Waterloo Academic Calendar

The University of Waterloo, located in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, operates on a trimester system with three main academic terms: Fall, Winter, and Spring. The Fall term typically begins in early September and ends in December, the Winter term runs from January to April, and the Spring term spans May to August. This structure supports the university’s renowned co-op program, allowing students to alternate between academic study and paid work terms throughout the year. This unique feature provides flexibility for experiential learning and often extends program durations, aligning academic schedules with professional development opportunities.

• Fall Term Start: September 2, 2025 (first week of September, subject to confirmation). Classes begin after Labour Day weekend.
• Thanksgiving Break: October 13, 2025. A one-day holiday with potential reading days added by the university.
• Fall Term Exams: December 8–20, 2025 (approximate). Final assessments before the winter break.
• Winter Term Start: January 5, 2026 (first week of January). Classes resume after the holiday break.
• Family Day Break: February 16, 2026. A statutory holiday in Ontario, often part of a reading week.
• Spring Term Start: May 4, 2026 (early May). Includes summer co-op terms for many students.
• Convocation: Mid-June 2026 (exact dates TBD). Ceremonies for graduating students.

• Application Opens: Early October 2024 (for Fall 2025 entry). Applications typically open via the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC).
• Early Consideration Deadline: December 1, 2024 (approximate). For competitive programs like Engineering or Computer Science; early offers may be issued.
• Regular Decision Deadline: February 1, 2025. Final deadline for most undergraduate programs; international students encouraged to apply earlier.
• Admission Decisions Released: March to May 2025. Rolling admissions with notifications varying by program.
• Acceptance Deadline: June 1, 2025 (approximate). Deadline to accept offers of admission and pay deposits.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: February 15, 2025 (estimated). For scholarships and bursaries; check specific program requirements.

The University of Waterloo’s academic calendar aligns with Canadian norms, particularly in Ontario, with terms structured around national holidays like Thanksgiving and Family Day, often incorporating reading weeks for student wellness. The trimester system offers flexibility, especially for international students who may benefit from multiple entry points and co-op opportunities. However, the integration of work terms can create unique scheduling challenges, requiring careful planning for course loads and professional commitments. As exact dates for 2025–2026 are subject to confirmation, prospective students and current enrollees should monitor official university announcements for updates.