Fees, scholarships and financial aid

Tuition

Tuition is the fee you pay for your instruction. You will pay tuition for each 4-month academic term in which you are enrolled. Typically a full school year consists of two 4-month academic terms.

The tuition amounts provided are based on a full year’s (two academic terms) tuition fees.

Other costs

Total costs per year will vary depending on the books required for your courses, supplies, transportation, entertainment and other activities outside the classroom.

The University of Waterloo Admissions site has additional information about financing your education.

Financial Aid

Once you’ve determined your approximate tuition and other costs, you may find that you have some additional financial need.

In addition to scholarships (awarded based on academic achievement) there are other forms of financial aid available. The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is available to Ontario residents. If you have been accepted to Social Development Studies, be sure to select Honours Arts as your program of study on the OSAP form. (There is not an option for SDS specifically.)

Renison students are also eligible for the University of Waterloo entrance bursaries.

The interactive budget will help you start planning for your educational finances.

Renison Student Scholarships and Awards

At Renison we offer funding exclusively for our students and residents. In addition to entrance scholarships, we have merit-based awards and funding you can apply to receive.

Entrance Scholarships Criteria

If you are applying to post-secondary education for the first time when you apply to Renison, you will be automatically considered for an entrance scholarship. Some conditions apply (see below).

We'll use your admission average to determine which scholarship you receive.

Note: the criteria, conditions, and scales for scholarships are subject to change at any time. We are working at ensure Renison students have the best financial supports and resources available in an equitable and fair manner that meet the needs and challenges of our student population.

Admission Average	Scholarship Name	Amount
95% +	Renison President's Scholarship of Distinction	$2000	Top two students achieving 95% + receive an additional $2000 (Scholarship of Excellence)
90 - 94.9%	Renison President's Scholarship	$2000
85 - 89.9%	Renison Merit Scholarship	$1000

Conditions

Students must be entering full-time studies at Renison University College.
Students must accept their offer to a Renison program by the date on your offer.

The 2025-2026 application will open on June 16, 2025. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact renison.registrar@uwaterloo.ca.

Additional Funding - apply for scholarships, awards, and bursaries

Renison funding is distributed to students based on a number of criteria, including financial need, program of study, student status, and more. Search using the bar below, or take a look at some of the common categories.

Search for a Scholarship, Award or Bursary

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Can't find what you're looking for?

Please view the full listing of scholarships, awards, and bursaries available to Renison academic and residence students.