University of
Waterloo
Country :
Canada
Founded :
1957
Address :
200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada
Study at the University of Waterloo and gain access to one of Canada's strongest co-operative education ecosystems, diversified programmes, research opportunities, and an innovation-driven academic environment.
The University of Waterloo was founded in 1957 and has grown into one of Canada's leading innovation and technology-focused universities. Located in Waterloo, Ontario, the university is particularly recognised for its strengths in computer science, mathematics, engineering, technology, entrepreneurship, and co-operative education. Waterloo host more than 25,000 students, of which 59% are undergraduate and 41% are graduate students. Students can graduate with up to 2 years of paid work experience, supported by more than 8,000 co-op employers across 70+ countries. In 2025, the average earnings for a four-month co-op term were approximately C$16,700.
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programmes across disciplines such as Business, Computer Science, Engineering, Health, Environment, Science, Arts, and Mathematics. Apart from visionary excellence, Waterloo offers a strong return on investment (ROI) due to its highly competitive tuition costs, notable employability rates (97.5% of graduates are employed within six months of graduation), and world-renowned co-op program. The plenty of benefits and global opportunities make Waterloo a preferred choice for international students seeking to study abroad.
200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada
The University of Waterloo has a particularly strong ranking profile in computer science, mathematics, engineering, and technology-related disciplines. In the QS World University Rankings 2026, Waterloo is ranked #119 globally. Waterloo was also ranked #1 in reputation among Canada's comprehensive universities in the 2026 Maclean's rankings. Below are the notable global rankings of Waterloo quoted.
The University of Waterloo offers 200+ undergraduate and graduate programme options for domestic and international students. It is particularly regarded for Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mathematics, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, etc. Its co-op structure allows students to combine academic study with multiple professional work terms. Below are the top courses with fees crafted.
The University of Waterloo offers strong career value through its co-operative education system and employer network. Around 77% of students participate in co-op, and co-op graduates have a reported 96% employment rate six months after graduation. Students can graduate with up to 2 years of paid work experience, while the average four-month co-op earnings were approximately C$16,700 in 2025. A dedicated table is structured below that shows Waterloo graduates' annual salary.
Salary figures are indicative estimates based on graduate outcomes, industry surveys, and available employment data. True pay may vary with experience, location, and designation.
Waterloo provides a substantial range of scholarships for international students, with several awards automatically considered during admission. For students beginning first-year degree studies in September 2026, Waterloo offers a C$10,000 International Student Entrance Scholarship without requiring a separate application. Additional faculty-specific awards can provide considerably higher funding.
The University of Waterloo's main campus is located at 200 University Avenue West in Waterloo, Ontario, less than 120 km from Toronto. To locate the campus buildings, science laboratories, research centres, libraries, student residences, and sports facilities, you can use the official campus locator.
Yes, Waterloo is located in southwestern Ontario, and the university states that its campus is less than 120 km west of Toronto, providing students access to the wider technology and business ecosystem of the Greater Toronto Area.
For eligible international students starting first-year degree studies in September 2026, the new International Student Entrance Scholarship provides C$10,000 for the first year, with no separate application required.
Waterloo's co-op structure allows students to alternate academic and work terms, potentially graduating with up to two years of paid work experience. The university also works with more than 8,000 employers across 70+ countries.
The university reports a student community representing 120 countries, creating an internationally diverse environment for students studying in Waterloo, Ontario.
Yes, Mathematics is one of Waterloo's strongest academic areas, with the university ranking 29th globally for Mathematics in QS 2026. Students can also choose specialised areas such as actuarial science, statistics, financial mathematics, and mathematical finance.
No, Waterloo states that 120+ programmes offer co-op, while approximately 77% of students participate. Students should check the specific programme to confirm whether co-op is available and understand its eligibility conditions.
Waterloo reports average earnings of approximately C$16,700 for a four-month co-op work term in 2025. Actual earnings depend on the programme, employer, location, job role, and student's experience.
Waterloo has an internationally recognised Computer Science programme and ranks 27th globally in the 2026 QS subject rankings. Its co-op system also allows students to gain substantial industry experience while completing their degree.
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