Looking for a Waterloo University scholarship to fund your education?
Securing a scholarship at the University of Waterloo can significantly ease financial stress and open academic doors. Known for its strong engineering, computer science, and co-op programs, Waterloo offers a range of scholarships for domestic and international students across all levels of study.
Types of Scholarships at Waterloo University
The University of Waterloo provides diverse funding options to attract top talent. Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership, research potential, and financial need.
- Entrance scholarships for high school students
- Merit-based scholarships for current undergraduates
- International student awards
- Graduate scholarships and funding packages
- Co-op student scholarships
- Program-specific scholarships (Engineering, Math, etc.)
- Government-funded awards (e.g., Ontario Graduate Scholarship)
- Faculty-nominated awards
- Bursaries for financial need
- External donor-funded scholarships
Apply also: Alberta University Scholarship
Entrance Scholarships for Undergraduate Students
Students entering from high school are automatically considered for several entrance awards. No separate application is needed for most.
- President’s Scholarship of Distinction
- President’s Scholarship
- Merit Scholarship
- International Student Entrance Scholarships
- Math and Engineering-specific entrance awards
- Schulich Leader Scholarships
- Faculty of Environment Entrance Scholarships
- Faculty of Health Awards
- Scholarships for IB and AP students
- National and provincial competition-based awards
Apply also: McGill University Scholarship
Scholarships for International Students
International students at Waterloo are eligible for dedicated scholarships to support their studies and living expenses.
- International Student Entrance Scholarship ($10,000)
- International Master’s Student Award (IMSA)
- International Doctoral Student Award (IDSA)
- Graduate Research Studentship
- David Johnston International Experience Awards
- Faculty-specific international scholarships
- International experience grants
- Visa-related tuition support
- Government scholarships from home countries
- Work-study program eligibility
Apply also: Toronto University Scholarship
Graduate Scholarships and Awards
Graduate students benefit from robust funding opportunities that support both research and coursework-based programs.
- Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
- Tri-Agency Awards (CIHR, NSERC, SSHRC)
- UW Graduate Scholarship ($1,000 – $5,000)
- International Master’s and Doctoral Awards
- President’s Graduate Scholarship
- Vector Scholarships in Artificial Intelligence
- David Johnston Graduate Research Scholarship
- Research assistantships
- Teaching assistantships
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Apply also: British Columbia University Scholarship
Faculty and Program-Specific Scholarships
Each faculty offers unique scholarships tailored to the strengths and goals of its students.
- Faculty of Engineering Entrance and Upper-Year Awards
- Faculty of Mathematics Scholarships
- School of Accounting and Finance Awards
- Faculty of Science Research Awards
- Faculty of Health Experiential Learning Bursaries
- Faculty of Arts Honours and Prizes
- Architecture and Planning Scholarships
- Environment and Sustainability Grants
- Interdisciplinary and joint-program awards
- Co-op and experiential education-specific funding
Apply also: Mount Saint Vincent University Scholarship
Co-op Student Scholarships and Funding
Co-op students can access financial support that recognizes their academic and professional excellence.
- Co-op Student of the Year Awards
- Employer-sponsored scholarships
- Work-integrated learning funding
- Research-based co-op grants
- EDGE experiential learning awards
- International co-op mobility grants
- Mitacs Accelerate and Globalink funding
- Faculty-sponsored co-op bursaries
- Internships with financial incentives
- Paid project-based research funding
Apply also: University of Prince Edward Island Scholarship
How to Apply for Waterloo Scholarships
Most scholarships are automatic, but some require a formal application. Application processes vary by program and level of study.
- Automatic entrance scholarships (no application)
- Internal application portals for selective awards
- Graduate funding application during admission
- External award applications (e.g., OGS, Vanier)
- Faculty-specific deadlines and forms
- Supporting documents (transcripts, CV, statement)
- Competitive GPA or ranking requirements
- Research proposal for graduate awards
- Demonstrated leadership or community impact
- References or nominations (if required)
Apply also: Québec University Scholarship
Deadlines and Eligibility Criteria
Understanding key dates and eligibility conditions ensures you don’t miss out on available opportunities.
| Scholarship Type | Deadline | Key Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Entrance Scholarships | March 1 | High school GPA, admission average |
| International Awards | Varies | Country of origin, GPA, program |
| Graduate Scholarships | February 1 | Academic merit, research proposal |
| OGS and Tri-Agency Awards | December-January | Canadian citizens, academic record |
| Faculty-Nominated Awards | Program-specific | Faculty recommendation, GPA |
Frequently Asked Questions
What GPA do I need for a Waterloo scholarship?
Most scholarships require a minimum admission average of 85%, but competitive awards often need 90%+.
Can international students apply for Waterloo scholarships?
Yes, there are dedicated scholarships and funding packages for international undergraduate and graduate students.
Is a separate application needed for all scholarships?
Not always. Many entrance awards are automatic, but some need a formal application or faculty nomination.
Are scholarships renewable each year?
Some are one-time, while others renew based on academic performance. Always check the scholarship terms.
How much funding can I expect as a graduate student?
Graduate packages vary but may include scholarships, research assistantships, and teaching roles, often totaling $15,000 to $30,000 annually.
What is the President’s Scholarship of Distinction?
It is a prestigious entrance award for students with 95%+ average, offering $2,000 and additional research or international experience funding.
Can I hold multiple scholarships at once?
Yes, if the terms don’t conflict. Always confirm stacking policies with your faculty or the awards office.
What are the best scholarships for engineering students?
Top options include Schulich Leader Scholarships, Faculty of Engineering Entrance Scholarships, and co-op research awards.
Are bursaries different from scholarships?
Yes. Bursaries are based on financial need, while scholarships reward merit, leadership, or research.
Where can I get help applying for scholarships?
Waterloo’s Student Awards u0026 Financial Aid Office provides resources, guidance, and application support.
Conclusion
A Waterloo University scholarship can ease financial pressure and enhance your academic path. With options for every level and background, students have real opportunities to thrive and succeed.