How to apply to our Master of Social Work program

The application process for entry into the full-time option or part-time option in Fall 2026 is now closed. 

If you applied by the deadline of November 15, 2025, 11.59pm (Eastern), the deadline is December 1, 2025, 11.59pm (Eastern) to upload ALL supporting documentation through your applicant portal. 

You will be notified in March 2026 as to whether or not you have been offered admission. Your admission decision will be available in your Applicant Portal.

During the admission process applicants may, or may not, be called for an interview.

NOTE: Only ONE application is required - please specify either the Full-Time option or Part-Time option.

Applicants may only apply to one MSW program: Full-time OR Part-time. 

Applying is a two-step process:

STEP ONE

Complete your on-line application through the Graduate Studies website. 

  • The online application process begins on September 1 and closes on November 15 each year.
  • You will be required to enter each of your educational institutions and the contact details for your three referees (1 academic and 2 professional) at this time, and pay a non-refundable application fee of CAD 150. 
    • Academic Background: you may upload a copy of your transcripts as you complete this section.
    • Referees: you may enter your referee information and send the request right away or save it to send later.
  • Only apply for one option, either full-time or part-time. You may NOT apply to both options.

The final date for applications to be submitted online is November 15, 2025, 11.59pm (Eastern)

STEP TWO

Upload your application documents through your Applicant Portal:

  • Once you have submitted your application, you will be directed to your Applicant Portal to pay the application fee, upload your application materials, and track the status of your application.
  • Under Application Checklist you will see a list of the application materials you need to upload and complete based on your program.
  • Once you have uploaded all of your required documents, and your referees have completed their reference forms, your application is complete.

The final date for application materials and supporting documentation to be submitted online is December 1, 2025, 11.59pm (Eastern)

  • A full set of materials must be submitted. Graduate Studies & Postdoctoral Affairs (GSPA) has a list of types of documents that can be uploaded. 
  • If you uploaded an incorrect document (e.g., a test score instead of a transcript), email gradapply@uwaterloo.ca
  • If you're experiencing difficulties uploading your materials or if you have any questions about how to upload your materials, please contact gradapply@uwaterloo.ca
  • Further information about application documentation, including answers to queries about transcripts, references, resume, etc, can be found on the Graduate Studies 'Application documents and materials' web page.
  • Need to correct or update your application?  If you did not declare some of your previous education, or if you need to change a referee after you apply, please review the Graduate Studies Update your application web page for further information.