Wilfrid Laurier University
Waterloo, Canada • Founded 1911 • World Rank #2281
Overview
Established in 1911, the Wilfrid Laurier University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the medium city of Waterloo (population range of 250,000-499,999 inhabitants), Ontario.
This institution also has a branch campus in Brantford. Officially recognized by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities of Ontario, Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU) is a large-sized coeducational Canadian higher education institution.
Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 113-year-old Canadian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on students' past academic records and grades.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
WLU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, sports facilities, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Below are the location pin, postal details, and primary contact methods for Wilfrid Laurier University. International applicants should account for postal mail processing time when sending physical documents.
Academic Details
The academic indicators below give context on how Wilfrid Laurier University operates at scale. A lower staff-to-student ratio generally signals more faculty access, though research-heavy institutions skew the read.
Academic Structures
Wilfrid Laurier University's academic structure — the schools, colleges, and divisions inside the institution — is laid out below. Use this map when figuring out which faculty owns the programme you want.
Unit 7 items
- Faculty of Arts
- Faculty of Business and Economics
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of International Affairs
- Faculty of Music
- Faculty of Science
- Faculty of Social Work
How to apply to Wilfrid Laurier University
A practical five-step guide to applying to Wilfrid Laurier University, from programme research through submission and follow-up.
- 1 Identify the right programme
Begin by checking which programmes are available at Wilfrid Laurier University. Match the level to your prior education, then confirm the subject area you want to study.
- 2 Check entry requirements
Each programme at Wilfrid Laurier University has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.
- 3 Prepare your application documents
Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.
- 4 Submit via the institution
Apply directly via Wilfrid Laurier University's online portal at www.wlu.ca. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.
- 5 Get in touch with admissions
After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (519) 884 1970 Ext 3385. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wilfrid Laurier University
A short Q&A covering Wilfrid Laurier University's essentials — founding, location, scale, ranking, and academic structure.
How old is Wilfrid Laurier University?
The institution opened in 1911 (approximately 115 years ago).
Where can I find Wilfrid Laurier University?
The institution is located in Waterloo, Canada.
What is Wilfrid Laurier University's control type?
Wilfrid Laurier University is a public institution.
How many students does Wilfrid Laurier University have?
The institution has a student body of 20,000-24,999.
How is Wilfrid Laurier University ranked?
Wilfrid Laurier University holds rank #2281 globally and #40 in Canada.
What is Wilfrid Laurier University's academic structure?
The institution comprises 7 academic units.
Is Wilfrid Laurier University officially recognised?
The institution holds recognition from Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities of Ontario.
What is Wilfrid Laurier University's official website?
The institution's website is www.wlu.ca.
Top-Ranked Universities in Canada
Ranking methodologies vary across Canada — national rankings, subject-specific rankings, and international tables can each tell different stories about the same universities.
Members of Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU)
Strategic alliances often grow alongside Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) membership — bilateral agreements deepen collaboration beyond the broader network frame. Such alliances sometimes exist between Wilfrid Laurier University and specific members below.
Faculties at Nearby Universities
Regional admissions cycle quirks (early-deadline schemes, regional aid programmes) apply consistently across the universities near Wilfrid Laurier University. Worth knowing during shortlisting.
Universities Often Compared with Wilfrid Laurier University
Beyond Wilfrid Laurier University, several other universities operate at a comparable level — by ranking, heritage, or scale. They are worth knowing as you build your shortlist, particularly if you want options at the same competitive tier.
