The UBC International Scholars Program is a group of undergraduate scholarships offered by the University of British Columbia (UBC) for international students. The program is intended for students who have strong academic records, leadership experience, and significant financial need. Applicants must be entering UBC directly from secondary school and applying for their first undergraduate degree. The scholarships are awarded through four categories, including the Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award and the Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award. Financial support is based on a student’s demonstrated financial need and can be renewed throughout their degree if they continue to meet the scholarship requirements.

The program supports students from different countries who may not be able to study at UBC without financial assistance. In addition to funding, recipients receive academic and personal support during their studies. International Scholars have access to advising services, leadership opportunities, and programs that support their academic and professional development. Students can also take part in exchange programs and co-operative education opportunities offered by UBC where applicable.

UBC International Scholars Program in Canada | Program Summary

The UBC International Scholars Program recognizes outstanding international students who demonstrate superior academic achievement, leadership qualities, community involvement, and significant financial need. The scholarship is available for eligible undergraduate applicants applying directly from secondary school.

Eligibility for the UBC International Scholars Program

The UBC International Scholars Program has strict eligibility requirements. Applicants must satisfy all criteria to be considered for the scholarship. Since the program is extremely competitive, meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee selection.

General Eligibility Criteria

• Be an international student studying in Canada on a Canadian study permit.
• Be entering UBC directly from an accredited secondary (high) school.
• Be applying for their first undergraduate degree.
• Demonstrate superior academic achievement.
• Demonstrate leadership skills and meaningful involvement in school or community activities.
• Demonstrate significant financial need.
• Meet UBC’s general and degree-specific admission requirements.
• Meet UBC’s English Language Admission Standard.
• Receive a nomination from their school or an eligible registered non-profit organization.

Age and Academic Requirements

• Applicants must be entering UBC directly from secondary (high) school.
• For the 2027 Winter Session, students must have graduated from high school no earlier than June 2026.
• Applicants must be applying for their first undergraduate degree.
• Students must demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and are generally expected to earn grades equivalent to all As or a similarly high academic standard.
• Applicants must meet UBC’s general admission requirements and the requirements of their chosen degree program.

Benefits of the UBC International Scholars Program

The scholarship offers both financial assistance and valuable academic support throughout a student’s undergraduate studies. Funding levels differ depending on each student’s demonstrated financial need and available resources.

Financial Benefits

• Financial assistance proportional to demonstrated financial need.
• Funding that considers tuition fees and living expenses after assessing available family resources.
• Renewable funding throughout the undergraduate degree subject to maintaining eligibility requirements.
• Meaningful financial support for students who would otherwise be unable to attend UBC.

Academic and Personal Benefits

• A globally recognized UBC degree.
• Dedicated International Scholars Program advisors.
• Leadership and skill-building workshops.
• Academic and career development support.
• Opportunities to participate in exchange programs.
• Access to co-operative education (co-op) opportunities where available.
• Networking opportunities with scholars from around the world.

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Documents Required for the UBC International Scholars Program

Applicants should prepare their documents well before beginning the application process. Specific document requirements may vary depending on the program or admission cycle.

• Valid passport or identification documents.
• Secondary school academic transcripts.
• Predicted grades or final examination results where applicable.
• Financial information and supporting documents demonstrating financial need.
• Personal profile essays required by UBC.
• School nomination documents.
• English language proficiency test results if applicable.
• Additional admission-related documents requested by UBC.

How to Apply for the UBC International Scholars Program

The application process is completed online through UBC’s undergraduate admissions system and scholarship application portal. Students are encouraged to begin preparations several months before the deadlines.

Step-by-Step Application Process

• Decide which UBC campus and undergraduate program you wish to apply for.
• Discuss your nomination with your secondary school or an eligible registered non-profit organization.
• Create your UBC undergraduate admissions account.
• Complete your undergraduate admission application.
• Obtain your school nomination before the nomination deadline.
• Complete the International Scholars Program application.
• Prepare and submit all required financial information and supporting documents.
• Complete your personal profile essays carefully.
• Upload any additional documents requested by UBC.
• Review your application thoroughly before submission.
• Submit all required materials before their respective deadlines.
• Applicants may be invited to participate in a video interview as part of the evaluation process.

Application Tips

• Beginning preparations several months before the deadlines.
• Demonstrating meaningful leadership experiences rather than listing numerous activities.
• Writing authentic and reflective personal essays.
• Clearly explaining their financial circumstances when required.
• Choosing academic programs aligned with their interests and achievements.
• Carefully reviewing all submission requirements before applying.
• Avoiding incomplete or last-minute applications.
• Seeking feedback from teachers or mentors before submission.

Deadline for the UBC International Scholars Program

The application timeline generally follows several stages each year. For the 2027 admission cycle. Applications are expected to open in September. Applicants should check the official website regularly for updated deadlines, as dates may change for future admission cycles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)