Is Canada still a good country for international students?
Yes! Canada continues to offer a world-class education system with rigorous academic programs, robust support services, and high-quality research. International students can gain valuable Canadian work experience as a student and after graduation.
Although there has been lots in the media about limiting the number of international students in the country, universities in Canada are still able to welcome thousands of students from around the world. Most of the reduction in international students has been at the college level in Canada.
Canada is a safe country that ranks 4th globally for adaptability, inclusiveness, and social justice (U.S. News 2024).
Is Waterloo a good destination for international students?
Yes! Waterloo expects to admit similar numbers of international students as previous years.
Waterloo has one of the highest graduation rates among Ontario’s universities. Recent research shows that 70% of Waterloo’s international graduates secure Permanent Resident status—double the national university average—and earn more after graduating than Canadian-born students.
International students can gain up to two years of paid Canadian work experience before they graduate through our co-op program. And then you can apply to the Post-Graduate Work Program once you graduate.
As Canada’s #1 research university for the past 17 years, Waterloo is among the top 8% of universities globally and offers the North America’s largest paid co-op program.
Will I get a study permit?
Waterloo has one of the highest student permit approval rates in Canada. Last year, Waterloo’s allocation of student permits was not significantly impacted and we don’t expect a significant decrease in the number of international students we can welcome to campus this year.
Tip: To avoid potential processing delays, we recommend students apply for their Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) and student permit as soon as they accept their Offer of Admission and pay their tuition deposit.
How does Waterloo support international students?
First-year students are guaranteed on-campus housing and Waterloo provides comprehensive support for international students.
Waterloo’s free immigration services and Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCIC) can assist with your study permit application once you accept an offer of admission to Waterloo.
Will changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program affect me?
Waterloo graduates in all fields of study (including non-STEM disciplines) remain eligible and well-positioned for the PGWP if they meet the post-graduation work permit criteria, including the new language requirements. (Note: you’re not guaranteed a PGWP. You must apply to PGWP after graduation.)
Is it safe to study in Waterloo?
Political polarization, economic instability, conflicts, and other world issues continue to affect students in many ways across the globe. Waterloo stands united against violence and bigotry, fostering a safe, inclusive community.
In a 2023 survey, 88% of international students found the Waterloo region welcoming, with 76% feeling safe. Two-thirds of international students reported having a positive experience of settling in the region and feeling a strong sense of belonging.
Campus safety resources include 24/7 security, accessible 24/7 mental health support, dedicated help-line devices installed in public spaces, and emergency response systems. Many additional supports are in place specifically for incoming international students.