Grade 9 -10 Students
Enriched Academic Program Overview
Waterloo Independent School offers a robust curriculum in Grades 9 and 10, designed to solidify fundamental academic skills and knowledge. Our curriculum incorporates a mix of theoretical and practical courses tailored to diverse learning preferences.
Mandatory Courses
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Academic Courses: Enhance understanding of theoretical concepts and abstract problem-solving
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Applied Courses: Focus on practical applications and real-world relevance.
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De-streamed Courses: Provide a unified approach in core subjects like Math and Science to promote inclusive education.
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Open Courses: Allow students to explore a wide range of interests, preparing them for active societal participation.
Skills Development
Our courses aim to develop essential skills for academic and personal success:​
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Critical Thinking: Fostered by challenging academic tasks.
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Adaptability: Encouraged through a comprehensive de-streamed curriculum.
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Collaboration: Cultivated through interactive and cooperative learning settings.
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Practical Application: Gained through experiential learning in applied courses.
WHO CAN APPLY?
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Waterloo Independent School (WIS) recognises that students with strong academic credentials, a clear interest in their studies, and a focused goal for their post-secondary program may wish to accelerate their progress through WIS. WIS offers these students a pathway forward through the University Express Program.
Application
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Candidates must submit an application package :
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1. WIS Application Form
2. Application Fee
3. Current academic record in English Recommendation letter from a teacher with comments specifically on:
- English proficiency
- Academic achievement
- Study habits
5. IELTS score requirement:
- 5.0 from Grade 10 applicants
- 6.0 for Grade 11 applicants
6. Personal statement describing character, interests, and the reason for applying to the UEP at WIS. ​
Review and Interview
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WIS reviews the application when the complete package is received to certify that the applicant meets the basic application requirements. Following the certification, the applicant is invited to participate in an online discussion with the WIS Director. The purpose of the discussion is to judge the applicant’s language competency. The applicant will also be asked to submit a writing assignment.
Conditional Admission
After certification and a successful initial language assessment, WIS will forward a letter of acceptance granting conditional admission to the UEP with an invoice for payment. Final decision about acceptance into the program is made once the student arrives at WIS.
Visa
The student is responsible for following the visa application process.
Arrival and Acceptance into the UEP
The final stage of the process occurs on arrival at WIS. During the first week of class, teachers observe the student in order to judge language and academic proficiency. In addition, the Director conducts a language proficiency assessment.
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Once all requirements are met successfully, WIS confirms acceptance into the program in a letter to parents.
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If a student does not meet the requirements for admission to the UEP, 50% of tuition will be refunded.
Student Success
WIS provides the student with a program tailored to their needs for university admission into the program of their choice.
WIS supports the UEP student with additional language practice and in preparing their university application.