How to apply
You can find more about the application process, as well as student funding and program information on the Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs website.
Admission Requirements
Check that you meet the admission requirements for the Department of Biology.
The Department of Biology requires students to have 3 references. Three academic references are preferred, but 2 academic and 1 work supervisor reference is acceptable.
Applications that identify potential supervisors have a higher success rate. It is recommended that you contact potential supervisors to ensure that they have available positions and funding.
Application deadlines
- Complete application packages (application form, supporting documents, and reference letters) are due by the deadlines outlined in the tables below.
- Students who meet these deadlines will be considered for major awards and scholarships (OGS, Tri-Agency Scholarships, as well as University of Waterloo awards). Please be aware that award applications are distinct from graduate admission applications.
| Starting Semester | Complete Application Package Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall (September - December) | February 1st |
| Winter (January - April) | July 1st (previous year) |
| Spring (May - August) | October 1st (previous year) |
If you have any questions, please contact the Admissions Coordinator, April Wettig. Please ensure you provide your full name and University of Waterloo student number (if applicable).
After you apply
Once you have completed your online graduate application and have paid the non-refundable application fee, you will be contacted by Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs (GSPA) via email with instructions on how to upload your supporting documents to your University of Waterloo Quest self-service account. Visit the Graduate Studies website for more information.
If you are not able to upload your application materials on Quest, then please contact gradapp@uwaterloo.ca. Please include your full name and University of Waterloo student number on all correspondence.