Q: I cannot afford the cost of studying optometry. Where can I get financial aid?
A: In the Optometry program, a number of undergraduate scholarships, bursaries, and awards are available to students; contact the School's Admission office for details. Also, for the University of Waterloo, the Student Awards and Financial Aid Office has details of financing options including provincial and federal funding programs.
Tuition and equipment fees
As with most professional health programs, the costs associated with the Optometry program are higher than most undergraduate programs. Equipment and text book costs may seem high, however, you are purchasing the core set of professional quality equipment and reference material you will take with you into your practice.
The table shows what you can expect to pay over the four years of the program. Domestic students spend roughly $24,000 per year (based on fall 2010 figures). Note that in fourth year, the student attends three full terms. Most costs are the same for international students; however, tuition is significantly higher, at $31,800 per year for the first three years and $47,700 for the fourth year (based on figures for fall 2010).
Please note that costs do not include clothing suitable for the clinics, housing, food, transportation, or other living expenses. Costs are based on fall 2010 and may be subject to change.
| Year |
|
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
| Yearly tuition |
Domestic |
12,496 |
12,108 |
12,108 |
17,523 |
| International |
31,800 |
31,800 |
31,800 |
47,700 |
| Books |
2,250 |
1,200 |
540 |
n/a |
| Supplies and equipment |
3,500 |
5,600 |
400 |
570 |
Housing, meals, and other costs (about $14,000 a year)
Of course, the student is responsible for housing, food, travel, and other living expenses. Example living costs are available at Waterloo's Tuition and Other Expenses page, made available by the Financing for Prospective Students site. The site also offers an Interactive Budget page, Useful Tips & Links, and resources about bursaries and scholarships. Also, check out Waterloo’s Housing and Residence and Food Services sites.
Financial aid and student awards
A number of undergraduate scholarships, bursaries, and awards are available to students in the Optometry program; contact the School's admissions office for details. The University’s Student Awards and Financial Aid Office provides details on a broader range of loans (e.g. provincial), bursaries, and scholarships.
Application fee
A non-refundable processing fee ($200 in 2011) must be submitted with your on-line application to the OUAC.
