University of Waterloo – Conrad Grebel University College
Who We Are
Grebel is where you will find your support system while studying at the University of Waterloo. Grebel is located in the heart of Waterloo’s campus. At its core, Grebel’s focus is to build community, both in the classroom and through our residence program. As a potential Waterloo Warrior, you’re invited to learn about living or studying at Grebel through our future student website.
Residence
Home to just 140 Waterloo students in all faculties from first to fourth year, Grebel is the smallest residence on Waterloo’s campus and is the only residence that requires an application and group interview. Grebel's residence features community living, delicious homestyle food, and many ways to get involved. Apply before May 1, 2027, to be guaranteed a group interview.
Academics
Conrad Grebel University College does not directly admit students into academic programs. You can apply to one of the University of Waterloo’s 100 programs and then choose Music, or Peace and Conflict Studies as your major, take a few courses at Grebel, and/or live at the college.
Music
Explore how music is meaningful in today’s world. Waterloo’s Music program is housed at Grebel. Things you can expect:
- Flexibility: Combine music with another area of interest such as psychology, health or computer science.
- Community: Small classrooms, approachable professors and a positive learning environment.
- Diversity: Wide range of music classes to choose from (performance, history, theory), and music peers who have a range of interests and abilities.
More information for future music students
Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS)
Pursue peace, justice and social change through a vibrant interdisciplinary program. Waterloo’s PACS program is housed at Grebel. Things you can expect:
- Tailorable degree: Take courses in legal studies, psychology, political science, etc., and have them count toward your PACS major.
- Opportunity: Do an internship for credit or apply for Waterloo’s co-op program.
- Preparation: For a variety of career opportunities such as law, community development, education, social services, and more.
More information for future Peace and Conflict Studies students
Important Information
Scholarships and Awards
Most universities offer scholarships. Unlike having to pay back a loan, you do not need to pay back a scholarship. Universities award scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, extracurricular activities and other distinctions.
You can apply for some scholarships and may be automatically considered for others.
University Events
Universities host events like open houses, campus tours, Student for a Day programs, and virtual tours to help you explore what student life is really like. These events are a great way to experience the campus, connect with current students and faculty, and get a feel for whether a university is the right fit for you.
Offers of Admission
Conrad Grebel University College does not directly admit students. You can apply to one of the University of Waterloo’s 100 programs and then declare a Grebel major, take courses and/or live at the college.
Extenuating Circumstances
TBD
Residences and Meal Plans
Residence Price(s)
$14 970 per 8-month contract (includes all-you-can-eat meal plan)
Room Types
Double residence rooms with modular furniture; each side has 1 bed, wardrobe, chair, desk, and 2 sets of drawers. Single-gender and gender-neutral floors available.
Amenities
- Complete residence life program
- 50% first-year students and 50% upper-year students – this mix brings lots of leadership and mentoring opportunities
- 100+ ways to get involved: Clubs, sports, student council, talent shows, musicals and more
- Dedicated support staff and residence dons around the clock
- Games lounge with ping pong, pool, foosball and board games
- Lounges with TV, gaming systems and Netflix
- Library attached to residence floors
- Laundry facilities
- Workout centre
- $12,000+ available in residence awards
- Weekly community suppers/chapels
- High-speed and/or wireless internet connection
Residence Guarantee
Grebel is not part of the University of Waterloo's first-year residence guarantee and is not listed on the Residence Community Ranking Form.
If you'd like to live at Grebel, you'll need to complete an application and attend a fun and informative group interview. Eligible students who apply by May 1, 2026, will be guaranteed an interview.
Find more details about residence at Conrad Grebel.
You can also indicate whether you're interested in a Grebel Living-Learning Community for Music, PeaceTech, or Peace and Conflict Studies.
Deposit Required
$500
Meal Plans
21 meals cooked in-house per week as well as snack times between meals; consideration for special diets.
Featured Programs
No programs found.
