What is the Declaration of Academic Experience (DAE)?
The form, which should take less than five minutes to do, asks about your previous schooling, such as high school, college, and/or university. You'll also list any other activities such as a gap year. By submitting the DAE, you'll know which documents (if any) you need to provide – and we should be able to review your application sooner.
Common questions
When should I complete my DAE?
We encourage you to complete the DAE as soon as you're able to log in to the Waterloo applicant portal. Once we receive your application from the Ontario Universities' Application Centre, we'll send you instructions for accessing the portal.
How do I access the DAE?
The form will be listed in your application checklist in the Waterloo applicant portal.
What happens if I don't complete my DAE?
Your application will not move forward in the application process if you don't submit the DAE.
Can I make changes to the DAE after I submit it?
No, you're not able to make any changes. Please take the time to fill it out accurately. Tip: You can preview the DAE in the portal without submitting it.
I made an error on my DAE. What do I do?
Please contact myapplication@uwaterloo.ca outlining the mistake you made and provide documentation to support the change you'd like.
What if I have a gap in my education?
If you took some time off and have a gap in your education, that's okay! You'll be able to indicate that on the form.
How should I answer if I studied in two different school systems/curricula in the same school year?
Please choose the curriculum that you spent the majority of your time in for that year. If your time was equally split, please choose the curriculum or country you started that year in.
The deadline for submitting documents to support my application is in February for most programs. Why do I have to do the DAE right away?
We can't review your application until we know your educational background as explained through the DAE.
Have additional questions about the DAE?
Please contact us at myapplication@uwaterloo.ca or 519-888-4567, ext. 43106.