Strong Co-op / Experiential Learning

• Waterloo is perhaps most well-known for its co-operative education (co-op) model: students alternate between academics and paid work terms. This helps in gaining work experience + earning money.

• Co-op helps offset the high cost of tuition and living, by providing paid work opportunities.

Reputation in STEM / Innovation

• Very strong in STEM (engineering, computer science, applied mathematics) → good for students interested in tech and research.

• Waterloo is consistently ranked among Canada’s most innovative universities. 

• Good industry connections — because of co-op and its location → students can network with tech companies, startups, and large firms.

Global Ranking & Recognition

• With a solid QS rank globally (~119) and strengths in employment outcomes and sustainability, a Waterloo degree is well recognized internationally. 

• The university has a good reputation for employer outcomes — many graduates are highly employable.

Support for International Students

• Dedicated International Experience team helps with orientation, settling in, financial advice, and community-building. 

• Scholarships: Entrance scholarships for international students help mitigate some cost, though competition is likely.

Diverse Program Options

• Waterloo offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs: arts, business, environment, health, mathematics, engineering, computer science, etc.

• Many of these programs integrate work experience (via co-op), making them attractive for students looking for practical, career-oriented education.

Location & Quality of Life

• Waterloo is in Ontario, part of Canada’s tech / innovation hub — good for internships and industry exposure.

• It’s a student-friendly city, and with co-op earnings + student support, international students can build a strong life and career network.

Financial Planning Tools

• Waterloo provides a budget calculator for prospective students to estimate their cost of attendance (tuition + living + personal) so they can plan better.