Wilfrid Laurier University
Inspiring lives of leadership and purpose.
📍 Waterloo, Canada 🇨🇦
🏆 #18 in Canada · THE World #1201
Quick Facts about Wilfrid Laurier University
- Type: Public
- Students: 23,350
- International: 6%
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $4,193 – $42,220/year
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 25:1
- Intakes: January, May, September
About Wilfrid Laurier University
Academics
Laurier offers over 100 undergraduate and 60 graduate programs across its faculties, including Arts, Education, Science, Liberal Arts, Music, Human and Social Sciences, and the Lazaridis School of Business and Economics. The university emphasizes hands-on learning experiences, such as co-op programs and community placements, to provide practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. Notable programs include Business Administration, Computer Science, Data Science, User Experience Design, Game Design and Development, and Criminology. Laurier also offers multidisciplinary studies, allowing students to customize their degrees with various minors and options.
International Students
International Student Support (ISS) at Laurier provides comprehensive services to help international students maximize their academic and cultural experiences. This includes immigration advising, orientation programs, academic assistance, housing support, and opportunities for cultural exchange. As of November 2023, Laurier hosted 1397 international students from 108 countries, with significant representation from China, India, United Arab Emirates, Nigeria, Pakistan, Kenya, and Vietnam. The university offers English-taught programs and provides resources to support students with varying English skills.
Campus & Location
Laurier's Waterloo campus is situated in the heart of a city known for its thriving tech sector and diverse food and entertainment options. The campus itself is student-friendly, with classes, residences, and amenities within walking distance. Waterloo, part of the tri-city area (Waterloo, Kitchener, Cambridge), offers a vibrant off-campus life with various bars, cafes, shops, and live music venues. First-year undergraduate students are guaranteed residence, with both dormitory and apartment-style options available on or near campus.
Career Outcomes
Wilfrid Laurier University boasts a strong placement rate for its graduates, with a 95.8% overall placement rate for all graduates in 2024. The university's career center holds a national rank for its student career services, providing resources, career consultants, and experiential learning opportunities like co-op programs and internships. Business and Economics co-op programs had a 99.5% employment rate in 2020. Laurier graduates are employed by notable companies such as KPMG, PepsiCo, Scotiabank, and Manulife Financial. Eligible international graduates can also benefit from Canada's Post-Graduation Work Permit Program, which can support applications for permanent residency.
Information for International Students at Wilfrid Laurier University
Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Canada welcomes international students, with 6% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 6% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for Wilfrid Laurier University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Wilfrid Laurier University:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 83
- Duolingo minimum: 120
- GPA minimum: 3.2
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: April 1, 2026 (Fall intake for international students)
Scholarships & Tuition at Wilfrid Laurier University
Annual tuition for international students: $4,193 – $42,220/year
✅ Wilfrid Laurier University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Wilfrid Laurier University
- National Ranking: #18 in Canada
- Times Higher Education (THE): #1201
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at Wilfrid Laurier University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
Key Highlights
- Top-tier Lazaridis School of Business
- Renowned music and community programming
- Leader in community-engaged learning
- Multi-campus identity in Ontario
- Strong focus on student experience
- Thriving co-operative education program
Accreditation
- AACSB
- COU
- CUSID
- Universities Canada
Notable Alumni
- Keegan Connor Tracy
- Martin Lee Ka-shing
- Anthony Rota
- Chris Van Vliet
- Rod Phillips
Frequently Asked Questions about Wilfrid Laurier University
What is Wilfrid Laurier University?
Wilfrid Laurier University is a public university located in Waterloo, Canada. It has approximately 23,350 students, with 6% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at Wilfrid Laurier University?
Tuition fees at Wilfrid Laurier University for international students range from $4,193 – $42,220/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Wilfrid Laurier University?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 83. Duolingo minimum: 120. GPA minimum: 3.2. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: April 1, 2026 (Fall intake for international students).
What language are courses taught in at Wilfrid Laurier University?
Courses at Wilfrid Laurier University are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
What is Wilfrid Laurier University ranked?
#18 in Canada · THE World #1201.
Does Wilfrid Laurier University offer scholarships?
Yes, Wilfrid Laurier University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Wilfrid Laurier University provide visa support?
Yes, Wilfrid Laurier University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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