Studying at the University of Waterloo is a goal for many students because of its strong academic reputation, innovative teaching, and excellent career opportunities. To recognize outstanding academic achievement, the University offers the Waterloo President’s Scholarship, an entrance scholarship awarded to high-achieving students beginning their first undergraduate degree. Eligible students are automatically considered during the admission process, so there is no separate scholarship application for this award.

The University of Waterloo Presidents Scholarship is attractive to both Canadian and international students because it rewards excellent academic performance while reducing the cost of studying in Canada. Students with exceptionally high admission averages may also qualify for the President’s Scholarship of Distinction, which includes additional funding for international experiences or undergraduate research opportunities. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and encourage students to make the most of their university education.

University of Waterloo Presidents Scholarship Program Summary

The President’s Scholarship is an entrance award offered by the University of Waterloo to students entering eligible undergraduate degree programs. The scholarship is awarded automatically based on admission averages and does not require a separate application.

Eligibility for the University of Waterloo President’s Scholarship

The University of Waterloo automatically considers eligible applicants for the President’s Scholarship when reviewing admission applications. Students do not need to submit a separate scholarship application. However, applicants must meet all scholarship conditions established by the university.

General Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should generally meet the following requirements:

• Receive an offer of admission to a full-time first-year undergraduate degree program.
• Be starting university or college for the first time.
• Meet the required admission average for the scholarship category.
• Accept the admission offer by the deadline stated in the offer letter.
• Remain enrolled in full-time studies during the September to December term.
• Meet all admission conditions established by the University of Waterloo.

Age and Academic Requirements

• 90%–94.9% admission average: President’s Scholarship (CAD $2,000)
• 95% or higher admission average: President’s Scholarship of Distinction
• The admission average is calculated using the student’s required Grade 12 courses (or equivalent qualifications) for the chosen program.

Benefits of the University of Waterloo President’s Scholarship

The President’s Scholarship rewards students for their outstanding academic achievement before they begin their undergraduate studies. Besides providing financial assistance, the scholarship also recognizes academic excellence and can strengthen a student’s academic profile.

Financial Benefits

Depending on the admission average, eligible students may receive:

President’s Scholarship

• One-time entrance scholarship valued at CAD $2,000.

President’s Scholarship of Distinction

• CAD $2,000 entrance scholarship
• Up to CAD $1,500 International Experience Award
• Up to CAD $1,500 Research Award

Academic and Personal Benefits

• Recognition for outstanding academic achievement.
• Studying at one of Canada’s leading research universities.
• Access to Waterloo’s internationally recognized co-op education opportunities (depending on the academic program).
• Potential funding for undergraduate research through the Research Award (President’s Scholarship of Distinction).
• Support for approved international learning experiences through the International Experience Award.
• Improved academic profile for future scholarships, graduate studies, and employment opportunities.

Documents Required for the University of Waterloo President’s Scholarship

The scholarship is automatically considered as part of the undergraduate admission process. However, applicants must complete all admission requirements and provide the documents requested for their chosen program. Some academic programs may also require supplementary documents.

• Valid Passport or National ID
• Official Academic Transcripts
• Secondary School Certificate or Equivalent
• Proof of English Language Proficiency
• Supplementary Admission Information
• Other Supporting Documents

How to Apply for the University of Waterloo President’s Scholarship

The University of Waterloo President’s Scholarship does not require a separate scholarship application. Eligible students are automatically considered when they apply for admission to a full-time first-year undergraduate program.

Step-by-Step Application Process

• Visit the University of Waterloo website and select the undergraduate program you wish to study. Make sure you meet the admission requirements for your chosen program.
• Complete your undergraduate application through the appropriate admission system and submit it before the application deadline for your program.
• After submitting your application, you will receive instructions to access the Waterloo Applicant Portal, where you can track your admission status and upload any required documents.
• Provide accurate personal details, educational history, and any additional information requested during the admission process.
• Submit all required academic documents before the document deadline. Some programs may also require supplementary forms, portfolios, or interviews.
• If you receive an offer, accept it by the deadline stated in your admission offer. Accepting your offer is one of the conditions for receiving the President’s Scholarship.
• The University automatically reviews eligible students based on their admission average. No additional scholarship form is required. If you qualify, your scholarship information will appear in your Applicant Portal.
• Successful students will normally see their scholarship details in the Applicant Portal during mid-May. Students who receive the scholarship will also receive instructions later regarding how the award will be applied toward tuition and fees.

Application Tips

• Aim for the highest possible admission average, especially 95% or above if you hope to qualify for the President’s Scholarship of Distinction.
• Submit your university application well before the deadline.
• Carefully complete any supplementary admission forms required for your chosen program.
• Monitor your Applicant Portal regularly for updates.
• Accept your admission offer before the deadline stated by the university.
• Maintain your academic performance until final admission requirements are completed.

Deadline for the University of Waterloo President’s Scholarship

Since there is no separate scholarship application, students only need to meet the undergraduate admission deadlines for their chosen program. Application deadlines vary by academic program and may change each admission cycle. Applicants should check the official website regularly for updated deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)