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So, you want to study at the University of Waterloo but are staring at those tuition fees wondering how to manage? You’re not alone. The good news? The university offers several scholarships that could seriously lighten your financial load. Some you’re automatically considered for, while others need a little extra effort with an application. In this blog, I’ll walk you through all the University of Waterloo Scholarships available in 2025, what they are, who can get them, how to apply, and key deadlines you can’t miss. Let’s get you set up to fund your dream education without the stress.
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University of Waterloo Scholarships 2025: Overview
Here’s a quick snapshot of the University of Waterloo, including key facts and figures relevant for students interested in scholarships in 2025.
| Institution Name | University of Waterloo |
| Established | 1957 |
| Acceptance Rate | 53% |
| Location | Waterloo, Ontario, Canada |
| QS World University Ranking 2025 | 201-250 globally |
| Total Enrollment | Approx. 44,000 students |
| Scholarships For | International & Domestic Students |
| Popular Faculties | Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Environment, Science |
| Official Website | uwaterloo.ca |
Top University of Waterloo Scholarships
University of Waterloo offers a wide range of scholarships to support students from various programs and backgrounds. Most scholarships do not require a separate application, as you will be automatically considered. However, some prestigious awards do require you to apply by specific deadlines.
International Student Entrance Scholarship
This scholarship supports international students enrolling in any undergraduate program at the University of Waterloo. It aims to recognize academic excellence and reduce financial barriers for new international students.
| Scholarship Amount | CAD 10,000 (20 scholarships awarded) |
| Coverage | Partial tuition support |
| Application Required? | No (automatic consideration) |
| Eligibility | Incoming international undergraduate students |
| Available For | All undergraduate programs |
| Renewal | One-time award |
Faculty of Engineering International Student Entrance Scholarships
These scholarships are divided into two groups based on the engineering program. They reward outstanding international students entering specific engineering fields to encourage enrollment in these high-demand areas.
| Scholarship Type | Environmental & Geological Engineering | Other Engineering Programs |
| Scholarship Amount | CAD 20,000 over 2 years | CAD 10,000 for the first year |
| Coverage | Partial tuition support | Partial tuition support |
| Application Required? | No | No |
| Eligibility | International students in Environmental or Geological Engineering | International students in Architectural, Biomedical, Chemical, Civil, Management, Nanotechnology, Systems Design Engineering |
| Available For | Engineering undergraduate programs | Engineering undergraduate programs |
| Renewal | Conditional on academic performance | Conditional on academic performance |
Faculty of Mathematics Global Scholarships
This scholarship is offered to high-achieving international students entering most programs within the Faculty of Mathematics. It aims to attract top global talent.
| Scholarship Amount | Up to CAD 40,000 (10 scholarships available) |
| Coverage | Partial tuition support |
| Application Required? | No (automatic consideration) |
| Eligibility | International students applying to Faculty of Mathematics programs |
| Available For | Most Mathematics undergraduate programs |
| Renewal | Usually renewable based on academic performance |
Faculty of Mathematics International Awards: India
This is designed specifically for Indian students, this scholarship rewards academic excellence for select mathematics programs and helps promote Waterloo’s presence in India.
| Scholarship Amount | CAD 20,000 to CAD 40,000 (up to 15 scholarships) |
| Coverage | Partial tuition support |
| Application Required? | No (automatic consideration) |
| Eligibility | Indian students applying to select Mathematics programs |
| Available For | Select Mathematics undergraduate programs |
| Renewal | Renewable upon meeting academic requirements |
Faculty of Science International Student Scholarships
This scholarship supports international students entering science programs. Unlike most others, it requires a separate application and has a range of values depending on the applicant’s profile.
| Scholarship Amount | CAD 25,000 to CAD 80,000 (15 scholarships) |
| Coverage | Partial to substantial tuition support |
| Application Required? | Yes, by February 13, 2026 |
| Eligibility | International students in most Science undergraduate programs |
| Available For | Science undergraduate programs |
| Renewal | Renewable based on academic performance |
Scholarships for Black Students
This scholarship promotes diversity and inclusion by supporting students of African descent from various regions. It has a broad award range and requires a formal application.
| Scholarship Amount | CAD 1,200 to CAD 40,000 |
| Coverage | Partial to full tuition support |
| Application Required? | Yes, by April 15, 2026 |
| Eligibility | Students of African, African American, Afro-Latine, Black Canadian, Caribbean, or other African descent |
| Available For | Undergraduate and graduate programs |
| Renewal | Varies by specific award |
Also Read: Masters in Architecture in Canada Scholarships 2025
Eligibility Criteria for Waterloo Scholarships
University of Waterloo offers scholarships for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Each scholarship has specific eligibility rules based on factors like program, academic performance, nationality, and sometimes extracurricular achievements. Understanding these criteria is important to know which scholarships you qualify for and to prepare a strong application.
Undergraduate Scholarships Eligibility
Most undergraduate scholarships at Waterloo focus on academic excellence and are available to Canadian and international students across various faculties. Some key eligibility points include:
- Academic Performance: High school grades or equivalent. Usually, a strong average (e.g., 85% or above) is needed. Specific minimum averages may vary by scholarship.
- Program of Study: Many scholarships target students in particular faculties like Engineering, Mathematics, Science, or interdisciplinary programs.
- Nationality: Some scholarships are exclusive to international students, while others are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
- Application Status: Most undergraduate scholarships consider only newly admitted students. Some require a separate application; many do not.
- Other Criteria: For some scholarships, leadership, community involvement, or other achievements may be factors.
Postgraduate Scholarships Eligibility
For postgraduate scholarships (Master’s and PhD levels), eligibility often focuses on academic merit, research potential, and program relevance. Common criteria include:
- Academic Records: A strong undergraduate degree (usually a first-class or upper second-class honours or equivalent). Graduate scholarships require evidence of excellent academic performance.
- Program Enrollment: Must be accepted or enrolled in a qualifying graduate program at Waterloo.
- Research Proposal: For research scholarships, a well-prepared research proposal aligned with faculty priorities is essential.
- Nationality: Many scholarships are open to all students, but some have nationality-specific criteria.
- Application Requirements: Some scholarships require separate applications, including letters of recommendation and CVs.
Required Documents for Scholarship Applications
You typically need to prepare and submit several documents to support your application. These include:
- Academic Transcripts: Official records of your previous education (high school transcripts for UG; bachelor’s degree transcripts for PG).
- Proof of Admission: Offer letter or confirmation of enrollment at the University of Waterloo.
- Personal Statement or Essay: Explaining your achievements, goals, and reasons for applying.
- Letters of Recommendation: Usually from teachers, professors, or employers who can attest to your skills and character (mainly for PG and some competitive UG scholarships).
- Resume or CV: Especially for postgraduate scholarships to highlight research, work experience, and extracurriculars.
- Proof of English Proficiency: Such as IELTS or TOEFL scores, if applicable.
- Application Form: For scholarships requiring a separate application, you must fill out and submit the official form by the deadline.
- Additional Supporting Documents: Some scholarships may require evidence of community service, leadership, or financial need.
Also Read: Harvard University Scholarships for Indian Students
Application and Selection Process
Applying for scholarships at the University of Waterloo is designed to be straightforward, but the process varies depending on the scholarship type. Many scholarships do not require a separate application, you are automatically considered when you apply for admission. However, some scholarships require you to submit an application form along with supporting documents.
How to Apply:
- Automatic Consideration:
For most entrance scholarships, including the President’s and Merit scholarships, you don’t need to apply separately. When you apply for admission to the University of Waterloo, your application is automatically reviewed for these scholarships. - Scholarships Requiring Application:
Certain scholarships, such as the Faculty of Science International Student Scholarship or the Scholarships for Black Students, require a formal application. You must submit your application by the specified deadline and include all necessary documents. - Key Steps if Application is Required:
- Check Eligibility: Confirm you meet the criteria for the scholarship.
- Prepare Documents: Gather transcripts, essays, recommendation letters, and any other required materials.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the scholarship application carefully through the University’s portal or the specific scholarship website.
- Submit Before Deadline: Ensure your application and all documents are submitted before the stated deadline (e.g., February 13, 2026, for Science scholarships).
- Check Eligibility: Confirm you meet the criteria for the scholarship.
Selection & Evaluation Process
The University of Waterloo uses a fair and transparent process to select scholarship recipients. The selection is based on merit and, in some cases, on specific criteria like community involvement or leadership.
- Academic Achievement:
The primary factor for most scholarships is academic excellence. Your grades, standardized test scores, and other academic records are carefully reviewed. - Extracurricular Activities:
For some scholarships, your leadership skills, community service, volunteer work, and other activities are important. - Application Quality:
For scholarships requiring an application, essays, personal statements, and recommendation letters are assessed to understand your goals and suitability. - Diversity and Inclusion:
Some awards, such as scholarships for Black students, also consider how applicants contribute to diversity and inclusion.
Important Scholarship Deadlines for 2025
To maximize your chances of securing scholarships at the University of Waterloo, it’s crucial to keep track of all relevant deadlines. Here are some of the key scholarship deadlines you need to know for 2025:
| Scholarship Name | Application Deadline |
| Faculty of Science International Student Scholarships | February 13, 2026 |
| Scholarships for Black Students | April 15, 2026 |
| General Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships | No separate application |
| Faculty of Engineering Entrance Scholarships | No separate application |
| Faculty of Mathematics Global Scholarships | No separate application |
| Faculty of Mathematics International Awards: India | No separate application |
Also Read: How To Study in Ireland for Free?
FAQs
Ans: Yes, the University of Waterloo offers many scholarships for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Some scholarships require applications, while others consider you automatically when you apply for admission.
Ans: Waterloo bursaries are for students who demonstrate financial need. Eligibility depends on your family income and other financial factors. Both domestic and international students can apply if they meet the criteria.
Ans: Tuition fees vary by program and student status. For international undergraduate students, tuition ranges from approximately CAD 40,000 to CAD 60,000 per year. Domestic tuition is lower, around CAD 6,000 to CAD 15,000 per year depending on the program.
Relatable Reads
That was everything you needed to know about University of Waterloo Scholarships 2025, from eligibility and benefits to the application process and important deadlines. These scholarships offer a great opportunity to support your education in Canada with strong financial assistance. For more such guides, visit the Scholarships page and stay informed with Leverage Edu!
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