UBC’s International Scholars have the potential to make a difference in the world. They are high academic achievers who have demonstrated exceptional extracurricular activities, show a desire to create change at the local and global level, and they are dedicated to giving back to their communities.

There are four categories of prestigious need-and-merit-based awards available through UBC’s International Scholars Program.

ELIGIBILITY:

You won’t select which award you wish to receive when you submit your application –the team will automatically consider you for the awards that you are eligible for.

You must be an international student who will be studying in Canada on a Canadian study permit.

You must be entering UBC from a recognized secondary school, or transferring from your first year at a post-secondary college or other university.

You must have graduated from high school no earlier than one gap year prior to the academic year you are applying to. For example, applicants for 2025 Winter session must have graduated from high school no earlier than November 2023.

You must be applying for your first undergraduate degree.

You must demonstrate superior academic achievement (achieve all As or equivalent standard).

You must demonstrate a level of financial need that would otherwise prevent you from pursuing a UBC degree. (UBC automatically considers all international students for the merit-based International Major Entrance Scholarships and Outstanding International Student Awards. If these awards do not cover your needs for tuition and basic living expenses, you are eligible to apply for the International Scholars Program.)

You must meet UBC’s admission requirements, including general and degree-specific requirements and the English Language Admission Standard.

Apply for the International Scholars Program by submitting the application by the November 15 deadline.

Submit your admissions application to UBC by the December 1 deadline.

BENEFIT:

The value of the scholarship is proportional to financial needs. Financial need is determined by totalling tuition, fees and living expenses. The scholarship may be renewed up to three years.

There are four categories of prestigious need-and-merit-based awards available through UBC’s International Scholars Program:

Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award: This award recognizes exceptional prospective international undergraduate students who demonstrate superior academic achievement and exemplary leadership skills that support and empower others through collaboration, empathy and active listening. It recognizes students who have made a positive impact through their involvement in various school and community service projects and initiatives, and attained notable achievement in other academic or extra-curricular pursuits.  

Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award: This award recognizes outstanding international undergraduate students from impoverished or war-torn areas who have achieved academic excellence under challenging circumstances, and who would be unable to attend university without significant financial assistance. Students should demonstrate leadership potential and a strong commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.

International Impact Award: This award is offered to exceptional students who have demonstrated leadership as well as commitment to and solutions for sustainability and climate change, natural resource conservation and management, social justice, equity and inclusion, or societal health and wellness. Priority is given to first generation learners and those from diverse lived backgrounds.

Vantage One Excellence Award: This award is offered by UBC Vantage College for academically outstanding international students who do not yet meet the English Language Admission Standard for direct admission to UBC. The awards range in value up to the full cost of a student’s academic program and living expenses. Students should demonstrate leadership skills, impactful involvement in student affairs and community service, and notable achievement in other academic or extra-curricular pursuits.