| Course Duration: | 8 Months | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | - | |
| First Year Total Fees: | ₹ 326000 | |
| Course Duration: | 1 Month | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | - | |
| First Year Total Fees: | ₹ 75000 | |
| Course Duration: | 5 Months | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | - | |
| First Year Total Fees: | ₹ 70000 | |
Affiliation:
Affiliated with the University of Waterloo
Students are registered at the University of Waterloo and receive University of Waterloo degrees
Location:
Situated on the University of Waterloo campus in Waterloo, Ontario
Close to Toronto (about 1.5 hours by car)
Student Population:
Small and diverse, with strong representation from international students
Emphasizes personalized learning in a close-knit environment
Renison specializes in social sciences, languages, global studies, and social work. Key program areas include:
Social Development Studies (SDS)
Honours Arts (through University of Waterloo)
Honours Arts and Business
East Asian Studies
Studies in Islam
Japanese and Chinese language courses
English Language and Literature (as part of Honours Arts)
Offers pre-university and short-term English programs such as:
English for Academic Success (EFAS)
General English at Renison (GEAR)
Academic speaking and writing skills support
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) with a focus on health and equity
On-campus residence for 200+ students with dining, lounges, and study areas
Small class sizes, personalized support from faculty
Access to all University of Waterloo facilities: libraries, labs, athletics, and clubs
Dedicated international advisor services
English language pathways for students who do not meet direct entry requirements
Cultural integration and academic transition programming
Small class sizes with big university advantages
Ideal for students seeking a supportive academic environment
Strong programs in social work, social development, and language/cultural studies
Integrated with University of Waterloo, one of Canada’s top-ranked institutions
Social Development Studies (SDS)
Focus: Psychology, social work, sociology, and social policy
Co-op available
Honours Arts (Renison teaching stream)
Subjects include English, East Asian Studies, Studies in Islam, and more
Honours Arts and Business
Combines arts majors with business fundamentals
Optional co-op
East Asian Studies
Cultural, historical, and language focus (Japanese, Chinese)
Studies in Islam
Interdisciplinary study of Islamic culture, religion, and society
Languages Courses
Chinese (Mandarin), Japanese, Arabic – offered as electives or part of other degrees
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Requires a completed undergraduate degree (e.g., in SDS or related field)
Offered online (part-time/full-time)
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Focus: Health and equity, offered online
Canada's first MSW program delivered entirely online (with one-week on-campus residency)
English for Academic Success (EFAS)
Pathway for students preparing for degree study at University of Waterloo
Offered in 4, 8, or 12-week formats
General English at Renison (GEAR)
Focus on speaking and everyday communication
For beginners or short-term learners
Bridge to Academic Success in English (BASE)
For conditionally admitted Waterloo students needing to improve English
Combines language instruction with first-year courses
iBASE (Intensive BASE)
Summer version of BASE for quick transition to undergrad programs
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
BA in Social Development Studies (SDS) |
4 years |
$29,000 – $31,000 |
|
BA in Honours Arts |
4 years |
$29,000 – $31,000 |
|
BA in Honours Arts and Business |
4 years |
$30,000 – $32,000 |
|
BA in East Asian Studies |
4 years |
$29,000 – $31,000 |
|
BA in Studies in Islam |
4 years |
$29,000 – $31,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Social Work (MSW) – Health and Equity |
1 year (full-time) or 2 years (part-time) |
$20,000 – $22,000 |
Students are officially enrolled at the University of Waterloo.
Degrees are granted by the University of Waterloo.
Access to Waterloo’s full campus services, co-op opportunities, and student organizations.
Personalized attention, smaller class sizes, and a close-knit academic community.
Ideal for international students adjusting to Canadian academics and culture.
Dedicated faculty and staff who work closely with students throughout their studies.
Social Development Studies (SDS)
Honours Arts and Arts & Business
East Asian Studies and Studies in Islam
English Language Institute (ELI): Academic pathway programs like EFAS and BASE help students improve English skills and transition into degree programs.
English for Academic Success (EFAS) – Academic pathway to degree programs.
BASE (Bridge to Academic Success in English) – For conditionally admitted students to Waterloo.
GEAR – General English for communication and fluency.
Small class sizes and one-on-one language support.
Dedicated international advisors for immigration, study permits, and academic planning.
Pre-arrival guidance and airport welcome.
Orientation programs specific to international students.
Academic and wellness counselling.
On-campus residence for about 200 students.
Shared and single rooms, meal plans, and a strong community feel.
Priority housing for first-year and international students.
Bachelor’s degrees: $29,000–$32,000/year
Master of Social Work (MSW): $20,000–$22,000/year
English language programs: $1,500–$4,000 per term (depending on program length)
Eligible for 20 hours/week of part-time work during academic sessions and full-time during breaks.
Eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing a degree.
Access to Waterloo’s co-op network and job search support.
A tech-focused, student-friendly city in southwestern Ontario.
Home to University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University, and Conestoga College.
About 1.5 hours from Toronto; accessible by bus, car, and train.
Select from programs offered through Renison, such as Social Development Studies, Honours Arts, East Asian Studies, or Studies in Islam.
Completion of high school (Grade 12 or equivalent).
Competitive academic averages (typically 75%+ or equivalent).
Subject prerequisites depending on the program (e.g., English).
Proof of English language proficiency if your first language is not English:
IELTS: 6.5 overall (no band less than 6.0)
TOEFL iBT: 90+
Duolingo: 120+
Apply online through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) at www.ouac.on.ca.
Use the University of Waterloo code and specify your Renison program.
Pay the application fee (approx. CAD 156).
Academic transcripts (translated if necessary).
Proof of English proficiency.
Copy of passport.
Additional documents if required (personal statement, resume for certain pathways).
Track application status via Waterloo’s Quest student portal.
Processing usually takes 4–8 weeks after document submission.
Accept the offer through OUAC or Quest.
You will receive an official Letter of Acceptance.
Use your Letter of Acceptance to apply for a Canadian study permit through IRCC.
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent).
English proficiency (IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL iBT 93).
Experience in the social services sector is often required.
Submit application through the University of Waterloo Graduate Application System.
Pay the application fee (approx. CAD 125).
Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions.
Resume/CV.
Personal statement or letter of intent.
References (academic and/or professional).
Proof of English proficiency.
The School of Social Work reviews applications competitively.
Offers are sent by email and through the application portal.
Intake |
Application Period |
Classes Begin |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall (September) |
October – February (OUAC deadline: early January for most programs) |
Early September |
|
Winter (January) |
Limited programs; generally not available at Renison |
Early January |
|
Spring (May) |
Not offered for most degree programs |
N/A |
Fall intake is the primary and most common intake for all degree programs at Renison.
Multiple intakes throughout the year (January, May, July, and September)
Programs like EFAS, BASE, and GEAR offer flexible start dates (4-, 8-, or 12-week terms)
Completion of high school or secondary education equivalent to Canadian Grade 12
Minimum overall average of 75–80%, depending on program and country of origin
Subject prerequisites (e.g., English for Arts and SDS programs)
Some programs may require supplementary forms or documents
Test |
Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
|
IELTS |
6.5 overall (no band < 6.0) |
|
TOEFL iBT |
90 overall (min. 25 writing/speaking) |
|
Duolingo English Test |
120+ |
|
CAEL |
70 |
|
PTE Academic |
63 |
Students who do not meet the minimum language requirements can apply to English Language Institute (ELI) pathway programs such as EFAS or BASE.
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a recognized institution
Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 (or equivalent)
Experience in the social services field is highly recommended or required
Test |
Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
|
IELTS |
7.0 overall (no band < 6.5) |
|
TOEFL iBT |
93 |
|
Duolingo |
125+ (subject to program approval) |
Ranking System |
Category |
University of Waterloo Ranking |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Global Universities |
Ranked in the 150–200 range globally |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Global Universities |
~191 globally |
|
|
Best Global Universities in Canada |
Top 10 in Canada |
|
Times Higher Education (THE) |
Global Universities |
Ranked in the 201–250 range globally |
|
Maclean’s (Canada) |
Comprehensive Universities (Canada) |
Top 3 |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Value (USD Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
Renison International Student Entrance Scholarship |
Automatically awarded to new international undergraduate students based on academic merit |
$750 – $1,500 (one-time) |
|
Renison Continuing International Student Scholarship |
For returning international students with high GPA (≥ 80%) |
$750 – $1,200 annually |
|
University of Waterloo International Student Entrance Scholarships |
Automatically considered for students admitted through Waterloo |
$1,500 – $3,000 |
|
English Language Institute (ELI) Merit Award |
For top-performing students completing EFAS or BASE programs |
$500 – $1,000 (one-time) |
|
Donor-Funded Awards (via Renison) |
Based on academic performance, leadership, or financial need |
$500 – $2,000 |
|
Laurie and Paul McGillivray Education Award |
For Social Development Studies (SDS) students with strong academic records |
$1,000 – $1,500 |
Facility / Residence Name |
Room Type |
Features |
Cost/Year (USD Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Renison Residence – Single Room |
Private bedroom, shared washroom |
Furnished room, shared washroom with one student, all-inclusive meal plan |
$8,200 – $8,600 |
|
Renison Residence – Double Room |
Shared bedroom, shared washroom |
Furnished shared room, all-inclusive meal plan, laundry, internet |
$7,400 – $7,800 |
|
Meal Plan (included in pricing) |
Full 7-day plan |
3 meals/day, dietary accommodations available |
Included in residence fees |
|
Residence Features |
N/A |
On-campus, lounges, study rooms, Wi-Fi, academic support, secure access |
N/A |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
Private rentals |
Apartments or rooms near campus (self-arranged) |
$5,500 – $9,000 |
Renison is known for its small class sizes and accessible faculty. This fosters active participation, personalized feedback, and a more collaborative learning experience. Many students describe the environment as academically rigorous yet highly supportive.
Living on campus at Renison means joining a tight-knit residential community.
Residence staff organize regular events such as movie nights, cultural dinners, trivia competitions, and workshops.
First-year students benefit from dedicated supports like peer mentors and academic advisors.
The residence includes meal plans, social lounges, and quiet study areas to balance social and academic life.
Students at Renison can get involved in:
Renison Students' Council (RSC), which hosts events and advocates for student interests.
Cultural clubs, including groups focused on East Asian culture, international student integration, and social justice.
Volunteering and community outreach programs tied to Renison’s social development focus.
Since Renison is affiliated with the University of Waterloo, students can also join hundreds of clubs and societies, use athletics facilities, and participate in events across the larger campus.
Renison offers tailored support to help international students adjust and thrive:
Orientation programs before the start of term
Cultural exchange events and conversation circles
Academic English support through the English Language Institute
One-on-one advising for immigration, academics, and personal challenges
Students have access to both Renison’s in-house support services and the full range of services at the University of Waterloo, including:
Health and wellness counselling
Academic tutoring and writing assistance
Spiritual care and multi-faith chaplaincy
Peer mentorship programs
Renison’s undergraduate students—particularly those enrolled in:
Social Development Studies (SDS)
Honours Arts and Business
East Asian Studies (with co-op Arts path)
can opt into Waterloo’s co-op program, which is one of the largest in the world. This allows students to:
Gain paid, full-time work experience during their studies.
Work for 4–6 terms at Canadian or international companies.
Access employers in fields like social services, education, public administration, marketing, and more.
Students at Renison have full access to the Centre for Career Development at the University of Waterloo, which offers:
Resume and cover letter writing help
Interview preparation and mock interviews
Career advising sessions
Job postings and employer networking events
Workshops on work permits and post-graduation options
Graduates from Renison programs go on to careers in:
Social services and community development
Education, public health, and policy
Government and non-profit sectors
International relations and cultural organizations
Further education (e.g., MSW, teacher’s college, law school)
Those completing the Master of Social Work (MSW) often secure roles in:
Healthcare institutions
Mental health and addiction services
Community organizations
Government policy and advocacy positions
International students are eligible to work up to 20 hours/week during academic terms and full-time during breaks.
Programs at Renison are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing students to work in Canada for up to 3 years after graduation.
Government of Ontario
Region of Waterloo Public Health
Non-profit organizations (e.g., YMCA, YWCA)
Hospitals and community health centers
Educational institutions
Startups and global NGOs (for language and culture grads)
The acceptance rate at Renison University College, Canada, is estimated to be around 75% to 85%, making it a moderately selective institution—particularly for undergraduate programs.
The acceptance rate is relatively high for students who meet the academic and English language requirements.
Programs are designed to be accessible, with flexible entry for international students.
Students are officially enrolled at the University of Waterloo, so academic standards align with Waterloo's expectations.
Programs like EFAS, GEAR, and BASE have open or rolling admissions, with high acceptance rates for eligible students.
These programs provide a pathway to degree studies for students who do not meet direct English proficiency requirements.
The MSW program is highly competitive, with a lower acceptance rate (~20–30%) due to limited seats and high academic expectations.
Requires a BSW and relevant work/volunteer experience in the field of social services.
Meeting academic requirements (typically 75–80% average for undergrad)
English language test scores
Completion of required documents
For MSW: relevant background and strength of application package
Note: While many programs are accessible, meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, especially for competitive or limited-enrollment programs.
Renison University College
240 Westmount Road North
Waterloo, Ontario
Canada, N2L 3G4
Located within the University of Waterloo campus, giving students access to all UWaterloo facilities.
In the heart of Waterloo Region, a vibrant tech and education hub known as Canada’s Silicon Valley.
About 1.5 hours west of Toronto by car or public transit.
Accessible by bus, train, and the nearby Region of Waterloo International Airport.
