Wilfrid Laurier University

Introduction

Founded in 1911, Wilfrid Laurier University is a public comprehensive university located in Ontario, Canada, with main campuses in Waterloo and Brantford, and additional locations in Milton and Kitchener. Known for its strong academic reputation, close-knit learning environment, and emphasis on leadership and experiential education, Laurier consistently ranks among Canada’s top universities for student satisfaction.

The university is especially recognized for Business, Economics, Arts, Science, Education, Music, Health, and Data & Analytics programs. With small class sizes, strong co-op and internship options, and a supportive campus culture, Laurier offers international students an excellent balance of academic quality and career readiness.

To learn more about Wilfrid Laurier University or begin your application, book a free consultation with LCI Group today.

Wilfrid Laurier University Key Statistics

• International Students: Around 3,000+
• Student-Faculty Ratio: Approximately 16:1
• Acceptance Rate: Around 70–75%

Wilfrid Laurier University Accreditation and Affiliations

• Accredited public university under Universities Canada
• AACSB-accredited Lazaridis School of Business & Economics
• Member of the Council of Ontario Universities (COU)
• Teacher education programs accredited by the Ontario College of Teachers
• Strong academic and research partnerships with industry, government, and global

Academic Information

Wilfrid Laurier University Programs Offered

Wilfrid Laurier University offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional programs across multiple faculties, with a strong focus on experiential learning.

Undergraduate Programs

• Business Administration (BBA)
• Economics
• Computer Science & Data Science
• Psychology
• Health Sciences
• Biology & Environmental Science
• Political Science & International Relations
• Communication Studies
• Music and Arts

Postgraduate Programs

• MBA (Full-time, Co-op, and Part-time options)
• MSc Data Science
• Master of Finance (MFin)
• MA Economics
• Master of Social Work (MSW)
• Master of Education (MEd)

Wilfrid Laurier University Top Program Areas

Business & Economics, Data Science & Analytics, Computer Science, Health Sciences, Psychology, Education, Social Sciences, Music, and Environmental Studies.

Wilfrid Laurier University Tuition Fees

• Undergraduate International Students: CAD $30,000 to $36,000 per year on average
• Graduate Programs: CAD $18,000 to $35,000 per year on average (program-dependent)

Wilfrid Laurier University Admission Requirements

Undergraduate

• Completion of Grade 12 (CBSE, ISC, State Boards, IB, or equivalent)
• Strong academic performance, especially in Mathematics for Business and Science programs

English Proficiency:

• IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0)
• TOEFL iBT 83+
• Duolingo 110+

Postgraduate

• Recognized bachelor’s degree with minimum 60–70% (program-dependent)
• GMAT required for MBA (waivers possible based on profile)

English Proficiency:

• IELTS 6.5–7.0
• TOEFL iBT 89+
• Duolingo 115–120+

Program-specific prerequisites, statements of intent, or interviews may apply

Wilfrid Laurier University Rankings & Recognition

QS World University Rankings 2026: Not ranked

THE World University Rankings 2026: 1001–1200

• Lazaridis School of Business consistently ranked among Canada’s top business schools
• Recognized nationally for student satisfaction and teaching quality
• Strong reputation for co-op, internships, and employer engagement

Wilfrid Laurier University Campuses

Wilfrid Laurier University Campus Descriptions

Waterloo Campus

The Waterloo campus is Laurier’s main and largest campus, located in Canada’s leading technology and innovation corridor. It is home to the prestigious Lazaridis School of Business & Economics, along with strong programs in Science, Data Analytics, Arts, and Music.

Students benefit from close proximity to startups, multinational companies, and Canada’s tech ecosystem, with extensive co-op and internship opportunities. The campus offers modern academic buildings, research labs, student residences, and vibrant campus life.

Brantford Campus

Located along the Grand River, the Brantford campus offers a smaller, community-focused academic environment. It is known for programs in Health, Criminology, Social Work, Education pathways, and Liberal Arts.

With smaller class sizes and strong faculty engagement, Brantford is ideal for students seeking personalized learning and applied social science education.

Milton Campus

The Milton campus is a growing academic site focused on applied business and education programs. It serves students looking for flexible learning formats and industry-relevant curriculum.

Kitchener Campus

The Kitchener campus specializes in graduate and executive-level business education, including MBA and finance programs. Its location supports working professionals and students seeking strong corporate exposure.

Wilfrid Laurier University Support Services

International Student Support

• Pre-arrival guidance and orientation programs
• Visa and immigration support
• Academic advising and tutoring
• Health, wellness, and mental health services
• Housing support and peer mentorship

Career Services

• Co-op and internship programs across multiple disciplines
• Career coaching, résumé, and interview preparation
• Employer networking events and job fairs
• Strong alumni connections across Canada and globally

Wilfrid Laurier University Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Laurier International Entrance Scholarships (up to CAD 5,000+)
• Merit-based faculty scholarships
• Graduate assistantships and research funding
• Need-based bursaries
• External and government-funded scholarships

Study at Wilfrid Laurier University

Wilfrid Laurier University offers a strong combination of academic excellence, student-centered learning, and career-focused education. With its highly regarded business school, growing strengths in data and technology, and supportive campus culture, Laurier is an excellent option for international students seeking quality Canadian education with real employability outcomes.

To explore your opportunities at Wilfrid Laurier University, book a free consultation with LCI Group today and begin your application for upcoming intakes.