The University of Waterloo is committed to fostering a healthy and safe campus environment for all.
Student medical services
Students can access primary care on campus through Campus Wellness. Parents will not be contacted or informed about student’s health care appointments or services. See Campus Wellness privacy and consent policies to learn more.
Supporting student mental health
Campus Wellness, Counselling Services strives to provide a secure, supportive environment for students of all orientations and backgrounds.
Free, private and confidential counselling is available to students who are currently registered or on a co-op term.
Students can book appointments by phone or in-person. Crisis appointments are available every weekday.
University of Waterloo Special Constable Services (UWSCS) may be contacted in the case of a mental health crisis. The Integrated Mobile Police and Crisis Team (IMPACT) is a program that has a trained mental health professional work with the UWSCS to provide mental health care in after hours settings when counselling is unavailable. This program is offered in partnership with Counselling Services and the Canadian Mental Health Association.
Mental health resources:
The University of Waterloo is a smoke-free campus. All University property, including campuses in Waterloo, Cambridge, Kitchener and Stratford are covered by this policy.
Health and dental insurance
It will be important for your student to understand their health and dental coverage as a student.
All students
The Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association (WUSA) partners with Studentcare to offer undergraduate students extended health and dental insurance. Eligible students can opt out during the change of coverage period.
International students
International undergraduate students must enrol in the University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP), unless they can provide proof of having obtained OHIP coverage or an equivalent health plan.
Out of province students
For most students attending Waterloo from other provinces in Canada, your provincial health care plan can be used in Ontario. Prior to leaving the province, students should contact their Provincial Health Plan office directly or view their website for the steps to maintain coverage while studying outside the province.
Emergency information
On-campus: 519-888-4911
Off-campus: 911
Mental health resources
If students feel overwhelmed or anxious and need to talk, they can contact Counselling Services at Campus Wellness at 519-888-4096. Both in-person and virtual appointments are available.
They can also find a full directory of after-hours resources.