Awards and Financial Aid

The majority of Faculty of Mathematics entrance scholarships are awarded on the basis of high school grades, performance on the Euclid Mathematics Contest, and participation and achievement in student government, athletics, music, art, etc. Students must write the Euclid Mathematics Contest and must submit an Admission Information Form in order to be considered for an entrance scholarship. Unless otherwise stated, a separate application is not required.

Donald Bornhold Memorial Entrance Scholarship

Several scholarships, valued at up to $1,500 each, are awarded annually to outstanding students entering first year in the Faculty of Mathematics. This fund is made possible by a donation from the Margaret Bornhold Estate in honour and memory of Margaret’s late husband, Donald Bornhold. 

Trudy Byma Entrance Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at $1,500, is awarded annually to an outstanding undergraduate student entering first year of a Computer Science program in the Faculty of Mathematics. This fund is made possible by a donation from Gerald Bouwers (MMath ‘74) in honour and memory of his sister Trudy Byma, a woman with strong conviction and character.

Catherine Campbell Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at $1,500, is awarded annually to full-time undergraduate students entering Year One in Mathematics/Chartered Professional Accountancy on the basis of academic excellence with a minimum 80% admission average. This fund is made possible by a donation from Catherine Campbell.

Sammy Y. Chan Entrance Scholarship

One scholarship, valued at up to $1,600, is awarded annually to an outstanding international student from Asia entering first year of Mathematics with a declared interest in Actuarial Science or a Mathematics/Business program, who has an admission average of 90% or greater. This scholarship is made possible through an endowment established by Mr. Sammy Y. Chan who graduated from the University of Waterloo with a BMath ’81 (Actuarial Science). Mr. Chan is President of Fairfax Asia.

Ivor Chow Entrance Scholarship in Mathematics for Students from Asia

One scholarship, valued at up to $1,500, is awarded annually to an outstanding student from Asia entering first year of a program in the Faculty of Mathematics (excluding Computer Science). This fund is made possible by a donation from Mr. Ivor Chow who graduated from the University of Waterloo with a BMath ’92 (Math/Accounting). Mr. Chow is the Director of Corporate Finance, Treasury and Risk Management at Hutchison Port Holdings.

Columbia International College Scholarship

Two scholarships, valued at a total of $5,000 each, are provided annually to graduates of Columbia International College, who are entering Year One in the Faculty of Mathematics. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of high school grades, performance on the Euclid Mathematics Contest, and participation and achievement in student government, athletics, music, art, etc. as demonstrated on the Admissions Information Form. These continuing scholarships are paid out as follows: $2,000 in first year, and $500 for up to six full-time upper-year terms as long as the recipient maintains a cumulative average of 80% or greater and remains in the Faculty of Mathematics.

Cindy Colvin Women in Computer Science Entrance Scholarship

A scholarship, valued up to $1,200, is provided annually to an outstanding full-time female undergraduate student entering Year One in the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science in the Faculty of Mathematics. This fund is made possible by a donation from Cindy Colvin, BMath ’83, (Computer Science).

B.P. Dammizio Entrance Scholarship

Ross and Doris Dixon Mathematics Entrance Scholarship

A scholarship valued at $2,000 is awarded annually to an outstanding full-time undergraduate student enrolled in Year One in the Faculty of Mathematics on the basis of academic achievement, performance on the Euclid Mathematics Contest, and extracurricular achievements as assessed through the Admission Information Form. These funds are made possible by a donation from The Ross and Doris Dixon Charitable Foundation in honour of its founders.

Michael Egan Entrance Scholarship in Computer Science

Several scholarships, valued at up to $3,000 each, are awarded annually to outstanding students entering first year of the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science. This fund is made possible by a donation from the Egan Family Foundation.

Faculty of Mathematics Entrance Scholarships

The Faculty of Mathematics awards approximately 200 entrance scholarships in values of $8,000, $5,000, and $2,000. The $8,000 and $5,000 scholarships are continuing awards with payments distributed equally over eight academic terms. The $2,000 scholarships are one-time awards. All applicants to the Faculty of Mathematics (excluding Software Engineering and Computing and Financial Management) are considered and a separate application form is not required. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of high school grades, performance on the Euclid Mathematics Contest, and participation and achievement in student government, athletics, music, art, etc. Students must write the Euclid Mathematics Contest and submit an Admission Information Form in order to be considered for an entrance scholarship.

Isabel Farrar Entrance Scholarships

In 2006, Deanne Farrar (BMath 1988) and Sean Capstick (BASC 1989) established a fund for outstanding first-year undergraduate female students entering the Faculty of Mathematics and the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Waterloo. The scholarships were created in honour of Ms. Farrar's mother, Isabel Farrar who was a Mathematics teacher and who played an instrumental role in encouraging her daughter and other young women to study Mathematics. Several scholarships, valued at up to $4,000 each, will be awarded to outstanding students based on a combination of high school admission marks, results of the Euclid Mathematics Contest (Mathematics students only), and extracurricular achievement as assessed through the Admission Information Form.

Federation of Chinese Canadian Professionals (FCCP) (Ontario) Education Foundation Entrance Scholarship in Accounting

One scholarship, valued at $1,000, is presented annually to an outstanding undergraduate student entering the first year of the Accounting and Financial Management program in the Faculty of Arts or the Mathematics/Chartered Professional Accountancy program in the Faculty of Mathematics or the Biotechnology/Chartered Professional Accountancy program in the Faculty of Science. This award is sponsored by the Federation of Chinese Canadian Professionals (Ontario) Education Foundation.

Cindy Forbes Entrance Scholarship

One scholarship, valued at up to $1,500, is awarded annually to an outstanding international student from Asia entering first year of Mathematics with a declared interest in Actuarial Science or a Mathematics/Business program, who has an admission average of 90% or greater. This scholarship is made possible through an endowment established by Ms. Cindy Forbes, BMath ’79 (Actuarial Science). 

David and Elizabeth Forster Scholarship

One or more scholarships, valued at up to $2,000 each, will be awarded to outstanding first-year students entering the Accounting and Financial Management program in the Faculty of Arts or the Mathematics/Chartered Professional Accountancy program in the Faculty of Mathematics.

June Nicholson Francescut Entrance Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at $2,000, is provided annually to an outstanding full-time undergraduate student entering Year One in the Faculty of Mathematics. This fund is made possible by Aramis Francescut who generously donated the funds in loving memory of his wife June Nicholson Francescut (BMath 1972).

Gale/Seixeiro Entrance Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at up to $1,200, is awarded annually to an outstanding undergraduate student entering Year One in the Faculty of Mathematics (excluding Software Engineering). Selection will alternate between any student from the province of Ontario and a female student from Northern Ontario (Postal Code ‘P’ area). This fund is made possible by a donation from Steve Seixeiro (BMath '95, Computer Science) and April Gale-Seixeiro (BMath '95, Actuarial Science and Statistics) who met at the University of Waterloo in 1990 and want to make a difference in students’ lives.

Grand Valley Mathematics Association (GVMA) Entrance Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at up to $5,000 over four years, is awarded annually to an outstanding full-time undergraduate student enrolled in Year One of a program in the Faculty of Mathematics on the basis of academic achievement, performance on the Euclid Mathematics Contest, and extracurricular achievements as assessed through the Admission Information Form. The GVMA is a chapter of the Ontario Association for Mathematics Education (OAME). GVMA includes the jurisdictions represented by all or part of the counties of Brant, Bruce, Dufferin, Grey, Haldimand, Halton, Huron, Norfolk, Oxford, Perth, Waterloo, Wellington, and Wentworth. As a volunteer organization, GVMA's goal is to promote excellence in Mathematics Education through professional development conferences, seminars, research and publications, student competitions and scholarships.

Robert Harding Entrance Scholarship

Two scholarships, valued at up to $5,000 each, are awarded annually to outstanding students entering any Accounting program, including Accounting and Financial Management, Mathematics/Chartered Professional Accountancy, Biotechnology/Chartered Professional Accountancy, and Computing and Financial Management. This fund is made possible by a donation from Robert Harding (BMath/Chartered Accountancy 1980).

Robert Harding – President’s Scholarship

Ten scholarships, valued at $2,000 each, are awarded annually to outstanding students entering any Accounting program, including Accounting and Financial Management, Mathematics/Chartered Professional Accountancy, Biotechnology/Chartered Professional Accountancy, and Computing and Financial Management. This fund is made possible by a donation from Robert Harding (BMath/Chartered Accountancy 1980).

Hershel and Mary Anne Harris Entrance Scholarship

One scholarship, valued at up to $1,500, will provide assistance to outstanding undergraduate students entering first year in the Faculty of Mathematics. Selection will be based on a combination of high school admission marks, results of the Euclid Mathematics Contest, and extracurricular achievement as assessed through the Admission Information Form.

Bill Harvie Scholarship/Fellowship

One award, valued at $5,000 over four years, is provided to an undergraduate student entering Year One of Accounting and Financial Management, Mathematics/Chartered Professional Accountancy, or Biotechnology/Chartered Professional Accountancy. Selection will be based on academic achievement and leadership qualities. In Years One and Two recipients will receive scholarship payments of $1,000. In Years Three and Four recipients will receive fellowship payments of $1,500 in exchange for teaching/research assistance. Continuance in Years Two, Three, and Four will be dependent on the recipient maintaining a minimum 80% overall average.

Art Headlam Accounting Entrance Scholarships

One or more scholarships, valued at $2,500 each, are named in recognition of Art Headlam's contribution to the administration of the University and support of and interest in accounting and management education. The awards are made annually to students entering Year One of Mathematics/Chartered Professional Accountancy. In addition to overall academic excellence the student will have exhibited leadership qualities.

Randall J. Howard Entrance Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at up to $5,000, is awarded annually to an undergraduate student entering first year in the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science. The fund recognizes Randall J. Howard’s support for computer science undergraduate education and his commitment to helping students learn and succeed.

KPMG Entrance Scholarship

Several scholarships, valued at $2,000 each, are awarded annually to outstanding students entering Year One of any Accounting program at the University of Waterloo. Those programs include Accounting and Financial Management, Mathematics/Chartered Professional Accountancy, Biotechnology/Chartered Professional Accountancy, and Computing and Financial Management. This fund is made possible by donations from KPMG alumni and the KPMG Foundation.

Phil Lanouette Entrance Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at $5,000, is provided annually to a full-time undergraduate student entering first year of a program in the Faculty of Mathematics on the basis of academic excellence. This fund is made possible by a donation from Phil Lanouette (BMath ’76).

Michael and Ophelia Lazaridis Olympiad Scholarship

Up to four scholarships will be presented annually to full-time undergraduate students entering first year of a program in the Faculty of Mathematics (excluding Software Engineering, Computing and Financial Management, Double-degree programs, and students participating in the ELAS program). Recipients of this scholarship must be medalists in either the International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI) or the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) before their final year of high school. This scholarship will cover the cost of the following for a maximum of 8 terms: full tuition (including incidental fees), co-op fees, text book allowance, a residence allowance, and a food allowance. This scholarship is supported by a generous donation made by Michael and Ophelia Lazaridis to attract exceptional individuals to join Waterloo as researchers and students.

Richard and Elizabeth Madter Entrance Scholarship

One scholarship, valued at $3,500, is presented annually to an outstanding student entering Year One of the Honours Co-op Mathematics program.

Rico Mariani Women in Computer Science Scholarship

One scholarship, valued at $2,000, will be awarded annually to an outstanding female undergraduate student entering Year One in the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science at the University of Waterloo. This fund is made possible by Rico Mariani (BMath ‘88) who is committed to removing barriers for women interested in studying Computer Science.

Marsh Memorial Scholarship

One scholarship, valued at up to $4,500, is awarded annually to a first-year undergraduate student enrolled in the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science. Selection is based on high school admission marks, results of the Euclid Mathematics Contest, and extracurricular achievement as assessed through the Admission Information Form. Recipients may be eligible for an interview with Marsh Canada for a potential summer or co-op work term. No application is required. Established in 2001 by Marsh Canada, this scholarship honours the memory of Bernard Mascarenhas and his long-standing dedication to Marsh. Bernard was killed on September 11, 2001 at 8:45 a.m., while he and his colleagues participated in a meeting on the 97th floor of the World Trade Centre, North Tower in New York City. During his 23 year career with Marsh, Bernard consistently exemplified the Marsh virtues of integrity, vision, innovation, and excellence.

Mathematics Columbia International College UW Scholarship

Four scholarships, valued at $3,000 each, are provided annually to graduates of Columbia International College, who are entering Year One in the Faculty of Mathematics. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of high school grades, performance on the Euclid Mathematics Contest, and participation and achievement in student government, athletics, music, art, etc. as demonstrated on the Admissions Information Form. 

John Matthew Entrance Scholarship

One award, valued at $1,000, may be awarded to an outstanding student entering Year One of the Faculty of Mathematics from North Dundas District High School, Chesterville, Ontario. This award is made possible through a donation from Mr. John Matthew, BMath ‘88.

Microsoft Women in Technology Entrance Scholarship

One or more scholarships, valued at up to $2,000 each, will be awarded to outstanding female students entering first year of Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, Management Science Engineering, Systems Design Engineering, or Software Engineering. This fund was established in 2006 by female alumni who work at Microsoft Corporation to encourage and assist female students who are interested in the pursuit of an education and career in a technological field and who are committed to achieving the very highest standards of excellence.

Merrill Lynch Scholarship of Excellence in Accountancy Studies

One scholarship, valued at up to $2,500, is presented annually to an outstanding student entering Year One of Accounting and Financial Management, Mathematics/Chartered Professional Accountancy, or Biotechnology/Chartered Professional Accountancy. This award was established by Merrill Lynch Canada Inc.

National and Global Scholarships

The University of Waterloo, in conjunction with our generous sponsors, are pleased to offer a number of prestigious National and Global Scholarships to exceptional students entering first year in the Faculty of Mathematics (excluding Software Engineering and Computing and Financial Management). The scholarships range in value from $12,000 to $25,000, all of which are continuing awards with equal payments spread over eight academic terms. Payments beyond Year One are dependent on the student maintaining an overall academic average of 80% or greater and continued enrollment in an approved program. The typical candidate will have a distinguished academic standing, especially in mathematics, as well as a record of accomplishments in mathematics and/or computer science contests throughout high school. Candidates will also be expected to demonstrate interest in mathematics or computer science beyond standard course requirements, including activities such as active membership in math or computer science clubs, enriched mathematics studies, employment/voluntary experiences, or hobbies. Participation and achievement in student government, athletics, music, art, etc. are also considered. Application forms may be obtained from the Faculty of Mathematics website and candidates must apply by early-February.

The National and Global Scholarships include the following:

CIBC National Scholarship

One scholarship, valued at $25,000 over eight academic terms, is awarded annually to an incoming undergraduate student enrolled in a Computer Science, Co-op program, Mathematics & Business Double Degree, Co-op program, or the Computer Science & Business Double Degree, Co-op program. These scholarships are open to Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada only.

Mathematics National Scholarships

Approximately ten scholarships, valued at $12,000 to $25,000 each over eight academic terms, are awarded to incoming undergraduate students enrolled in any of the academic plans offered by the Faculty of Mathematics (excluding Software Engineering and Computing and Financial Management). These scholarships are open to Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada only.

Mathematics Global Scholarships

Approximately ten scholarships, valued at $12,000 to $25,000 each over eight academic terms, are awarded to incoming undergraduate students enrolled in any program in the Faculty of Mathematics (excluding Software Engineering and Computing and Financial Management). These scholarships are open to international students studying on a study permit only.

Friar Luca Pacioli Scholarship

One scholarship, valued at $1,000, is provided annually to a Mathematics/Chartered Professional Accountancy student entering Year One. Selection of the recipient is based on academic merit combined with contributions and involvement in extracurricular activities. Applicants must complete the Admission Information Form.

William D. Packham Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships

In 2005, William D. Packham (BMath 1978) established a fund for outstanding first-year students entering the Mathematics/Chartered Professional Accountancy program or the Business Administration (WLU)/Mathematics (University of Waterloo) Double Degree program at the University of Waterloo. Several scholarships, valued at $4,000 each, will be awarded to students based on the admission average, extracurricular achievement as assessed through the Admission Information Form and results of the Euclid Contest.

Sampriti Devi Ray Scholarship

Two scholarships, valued at $3,000 each, are awarded annually to outstanding female undergraduate students entering Year One in the Faculty of Mathematics. This scholarship was established in honour and memory of Ms. Sampriti Devi Ray, the grandmother of Shanku Niyogi (BMath 1994). Ms. Ray was a pioneer in her time for encouraging higher education for her daughters. The inspiration she provided her children and grandchildren, carries on to a new generation today that includes Shanku's two daughters.

Scotiabank Software Engineering Entrance Scholarship

One scholarship, valued at up to $15,000 over eight academic terms, is awarded annually to an undergraduate student entering Year One of Software Engineering. Selection is based on secondary school academic performance and on extracurricular achievement as assessed through the Admission Information Form. It is strongly recommended that applicants write the Euclid Mathematics Contest.

Devindra Shah Entrance Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at $1,000, is awarded annually to an outstanding aboriginal student entering first-year studies at the University of Waterloo.  Preference will be given to students entering a program in the Faculty of Mathematics. This fund is made possible by a donation from the Shah family in honour of Devindra Shah, spouse of retired University of Waterloo professor Kirtikumar Shah.

Software Engineering Entrance Scholarships

Several scholarships are available to outstanding students entering Year One of Software Engineering. These scholarships are awarded on the basis of secondary school performance and on extracurricular achievement as assessed through the Admission Information Form. It is strongly recommended that applicants write the Euclid Mathematics Contest.

Elizabeth Spracklin Entrance Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at $1,000, is awarded annually to an outstanding undergraduate student entering Year One in the Faculty of Mathematics. Preference to be given to students who have participated in Think About Math or Girls in Computer Science programs offered by the Centre for Education in Math and Computing. This fund is made possible by a donation from Elizabeth Spracklin to help young women entering the fields of Mathematics and Computer Science.

Alexander Steele Entrance Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at up to $1,000, may be awarded annually to an outstanding first-year student who is a graduate of Orangeville District Secondary School. Preference will be given to students entering a program in the Faculty of Mathematics and to students entering the Faculty of Arts who report an interest in pursuing a degree in English. This fund is made possible by a donation from The Norman Stuart Robertson Estate in honour and memory of N.S. Robertson’s principal, the late Alexander Steel, of Orangeville District Secondary School in Ontario. 

Sullivan Entrance Scholarship

One scholarship, valued at $2,000 is presented annually to an outstanding student entering first year in Engineering, Mathematics, or Science from Pauline Johnson Collegiate and Vocational School, Brantford, Ontario. Preference will be given to students entering Engineering.

Ruth Taylor Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at $1,500, is awarded annually to an outstanding undergraduate student entering first year in the Faculty of Mathematics. This fund is made possible by a donation from David Taylor in memory of Ruth Taylor.

Charles Trapp Entrance Scholarship in the Faculty of Mathematics

One scholarship, valued at up to $2,000, is awarded annually to an outstanding student entering first year of a program in the Faculty of Mathematics. This fund is made possible by a donation from the estate of Esther Jamieson.

Louise Trapp Entrance Scholarship in the Faculty of Mathematics

One scholarship, valued at up to $2,000, is awarded annually to an outstanding student entering first year of a program in the Faculty of Mathematics. This fund is made possible by a donation from the estate of Esther Jamieson.

University of Waterloo Alumni@BDO Dunwoody Scholarship

One scholarship, valued at up to $2,000, is awarded annually to an outstanding student entering Year One of an Accounting program in the Faculties of Arts, Mathematics, or Science. This fund is made possible by donation from University of Waterloo alumni employed at BDO Dunwoody.

University of Waterloo Alumni@IBM Entrance Scholarship in Mathematics

A scholarship, valued at up to $3,000, is awarded annually to a full-time undergraduate student entering Year One in the Faculty of Mathematics. Preference will be given to Aboriginal students, as reported on the OUAC application. If no eligible candidate is found, preference will be given to female students. This fund is made possible by donations from Waterloo alumni working for, or retired from IBM.

University of Waterloo Alumni@Microsoft Mathematics Scholarship

Several scholarships, valued at $2,000, are awarded annually to outstanding students entering first year of a program in the Faculty of Mathematics or the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science. This fund is made possible through donations from University of Waterloo alumni employed with Microsoft Corporation.

University of Waterloo Alumni@Nortel Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at up to $3,000, is awarded annually to an outstanding student entering first year of a program in the Faculty of Engineering or the Faculty of Mathematics. This fund was established by University of Waterloo alumni employed at Nortel.

University of Waterloo HeForShe IMPACT Scholarships

In May 2015, President Hamdullahpur accepted an invitation from the UN Women’s HeForShe campaign for the University of Waterloo to participate in their Impact 10x10x10 framework alongside governments, leading universities, and global businesses. HeForShe is a global effort to engage men and boys in removing the social and cultural barriers that prevent women and girls from achieving their potential, and together positively reshaping society. As part of our commitment to this campaign, the University of Waterloo will provide six scholarships, valued at up to $12,000 each over four years, to outstanding female students admitted to Year One of an undergraduate science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) degree program in which females are currently underrepresented. Recipients will receive $1,500 per academic term for up to eight terms.  Continuance of the scholarship beyond Year One is dependent on the student maintaining an 80% overall average and continued full-time enrolment in an eligible STEM program. Selection will be based on academic achievement combined with any other Faculty-specific entrance scholarship criteria. All female applicants to the Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Mathematics and eligible programs in the Faculty of Science are considered and a separate application form is not required. 

John and Karen Wetmore Entrance Scholarship

One scholarship, valued at up to $3,000, will provide assistance to outstanding undergraduate students entering first year of  the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science. Academic merit will be based on a combination of high school admission marks, results of the Euclid Mathematics Contest, and extracurricular achievement as assessed through the Admission Information Form.

Jessie W. H. Zou Entrance Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at a minimum of $1,000, is awarded annually to a female undergraduate student entering first year of any program within the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science or a Mathematics Business and Accounting program. This fund is made possible via the Premier’s Innovation Award received by Professor Ming Li, in memory of his late wife, Jessie Wenhui Zou.