Academic advisors

Useful Links

• Course Enrolment Resources
• Course Selection
• Enrolment Problems and Course Overrides
• Modifying Your Program

Why should you talk to an Academic Advisor?

• Ask questions about which courses to take, what is required for your degree (including co-op requirements), university policies, procedures, and possible exceptions.
• Discuss your options and understand what choices are available for your academic decisions.
• Discover resources if you are struggling academically.
• Get support in balancing academics with other opportunities (such as international exchange) or personal difficulties and extenuating circumstances.
• Seek an ally who seeks to understand your case, who is also knowledgeable of the policies of the university.
• Reach out for support if unsure where to start.

It's important to note that:

• We know most about Science and Business programs; we cannot provide advice about other majors or minors, but we can refer you to the appropriate contact.
• We respect your privacy. We don’t share your information with other students or parents without your express permission. However, at times, for academic support and mental health reasons, we will consult with other advising members or university supports for assistance.
• We are not immigration experts, so we cannot provide advice on immigration issues. We have great Immigration Consultants that can help you with advice about your study permit or other immigration concerns.
• We are not counsellors, though we will help you find counselling support. Campus Wellness offers several services for students, and Athletics and Recreation has something for everyone on campus to get active.

Make the most of academic advising

• Prepare your questions before contacting or meeting with an Academic Advisor and know what you want to accomplish.
• Use the Undergraduate Calendar and our website to understand your academic requirements
• Be open and honest so your advisor can effectively support you
• Take notes and ask questions to clarify your understanding
• Accept ultimate responsibility for your success at Waterloo, but reach out when you have concerns about your academics or if you're struggling
• Check in at least once per year to ensure you are meeting your academic requirements as expected

​Science and Business

Science and Business is interdisciplinary, and designed to produce a pool of multifaceted graduates equipped with a unique blend of knowledge in science technology and business, as well as information technology, creative problem solving and decision making skills. It is designed to prepare students to compete and prosper in the current technology-intensive global market place.

The Science and Business plans can be taken in the regular system of study. Please consult with the Program Advisor regarding course sequencing.

Students must maintain a cumulative overall average of 65% in both Science and non-Science courses in order to be eligible to continue. You can only have a maximum of 2.0 failed units (4 courses). For more information please see the undergraduate calendar.

Biotechnology/Chartered Professional Accountancy schedule

To remain eligible to continue in the Academic Plan, students must have a cumulative overall average of at least 70%, a cumulative average of 70% in Accounting courses and a cumulative average of 65% in Science courses.

Biotechnology/Economics schedule

To remain eligible to continue in the Academic plan, students must have a cumulative overall average of at least 70%, a cumulative average of 70% in Economics courses and a cumulative average of 65% in Science courses.

​Note:​ ​Students who wish to take advanced level Plant Biotechnology courses should take BIOL 120 in the 3A Winter term. 

Additional Information:

For more information please see the undergraduate calendar. Students should follow the calendar in the year that they began their program.