University of Waterloo approved AI tools
Approved generative AI tools:
- are covered by a University contract and data protection agreement;
- process University data only within a University-approved protected environment - either UW-managed (e.g. our Microsoft 365 tenant) or a vendor's cloud that meets equivalent controls under contract; and
- have completed an Information Risk Assessment (IRA) and, where required, a Privacy Risk Assessment (PIA) and comply with all relevant UW policies and applicable laws and regulations.
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University accounts can be used to log in to Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat for experimentation and productivity. Logging in with your UWaterloo account automatically applies personal and institutional data controls. Personal accounts should not be used in conjunction with University data. |
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Microsoft 365 Copilot |
The University does not currently provide Microsoft 365 Copilot licenses, but a secure and equitable access strategy is under review. Copilot (licensed) includes AI in Teams, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel, and more. |
Using institutionally supported tools ensures you have the necessary safeguards, support, and policy coverage for responsible integration into your work. See the Responsible Use of AI Tools with University Data guidelines to learn more.
Public AI tools
University of Waterloo data must not be entered into public AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, or similar services). Only use University-approved tools operating in protected environments as defined above. Never input confidential, restricted or highly-restricted University information into unapproved AI tools.
Note: Some devices come with AI features (e.g., Apple Intelligence) that turn on by default; their presence on University-issued hardware does not mean they’re approved for University data—you may turn them off or avoid using them.
New to AI?
Even if you’ve never used AI before, you can get helpful, accurate, and creative results in less than a minute.
This guide gives you:
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A simple Prompt Formula that works every time
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Examples you can copy, paste, and try immediately
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Tips for spotting high-impact opportunities
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Quick fixes for common AI mistakes
AI software requests
For questions related to the use of AI software and platforms, such as guidance around choosing technologies, submit a request to the AI Services team.
Important: Before providing data to third-party AI tools, consult the Responsible Use of AI Tools with University Data guidelines to ensure compliance with privacy and data protection requirements.