Language Requirements
To be exempt from these requirements, you must have studied full time in an English-language school system for the 4 most recent years preceding the beginning of your studies at the University of Waterloo.
The requirements are separate from, and in addition to, the requirement to present Ontario 4U English (or equivalent), if it is listed as a specific requirement for a program. A 4U English is required for most programs.
If you do not meet the requirements, you will be considered for entry into an English-language pathway program.
- For the Faculty of Mathematics: the English Language for Academic Studies (ELAS)
- For all other faculties: the Bridge to Academic Success in English (BASE)
You can improve your English before, or while, attending Waterloo.
Score | Notes |
---|---|
Minimum TOEFL Score | iBT: 90 total with 25 Writing and 25 Speaking. |
Minimum MELAB Score | 85 overall with 80 per section. For Co-op programs: 3 Speaking |
Minimum IELTS Score | Minimum IELTS Score: 6.5 overall, 6.5 writing, 6.5 speaking, 6.0 reading, 6.0 listening. Note: Students achieving an overall IELTS score of 7.0 and no band score below 6.0 may be given individual consideration for admission to full-time undergraduate studies. |
Minimum CAEL Score | 70 overall with no band below 60; 70 Writing and 70 Speaking. |
PTE (Pearson Test of English) | Minimum PTE (Academic) Score: 63 overall with 65 Writing and 65 Speaking |
Other Test Scores | English For Academic Success (EFAS): 75% overall in 400 level with 75% in each of Academic, Oral, and Writing |
Last Test Date
2018-Apr-06