I say waterloo, it is far cheaper and what matters more these days is the graduate degree. I know a few people that studied at Waterloo and got into top graduate programs. And yes the co-op program is key.

i agree, waterloo is an excellent school and you'll finish with an M.arch, as opposed to a B.Arch from Pratt. Cambridge can't compete with NYC for location but at least you won't be burdened with crazy debt when you graduate. If you're canadian, you won't qualify for many of the scholarships and loans for Pratt. waterloo definitely

Waterloo all the way. Exponentially less expensive, you graduate with a Masters (less hoops to jump through if you want to practice in Canada), and it's a co-op program so you'll graduate with quite a bit of experience.

Also, Cambridge is kind of a hole, but I live in Winnipeg so that's like the pot calling the kettle black. The area as a whole (KCW) is quite nice though.

A lot of people, out of jealousy of not getting accepted, would hunt you down if you dared to turn down Waterloo.

^ that's true, it's very competitive to get into. it's generally recognized as the top school in canada (no i didn't go there).

Thanks for the advice so far
I should probably clarify that I am an american citizen and Pratt has offered me a scholarship that cuts the tuition in half. It is still more expensive than Waterloo, but I am trying to base my decision on the merit of the program rather than the cost. Does being more selective make Waterloo the better program?

Silly me, I've just realized, the program being Co-op, Waterloo is actually 5 years. I was interested in the school for a while, I'm still am, but the fact that work terms are mandatory scares the shit out of me. It may be one of the best architecture school in Canada, but I don't know if I'm ready to handle anything else than the conventional September to May "just worry about your classes" curriculum. Yes co-op is a great incitive or can just freak you out...like me.

You've got until june 1st to decide right?

may 28th, yeah
I agree with you about co-op and freaking out a little. I have already heard so much about how challenging architecture will be that I am a little aprehensive about not having much vacation time.

Here's a great review of Waterloo's architecture program to see what you're getting into.

http://www.artschoolreviews.ca/reviews/university-of-waterloo/architectural-studies/life-decisions-in-architecture

Hopefully, there'll be more schools in the future.