The University of Waterloo does not require the GRE for the large majority of its graduate programmes, including its highly sought-after Computer Science and Engineering master's degrees — consistent with standard Canadian graduate admissions practice.
Does Waterloo Require the GRE?
| Programme Type | GRE Status |
|---|---|
| David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science (MMath/MASc) | Not required |
| Faculty of Engineering (most MS) | Not required |
| Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology (MBET) | GMAT preferred; GRE occasionally accepted |
| PhD (most departments) | Not required |
What Waterloo Actually Evaluates Instead
| Factor | Weight |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate GPA | Primary factor |
| Relevant coursework and research experience | High |
| Research proposal and supervisor fit (thesis-track/PhD) | Critical for research degrees |
| English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) | Mandatory, separate requirement |
Should You Take the GRE Anyway?
If Waterloo is one of several universities you're applying to alongside GRE-requiring destinations, preparing for and taking the test regardless is a reasonable strategy — it does not hurt an application even where it's not required.
GRE Is Separate From English Proficiency
Even though Waterloo does not require the GRE, IELTS or TOEFL is mandatory for applicants whose prior education was not conducted in English:
| Requirement | Waterloo Policy |
|---|---|
| GRE | Not required for most programmes |
| IELTS | Required — see our University of Waterloo guide |
| TOEFL | Required — see our University of Waterloo guide |
Prepare for IELTS with Gabble — the mandatory English requirement for Waterloo, regardless of GRE. AI-powered speaking and writing feedback. Or prepare for TOEFL.