UBC Undergraduate Scholarships

The University of British Columbia (UBC) offers a wide range of scholarships and awards for both Canadian and international students. Alongside financial support, UBC provides enriching opportunities such as student clubs, study abroad programs, co-op placements, and undergraduate research. These experiences not only help you complete your degree but also enable you to contribute meaningfully to UBC’s dynamic and diverse community.

Host Country	Canada
Host Institute	University of British Columbia
Study Level	Undergraduate
Eligible Nationality	Canadian, International
Scholarship Type	Need-Based, Merit Based
Application opens	Early October
Closing Dates	November 15, 2025

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UBC Funding and Awards for International Students

UBC invests over $30 million each year in scholarships, awards, and financial support for international undergraduate students, recognizing the academic excellence of outstanding learners from around the globe. As a student at one of the world’s top 40 universities—and the most international university in North America—you’ll have opportunities to learn, connect, innovate, and engage in research. Below are the UBC scholarships and awards available to international students:

1. UBC International Major Entrance Scholarship

The International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES) is awarded to exceptional international students entering undergraduate programs at UBC. These scholarships are granted in the first year of study and may be renewed for up to three additional years. Award amounts and availability vary each year based on funding. For the 2025/2026 academic year, IMES awards will range from $10,000 to $20,000 annually.

2. UBC Outstanding International Student Award

The Outstanding International Student (OIS) Award is a one-time, merit-based entrance scholarship granted to exceptional applicants upon admission to UBC. Recipients of this award demonstrate not only strong academic achievement but also notable involvement in extracurricular activities.

Who Can Apply: UBC Scholarships & Awards for International Students

To be considered for the International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES), applicants must:

Be new to UBC and applying directly from high school.
Hold international student status and attend UBC on a Canadian study permit or student visa (eligibility may change if citizenship status changes).
Demonstrate strong academic achievement, intellectual potential, and significant involvement in extracurricular and community activities.
Not be selected for an International Scholars Award (merit- and need-based).

Steps to Apply

If you apply to UBC by November 15, you will automatically be considered for the IMES. For full details and the application process, please visit UBC’s official website.

UBC International Scholars Program

UBC’s International Scholars Program offers four distinguished awards based on both merit and financial need. Each year, approximately 50 scholarships are awarded across these categories. International Scholars are exceptional students who combine strong academic performance with active involvement in extracurricular activities, a passion for creating global change, and a commitment to giving back to their schools and communities.

UBC Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award

This award recognizes international undergraduate students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, strong leadership skills, active involvement in student government and volunteer work, and success in other significant areas of accomplishment.

UBC Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award

This award recognizes outstanding international undergraduate students from developing or conflict-affected regions who have achieved academic excellence despite challenging circumstances and who would be unable to pursue a university education without significant financial support.

UBC International Impact Award

This award is presented to exceptional students who show a strong commitment to addressing global challenges and creating solutions in areas such as social justice, environmental sustainability, equity and inclusion, community health and wellness, and freedom of expression.

UBC Vantage One Excellence Award

The Vantage One Excellence Award is offered through UBC Vantage College to academically outstanding international students who have not yet met the English Language Admission Standard for direct entry to UBC. Award amounts vary and may cover full tuition, fees, and living expenses.

For more information, please visit the official UBC website.

UBC Funding and Awards for Canadian Undergraduates

UBC is dedicated to recognizing students for their academic excellence and leadership potential. In the past year alone, UBC and its donors contributed $15 million to support incoming students, celebrating their strong academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and leadership achievements.

The following scholarships and awards are available to Canadian students at UBC:

Loran Awards
UBC Centennial Scholars Entrance Awards
Awards for Indigenous Students
Presidential Scholars Awards
Schulich Leader Scholarships
Beyond Tomorrow Scholars Program

UBC Presidential Scholars Award

UBC seeks the most accomplished and promising Canadian students and permanent residents to join its community. The Presidential Scholars Award represents one of UBC’s most prestigious entrance scholarships. On the Okanagan campus, recipients may receive a one-time award of approximately $5,000, while at the Vancouver campus, renewable awards valued at up to $40,000 and $80,000 over four years are available.

Who Can Apply for the Presidential Scholars Award

The Presidential Scholars Award is open to high school and CEGEP students who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents. This award recognizes students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement along with strong leadership in their communities, schools, athletics, or the arts.

Application Deadline

To be considered for the Presidential Scholars Award, students must apply to UBC by December 1. For full details, please visit the official UBC website.

UBC Entrance Awards: Centennial Scholars

The UBC Centennial Scholars Entrance Award program supports students transferring from secondary school or another post-secondary institution to UBC. Its purpose is to provide financial assistance to academically strong students who aspire to join and contribute to the UBC community but require significant financial support to do so. Through this program, new students may receive a combination of one-time and renewable awards valued at up to $80,000.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the UBC Centennial Scholars Entrance Award, applicants must:

Demonstrate a strong academic record.
Show clear financial need.
Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person in Canada.
Be entering UBC directly from high school or transferring from another post-secondary institution.
Be applying to a direct-entry undergraduate program at UBC and not already hold a degree.