Top 10 universities in Canada. According to THE 2024 rank, the University of Waterloo has been placed at #7 place
  • There is a sizeable international student community at the university. According to the facts of 2022/23, 19% undergraduate and 41% graduates are international
  • High-quality programs are offered at the university such as Computer Science and Engineering
  • The university has an excellent campus location as students can do a variety of things in Waterloo city such as nightlife, food joints, festivals and events
  • Career success is also one of the factors why international students choose to study at the University of Waterloo. It is ranked No. 1 in Canada in the QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022

Also Read: Top 5 Reasons to Study in Canada 

Q:   How to get admission to the University of Waterloo for international students?
A: 

The University of Waterloo admission requirements for international students are given below:

Undergraduate Courses: For admission to undergraduate courses at the University of Waterloo, the applicants must meet the program-specific and general eligibility requirements. The general eligibility requirement is that the applicants must have a first or second division in any of the following:

  • All India Senior School Certificate awarded by CBSE
  • Indian School Certificate awarded by CISCE
  • Other Pre-University Certificate awarded after 12 years of study

Note that the final grades shall be evaluated on board results

Graduate Courses

  • Master’s Courses: For admission to graduate courses, international applicants must have at least 75% overall standing in the four-years honors bachelor’s degree or equivalent
  • Doctoral Courses: International applicants must have a minimum of 75% academic standing or equivalent in their previous degree

Besides the admission requirements, international applicants are required to meet the English language proficiency requirements in order to take admission to the University of Waterloo.

Q:   What is an International work-study programme at the University of Waterloo?
A: 

The International Work-Study programme at the University of Waterloo is designed to provide part-time on campus work experience for full-time international UG students with financial need. Work-study jobs pay minimum wage or higher. Students can work a maximum of 10 hours per week or earn up to CAD 2,000 per term including vacation pay and benefits.

Also Check: Best Part-Time Jobs in Canada for International Students 

Q:   What are some useful tips for students starting their first year at the University of Waterloo?
A: 

Some of the tips for students starting their studies at Waterloo University are given below: 

  • Get involved. Join any club or team at the university or go for Intramurals
  • Keep a schedule and stay organized. Find a plan that keeps you motivated while studying and follow that. In short, keep a balance between social activities, extra-curriculars and academics 
  • Find a way to de-stress amidst studies
  • Get to know your faculty members 
Q:   Is the University of Waterloo good for Indian students?
A: 

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.

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Akansha katariya

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Akansha katariya is a content creator at shiksha.com, creating content for study abroad. Having pursued B tech. in Electronics and communication from RGPV University, she has been creating content across diverse domains. When not guiding students, sh...Read Full Bio
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Waterloo
Location

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University CityWaterloo, Ontario, Canada
Size of cityMedium
Population of City1,04,986

Waterloo
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Address

200 University Avenue West, Waterloo Ontario, N2L 3G1
Waterloo ( Ontario)

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