Alberta vs Waterloo
How Alberta and Waterloo stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Alberta | Waterloo | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 58% | 53% overall; ~10-15% Engineering/CS |
| Testing policy | flexible | flexible |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Location | Canada | Canada |
| Sticker price (per year) | $41,000 | $51,000 |
| Average cost after aid | $41,000 | $51,000 |
| Supplemental essays | 1 | 4 |
- Waterloo is harder to get into than Alberta (53% overall; ~10-15% Engineering/CS versus 58%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Alberta is usually the cheaper option ($41,000 versus $51,000 per year on average).
- Waterloo asks for more supplemental writing (4 essays versus 1), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
Alberta vs Waterloo FAQ
Is Alberta or Waterloo harder to get into?
Waterloo is harder to get into, admitting about 53% overall; ~10-15% Engineering/CS of applicants versus 58% at Alberta.
Is Alberta or Waterloo cheaper?
After financial aid, Alberta is usually cheaper, about $41,000 per year on average versus $51,000 at Waterloo.
See your real chances at Alberta and Waterloo.
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