Dates and fees
| GEAR sessions | Dates | Program fees | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 2026 (3-week option) | January 12 - 30, 2026 | $1531 CAD | Registration open |
| January 2026 (4-week option) | January 12 - February 6, 2026 | $1956 CAD | Registration open |
| February 2026 (4-weeks) | February 23 - March 20, 2026 | $1956 CAD | Registration open |
| Fall 2026 (4-weeks) | August 31 - September 25, 2026 | $2011 CAD | Registration open |
NOTE: Fees are listed in Canadian dollars (CAD) and are subject to change at any time.
Program fees include the non-refundable application fee, tuition and incidental fees, and mandatory health insurance. For more information, visit our Tuition Fees page.
University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP) coverage must be purchased regardless of medical coverage from your home country. Dependents (spouse and/or children) must also be enrolled in UHIP upon arrival in Canada for an additional cost. UHIP fees are subject to change September 1 each year. Renison ELI staff will assist with your enrolment.
Not included in program fees: travel costs, airport transfers, accommodation, and optional excursions. If you require assistance, please e-mail us at renison.ip@uwaterloo.ca.
Application process
Applications must be submitted through our student portal. Follow these steps to apply for the GEAR program:
Step 1: Visit the student portal to submit your application; if you are not signed in to or signed up for a portal account, you will be prompted to do so now.
Step 2: Once signed in, you will be directed to the Program Applications page; select the blue ‘Submit Program Application’ button.
Step 3: Proceed with preparing and submitting your application.
Step 4: You will receive confirmation of your application through e-mail to the e-mail address attached to your account.
Step 5: Pay the application fee and tuition deposit(s) to secure your registration.
Step 6: Receive your Letter of Acceptance within 3 business days of payment receipt.
Step 7: Pay your remaining fees two weeks before the start of the program.
Payment options
You may pay your fees through Convera GlobalPay for Students, online by credit card through your student portal, through online banking (only available from a Canadian bank account), or in person at Renison.
For detailed instructions, visit our Payment Instructions page.
If you have any questions about your application or payment options, please contact renison.ip@uwaterloo.ca.