Am I required to live in residence?
Research has shown that living in residence for first year increases students' academic success and graduation rates by giving them access to all the best resources the campus has to offer while also introducing them to friends and lots of fun experiences. While you are not required to live in residence, we highly recommend it!
If you'd prefer to not live in residence, our Off-Campus Housing Office can help you find a room or apartment in the community. Or if you have family in the area, you can live with them.
Are the floors co-ed?
It varies from residence to residence. Some floors are co-ed, many are not. Co-ed first-year floors usually have each gender in a separate wing with a separate washroom. Gender-inclusive housing options are also available in residence. Contact a Housing Advisor to learn more.
Are residences split according to faculties or programs?
No. If you live in residence, you'll have the opportunity to meet students from many Waterloo programs. However, in our Living-Learning Communities, you can choose to live with students in your faculty/program and benefit from special enrichment opportunities. You'll still be part of a larger residence with students from across campus.
How safe are the residences?
Staff in the Department of Housing and Residences take the safety of students living in residence very seriously. All facilities have been designed for safety and security. Buildings, houses, and floors are locked and students must have a key to get in. Learn more about safety in residence.
How are the University Colleges related to the residence experience?
The on-campus 4 University Colleges are smaller, closely knit communities that combine residence and academic life. You can live at a University College, you can take some courses there, or both! You can even do an Arts degree through St. Jerome's University or Renison University College.
Do I have to take classes at a University College to live there?
No, you can live at a University College and take all of your courses on the main Waterloo campus.
Which type of residence is the best fit for me?
Each residence has many services and experiences to offer. It’s more a case of which residence is best for you. Some offer more independence while others offer more social interaction, while others offer more privacy.
Each residence offers a strong sense of community, support for academic pursuits, full-time staff, and many amenities to make it feel like home. Campus and residence tours are a great way to learn more. Can’t make it to campus? Check out our virtual tours.
Meal plan
Where can I use my meal plan on campus?
Living in one of Waterloo's main residences, you can use your meal plan at the many Food Services outlets on campus. Your meal plan also includes flex dollars, which can be spent at a variety of off-campus locations as well as in vending machines, laundry machines, and photocopiers across campus.
If you live at one of the University Colleges, your meal plan applies to that college and you cannot use it at Food Services outlets.
What is the benefit of having a meal plan if I live in a suite-style residence?
If you are living in a suite-style residence, meal plans are optional. You may wish to purchase one if you plan on eating some of your meals in the food services outlets on campus. Great for days when you don’t have time to cook or visit the grocery store!
Roommates
Do I need to have a roommate?
Sharing a room really isn't as bad as you might think. You and your roommate will likely have very different schedules, so you won't always be in the room at the same time. In reality, roommate relationships usually work out well, and even when there are challenges, there’s a whole team of supportive professional staff here to help you. Check out this video with tips to ensure a great roommate experience.
Can I select my own roommate?
You can request to room with a friend as long as you each indicated the same gender when you applied through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre and you're both in school for the fall and winter terms or the fall and spring terms in first year.
How am I matched with my roommate?
The allocation process considers your gender, whether you're in school fall-winter or fall-spring in first year, and the information you provide to the residence where you'll be living, such as your study and sleep habits, personal preferences, etc. Don’t worry, housing staff do their best to ensure that roommate matches are successful by taking your preferences into consideration and providing support after move in.
More information
You can learn more about residence by reviewing the frequently asked questions on the Housing website.
