University of Waterloo: Canada’s Innovation University
Love a challenge? Us too. Since the beginning, the University of Waterloo has been a place where you can bring your passion, grit, and determination to explore and innovate – and have fun doing it. With our long-standing industry partnerships, focus on real-world solutions, and relentless spirit of entrepreneurship, there’s a reason we’re ranked a top 100 university in the world by the 2025 Times Higher Education World Reputation Rankings.
Located in Waterloo, Ontario, about an hour’s drive from Toronto, the University of Waterloo is home to more than 41,000 students and has earned an international reputation for producing leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and problem-solvers. Situated in the heart of Canada’s technology corridor, Waterloo is surrounded by global companies, cutting-edge startups, and a thriving innovation ecosystem that has earned the region the nickname Silicon Valley of the North.
In fact, we’re ranked #7 in the world and #1 in Canada for producing entrepreneurs (2026 PitchBook University Rankings). Velocity, University’s flagship incubator and entrepreneurship program, has helped more than 560 startups generate more than $40 billion in enterprise value.
Waterloo’s global reputation is one reason why students from more than 120 countries choose to study here. The university has been ranked the #1 comprehensive research university in Canada for the past 18 years and is recognized internationally for its strengths in engineering, computer science, mathematics, and numerous other programs that rank among the best in Canada and the world.
With more than 100 undergraduate programs across six faculties, students can explore a wide range of academic pathways. From engineering, mathematics, and science to business, health, environment, and arts, Waterloo offers the flexibility and depth to help students pursue their passions while preparing for meaningful careers.
Largest Paid Internship Program in the World
One of Waterloo’s biggest differentiators is its world-leading co-operative education program, which is very similar to paid internship programs in the USA. Last year, our students worked more than 23,800 paid internships, which we call co-op work terms, allowing students to alternate four months of full-time study and four months of full-time, paid work. Students have access to 8,000+ employers and work opportunities across Canada and more than 70 countries around the world.
You can earn between $6,800 and $16,800 (USD) per four-month work term, and you’ll complete between four and six work terms during your degree. Recent Waterloo students have worked for employers such as Microsoft, Deloitte, Mount Sinai Hospital, Google, KPMG, Bloomberg, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada, and many more!
Aiden Sarrafzadeh, a second-year Biomedical Engineering student, completed one of his internships at a prestigious hospital, working with artificial intelligence (AI) clinical decision support tools. These tools can help with anything from a doctor’s AI scribe, to assistance with medical imaging and even basic admin tasks.
It wasn’t long before he saw how his work was making a real impact.
“I realized my work was making a difference during those late nights when I was in the office with a clinician, diagnosing and treating different patients,” said Aiden. “Then, the next morning, I would be working on a project that would look for tools that could improve these exact workflows that the doctors struggled with the night before because AI wasn’t there to help.”
Exceptional Student Experience
International fee-paying students entering undergraduate studies in September 2027 will automatically receive a CAD $10,000 International Student Entrance Scholarship. No application is required, making it easier for talented students from around the world to begin their Waterloo journey.
Waterloo also guarantees a spot in our on-campus residences for all first-year students. Living in residence puts you in the middle of the action – and our 40+ on-campus eateries make it quick and affordable to enjoy fresh, quick and affordable food.
And with more than 200 student-run clubs covering everything from academics to culture to sports, there’s something for everyone. Plus, the city is home to two universities and a college, so it’s buzzing with energy, thanks to one of the youngest populations in Canada!
The results speak for themselves. Waterloo students graduate with real-world experience, professional networks, and a stronger understanding of their chosen industries. Six months after graduation, 93 percent of Waterloo co-op graduates are employed and working in jobs related to skills they developed at university.
Not sure what to study? Start by learning more about yourself. Take our quiz to discover what drives you and how your strengths connect to Waterloo programs.
Or reach out directly to our admissions experts at enginfo@uwaterloo.ca!