University of Waterloo
Waterloo, Canada • Founded 1957 • QS 2027 #113 =
Updated Sep 2026 · Source: uwaterloo.ca · How we collect data
Overview
The University of Waterloo is a public research university in Waterloo, Ontario, founded in 1957 with an initial cohort of 74 students.
It enrolled more than 41,000 full- and part-time undergraduate and graduate students as of 2025 and is organised into six faculties: Arts, Engineering, Environment, Health, Mathematics and Science, supported by four affiliated university colleges. Waterloo is best known for its co-operative education model, in which students alternate academic terms with paid work terms; 77% of students take part, more than 120 programs offer a co-op stream, and the university works with over 8,000 co-op employers in more than 70 countries.
Its Faculty of Mathematics, which houses the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science, is the largest concentration of mathematics and computer science teaching and research in Canada, and the Bachelor of Software Engineering is delivered jointly by the Faculties of Mathematics and Engineering.
Research Infosource ranked Waterloo the top comprehensive research university in Canada in 2025.
International students made up about 15% of undergraduate and 41% of graduate enrolment in 2024/25, and the university counts roughly 263,000 alumni across 160 countries. The 1,000-acre main campus holds more than 100 buildings and is complemented by three satellite campuses.
Tuition is billed one term at a time over three terms a year (Fall, Winter, Spring), so published annual undergraduate figures normally cover two academic terMs. Undergraduate applicants, domestic and international alike, apply through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre, and most programs also require the Admission Information Form.
Location & Contact
University of Waterloo's physical location and contact details are listed below.
Academic Details
University of Waterloo's key academic numbers — student body size, staffing, and accreditation context.
Academic Structures
The academic units through which University of Waterloo delivers teaching are listed below.
Unit 6 items
- Faculty of Applied Health Sciences
- Faculty of Arts
- Faculty of Engineering
- Faculty of Environment
- Faculty of Mathematics
- Faculty of Science
Programs Offered
Browse University of Waterloo's programmes by level, or filter by name.
297 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in Canada
Bachelor's Degree 102 programmes
Showing 10 of 102.
Master's Degree 115 programmes
Showing 10 of 115.
Doctorate 75 programmes
Showing 10 of 75.
Professional Doctorate 1 programme
Scholarships in Canada
These scholarships are open to students studying in Canada and may apply to programmes at University of Waterloo.
How to apply to University of Waterloo
A short guide to applying to University of Waterloo — five steps.
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1
Find a programme that fits your goals
University of Waterloo's catalogue includes 297 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.
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2
Confirm you meet the requirements
Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for University of Waterloo's admissions process.
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3
Assemble your application package
Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.
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4
Submit your application
Submit your completed application through University of Waterloo's official website at uwaterloo.ca. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.
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5
Contact admissions and follow up
Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +1 519 888 4567. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.
Frequently Asked Questions about University of Waterloo
Quick reference for University of Waterloo: founding, control type, and recognition status.
How old is University of Waterloo?
The institution opened in 1957 (approximately 69 years ago).
Where can I find University of Waterloo?
The institution is located in Waterloo, Canada.
Is University of Waterloo public or private?
University of Waterloo operates as a public institution.
How many students does University of Waterloo have?
The institution has a student body of 41,000.
Where does University of Waterloo stand in university rankings?
It ranks QS 2027 #113 =.
How is University of Waterloo organised academically?
University of Waterloo has 6 academic units.
Who recognises University of Waterloo?
The institution holds recognition from Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities of Ontario.
How do I find University of Waterloo online?
You can find University of Waterloo online at uwaterloo.ca.
Members of Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU)
Members of Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), alongside University of Waterloo.
Faculties at nearby universities
Below are universities in the same area as University of Waterloo.
Where Else to Study Mathematics
Below: other Canada universities that offer Mathematics programmes.
Universities Compared with University of Waterloo
Comparable universities to University of Waterloo are listed below.
Studying in Canada: guides and resources
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