3 easy tips to become a Science student at Waterloo

The first step is to figure out which area of science excites you most! The Faculty of Science offers a diverse range of programs and majors in three categories: Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Interdisciplinary Programs. Whether you’re interested in biology, chemistry, physics, earth and environmental sciences, aviation, or business, you can choose from 17 programs and nearly a hundred ways to tailor your degree to fit your interests.

If you’re thinking of majoring in biochemistry, chemistry, earth sciences, environmental science, or science and business, you can add a specialization starting in your second year. This is a great way to build career-ready skills that will make your resume stand out to future employers when you graduate.

Additionally, only at Waterloo can Science students pursue degree options such as bioinformatics or microbiology. The Faculty of Science offers nine different minors to build even more skills and knowledge. If you think you will want to pursue interests beyond science, there are more than 50 minors offered by other faculties at the University of Waterloo. Learn more about how you can customize your Science degree at Waterloo.

Gaining the needed prerequisites for science programs is easier than you might think! You’ll need to graduate high school with six Grade 12 U or M courses, including:

• English 4U
• Calculus and Vectors 4U
• Advanced Functions 4U

Plus, any two of the following:

• Biology 4U
• Chemistry 4U
• Earth and Space Science 4U
• Mathematics of Data Management 4U
• Physics 4U

As long as you’re working toward completing these requirements, you’re on the right track! Aim for at least 70% in each of these subjects, and keep in mind that the average admissions range for Waterloo Science programs is from the low to high 80s. Do your best in your courses and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a Waterloo Warrior.

Have questions? Visit this helpful FAQ to get your questions about admissions answered!

We understand that university is a big financial commitment, but the Faculty of Science is here to help with new entrance scholarships based on your average to help support your studies:

• 80% – 84.9%: $500
• 85% – 89.9%: $1,000
• 90% – 94.5%: $1,500
• 95% or higher: $2,000

On top of that, the University of Waterloo offers additional entrance scholarships for those with an average of 85% or higher:

• 85% – 94.9%: $1,000 to $2,000
• 95% or higher: $2,000

Plus, if you complete a Specialist High Skills Major at an Ontario high school, you will receive an additional $1,000. You can also earn another $1,000 by completing one of the Faculty of Science contests in 2025. No matter where you land, there’s extra support to help you succeed!

To get a feel for what the Faculty of Science is like, and get a feel for the campus, we highly recommend you come visit! Anytime throughout the year, you can book a student-led walking tour to familiarize yourself with campus and scope out your future study spots. Experience what it’s like to be a student at Waterloo by shadowing a Science student for a day to attend a lecture or lab and tour our amazing Science spaces! If you can’t make it to campus, you can book an online call with a student to ask all your questions!

Fun events and opportunities pop up throughout the year for you to participate in. To stay in the know, sign up for the undergraduate programs newsletter to receive details on open houses, events, webinars, and other tips about applying to Waterloo Science!