Why Live in Residence?

Discover how on-campus living helps you succeed academically, socially, and personally.

Starting university is a huge milestone — exciting, a little nerve-wracking, and full of possibilities. One of the biggest choices you'll make is where you want to live. Choosing to live in residence offers major advantages, especially in your first year.

Fun fact: at the University of Waterloo, about 80 per cent of first-year students choose to live in residence, and it's easy to see why.

Convenience that makes your life easier

Living in residence puts you close to everything — classes, libraries, gyms, cafeterias, and student spaces. Instead of commuting, you can roll out of bed and get to class in minutes. That extra time can go toward studying, hanging out with friends, discovering campus, or simply getting more sleep.

At Waterloo, first-year students are guaranteed a residence spot if they apply on time, which removes the stress of searching for housing in a new city.

A community that feels like home

One of the biggest benefits of residence is the built-in community. You'll meet people on your floor, in your building, and through the many events hosted by your campus.

Students often talk about making their closest friends in residence. Whether it's movie nights, cooking with your suite-mates, or studying in a shared lounge, you're surrounded by others who are also adjusting to university life.

At Waterloo, every floor has a "don," which is an upper-year student who lives in residence to help first-year students. Dons are there to answer questions, plan fun events, and make sure everyone feels supported and included. Dons are trained to help you adjust, connect with others, and feel at home from the moment you move in.

A great first step into university life

Moving away from home is a big step, but residence gives you the perfect balance of independence with support. Many students say residence was the key to helping them adjust well to university.

Research from multiple universities has shown that students who live in residence often have:

• Higher first-year grades
• Higher graduation and retention rates
• Stronger social connections

That's because residence is designed to help you thrive!

Being close to classes, study spaces, and campus resources also helps you stay organized and focused. Residence gives you a comfortable, welcoming start to university. You'll learn how to manage your time, take responsibility for your schedule, and build confidence in living on your own.

Explore what residence life is really like — hear directly from Waterloo students about their first-year experiences: What's it like to live in residence?