Wilfrid Laurier University

Wilfrid Laurier University: Courses, Admission, Tuition Fees, Scholarships and Study in Canada

Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU) is a public university in Ontario, Canada, with its largest campus in Waterloo and additional campuses in Brantford and Milton. Founded in 1911, Laurier offers undergraduate and graduate programs across business, arts, science, music, education, social work and other disciplines.

The university combines academic study with experiential learning, research, co-op opportunities and student activities.

Wilfrid Laurier University at a Glance

Information	Details
University	Wilfrid Laurier University
Location	Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
Additional Locations	Brantford and Milton
Institution Type	Public University
Established	1911
Study Levels	Undergraduate and Graduate
Language of Instruction	English
International Students	Yes
Major Areas	Business, Arts, Science, Computer Science, Music, Education and Social Work

About Wilfrid Laurier University

Wilfrid Laurier University is a multi-campus university serving students across Ontario.

The Waterloo campus is the university's largest campus and is located within the Waterloo Region, an area associated with technology, business, research and innovation.

Laurier also has a campus in Brantford and an emerging presence in Milton, allowing the university to provide different academic and student experiences across Ontario.

The university offers programs that combine disciplinary education with opportunities for practical learning and professional development.

Academic Programs

Business

Laurier's Lazaridis School of Business and Economics provides business education at undergraduate and graduate levels.

Students can study areas such as:

• Accounting
• Finance
• Marketing
• Economics
• Management
• Entrepreneurship
• Business analytics
• Supply chain management

Business students can also explore interdisciplinary combinations with subjects such as mathematics, computer science and other fields.

Computer Science

Computer science programs cover areas such as:

• Programming
• Algorithms
• Software development
• Data structures
• Artificial intelligence
• Databases
• Computer systems
• Data analytics

Students can develop technical skills that can be applied across technology, business and other industries.

Science

Laurier offers science programs in fields including:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Mathematics
• Computer science
• Environmental science
• Psychology

Students can combine scientific study with research and experiential learning opportunities depending on their program.

Arts

The Faculty of Arts offers programs across numerous disciplines.

Students can study:

• English
• History
• Philosophy
• Languages
• Political science
• Sociology
• Anthropology
• Cultural studies
• Economics

These programs develop skills in research, communication, analysis and critical thinking.

Music

Laurier's Faculty of Music provides professional and academic music education.

Programs can include areas such as:

• Performance
• Composition
• Music education
• Music history
• Music theory
• Music technology

The Waterloo campus includes performance and practice facilities designed for music students.

Education

Laurier provides teacher education and related academic programs.

Students can study topics such as:

• Teaching
• Curriculum
• Educational psychology
• Learning
• Classroom practice
• Educational leadership

Students planning to become teachers in Ontario should also review the requirements of the relevant provincial regulatory body.

Social Work

Social work education focuses on social issues, communities and professional practice.

Students can explore:

• Social policy
• Community development
• Human services
• Social justice
• Professional intervention
• Social research

Professional requirements depend on the intended career and level of study.

Graduate Programs

Laurier offers graduate programs at master's and doctoral levels.

Graduate study is available across areas including:

• Business
• Economics
• Computer science
• Psychology
• Social work
• Education
• Science
• Arts
• Music

Admission requirements vary by program and may include academic prerequisites, references, statements of purpose, research proposals or other materials.

Admission Requirements

International admission requirements depend on the selected program and educational background.

Generally, undergraduate applicants need:

• A recognized secondary-school qualification
• Competitive academic results
• Required prerequisite subjects
• English-language proficiency where applicable
• Official academic documents
• Program-specific supplementary materials where required

Some programs have additional requirements or portfolio/audition components.

Requirements for Indian Students

Indian students can apply using recognized Class XII qualifications.

Applicants should provide official academic records and meet the subject prerequisites for their chosen program.

Requirements can differ substantially between programs. For example, applicants to science, mathematics, computer science or business programs may need particular Class XII subjects.

Students should check the exact admission requirements before applying.

English-Language Requirements

International applicants may need to demonstrate English-language proficiency if they do not meet Laurier's exemption conditions.

The university accepts approved English-language tests subject to its current minimum requirements.

Students should check the latest requirements applicable to their educational history before submitting an application.

How to Apply

Step 1: Choose a Program

Select the undergraduate or graduate program that matches your academic interests.

Step 2: Review Admission Requirements

Check academic prerequisites, English-language requirements and any supplementary requirements.

Step 3: Prepare Documents

Typical documents include:

• Academic transcripts
• Graduation certificates
• English-language test results
• Identification documents
• Program-specific supporting materials

Step 4: Submit the Application

Complete the relevant application process before the applicable deadline.

Step 5: Provide Supporting Documents

Submit official records and other requested materials.

Step 6: Monitor Your Application

Check the application portal and respond to requests for additional information.

Step 7: Receive the Admission Decision

Successful applicants receive an official admission offer.

Step 8: Prepare for Enrollment

International students should arrange their study permit, accommodation, finances and travel.

Tuition Fees

International tuition at Laurier varies according to the program and course load.

For planning purposes, international undergraduate tuition can generally fall within approximately CAD 36,000–47,000 per year, depending on the program.

Programs such as business, computer science, science and other specialized fields can have different fee structures.

Students should also budget for:

• Accommodation
• Food
• Books and supplies
• Transportation
• Health insurance
• Personal expenses
• University fees

The exact cost should be confirmed through Laurier's current fee schedule for the student's program and academic year.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Laurier offers scholarships and awards for eligible students.

International students may be considered for entrance awards based on factors such as:

• Academic achievement
• Admission status
• Program
• Leadership
• Extracurricular involvement
• Specific scholarship criteria

Scholarship amounts and eligibility conditions can vary by academic year.

Students should check current scholarship information and deadlines before applying.

Co-op and Experiential Learning

Laurier offers co-op opportunities in selected programs.

Co-op can allow eligible students to gain practical work experience while completing their academic program.

Depending on the field, students may gain experience in:

• Business
• Finance
• Technology
• Data
• Communications
• Research
• Public services
• Other professional sectors

The availability and structure of co-op depend on the student's program.

Campus Locations

Waterloo Campus

The Waterloo campus is Laurier's largest campus.

It provides:

• Academic buildings
• Libraries
• Research facilities
• Student residences
• Recreation facilities
• Dining spaces
• Performance facilities
• Student organizations

Brantford Campus

The Brantford campus provides programs and facilities in an urban setting.

Students can access academic spaces, student services and community-based learning opportunities.

Milton

Laurier is also expanding its presence in Milton, Ontario, providing additional opportunities for academic and community engagement.

Student Life

Laurier has a large student community with activities including:

• Student clubs
• Academic societies
• Sports
• Music
• Cultural organizations
• Volunteer opportunities
• Student government
• Entrepreneurship
• Events and performances

Students can participate in activities related to their academic interests as well as broader campus life.

Living in Waterloo

Waterloo is part of the Kitchener-Waterloo region.

Students can access:

• Public transportation
• Restaurants
• Shopping
• Parks
• Technology companies
• Cultural events
• Recreation facilities

The region is also home to a significant technology and business ecosystem.

Research Opportunities

Laurier conducts research across disciplines such as:

• Business
• Economics
• Computer science
• Environmental science
• Psychology
• Social sciences
• Music
• Education

Graduate students can participate in research under faculty supervision, while undergraduate research opportunities depend on the program.

Career Opportunities

Laurier graduates can pursue careers in many sectors depending on their education and experience.

Potential areas include:

• Business
• Finance
• Accounting
• Technology
• Software development
• Data analytics
• Education
• Social services
• Research
• Communications
• Public administration

Career outcomes vary according to individual qualifications and professional experience.

International Student Support

Laurier provides services intended to support international students in areas such as:

• Academic advising
• Immigration information
• Orientation
• Housing
• Health and wellness
• Career development
• Student activities

International students can also access university resources designed to help them transition to life and study in Canada.

Accommodation

Students can consider university residence or private accommodation.

Residence options vary by:

• Room type
• Location
• Meal arrangements
• Facilities
• Cost

Students should research housing early because availability and prices can vary.

Post-Graduation Opportunities

International students planning to work in Canada after graduation should review the latest Canadian immigration requirements applicable to their program and circumstances.

Eligibility for post-graduation work authorization depends on current government regulations.

Students should verify the latest requirements through official Canadian government sources before making immigration or employment plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Wilfrid Laurier University located?

Laurier's main campus is in Waterloo, Ontario, with additional campuses in Brantford and Milton.

Is Wilfrid Laurier University a public university?

Yes. Laurier is a public university in Ontario.

Does Laurier accept international students?

Yes. International students can apply to eligible undergraduate and graduate programs.

What programs is Laurier known for?

Laurier offers programs in areas including business, economics, computer science, science, arts, music, education and social work.

Does Laurier offer Computer Science?

Yes. Laurier offers undergraduate and graduate study in Computer Science.

Does Laurier have a business school?

Yes. Business and economics education is provided through the Lazaridis School of Business and Economics.

Does Laurier offer co-op?

Yes. Co-op is available in selected programs, subject to program-specific eligibility.

How much is tuition for international students?

International undergraduate tuition varies by program. A general planning range is approximately CAD 36,000–47,000 per year.

Can Indian students apply to Laurier?

Yes. Indian students with recognized Class XII qualifications can apply, subject to program-specific academic and English-language requirements.

Does Laurier offer scholarships?

Yes. Eligible students can be considered for scholarships and entrance awards according to the applicable criteria.

Is Laurier located in Toronto?

No. Its main campus is in Waterloo, Ontario, with other campuses in Brantford and Milton.

Does Laurier offer graduate programs?

Yes. Laurier offers master's and doctoral programs across multiple disciplines.

Final Takeaway

Wilfrid Laurier University is a public university in Ontario with its main campus in Waterloo and additional campuses in Brantford and Milton.

The university offers programs across business, computer science, science, arts, music, education, social work and other disciplines, with co-op and experiential-learning opportunities available in selected programs.

International undergraduate tuition varies by program, with a general planning range of approximately CAD 36,000–47,000 per year.

Students considering Laurier should verify the specific program prerequisites, current tuition and fees, English-language requirements, scholarship conditions, co-op eligibility and application deadlines before applying.