This update is provided for archival purposes only.

Public Health guidance and University of Waterloo operations may have changed. For the most up-to-date information, please visit our COVID-19 frequently asked questions.

Winter 2021 academic schedule changes

Monday, November 16, 2020

This message was originally sent to employees by president and vice-chancellor Feridun Hamdullahpur.

  • Winter term classes will begin January 11. All other winter term activities will begin as scheduled on January 4.
  • Classes will be cancelled on March 15 and 16 to create a four-day weekend for students March 13 to 16.
  • All employees will receive two days off to be used between January and April.

I know that you have all been working extremely hard this term, and that the additional stress and uncertainty caused by the pandemic may be taking a toll on the mental wellbeing of our students and employees.

After consulting with groups across campus, we have decided to make some updates to the winter 2021 term academic schedule:

  • We will be delaying the start of winter term classes until January 11. All other winter term activities (such as co-op work terms) and regular operations for employees will begin as usual on January 4.
  • Classes will be cancelled on Monday, March 15 and Tuesday, March 16 to create a four-day weekend from March 13 to 16. March 15 and 16 will be normal work days for employees.
  • Reading week will continue as planned from February 13 to 21.

We hope that these scheduled pauses provide some much-needed relief to students, and to course instructors as well. The Keep Learning team will provide guidance to help course instructors with scheduling assessments around the adjusted term schedule.

Additionally, all employees will receive two days off, outside of their regular vacation allotment, to be used between January and April. You can work with your manager to schedule these days.

We are still confirming some details and will announce more information about how these schedule changes will work as we move closer to the winter term.

Please remember to take care of yourselves and each other as we continue into the term, and that help is available if you need it. Thank you again for your continued work to support our students and keep the University running.