Choosing a university for your education can seem like a big task. With so many choices, where do you start? Here are some resources that will help regardless of which university you plan to attend.
Finding a program you’ll love
Get tips on identifying your interests, researching programs, exploring possible careers, and studying multiple interests.
Guide to applying to university
How and when do you apply? How do you submit grades? How do universities choose which students to admit?
Understanding requirements
All universities have certain requirements that need to be met as part of the application process.
University terminology
Major, minor, option, undergraduate, admission average, bursary... what do they all mean?
How universities work
Universities can be complex and confusing. In this overview, learn about types of university degrees, choosing what to study, services available to students, and more.
Waterloo's faculties
A faculty is a group of departments or professional schools that offer programs with similar themes. They are a home for programs, professors, academic advisors, classrooms, and study spaces.
Get tips on finding the university and program that's right for you, applying to university, co-op and careers, and more!
Additional tips
What would you like to study?
- Think about your interests and hobbies. This could determine what you’ll study and the type of job you’ll have.
- Check out our student-written guide to choosing a university.
- Discover Waterloo's programs.
Research like crazy
- Learn what courses to take in grades 9, 10, 11, and 12 to get ready.
- Explore your interests through Waterloo's enrichment programs for high school students.
- Ontario Universities Info provides details about each university and program in the province.
Consider co-op (paid internships)
- A co-op program is a great way to help pay for university, explore potential careers, and gain valuable work experience as part of your degree.
Ask questions!
- Email universities or talk with current university students during online or in-person events.
- Ask your guidance counsellor, parents, relatives, or teachers what they studied. They make great sounding boards and can offer advice on what might be good for you.
Have some questions?
Just email our student recruitment team about what you'd like to study. They'd be happy to suggest programs and answer your questions.
From the Missing Manual
Visit our Missing Manual website for tips and advice from Waterloo students and staff. Topics include
Five reasons you should get involved in extracurriculars in high school
Getting involved opens a lot more doors than you might think. Explore how extracurricular activities can strengthen your university applications, prepare you for future jobs, and foster personal growth.
Seven differences between high school and university
If you’re in high school and planning to go to university, you might be unsure about what you’ve signed up for. What is university going to be like? How will I find my classes? How many people are going to be in my class?