Being the largest of all the universities in BC and one of the most prestigious universities in Canada, the University of British Columbia hands out UBC scholarships to all of its students, from undergraduates and graduates to Canadian or international students. You can apply or be awarded UBC scholarships based on different factors, such as academic excellence, financial need, or underrepresented background. Along with having several scholarships in Canada for international students, the school also offers UBC and other easy scholarships in Canada for Indigenous students. This article will highlight some of the most interesting UBC scholarships, and include information about their requirements, award amounts and how to get one.
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UBC Scholarships: Undergraduate Scholarships
1. Beyond Tomorrow Scholars Program
Award Amount: $20,000/year
Criteria: For applicants who self-identify as Black; direct-entrance from high school; academic excellence
Type: Financial-need, merit-based, demographic-base
Application Requirements: Must complete application, and submit application materials – college essay, reference letter.
The Beyond Tomorrow Scholars Program helps underprivileged undergraduate applications to UBC who self-identify as Black (African, Afro-Canadian, Afro-American Afro-Caribbean, Afro-Indigenous) and who demonstrate financial need. However, the Beyond Tomorrow Scholars program’s awards extend beyond financial assistance. Along with having tuition expenses covered for each year of undergraduate study, you will also receive additional educational support in the form of connecting with mentors and receive personalized academic advising in higher education to help you apply for a Master’s degree in Canada.
You must apply to receive this UBC scholarships. You can submit an application before you enroll, and you must include a 1000-word college diversity essay explaining your personal background, why you need this scholarship and what you plan on doing it with it. You must also submit a single college recommendation letter from a professional (teacher, counsellor, doctor, coach) that knows you well. You can also talk about how you will contribute to undergraduate life at UBC, as Beyond Tomorrow Scholars are expected to foster a community among students of all backgrounds and uphold the ideals of inclusion and diversity.
2. UBC Centennial Scholars Entrance Award
Award Amount: $80,000 over four years
Criteria: Exceptional academic achievement; leadership qualities; commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Type: Merit-based
Application Requirements: Separate application, academic transcripts, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
The UBC Centennial Scholars Entrance Award is open to all undergraduate applicants, and honors students who have demonstrated remarkable academic excellence, leadership abilities, and a strong dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion within their communities. It is primarily a merit-based, unique Canadian scholarship and you only need to be either a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or protected person to apply.
This UBC scholarship has a separate application, so you need to apply and submit various documents including your academic transcripts, a compelling personal statement outlining your achievements and aspirations, as well as letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or community leaders who can attest to these qualities. The scholarship awards substantial financial support, providing recipients with up to $80,000 CAD over four years to assist in their pursuit of higher education.
3. Loran Scholars Foundation
Award Amount: $100,000 over four years
Criteria: Academic excellence, leadership, character, and community involvement.
Type: Merit-based
Application Requirements: Nomination by the high school and an extensive application process.
The UBC Loran Awards are given out by the Loran Scholars Program that recognizes exceptional high school students who want to attend any of the 25 participating universities in Canada. This is not an exclusive UBC scholarship, but if you are planning to apply to the school, you might be eligible if you meet certain academic criteria, such as having a grade average at or above 85%. However, Loran only accepts nominations, so you have to advise your high school that you are interested in applying.
The scholarship’s main award is financial assistance in the form of an annual $11,000 stipend as well as a tuition waiver in the same amount for all your four years of undergraduate study. You will also be assigned a personal mentor who is an exceptional Canadian in either academia, business, arts or culture.
Aside from your grade average, you must also submit a reference letter from someone who can attest to your participation and leadership in a variety of student engagement activities for college. You must also interview for the scholarship if you are short-listed, so make sure you review common college admissions interview questions and scholarship interview questions to prepare. There are over 4,000 applicants every year so the field is very competitive so you need to make sure you have a long-list of relevant extracurriculars for college that include leaderships, service and a commitment to diversity.
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4. Schulich Leader Scholarships
Award Amount: $80,000 over four years
Criteria: Exceptional academic achievement and demonstrated leadership in school and community activities.
Type: Merit-based
Application Requirements: Nomination by the high school and a separate application process.
This scholarship, valued at up to $80,000 CAD over four years, is not just a financial aid opportunity— it also recognizes your academic prowess, leadership abilities, and dedication to (STEM) subjects. You need to be nominated by your high school, but you should pay close attention to the application requirements, as they are extensive. Aside from the requisite academic achievement and leadership qualities, you must also be interested in a career in several fields from engineering, and applied sciences to scientific researcher.
However, you are only eligible for this UBC scholarship if you are applying to the applied engineering program at either the Vancouver or Okanagan campuses, as UBC is one of the best universities in Canada for engineering. If you are nominated by your high school, you must submit a slew of application essays, including a 600-word personal statement, and an optional essay detailing your need for the scholarship, as well as answers to questions about your future career plans. The award is also need-based so you must submit financial information.
5. Canfor Entrance Scholarship
Award Amount: $5,000 for each faculty
Criteria: Academic achievement, leadership skills, and involvement in extracurricular activities.
Type: Merit-based
Application Requirements: Essay and proof of extracurricular involvement.
Canfor is a lumber and timber producer in Western Canada, and it has sponsored several UBC scholarships for undergraduate students interested in forestry, engineering, sustainability, and who have a deep commitment to community service. These awards show preference for students who have applied to either:
- Faculty of Applied Science
- Sauder School of Business
- Faculty of Forestry
And awards several, $5,000 scholarships to exception students in either field. Preference is given to students who have graduated from BC high schools and the children of Canfor employees, but you can also apply as a Canadian student from any province. These scholarships are strictly merit-based but you must be nominated by the respective faculty you are planning to enter based on your academic record, and service to the community.
6. Presidential Scholars Awards
Award Amounts: $5,000/non-renewable; $80,000 and $40,000 renewable awards for each campus (Vancouver and Okanagan)
Criteria: Exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and involvement in extracurricular activities.
Type: Merit-based
Application Requirements: Separate application, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
These UBC scholarships are entrance scholarships that you can apply for during the application process. You don’t need to submit any additional documentation, as you only have to signal your interest in the scholarships on your application. Award decisions are based on your student profile and characteristics essay that you have to complete as part of your overall application to UBC. The prize amounts vary between the awards, as you can either receive a single, non-renewable award of $5,000, or receive a four-year tuition waiver in the form of $40,000 or $80,000 for each year of your undergraduate study.
UBC Scholarships: Indigenous Students
The undergraduate, UBC scholarships we listed above are also open to students from Indigenous backgrounds, but the following UBC scholarships are exclusively for Indigenous students who are either applying for an undergraduate degree or who are entering specific faculties, such as the Faculty of Education, Health Sciences or programs such as the Bachelor of Commerce degree.
1. Lindsay and Elizabeth Gordon Award in Health Sciences
Award Amount: $10,000 to $60,000
Criteria: Academic achievement and identification as an Aboriginal student.
Type: Merit-based
Application Requirements: depends on type of student (undergraduate or graduate)
This award aims to encourage more Aboriginal students to enter the field of health sciences, but also rewards those who have distinguished themselves academically as graduate students. You can apply both as an undergraduate entering a Health Sciences program at the Okanagan campus, or as a graduate student who is entering a master’s or PhD program at the Center for Excellence in Indigenous Health, which is associated with the University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine. You must self-identify as a member of a First Nation, but the other scholarship requirements include submitting reference letters from past teachers or professors, as well as transcripts, a personal statement and also demonstrate financial need. You must also submit a college letter of intent.
2. Musqueam First Nation Scholarship
Award Amount: $5,500/year
Criteria: Academic achievement, community engagement, member of the Musqueam nation
Type: Merit- and community-based
Application Requirements: depends on type of student (undergraduate or graduate)
This UBC scholarships is an effort by the school to recognize the university’s close ties with the native Musqueam First Nation by providing financial assistance to any Musqueam First Nation member who wants to pursue either undergraduate or graduate studies in any field, including UBC’s various professional schools from medicine to law and nursing, so it can also act as a medical school scholarship. You have to apply separately to UBC when you submit your initial application for either an undergraduate or graduate program, along with providing materials such as a maximum 750-word personal statement, and two letters of recommendation.
In your personal statement, you have to cover specific topics including addressing where you see yourself in the future, what contributions you envision making to your community, UBC, Canada and the world, and whether you are committed to further self-discovery by your openness to change and diversity. This last part is important because it is the members of the Musqueam nation who decide scholarship winners, not the university.
3. The Spitz Fellows Program
Award Amount: $10,000/year
Criteria: Indigenous women applying to the Bachelor of Commerce program at the Sauder School of Business
Type: Merit-, community-, and needs-based
Application Requirements: separate application, financial information, several reflective essays
The Spitz Fellows Program is more than a UBC scholarship or an MBA scholarship; winners of the fellowships program receive financial assistance, but are also mentored by senior students at the Sauder Business School throughout their four-years as an undergraduate or the duration of their graduate-level degree. Successful applicants will also receive financial assistance to cover other costs associated with their studies, such as paying for housing, transportation and academic materials. The Spitz Fellow program is intended for Indigenous women, and you must submit a full application by completing all six of the application sections, which include a college reflective essay, a personal statement and relevant financial information.
UBC Scholarships: Graduate Scholarships
1. Four Year Doctoral Fellowships (4YF)
Awarding Amount: $18,200 CAD stipend plus full tuition coverage
Criteria: Academic excellence, research potential, and leadership skills.
Type: Merit-based
Application Requirements: Nomination by the graduate program and research proposal.
The Four-Year Doctoral Fellowships are top graduate school scholarships intended to support exceptional graduate students, so they are able to focus on their research and contribute significantly to their academic fields. The 4YF program is open to both Canadian, permanent resident and international students who are pursuing any kind of advanced degree at UBC, whether as an MBA, PhD, or even a MD/PhD.
There are multiple ways that you can be considered for the 4YF fellowship, which include being nominated or selected by the director of the MD-PhD program you are entering; having been awarded another graduate-level UBC scholarship or fellowship including the Killam Doctoral Scholarship or a Li Tze Fong Fellowship, which gives you automatic 4YF funding; or who have been awarded the Indigenous Graduate Fellowship.
The main requirements are an above-average academic record and outstanding achievement in your particular field of study; if awarded a 4YF fellowship, or any other UBC graduate scholarships you must remain in good academic standing for the remainder of your studies.
2. Killam Doctoral Scholarships
Award Amount: $30,000/year plus travel allowance
Criteria: Academic excellence, research potential, and contribution to the community.
Type: Merit-based
Application Requirements: Research proposal, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
The Killam Doctoral Scholarships are highly-prized and sought-after UBC scholarships, as they are awarded to outstanding doctoral students to help defray the costs of their education, but also to show them how to transition from academia to industry or to help them find industry jobs after PhD studies are finished. The Killam Scholarship is part of a larger UBC scholarships program for graduate or doctoral students so there is a single application that you must complete to be considered for any of the 40 UBC scholarships involved in the program.
To be a competitive candidate for the Killam Scholarship, you must have completed at least two years in a graduate-level programs (Master’s or a PhD), and have a long list of academic and non-academic achievements. You must submit detailed list of your previous research experience, any previous awards or distinctions you received, and your full academic history. You’ll be evaluated mostly by the strength of your research, and your potential to make an impact in your field of study, which your program will assess based on the originality of your research and research proposal.
3. Rick Hansen “Man in Motion” Fellowships
Award Amount: $16,000/year
Criteria: Incoming or continuing graduate students with a disability
Type: Merit-based
Application Requirements: Research proposal, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation
Similar to the 4YF fellowships, the Rick Hansen Fellowships are part of a larger program of UBC scholarships for graduate students, the Spring Graduate Awards Competition, which means that you can submit a single application that will make you eligible for various other unclaimed scholarships in Canada. This UBC scholarships requires you have physical disability and that you are continuing your undergraduate or graduate studies at UBC.
4. Finch Family Graduate Award
Award Amount: $15,000 for PhD students/$5,000 each for two master’s students
Criteria: Exceptional academic achievement and research potential in the fields of entrepreneurship, innovation, community involvement or local economic development
Type: Merit-based
Application Requirements: Academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and research statement.
The Finch Family Graduate Award is open to any graduate student enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program at UBC’s Okanagan campus. You must be a full-time student at the graduate level, but your major or degree program do not apply, and you can apply regardless of what field of study you are pursuing. However, your application must list major academic and non-academic achievements on your CV for grad school that can include anything from your undergraduate GPA, your course-load during your undergraduate or graduate studies, and the endorsements of your referees, as you must submit two letters of recommendation. You apply directly to the College of Graduate Studies at the Okanagan campus, and your application must include a completed application form, along with your letters of recommendation, and transcripts.
UBC Scholarships: International Student Scholarships
1. Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award
Award Amount: Varies
Criteria: Outstanding academic achievement, leadership skills, and commitment to community service, students with an international student visa
Type: Merit-based
Application Requirements: Financial need assessment, leadership statement, recommendation of home institution.
Named in honor of Karen McKellin, an advocate for global education, the Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award is one of the most prestigious UBC scholarships and it is only available to international students who have been accepted into an undergraduate program of study at the Vancouver UBC campus. It is aimed at supporting exceptional international students who also demonstrate financial need. You’ll need to have a long-list of extracurricular activities including participation in math and science competitions, summer programs for high school students or international athletics tournaments. You must be nominated by your home high-school institution and maintain a good academic record throughout the duration of your studies to have the scholarship renewed.
2. International Major Entrance Scholarship
Award Amount: Varies
Criteria: Academic excellence and involvement in extracurricular activities.
Type: Merit-based
Application Requirements: Entrance scholarship; no application required
International Major Entrance Scholarships (IMES) do not require an additional application apart from your application for admission to UBC. This UBC scholarships is based on academic performance for your last two years at your home high-school, and be heavily involved in community-service projects or leadership roles. If you are considered and awarded an IMES, you may not be eligible for any other need- or merit-based UBC scholarships for international students. You will only be eligible if you are studying on a student visa, but if there are any changes to your visa status it will affect your eligibility for this scholarship.
3. Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award
Award Amount: Varies
Criteria: Academic excellence; involvement in extracurricular activities; citizen of a politically unstable country
Type: Merit- and needs-based
Application Requirements: Must be nominated by your home high-school or non-profit; application form, financial information and essays
The Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award is a UBC scholarship with a unique purpose. Established in honor of Donald A. Wehrung, a philanthropist, this UBC scholarship aims to support international students from war-torn and politically unstable countries who have, despite these hardships, demonstrated not only academic excellence but also a commitment to community service, leadership, and the betterment of society. You can either be nominated by your home high school, or a non-profit organization working in your nation, but not both. Once UBC has accepted your nomination, you must complete the full application, which includes submitting your transcripts (high academic achievement in one of the requirements), two personal college essays, and financial information of your family. Award amounts are based on financial need, and the program you are entering.
4. International Impact Award
Awarding Amount: Varies
Criteria: Outstanding academic achievement, leadership skills, and commitment to community service.
Type: Merit-based
Application Requirements: Financial need assessment, leadership statement, and letters of recommendation.
The International Impact Award is another life-line to international students who have been accepted into an undergraduate program at UBC and who demonstrate financial need, especially to make the transition to living and studying at UBC’s Vancouver campus. This UBC scholarship is only available if you are nominated by your home secondary institution, but the award is intended for students from underrepresented minorities, or from low socio-economic backgrounds. You can also qualify if you are the first person in your family to attend a post-secondary school. Beyond academic excellence, you must also have showcased outstanding contributions to society, both within and beyond the academic realm, which can include artistic works, community service, or leadership roles.
How to Get UBC Scholarships
1. Have a High GPA
Your GPA plays a pivotal role not only in getting you into UBC, but also when you’re applying for UBC scholarships. Some of these UBC scholarships make it a requirement, and some entrance scholarships are awarded solely on the basis of your GPA. If you want to improve your GPA, you should focus on effective time management, active participation in class, and seek help when needed, such as asking for extra tutoring or attending summer school. Regularly review your study techniques, set realistic goals, and maintain a balance between your academics and personal life so you don’t get too overwhelmed. Seek guidance from professors or tutors if you find certain subjects challenging. Remember, consistency and resilience are key. Stay organized, attend classes regularly, and engage in discussions to deepen your understanding.
2. Do the Right Extracurricular Activities
Participating in extracurricular activities is not just a fulfilling aspect of university life; it's also a key factor for eligibility in UBC scholarships. Beyond academics, UBC values well-rounded individuals who exhibit leadership, community engagement, and diverse interests. Engaging in extracurricular activities not only broadens your skill set but also demonstrates your passion and commitment beyond the classroom. To maximize your chances of securing UBC scholarships, consider joining student organizations, volunteering for community service, participating in sports or arts events, and taking on leadership roles. But also remember to choose an extracurricular activity that matters to you and not something that is popular or well-regarded. The organization you work with does not matter as much as showcasing genuine passion and impact in your chosen activities. Focus on deep, meaningful involvement, and make sure to do it over the long-term. Scholarship committees will view a sustained, long-term commitment over many years more favorably that a superficial length of time of only a few months, especially right before you apply.
3. Get Good Letters of Recommendation
Securing strong letters of recommendation is paramount when applying for UBC scholarships. These letters provide valuable insights into your character, abilities, and achievements, offering a perspective beyond your academic transcripts. The best recommenders are those who know you well and can speak to your skills and accomplishments, which is something UBC also stresses. Professors, employers, or mentors who have witnessed your dedication and achievements are ideal candidates. You should approach your letter-writers with respect and explain to them the purpose of the scholarship and also use the opportunity to highlight your achievements. Provide them with relevant materials such as your resume, academic records, and a brief summary of your accomplishments. And don’t forget to send a thank-you note afterward.
Conclusion
UBC scholarships are demonstrations of UBC's commitment to supporting students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their education and contribute positively to the global community. You should research all the application requirements carefully before you apply, but having an exceptional academic record, and a lengthy list of non-academic achievements will help make you stand out of the crowd.
FAQs
1. What are UBC scholarships?
UBC scholarships are types of financial aid that can help you pay for your undergraduate or graduate studies at the University of British Columbia. They may be offered through the university itself or available to UBC students from private or external sources.
2. How many UBC scholarships are there?
There are hundreds of different UBC scholarships available to all category of students from Canadian undergraduate and graduate students to international students. Individual faculties and departments within the school also offer various UBC scholarships.
3. What are UBC scholarships worth?
UBC scholarships have various award amounts depending on the program of study, type of student, and availability of funds. These UBC scholarships run between $5,000 and $80,000 to cover all four-years of an undergraduate degree.
4. How can I apply for a UBC scholarship?
Some UBC scholarships, such as entrance scholarships, do not require a separate application. But some UBC scholarships do. You should be aware of the application method required of each scholarship opportunity and follow it accordingly.
5. What do I have to do to get a UBC scholarship?
The application requirements are different for each UBC scholarship. The most general requirements are having an exceptional academic record (3.0 GPA and above), having sustained commitments to serving your community, having experience in leadership roles. Many UBC scholarships are also only for a particular minority group so you may not be eligible for all UBC scholarships.
6. Are there any spending restrictions for UBC scholarships?
If you are awarded a UBC scholarship, the money is usually credited to your student account to cover your tuition or other expenses, so you never have access to it. Private scholarships that are won outside of UBC may be deposited directly into your bank account, but there may or may not be any restrictions.
7. Do I have to be from British Columbia to get a UBC scholarship?
Generally, no, but there may be some UBC scholarships that are directed solely to residents of British Columbia, especially remote or underserved regions, as those scholarships are intended to help students from these areas attend university.
8. Is it hard to get a UBC scholarship?
It is hard to get any scholarship, including a UBC scholarship. But if you excel academically, and are active in community works or any type of community betterment project, you have a good chance.
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