University of Waterloo Vs The University of British Columbia: Compare Fees, Placement, Reviews
Compare University of Waterloo Vs The University of British Columbia based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of Waterloo Vs The University of British Columbia on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
Compare University of Waterloo Vs The University of British Columbia based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of Waterloo Vs The University of British Columbia on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.

University of Waterloo
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University of Waterloo
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The University of British Columbia
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Waterloo University V/s UBCStudent Ratings
Waterloo University V/s UBCCourse Comparison
5 Popular courses in colleges
Waterloo University V/s UBC B.E. / B.Tech
Other courses
- B.Sc. (36 courses)
- B.A. (27 courses)
- M.A. (18 courses)
- B.Arch (3 courses)
- MASc (6 courses)
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- MBA/PGDM (1 course)
- B.Sc. (25 courses)
- B.A. (44 courses)
- M.A. (64 courses)
- MASc (10 courses)
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Waterloo University V/s UBCCollege Comparison
Waterloo University V/s UBCCampus Comparison
Student’s views on campus
Views on Waterloo University campus
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Anonymous
Bachelor of Business Administration / Bachelor of Computer Science - Batch of 2026
3.9
One of a kind experience.
Tips: Waterloo is a school that has truly lived up to its name. Great for business and entrepreneurship programs and if you're someone who likes to be on the field or in research. You'll meet like minded individuals and great faculty that can actually make a difference. If you manage a scholarship or part time jobs, you can get good return of investment.
Reviewed on 30 Sep 2025Read more
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Anonymous
Bachelor of Applied Science in Systems Design Engineering - Batch of 2027
3.9
Pretty nice place to study.
Tips: The university always has a lot going on and everyone is quite friendly and helpful, which really helped me through my initial days here. There is a lot to explore around, and it is ideally safe, but there are increasing incidents of pickpocketing, and it's recommended that you travel in groups if it's late. The city is well connected and there are every industry here as well, out of which a lot of companies come for placements.
Reviewed on 28 Sep 2025Read more
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Anonymous
Bachelors of Arts in Communication Studies - Batch of 2026
3.8
Learning the ropes in Waterloo.
Tips: I have been exposed to one of the most multi cultural campuses there are, and this has helped me in building connections with people from all over the world. The networking potential is great, and if you acquaint yourself with your professors, they can be quite valuable for LORs and even referrals. There are plenty of Indians and Indian food options as well, and Canada has a welcoming culture, which is seen in the university.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): There were better chances of getting work here a few years ago, but now Canada has increased its restrictions on immigration and jobs for international students. Given a chance, I would certainly like to work here, and there are chances, but you will really need to stand out for companies to take a chance on you.
Reviewed on 26 Sep 2025Read more
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Anonymous
Bachelors of Arts in Sociology - Batch of 2026
3.7
The University of Waterloo offers a global and diverse learning environment.
Tips: I haven't had too many culture changes as I have met people from my city here, which is also an indicator of how global the University of Waterloo truly is. The classes are quite academic, and it's hard to catch up on UPAT times. Also, the transport system can be a bit annoying. Rest, it's a lovely place to learn.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): Well, Canada has become increasingly strict with immigration and giving jobs. You'll have better luck with part-time jobs than with finding a full-time opportunity willing to take you in. Be prepared for lots of applications and rejections in the process.
Reviewed on 17 Sep 2025Read more
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Anonymous
Bachelor of Applied Science in Biomedical Engineering - Batch of 2026
3.8
Great academic environment.
Tips: Waterloo has a great reputation both in and outside Canada, and they take their academics very seriously. Lots of Indian restaurants and supermarts are available all over the place; in fact, there are all sorts of cuisines easily available, as Waterloo has a very international campus. Masters are great here for research purposes, especially. Overall, I am satisfied with my experiences.
Reviewed on 17 Sep 2025Read more
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SS 
Bachelor of Science in Science and Business - Batch of 2025
3.9
Highly qualified and friendly faculty.
Tips: The University of Waterloo is very well-reputed, and the campus environment is very global. Lots of people from home as well. Transportation can be a bit unpredictable, and you'll have to walk around a lot to get to classes. The level of education and competencies is high, and you'll be expected to deliver.
Reviewed on 15 Sep 2025Read more
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Anonymous
Master of Management Science - Batch of 2026
3.9
Good people and culture.
Tips: Waterloo takes a very modern and structured approach to education. Their co-op programme is one of their selling points, but if you won't be able to handle job hunting with classes, it might not be ideal for you. People are friendly, and you'll see a lot of Indians around. The winters are rough, and the course loads seem to be endless, so be prepared for that. Overall, I am quite satisfied with my experiences.
Reviewed on 12 Sep 2025Read more
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Anonymous
Bachelors of Arts in Peace and Conflict Studies - Batch of 2026
3.6
Accepting and culturally rich place.
Tips: One of the best things about studying at Waterloo is the diversity in courses and people. Not many places offer the same level of education, but it's very important to show initiative and participate in classes. The environment is free and accepting, and students are expected to have a similar mindset. My professors helped me publish a couple of my papers, and I've been part of the debate society.
Reviewed on 7 Aug 2025Read more
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HP 
Master of Applied Science (MASc) in Psychology - Developmental and Communication Science - Batch of 2025
3.9
Comprehensive learning format.
Tips: I chose to come here because of the programs offered, and I haven't been disappointed. My degree allows for a truly comprehensive and detailed analysis of psychology and society, and is great if you are keen on publishing and academia. I have truly helpful professors. The space is limited, and for truly good Indian options, it's better to cook for yourself or find an underrated place a little off the city. Scholarships are available upon inquiry while you apply.
Reviewed on 7 Aug 2025Read more
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Anonymous
Bachelor of Applied Science in Geological Engineering - Batch of 2026
3.9
Promising place for growth.
Tips: There isn't a major cultural shift, especially if you're already from a metropolitan area. However, you will need to be extra mindful and respect people's need for personal space. There are many student discounts and perks available at food places, grocery stores, and for public transport. Keep in mind that the city shuts down early in the winter, so plan accordingly.
Reviewed on 7 Aug 2025Read more
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Gitika 
Bachelor of Applied Science in Management Engineering - Batch of 2026
3.6
Vibrant campus and highly knowledgeable faculty.
Tips: I have made some great memories here and met some really good people as well. The weather is a little too cold for me to handle, and attendance and deadlines are taken seriously. There are lots of Indians here, and the university has a lot of helpful industry connections.
Reviewed on 7 Aug 2025Read more
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Anonymous
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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Anonymous
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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Anonymous
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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Sanjay Wadhwa 
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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Anurag Aggarwal 
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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Ayush 
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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Anonymous
Statistics - MMath - Batch of 2024
3.6
University of Waterloo taught me hard work and resilience.
Tips: It is a warm and welcoming campus at least in my case. I chose this university because of its reputation but now I feel that it is a better idea to study outside Canada itself. Quality of learning is great and you will be expected to work very hard from the first week itself. The faculty will help you in every step towards your journey.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): Canada has become increasingly strict when it comes to immigration and allowing foreigners especially Indians to settled in which is why there are very little chances to get a well paid job here at least right now. I am pretty grateful to be here as well.
Reviewed on 17 Jul 2024Read more
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Anonymous
Bachelor of Applied Science in Mechatronics Engineering - Batch of 2025
3.5
Good experience with promising results.
Tips: University of Waterloo is known for its research and famous alumni which is a plus point if you are interested in academia. I would suggest that you reside on or near campus else the commute can take forever. Moreover, you can expect a lot of competitiveness even though the campus is very friendly and welcoming overall.
Reviewed on 16 Jul 2024Read more
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Vivek Jude 
Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Engineering - Batch of 2027
4.1
A wonderful experience couldn't have expected anything better.
Tips: If you're someone who is innovative and curious, the University of Waterloo will allow you to have room for further developing your potential such as through their programme called Velocity where the primary purpose was of building start-ups and entrepreneurship. The student life here is great and you will be provided with many opportunities.
Reviewed on 30 Jun 2024Read more
Views on UBC campus
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Nidhish Sahni 
BSc in Astronomy - Batch of 2028
Offered by The University of British Columbia
4.2
An academically stimulating but a fun, social and live experience.
Tips: I did feel a bit homesick at first but the university was very welcoming. The faculty is great here and very supportive. The president's advisors here are always there for help. I did experience a bit of a cultural shift but it's not that hard at all so far. I'm fairly satisfied with my course and the university so far. There is always construction going on but the campus is huge so most of the time it wouldn't matter.
Likes (Student Life): I spend the morning preparing for classes and eating breakfast. I generally attend classes from 11-4. After class, I have a milkshake, explore campus, or spend time with friends or in the library. There are a lot of club events and opportunities on campus, and I'm involved in several. There are also observation events, festival events, a Science undergraduate society, and an alma mater society that regularly hosts events.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): I'm unsure about future prospects given the stricter immigration policies to be implemented in Canada. Also, I'm looking for post graduate and Ph.D. options in other countries because there are more research opportunities in astrophysics and particle Physics in other countries.
Reviewed on 15 Oct 2024Read more
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Anonymous
Bachelor of Science in Geophysics - Batch of 2020
Offered by The University of British Columbia
3.7
Fantastic location and friendly people but academically challenging.
Tips: Students should take the opportunity to mingle with international students and make the most of their experience. You should also try to secure work experience and internships near the university. The course is academically rigorous, so it’s not easy. A lot of self-study is required, as rote learning won’t help. You need to be dedicated and open to challenging your own biases.
Likes (Safety): Canada is extremely safe and UBC has its own police force. There is also a hospital on campus and Canada offers free healthcare. Canadians are extremely multicultural and welcoming towards immigrants. However, it’s important to push yourself out of your comfort zone and make an effort to assimilate.
Dislikes (Internships): The universities abroad often don’t guarantee internships for students. They have a job board and general guidance but it’s up to you to find and apply for jobs. The career counselor will guide you to make the most out of the opportunities.
Reviewed on 9 Oct 2024Read more
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Taqdeer Grewal 
BSc in Computer Science - Batch of 2023
Offered by The University of British Columbia
3.5
Eye-opening but money sucking school.
Tips: Internal fees is too high, become permanent resident first and then go to this school. Very eye-opening for middle-class students like me because I used to think that very intelligent and brilliant students study here but then you get to know that you are as brilliant and can be more brilliant than them - they just have the money. You develop very high confidence in yourself.
Likes (Permanent Immigration): If you will come to UBC, it will be either for Bachelor or Masters - in both cases, you will earn good points for education. There is a high chance that you will get a good job, however no guarantee. But definitely a better chance of getting permanent residence after graduation from here than a college.
Dislikes (Indian Food): No on campus Indian restaurants or Indian food. Often during exam season, you will have to eat from outside but there are not many options available except Uncle Fatih pizza. It is also extremely expensive to eat outside. The on-campus Indian grocery store is also extremely expensive.
Reviewed on 28 Jan 2024Read more
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Anonymous
MASc in Electrical and Computer Engineering - Batch of 2025
Offered by The University of British Columbia
5
Fun learning and research experience
Tips: The weather is not that different. People are fun and helpful. If you're coming here for research-based programs, you don't have to worry about student debts, since you're given plenty of stipend from your supervisor as well as international awards.
Likes (Public transportation): As for students in thesis-based programs, it's easy to make friends with students in your lab. So you don't feel alone. Lots of events are organized, including community events. How much time you want to spend on campus depends on you, since there aren't a lot of classes.
Dislikes (Post study jobs): I'm here for a thesis-based master's, and I can reach out to my supervisor any time I want. Faculty as well as students are diverse. For research-based programs, you only have 1 or 2 courses per term without mandatory attendance. Courses are tailored to your research field, some have exams and some have only assignments and group projects.
Reviewed on 22 Dec 2023Read more

Tejasdeep Sahdev 
Bachelor of Applied Science in Chemical Engineering - Batch of 2024
Offered by The University of British Columbia
4.8
Best engineering and business program in Canada.
Tips: Students joining this college should know that it has high fee structure. Vibrant campus community and abundance of opportunities to grow. It is always rainy here but it gives a lot of exposure. High research output and supportive faculty. There is a huge campus. Good food options are there with high living cost. It is one of the best engineering and business program in Canada.
Likes (Public transportation): UBC is one of the major transit hubs of Vancouver making it accessible from any part around the greater Vancouver area. They are also building a direct rapid train network to connect UBC to the rest of the city which will make it even better for students and faculty who live off campus.
Dislikes (Value for money): Being a top university of not just Canada but globally, makes UBC a rather expensive university with 4 - 6% tuition fee increase year on year. However, this is compensated by the amount of exposure one gets here along with the vibrant campus community. Living expenses are generally high considering the cost of living in Vancouver.
Reviewed on 17 May 2022Read more
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Sanya Dua 
Bachelor of Applied Science in Mining Engineering (Vancouver) - Batch of 2024
Offered by The University of British Columbia
4.5
Value for money! It gives memories, experience and opportunities.
Tips: This university will you give you lifetime of memories and skills that will help you in life, beyond your chosen career. You will find innumerable opportunities to explore your capabilities and use them in life. There are several clubs and design teams that you can join, which will really add up to your resume. There is also a good advantage of developing your network here since there are always new guest lecturers, workshops, seminars, etc. happening on campus.
Likes (Value for money): No doubt this university is costly for international students but it gives you exactly the university and adulting experience you need in life. There are innumerable opportunities for you to explore and develop your skills and it all depends on how you use them.
Dislikes (Post study jobs): Because of the opportunities available in my chosen field which is mining engineering, due to the electrification of this field. We are transitioning from more human force to mechanical approach to reduce our carbon footprints which will lead to lesser jobs in future in this sector.
Reviewed on 27 Sep 2021Read more
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Aryaman Singh 
Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology - Batch of 2023
Offered by The University of British Columbia
4.3
It is a valuable and enriching experience.
Tips: It has been an eye opening experience with a lot of exposure and experiences. You can expect a lot of interaction and make sure to prioritise your academic commitments. For housing, it is better to opt for a setting that is more convenient for your classes.
Reviewed on 31 May 2024Read more
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Sarthak Gangwani 
BA in Economics - Batch of 2025
Offered by The University of British Columbia
4
Multicultural place, highly recommended.
Tips: It is really easy to assimilate. There are not many jobs in computer science. I am very satisfied with the university and the country. The people here are very friendly people. It is multicultural and diverse. No racism, sexism etc. British Columbia is beautiful. Overall, I recommend UBC wholeheartedly.
Reviewed on 1 May 2024Read more
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Anonymous
Bachelor of Commerce in General Business Management (Vancouver) - Batch of 2026
Offered by The University of British Columbia
3.5
Life of a student after going abroad is challenging.
Tips: There wasn’t a big paradigm shift when it came to culture. Especially the campus life, the reason being there are students from all around the globe and it is a mixed demographic. I’m more than satisfied with my university & my course, although Canada in general as a country is a bit challenging and not so welcoming for outsiders.
Reviewed on 18 Apr 2024Read more
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