Opportunities at Wilfrid Laurier University

Discover a World of Possibilities at Wilfrid Laurier University

For Indian students dreaming of studying in Canada, Wilfrid Laurier University (Laurier) offers an array of opportunities that blend academic excellence, career growth, and cultural immersion. Located in the vibrant cities of Waterloo and Brantford, Ontario, Laurier is renowned for its innovative programs, strong support for international students, and pathways to success in Canada's dynamic job market. With the next intake approaching in Fall 2024 or Winter 2025, now is the perfect time to explore how Laurier can launch your global career. As one of Canada's top universities for co-op education and employability, Laurier equips you with the skills, networks, and experiences needed to thrive post-graduation, including access to Canada's Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and potential pathways to permanent residency.

Academic Excellence and Program Opportunities

Laurier's diverse academic offerings are tailored to meet the aspirations of Indian students, with a focus on high-demand fields like business, technology, health sciences, and social sciences. Whether you're pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree, you'll benefit from small class sizes, world-class faculty, and research-driven learning.

• Popular Programs for Indian Students: Business Administration (BBA/MBA), Computer Science, Data Science, Global Studies, and Social Work. Laurier's Lazaridis School of Business and Economics is ranked among Canada's top 10 for undergraduate business programs, ideal for those eyeing roles in finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship.
• Research and Innovation: Engage in cutting-edge research through the Laurier Centre for Sustainable Food Systems or the Laurier Institute for the Study of Public Opinion and Policy. Indian students can apply for Undergraduate Research Assistantships (URAs), providing hands-on experience and publication opportunities.
• Flexible Learning Options: With hybrid and online courses available, Laurier supports your transition from India, including English language bridging programs through the Laurier English Language Institute (LELI) for those needing IELTS/TOEFL enhancements.

Laurier's commitment to experiential learning ensures you graduate with a portfolio of real-world projects, making your resume stand out to Canadian and global employers.

Career Development and Co-op Programs

Canada's job market favors skilled graduates, and Laurier excels in preparing international students for it. The university's Co-operative Education (Co-op) program is a standout, allowing you to alternate academic terms with paid work placements—perfect for gaining Canadian work experience while studying.

Co-op Program Highlights	Benefits for Indian Students
Over 1,200 partner employers, including tech giants like Google and Shopify	Earn up to CAD 20,000 per term; build networks in Waterloo Region's "Silicon Valley North"
Programs in Business, IT, Engineering, and Health Sciences	Full-time work permits during co-op; counts toward PGWP eligibility
90% co-op placement rate	Resume workshops and interview prep tailored for international talent

The Career Centre at Laurier provides personalized advising, job fairs, and alumni mentoring. For Indian students, this includes sessions on navigating IRCC work permits and targeting industries like IT consulting and healthcare, where Indian professionals are in high demand. Graduates boast a 95% employment rate within six months, with many securing roles at firms like Deloitte, RBC, and KPMG.

Scholarships and Financial Opportunities

Studying abroad can be financially rewarding at Laurier, with generous scholarships designed to support international students from India. Apply early for the next intake to maximize funding—deadlines typically fall between January and April for Fall entry.

• Entrance Scholarships: Automatic awards up to CAD 5,000 for high-achieving Indian students (GPA 85%+ in Class 12 or equivalent). The International Student Entrance Scholarship covers tuition for the first year.
• Merit-Based Awards: Laurier Global Scholars Program offers up to CAD 10,000 annually for leadership and community involvement. Indian students excelling in STEM or business can apply for the President's Gold Medal Scholarship.
• Need-Based Aid: International Student Bursaries and the Laurier International Excellence Scholarship (up to CAD 2,000) help offset costs. Explore external options like the Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship for Indian applicants.
• Work-Study Programs: On-campus jobs in libraries, labs, or student services pay CAD 15-20/hour, allowing you to work up to 20 hours/week during terms.

With average tuition around CAD 25,000-30,000 per year for internationals, these opportunities can reduce your financial burden by 20-50%. Laurier's financial aid office offers one-on-one consultations to guide Indian students through applications.

International Student Support and Extracurricular Opportunities

Laurier fosters a welcoming environment for over 3,000 international students, including a thriving Indian community. The International & Global Studies office provides orientation, visa assistance, and cultural adjustment workshops.

• Clubs and Societies: Join the Indian Students Association (ISA) for Diwali celebrations, Bollywood nights, and peer mentoring. Over 150 clubs, including Enactus for entrepreneurship, help build leadership skills.
• Study Abroad Exchanges: Laurier partners with universities in India (e.g., IITs) for dual-degree options and short-term exchanges, enhancing your global perspective.
• Health and Wellness: Free counseling, yoga sessions, and mental health support tailored for homesick students from India.

Post-graduation, Laurier's alumni network—strong in Toronto and beyond—connects you to opportunities in Canada's Express Entry system, where skilled workers from India have high success rates for PR.

Seize Your Future at Laurier: With its blend of academic rigor, practical experience, and inclusive community, Wilfrid Laurier University is your gateway to a successful life in Canada. Apply now for the next intake and transform your ambitions into achievements. For personalized advice, contact Laurier's international recruitment team.