Our connection
1,031 students from India study at Waterloo (fall 2018)
282 Waterloo alumni live in India (fall 2018)
Resources for students from India
Meet students from around the world
Students from more than 120 countries choose to study at Waterloo each year. Through your classes and our many experiences outside the classroom, you'll meet students from across Canada and around the world.
- Hindu Students Association
- Indian Cultural Association
- Indian Connection – brings the culture of India to campus through fun events
- International and Canadian Student Network – a student-run service that helps local and international students feel welcome
- International Peer Community – meet new people, build a support network, and learn about Canadian culture
- Immigration Consultants – get help with immigration; medical, financial, and cultural adjustment; taxes; preparing for Waterloo
Student spotlight: Akshat
Akshat graduated from the Faculty of Engineering and is originally from New Delhi, India.
What were you looking for in a university?
I was looking for a university that gives me a solid foundation for my career. I wanted to get into the best possible Computer Engineering school and Waterloo was the best possible school in Canada.
I chose Waterloo also for its co-op program. I chose it over some of its competitors because it was situated in Waterloo and not a big city. Coming from a big city, I wanted to experience a smaller city life and Waterloo fit it perfectly.
What did you expect from Waterloo before arriving?
Lots of hard working people. People from all over the globe, and not enough people having fun. I expected people to just nerd out all the time and be bookworms. I expected people hanging out only within their social groups, and I thought it would be like the typical western high schools I see in the movies.
Was there anything that was different from your expectation?
It was a lot more different than I thought. People didn't just study all the time, a lot more emphasis was given on practical knowledge and networking. Marks don't matter if you cannot back them up with relevant co-ops or volunteer hours. Everything requires you to prove yourself, just stating the fact isn't enough. Also, I was really surprised by how nice everyone was, and how easy it was for me as an international student to get involved and be friends with so many people. It was totally not like the high schools you see in movies.
Why do you think Waterloo is a good fit for students from your country?
I think Waterloo is a good fit for students who are looking for a new experience, are looking for a solid start in their careers, and are not afraid of change. People from India can definitely resonate with me when I say that undergrad experience is extremely important in one's life, and I think Waterloo delivers it perfectly. Also, students from India can bond with people form other cultures fairly easily and comfortably at Waterloo.
Helpful resources
- See when we're visiting India
- Scholarships and common questions about fees and scholarships
- Indian Consulate in Toronto
Questions?
- Contact Karuna Ausman or india.recruit@uwaterloo.ca if you have questions about applying from India
- If you have questions about your application, email myapplication@uwaterloo.ca
