UBC vs Waterloo
How UBC and Waterloo stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| UBC | Waterloo | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 52% | 53% overall; ~10-15% Engineering/CS |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1280-1480 | Not reported |
| Testing policy | flexible | flexible |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Location | Canada | Canada |
| Sticker price (per year) | $60,200 | $51,000 |
| Average cost after aid | $60,200 | $51,000 |
| Supplemental essays | 5 | 4 |
- UBC is harder to get into than Waterloo (52% versus 53% overall; ~10-15% Engineering/CS), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Waterloo is usually the cheaper option ($51,000 versus $60,200 per year on average).
- UBC asks for more supplemental writing (5 essays versus 4), 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.
UBC vs Waterloo FAQ
Is UBC or Waterloo harder to get into?
UBC is harder to get into, admitting about 52% of applicants versus 53% overall; ~10-15% Engineering/CS at Waterloo.
Is UBC or Waterloo cheaper?
After financial aid, Waterloo is usually cheaper, about $51,000 per year on average versus $60,200 at UBC.
See your real chances at UBC and Waterloo.
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