Quick Information
| Tuition Fee | CAD 51,000–75,000 per year for international students (2026-27, first-year estimate for two terms; varies by faculty) |
|---|---|
| Last Verified Date | November 10, 2026 |
| Application Link | Apply via the official page |
| Official Source | https://uwaterloo.ca/future-students/admissions/how-to-apply |
Why University of Waterloo stands out
The University of Waterloo is a public research university in Waterloo, Ontario, known above all for co-operative education: students in co-op programmes alternate study terms with paid work terms and pay no tuition during work terms. Its strengths are computer science, engineering, mathematics, science and business, and its graduate school welcomes international students from many countries. The main campus is at 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo.
What you can study
Waterloo offers bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. International students can study engineering and software engineering, computer science, mathematics, data science, natural sciences, health, environment, arts, and business and accounting programmes, many of them with a co-op option.
International admissions
Full-time applicants apply through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC), and Waterloo emails the next steps within 24 to 48 hours. International students have the same deadlines as other applicants, and co-op programmes are open to Canadian and international students alike. Applicants from outside Canada can email or book an online meeting with an international student recruiter. Full steps are on the official how-to-apply page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the application deadlines?
For fall 2027 entry, applications close on 1 February 2027 for most programmes and on 15 January 2027 for Engineering programmes other than Architecture. International students have the same deadlines, and first-year students are admitted for the September term only.
How do I apply as an international student?
Apply through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC). You can apply to a maximum of three programmes at Waterloo, and only one Engineering programme. After applying you will get access to the Waterloo applicant portal for documents and forms.
How much is tuition for international students?
For students starting in September 2026, first-year tuition and incidental fees for two terms are estimated at CAD 51,000 in Environment, CAD 58,000 in Arts, CAD 73,000 in Computer Science and CAD 75,000 in Engineering. Check the official tuition page for your programme.
How does co-op work?
In a co-op programme you alternate study terms with paid work terms. You pay a co-op fee of $836 per school term, and you do not pay tuition during your work terms.
Do I need a study permit?
Yes. International students need a Canadian study permit, and Waterloo’s pages note that a Provincial Attestation Letter is part of the process for new international students. Apply early to allow time for both.