The University of Waterloo, located in Waterloo, Canada, is a globally recognized public research university. Consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide (e.g., =163rd in QS World University Rankings 2025 and 97th in Times Higher Education World Reputation Rankings 2025), it is a significant hub for innovation, with 45% of its research funding from industry collaborations.
Home to over 42,000 students from more than 120 countries, Waterloo offers over 100 undergraduate and over 180 graduate programs. With a vast global network of more than 255,000 alumni across 158 countries, it fosters a vibrant and diverse academic community, uniquely distinguished by the world’s largest post-secondary co-operative education program, involving over 20,000 undergraduate students and 8,000+ active co-op employers globally.
Canada's innovation leader for decades.
Startup Founders in Canada for entrepreneurs.
Ranked 119th worldwide by QS.
World Reputation (THE Ranking)
Canada's top comprehensive university.
STEM Excellence - Computer Science/ Engineering globally.
UWaterloo pioneered and operates the world's largest post-secondary co-operative education program, a cornerstone feature. Over 26,000 undergraduate students gain up to two years of paid, relevant work experience, connecting with 8,000+ employers across 70+ countries. The impact is clear: the Fall 2024 co-op employment rate was an outstanding 96.8%. This experiential learning model ensures graduates possess valuable skills and industry connections, distinguishing them significantly in the global job market. Students are uniquely prepared for their careers upon graduation.
UWaterloo is a recognized innovation leader, consistently named Canada's most innovative university by Maclean's for 30 of the last 33 years. This dynamic environment fosters immense entrepreneurial success. PitchBook (2024) ranks UWaterloo #1 in Canada for producing startup founders, with 562 founders launching 478 companies that have raised an astonishing $20 billion USD. This powerful ecosystem empowers students to develop groundbreaking ideas and translate them into real-world impact, creating a unique pathway from classroom to industry leadership.
A UWaterloo degree consistently translates into highly successful careers. Within two years of graduation, 95.5% of students are employed. Many programs achieve even higher, near-perfect rates: the Master of Actuarial Science, Architecture/Landscape, and Optometry programs boast 100% employment for their 2022 graduates within months. This proven track record underscores the university's commitment to equipping students with the skills and networks necessary for immediate and sustained career success across diverse professional fields.
The University of Waterloo holds a prominent position on the international academic stage. It is ranked =119th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025. Furthermore, UWaterloo's strong reputation is validated by its placement at 97th in the Times Higher Education World Reputation Rankings 2025. These consistent high rankings reflect the university's commitment to world-class research, high-quality teaching, and extensive global collaborations, ensuring a UWaterloo degree is recognized and respected worldwide.
UWaterloo is a formidable research powerhouse, recognized as Canada's #1 comprehensive research university for 17 consecutive years by Research Infosource. This leadership is underpinned by substantial funding, with 26% of its research income coming directly from corporate collaborations (2024 data). This deep integration with industry ensures that UWaterloo's research is not only academically rigorous but also highly relevant and impactful. Students benefit from learning in an environment where cutting-edge discoveries are made and translated into real-world solutions.
UWaterloo attracts an exceptionally talented student body, fostering a stimulating academic environment. A remarkable 92% of Engineering students and 95% of Mathematics students enter with a 90%+ average from high school. This strong academic foundation contributes to a highly engaged student population, reflected in an impressive 94.1% student retention rate for the 2023 cohort. This high retention underscores the university's effective support systems, engaging academic programs, and vibrant campus life that ensure students thrive.
Discover the campus that is leading the world in making a real difference for a better future.
It's the world's largest co-op program, allowing students to gain up to two years of paid work experience before graduating. The Fall 2024 co-op employment rate was 96.8%.
UWaterloo assists with study permit applications, including providing the required Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL). They also have a high study permit approval rate.
Applicants whose first language isn't English usually need to submit a proficiency test (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) unless they've studied in an English-speaking system for the past four years.
UWaterloo is globally recognized (=119th QS World 2025, 97th THE Reputation 2025). It's #1 in Canada for startup founders and ranks #33 globally for Computer Science.
UWaterloo operates on a trimester system with Fall (September), Winter (January), and Spring (May) intakes, though Fall is the largest for undergraduates.
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