Bachelor of Mathematics in Combinatorics and Optimization (Optional Co-op)

Application Fees : CAD$ 251

Undergraduate Entry Requirements:

1. Academic Achievement: International students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Waterloo are expected to have a minimum academic achievement of 80% or above in their secondary school studies.  

2. English Language Proficiency: The accepted English language tests and their minimum score requirements are as follows:

   • IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.5 in writing, 6.0 in reading, 6.0 in listening, and 6.5 in speaking.
   • TOEFL: Minimum score of 90 on the Internet-based Test (iBT).
   • PTE: Minimum score of 63.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 120.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission to the University of Waterloo. The university receives a large number of applications and admission decisions are based on a holistic assessment of various factors, including academic performance, test scores, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.

The University of Waterloo offers several scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the community. 

1. International Master's Award of Excellence: This scholarship is available to international students entering a research-based master's program. It provides funding of up to $2,500 per term for a maximum of five terms.

2. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS): The OGS is a merit-based scholarship available to domestic and international students pursuing a graduate degree at the University of Waterloo. The scholarship provides funding of up to $15,000 per year for a maximum of two or three years, depending on the program.

3. President's Scholarship of Distinction: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to top international students entering an undergraduate program at the University of Waterloo. The scholarship covers full tuition for up to four years of study.

4. International Student Entrance Scholarships: These scholarships are available to high-achieving international students applying for undergraduate programs. The value of the scholarships varies and is renewable for up to four years, based on academic performance.

5. Faculty-specific Scholarships: Various faculties at the University of Waterloo offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and involvement in extracurricular activities within the respective faculty.

6. Donor-funded Scholarships: The university receives generous contributions from donors, which are used to establish scholarships for international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes.

It is important to note that the availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines for scholarships may vary. To apply for scholarships, international students are typically required to submit an application for admission to the university. Some scholarships may have additional application requirements, such as essays or reference letters. It is important to care

The Bachelor of Mathematics in Combinatorics and Optimization program at the University of Waterloo offers diverse career opportunities in fields such as data analysis, operations research, software engineering, finance, consulting, research, project management, entrepreneurship, supply chain management, and industry specialization. Graduates are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and experience to thrive in today's dynamic and data-driven workforce.

1. Data Analyst/Data Scientist: Graduates with a degree in Combinatorics and Optimization possess strong analytical skills and proficiency in mathematical modeling and algorithm development. They are well-suited for roles as data analysts or data scientists, where they analyze large datasets, extract meaningful insights, and develop algorithms to optimize business processes, improve decision-making, and drive innovation.

2. Operations Research Analyst: The program equips students with expertise in optimization techniques, linear programming, network analysis, and operations research methodologies. Graduates can pursue careers as operations research analysts, working in areas such as logistics, supply chain management, transportation, and manufacturing, where they optimize resource allocation, improve efficiency, and solve complex decision-making problems.

3. Software Engineer/Developer: With a strong foundation in algorithms, computational complexity, and software development, graduates can pursue roles as software engineers or developers. They design and implement efficient algorithms, develop software applications, and work on projects involving optimization, graph theory, network algorithms, and computational geometry.

4. Quantitative Analyst/Financial Analyst: The quantitative and analytical skills acquired during the program make graduates well-suited for careers in finance and investment. They can work as quantitative analysts or financial analysts, where they develop mathematical models, conduct risk analysis, and optimize investment strategies for banks, investment firms, hedge funds, and financial institutions.

5. Consultant/Management Analyst: Graduates can pursue consulting careers, providing advisory services to organizations in various industries. They analyze business processes, identify inefficiencies, and recommend optimization strategies to improve productivity, reduce costs, and enhance competitiveness. They may also work as management analysts, helping companies streamline operations and make data-driven decisions.

6. Research Scientist/Academic Researcher: For those interested in pursuing advanced studies or research careers, the program provides a solid foundation for graduate studies in mathematics, computer science, operations research, or related disciplines. Graduates can pursue research positions in academia, government agencies, or research institutions, contributing to advancements in combinatorics, optimization, and related fields.

7. Project Manager/Team Lead: Graduates with strong problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills are well-positioned to take on roles as project managers or team leads. They oversee projects involving complex optimization problems, coordinate interdisciplinary teams, and ensure the successful implementation of solutions to achieve project objectives.

8. Entrepreneur/Startup Founder: The program fosters creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial thinking, empowering graduates to launch their ventures or startups. They can leverage their expertise in combinatorial optimization to develop innovative products, services, or software solutions, addressing emerging market needs and opportunities.

9. Supply Chain Analyst/Logistics Coordinator: Graduates can pursue careers in supply chain management, logistics, and transportation, where they optimize distribution networks, minimize transportation costs, and improve inventory management. They may work as supply chain analysts, logistics coordinators, or operations managers in retail, manufacturing, e-commerce, or transportation companies.

10. Industry Specializations: Graduates may specialize in specific industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, energy, or cybersecurity, applying their knowledge of combinatorics and optimization to address industry-specific challenges and opportunities.