International Graduate Students

As a graduate student at Wilfrid Laurier University, you will join a community focused on your academic, professional and personal growth. Choose from coursework, thesis and research-focused programs across a variety of disciplines that combine classroom learning with hands-on experiences. You will graduate career-ready with the knowledge and skills needed to set you apart for career opportunities in Canada and around the world.

Why Study in Canada?

Canada is known for being a safe, stable and welcoming country that has a strong reputation for high-quality, affordable education. In 2025, over 690,000 international students studied in Canada because of its high-quality education, internationally recognized degrees and professional opportunities after graduation. 80% of students perceive Canada as an inclusive and welcoming country and 70% plan to apply for a post-graduation work permit (CBIE International Student Survey, 2025).
As a graduate student in Canada and at Laurier, you’ll be part of a quality education system that prepares you academically and professionally for future success.

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Laurier ranked in the top 7% of universities worldwide (2026 Centre for World University Rankings)
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of Laurier's international Master's grads are employed in Ontario (2024)
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Laurier ranked top 15% of universities in the world for best value (Study Abroad Aide, 2025)

Continue Your Education with the Perfect Program

Explore more than 50 master’s and doctoral programs on our Brantford and Waterloo campuses to find the one that best aligns with your professional and academic ambitions. Learn from award-winning faculty, build specialized knowledge, engage in meaningful research and graduate prepared for continued career success.

student at computer

Coursework Master’s Programs

Complete your degree in 12-16 months through advanced coursework and professional development. Ideal for students seeking specialized knowledge and career-ready skills without a large research requirement.

student works in lab

Research Project Master’s Programs

Combine coursework with a major research paper or project under faculty supervision. Normally completed in 12-16 months, these programs are perfect for students wanting independent academic research experience with flexibility for diverse career paths.

student writes notes

Thesis-Based Master’s Programs

Dedicate significant time on a major research question and produce a written thesis. Normally completed in 20-24 months, these programs provide in-depth preparation for students with a passion for independent learning or plans for a PhD or research-focused career.

students in greenhouse

Doctoral Programs

Develop advanced expertise through seminars, lectures, labs and professional development. Students will conduct independent research culminating in a dissertation that makes a substantial contribution to knowledge at the forefront of their discipline or professional practice.

Graduate Student Admissions

Learn more about the application process to graduate programs, including application fees and deadlines. When you’re ready, submit your application through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC).

Have you applied and would like more information about the next steps in the admission process? Our team of admission experts can help answer all your questions. You can reach them at gradadmissions@wlu.ca.

Important Information Regarding Study Permits

As you navigate your journey to graduate-level studies at Laurier, you can review our frequently asked questions to get more information about IRCC’s International Student Program and Study Permits.

Tuition and Funding

Your graduate education is a significant investment in your future, so it’s important to know how much your education will cost. When calculating the total cost to study at Laurier – or anywhere in Canada – be sure to include tuition and student fees, as well as costs for housing, food, transportation and other incidental costs.

Learn More about Tuition and Fees

grad students at Veritas

Student Support

Feel supported and prepared for master’s and doctoral studies with our incoming student support programming. These virtual and in-person programs connect you with dedicated staff and student leaders who are ready to help you with course registration, provide preparation checklists and invite you to a Laurier Crash Course to introduce you to grad school. Whether you have just completed your undergraduate degree or are returning to school after taking time away, our dedicated international and graduate support programming ensures you feel confident before you arrive.

Explore Graduate Student Support

Housing

Having safe, secure housing during your graduate studies is important, especially if you’re traveling from another country and may not be familiar with housing options in Laurier communities. The Centre for Off-Campus Initiatives provides guidance on looking for accommodations and the responsibilities you have when living off campus.

In Brantford, there is also the option to live in apartment-style residence. Contact our Department of Residence for more information on available units and costs.

Get Off-Campus Housing Support

Deciphering the Brain

From how we think and feel to how we communicate and collaborate, the brain is at the centre of it all. The brain is also an enigma. Researchers at Laurier—including Nicolas Rouleau, an assistant professor in Health Sciences—are working across a range of disciplines to build on our collective understanding of this complex and fascinating organ.

Explore the Research Feature

Rouleau in the lab with students researching the brain
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We send updates about Laurier and keep in touch with you at different points along your application journey. Sign up to receive email updates.