Bachelor of Arts in Economics (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 Arts in Economics (Optional Co-op) program equips graduates with versatile skills and knowledge that are highly valued in diverse industries and sectors, offering a wide range of career opportunities and pathways for professional growth and success.

1. Economic Analyst: Graduates can pursue careers as economic analysts in government agencies, think tanks, research institutes, and consulting firms. They analyze economic data, trends, and policies to provide insights on economic issues such as inflation, unemployment, fiscal policy, and economic development.

2. Financial Analyst: With strong quantitative skills and analytical abilities, graduates can work as financial analysts in banks, investment firms, hedge funds, and other financial institutions. They evaluate investment opportunities, conduct financial modeling, and provide recommendations for investment strategies and portfolio management.

3. Policy Advisor: Graduates may work as policy advisors or researchers in government departments, regulatory agencies, and non-profit organizations. They analyze public policies, evaluate their impact on the economy, and provide recommendations for policy formulation and implementation in areas such as healthcare, education, taxation, and social welfare.

4. Market Researcher: Careers in market research involve analyzing consumer behavior, market trends, and competitive dynamics to help companies make informed business decisions. Graduates can work in market research firms, advertising agencies, consumer goods companies, and marketing departments, conducting surveys, collecting data, and interpreting market insights.

5. Data Analyst: With skills in data analysis and econometrics, graduates can pursue roles as data analysts in various industries such as technology, healthcare, retail, and logistics. They analyze large datasets, identify patterns, and extract insights to support business decision-making, optimize processes, and improve performance.

6. Management Consultant: Management consulting firms hire economics graduates to provide strategic advice to businesses and organizations. They assess market opportunities, conduct industry analysis, and develop recommendations for business strategy, organizational restructuring, and performance improvement.

7. Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as policy analysts in government agencies, advocacy groups, and international organizations, focusing on areas such as economic policy, social policy, environmental policy, and public administration. They conduct research, analyze policy alternatives, and contribute to policy development and implementation.

8. Academic Researcher: Some graduates pursue further studies in economics or related fields and pursue careers in academia as researchers or professors. They conduct original research, publish academic papers, and teach courses in universities and research institutions.

9. Entrepreneurship: Graduates with an entrepreneurial mindset may start their own businesses or ventures, leveraging their analytical skills and economic knowledge to identify market opportunities, develop business plans, and create innovative solutions to economic challenges.