Founded in 1911, Wilfrid Laurier University is a leading public university in Ontario, Canada, with campuses in Waterloo, Brantford, Milton, and Kitchener. Known for its student-centred education, strong co-op opportunities, and emphasis on experiential learning, Laurier has built a reputation for producing career-ready graduates. The university welcomes students from more than 85 countries, fostering a vibrant and diverse campus community. Wilfrid Laurier University is home to more than 20,000 students across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. It is particularly recognised for Business, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Economics, Psychology, Communication Studies, Music, Social Work, and Environmental Studies. Laurier's close connections with industry and its renowned co-op programs provide students with valuable practical experience before graduation. Whether you're planning to pursue a bachelor's degree, master's programme, MBA, or PhD, this guide provides an overview of Wilfrid Laurier University admissions, available programmes, scholarships, admission requirements, and career opportunities for international students.
| Label | Value |
|---|---|
| Location | Waterloo, Ontario |
| Program Levels | UG · Master's · MBA · PhD |
Which Program Level Fits You?
Wilfrid Laurier University offers undergraduate, postgraduate, professional, and research programmes across a wide range of disciplines.
| Program Level | Overview |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's (Undergraduate) | Undergraduate programmes in Business Administration, Computer Science, Data Science, Economics, Psychology, Communications, Biology, Mathematics, and more. |
| Master's (Postgraduate) | |
| Master's programmes in Computer Science, Data Science, Business Administration (MBA), Economics, Psychology, Social Work, Music Therapy, and more. | |
| Professional Programmes | Career-focused programmes through the Lazaridis School of Business and Economics, Faculty of Science, and Faculty of Human and Social Sciences. |
| PhD (Research) | Research-intensive doctoral programmes supported by experienced faculty and collaborative research centres. |
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary depending on the programme and level of study.
| Requirement | Typical Requirement |
|---|---|
| Academic Qualifications | Recognised secondary school certificate (Bachelor's) or relevant bachelor's degree (Master's) |
| GPA | Competitive academic record (graduate programmes generally require a strong academic average) |
| IELTS Academic | Generally 6.5 overall |
| TOEFL iBT | Generally 83–89+ depending on the programme |
| Duolingo English Test | Accepted for eligible programmes |
| PTE Academic | Accepted for many programmes |
| Other Requirements | |
| Academic transcripts, statement of purpose, CV/résumé (graduate), letters of recommendation, and programme-specific documents | International applicants must also meet programme-specific academic requirements and demonstrate English language proficiency where applicable. (wlu) |
Cost of Attendance
Tuition at Wilfrid Laurier University varies depending on the programme and faculty. International students should also budget for: Tuition and university fees Accommodation and meals Health insurance Books and study materials Transportation Personal expenses The university's Waterloo campus is located in one of Canada's fastest-growing technology regions, offering excellent career opportunities while maintaining a lower cost of living than cities such as Toronto or Vancouver.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Wilfrid Laurier University offers several automatic entrance scholarships and additional funding opportunities for international students. Eligible students are automatically assessed, and no separate scholarship application is required for entrance awards. Popular scholarship opportunities include:
- International Entrance Scholarship – CAD $5,000 for eligible international students with an admission average below 95%
- President's Gold Scholarship – CAD $6,000 for international students with an admission average of 95% or higher. This award is renewable if renewal requirements are met
- Renewable In-Course Scholarships for eligible students maintaining the required GPA
- Graduate Fellowships
- Research Assistantships
- Teaching Assistantships
- Faculty-specific Scholarships
- External Government Scholarships
- International entrance scholarships can be worth up to CAD $24,000 over four years for students who qualify for the renewable President's Gold Scholarship and continue to meet academic requirements
Campus Life & Student Experience
Wilfrid Laurier University provides a welcoming and engaging student experience. Students benefit from:
- More than 170 student clubs and organizations
- Modern teaching and research laboratories
- Career counselling and co-op support
- Entrepreneurship and startup initiatives
- Undergraduate research opportunities
- Varsity athletics and recreation facilities
- International exchange programmes
- On-campus residence options
The Waterloo Region is home to major technology companies and startups, giving students excellent access to internships and networking opportunities.
Research & Global Reputation
Wilfrid Laurier University is recognised for research excellence, innovation, and strong employer engagement. Highlights include:
- One of Canada's leading comprehensive universities
- Strong research in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Computer Science, Business Innovation, Sustainability, Psychology, Social Sciences, and Environmental Studies
- Home to the Lazaridis School of Business and Economics, one of Canada's best-known business schools
- Strong partnerships with employers including Google, Shopify, Deloitte, KPMG, EY, Manulife, Sun Life, BlackBerry, OpenText, and Communitech
- Excellent graduate employability supported by co-op education, internships, employer networking, and experiential learning
Visa & Post-Study Work
International students generally require a Canadian Study Permit to study at Wilfrid Laurier University. After graduation, eligible students may apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit, allowing them to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on programme eligibility. This pathway provides valuable Canadian work experience and may support future permanent residency applications.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Study Permit | International students generally require a Canadian Study Permit before beginning their studies. |
| Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) | Eligible graduates may apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to gain valuable Canadian work experience, subject to current Canadian immigration regulations. |
How to Apply
Every study level follows a similar application process, although deadlines, admission criteria, and required documents vary depending on the programme.
- Undergraduate — choose your programme — Choose your preferred programme. Apply through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC).
- Undergraduate — submit documents — Submit academic transcripts and supporting documents. Meet English language proficiency requirements. Receive your admission decision.
- Undergraduate — accept your offer — Apply for your Canadian Study Permit after accepting your offer. (wlu).
- Postgraduate — apply online — Apply through the Wilfrid Laurier University Graduate Admissions portal. Submit academic transcripts and programme-specific documents.
- Postgraduate — meet requirements and accept — Meet English language and departmental admission requirements. Receive your admission decision. Apply for your Canadian Study Permit.
- Begin your Canadian study permit process — After accepting your offer, begin your Canadian study permit process.
FAQs About Studying Here
Is Wilfrid Laurier University good for international students?
Yes. Wilfrid Laurier University is well known for its supportive learning environment, excellent business and technology programmes, co-op opportunities, and strong graduate employability.
Does Wilfrid Laurier University offer scholarships for international students?
Yes. Laurier offers automatic International Entrance Scholarships, the President's Gold Scholarship, renewable in-course scholarships, graduate fellowships, research assistantships, and faculty-specific awards.
What English language tests does Wilfrid Laurier University accept?
The university accepts IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, Duolingo English Test, PTE Academic, and other recognised English language proficiency tests. Programme-specific score requirements may vary.
How do I apply to Wilfrid Laurier University?
Undergraduate applicants apply through the OUAC, while graduate applicants apply through the university's Graduate Admissions portal.
Can international students work after graduating from Wilfrid Laurier University?
Yes. Eligible graduates may apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit, allowing them to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on programme eligibility.
Does Wilfrid Laurier University provide career support?
Yes. Laurier offers career counselling, co-op education, internships, employer networking events, entrepreneurship support, and experiential learning opportunities. Its location in Waterloo's technology hub provides excellent access to careers in technology, business, finance, consulting, and innovation.
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