Any references to costs, fees, financial evidence and visa information are for general guidance purposes only and is subject to change at any point.
Please ensure you refer to information provided by host universities and respective government/embassy webpages for the latest updates.
Situated in Waterloo Ontario, the University is less than 2 hours away from Toronto, Niagara Falls and the US border. You can expect to experience all four seasons when you are at Waterloo from warm summers to cold winters. Ranked as Canada’s most innovative University for 26 consecutive years you’ll receive a quality learning experience. On campus accommodation is available for exchange students and there are plenty of clubs you can get involved in.
It will not be possible to complete a year abroad at this University if you have any assessments, such as supplementary or deferred exams, during the August assessment period at Swansea University.
Who can study here?
Students from the following subject areas may have the opportunity to study at this university on exchange: Classics, History, Philosophy, Politics and International Relations, Sociology.
Spaces are not guaranteed, can be limited and all students on a year abroad programme are subject to a university-wide, competitive selection process.
Important information
ACADEMIC YEAR: Runs September to April
COSTS: The cost of living while studying at Waterloo will vary depending on your chosen accommodation and your lifestyle. You may be responsible for paying incidental fees during your studies.
VISA: You will need a Study Permit and will be required to provide financial evidence of at least CAN$20,635 (subject to change). The Study Permit application fee is approx. CAN$150. Your host university will provide you with more information about the application process. You must allow enough time to complete the study permit application and for your study permit to be processed and sent to you. There can be significant delays so please do not leave this until the last minute as you cannot travel to Canada without it. More information is available via our visa and study permit webpage.
ACCOMMODATION: The University of Waterloo does not guarantee exchange students on campus housing and many live off-campus each year. Campus Housing reserves a limited number of rooms for exchange students, but most exchange students will have to seek accommodations in Waterloo Region’s competitive student housing market. Information about both options is sent to students once they have been accepted to study at Waterloo.
HEALTH INSURANCE: You will be enrolled in two health insurance plans while on exchange in Canada. You will be required to take out the mandatory health cover. The University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP) covers basic health care services, such as medical doctor appointments, hospital visits, and most diagnostic tests. The Studentcare extended Health and Dental Plan covers extra costs like prescription drugs, paramedical practitioners, vision, and dental care.
USEFUL LINKS:
- University of Waterloo Homepage
- University of Waterloo Exchange Student Page
- University of Waterloo Accommodation
- University of Waterloo Student Support Services