Living in Waterloo | Renison International Programs

There are many options available to Renison International Programs students looking for accommodation in Waterloo.

Live at Renison Residence

The best way to practice your skills and make new friends is to join the Renison community and live in residence with up to 200 other students who call Renison home! Our residence includes:

Single and double room accommodation
Wireless Internet
Full-service cafeteria, can accommodate vegetarian options and other dietary restrictions
Student lounge space with high-definition TVs and game tables
Access to Renison facilities including our library and group study space

By living in residence at Renison, you can literally wake up in the morning and walk downstairs to your first class! For more information, visit the Renison University College residence website.

Space in Renison's residence fills up fast, so apply early! If you are unable to secure a space at Renison, there may be other residence options available on campus. For more information about residence options on the University of Waterloo campus, email ren-res@uwaterloo.ca.

On-campus residence accommodation is included if you are studying in one of the following programs:

Future Ready Summer Experience 2026
English for Success July 2026 & August 2026
GO Abroad: Learning for Sustainability (3-week program) August 2026

Live with a Homestay Family

Live with a Canadian family and practice your English every day!

A homestay family is a great way to learn about Canadian culture and become involved in daily activities and family events. Your homestay family will provide you with meals, a furnished room, and help you adjust to life in Canada. Homestay is a common accommodation option for students studying in our General English at Renison (GEAR) program and full-term offerings of the English for Academic Success (EFAS) and GO Abroad: Learning for Sustainability programs.

For more information on homestay providers in Waterloo Region, email ren-res@uwaterloo.ca.

Off-campus Housing in Waterloo

Rent a room, apartment or home in Waterloo Region! With more than 600 rental options each year, Waterloo’s Off-Campus Housing office supports new students in finding accommodation near campus.

For more information visit the University of Waterloo's Off-Campus Housing website or contact ren-res@uwaterloo.ca.

Our Administrative Assistant, Laura Mutton, is available to answer your questions to help you find a safe space to stay in Waterloo. You can email Laura at ren-res@uwaterloo.ca with your questions about finding a place to stay in Waterloo.