It is well-known that Canada is one of the favorite destinations for a large number of overseas students especially students from South Asian countries. Canada offers courses in different fields one of which is engineering. Many students visit Canada to get engineering degrees or diplomas.
The University of Waterloo’s Faculty of Engineering or Waterloo Engineering is one of the largest and best engineering schools in Canada. It offers quality academic programs, and innovative research activities together with a focus on co-operative education, which makes it hard to secure a place in this institution. Enrolling there undoubtedly helps you in building a great career in the future. Below is the guide that will assist you in the admission process to ensure you get a chance to be admitted to Waterloo Engineering School.
- Academic Preparations
First of all, academic preparation is a cornerstone of your application. The key academic requirements are as follows:
High School Diploma: It is recommended to finish a high school diploma with a focus on mathematics and science subjects. Waterloo has specific pre-requisite subjects which are Advanced Functions, Calculus and Vectors, Chemistry, Physics, and English.
Grades: You should strive to obtain good grades in all your classes, especially the core ones. Desirable candidates should have an average in the range of high eighties to mid-nineties.
Standardized Tests: International students may be asked to produce their SAT or ACT scores. Prepare well and set a target for averages higher than those of the other candidates who have been admitted into the university.
- Application Process
Application Form: Fill out the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) form. The OUAC 101 form is for Ontario high school students while the OUAC 105 form is for international or out-of-province students.
Document Submission: Send your official transcripts, your standardized test scores if applicable, and any other relevant documents. Ensure you respect the deadlines set so as not to be disqualified.
Admission Information Form (AIF): This is a very important part of your application. The AIF contains sections regarding extracurricular activities, work experience, and personal statements. It is also important to invest some time in coming up with good responses that are well thought-out.
- Admission Information Form (AIF)
The AIF is your opportunity to stand out. Here’s how to make it compelling:
Highlight Extracurricular Activities: Demonstrate your activities you work on concerning the course like robotics club, science fairs, coding competitions, etc. Again, where one stands out the most is the leadership roles as well as the long-term engagements which are marked impressive.
Co-op and Work Experience: It allows highlighting the experience in work or co-op if it is such. Waterloo appreciates practical experience hence description of internships, part-time jobs, or projects on an application boosts the chances of being accepted.
Passion for Engineering: State your passion for engineering. On any project, internship, or experience that led to your interest in the field of study. It is possible to illustrate an AIF with examples and make it more engaging.
- Reference Letters
Although not necessary, you can use well-written reference letters to enhance your profile. Consider the following tips:
Choose the Right Recommenders: Choose the teachers who know you well and have the possibility to testify about your academic performance and personal traits. One reference should preferably be from a Mathematics or a Science teacher.
Provide Context: Provide your recommenders your resume and a brief summary of your achievements and aspirations to help them write more details and personalized letters for you.
- Prepare for Interviews
As much as interviews are not mandatory for most applicants, some candidates may be called upon for an interview before they get admission. Research and practice are the keys to success in the interviews.
- Financial Aid
Explore the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) and other financial aid options and scholarships available to both domestic and international students.
- Student Accommodation
Securing accommodation is a necessary thing to do if you are going to study in Waterloo Engineering School. Due to the availability of online sources, it is not difficult nowadays. There are some online accommodation service platforms with the help of which you can find accommodation according to your preferences and budget.
On the aforementioned online platforms, you can find the lists of housing complexes, private apartments, and homestays for student housing Waterloo with their details.
Final Thoughts
By following the abovementioned simple tips, you can get into Canada’s largest engineering school. Many of these tips can be followed for admission to other institutions in Canada also. Apart from Waterloo, the cities where you can find excellent institutes to study abroad, Canada are Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and more. Other cities in Canada are also doing great work in providing world-class education to overseas students. Canada boasts world-class student cities as well as excellent student life.