Hey future leaders and changemakers! 🚀 Ever dreamed of getting a world-class education in Canada? Well, listen up! The University of British Columbia (UBC) has an incredible opportunity for international students like you – the International Scholars Program Bursary. This isn’t just a bursary; it’s your ticket to an amazing undergraduate journey at one of North America’s top universities, designed to help you succeed without the financial stress.
The UBC International Scholars Program is a super prestigious bursary designed specifically for international undergraduate students who show academic excellence, strong leadership, and a clear financial need. It’s more than just one award; it’s a collection of four distinct bursaries tailored to different kinds of exceptional students. Whether you’re a natural leader, overcoming challenging circumstances, passionate about global impact, or need a little English language boost, there’s a place for you here. This program helps ensure that talented students from around the globe, who might otherwise miss out, get the chance to study in Canada.
Who Can Apply?
This incredible bursary is open to international students who:
- Are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents and will require a Canadian study permit.
- Are planning to start their first undergraduate degree at UBC.
- Will be entering UBC directly from a recognized high school, or transferring from their first year at another post-secondary institution.
- Have graduated from high school no earlier than November 2023 for the 2026 academic year intake.
- Demonstrate outstanding academic achievement (think straight A’s or equivalent!).
- Prove a significant financial need that would otherwise prevent you from attending UBC.
- Meet all of UBC’s general and degree-specific admission requirements, including their English Language Admission Standard.
Special Note for the Vantage One Excellence Award: If you meet all the above criteria but don’t yet meet UBC’s English Language Admission Standard for direct entry, you might be considered for the Vantage One Excellence Award. This means you’d start your studies in the UBC Vantage One Program.
What Does It Cover?
The UBC International Scholars Program is a needs-based bursary, meaning the amount you receive is based on your financial situation. It’s designed to cover your essential university costs, including:
- Tuition fees
- Mandatory university fees
- Living costs (accommodation, food, etc.)
UBC assesses your financial need by looking at your expected expenses and what you and your family can contribute. Plus, if you maintain good academic standing and your study permit, your award can be renewed for up to three additional years of your undergraduate degree – helping you fund your entire journey!
How to Apply?
Ready to make your Canadian dream a reality? Here’s the essential info on how to apply:
- Get Nominated: You must be nominated by your high school or a non-profit organization. Make sure your nominator and an academic referee are ready to support your application!
- No Award Selection Needed: You don’t choose which specific award (Karen McKellin, Donald A. Wehrung, etc.) you want. UBC will automatically consider you for all awards you’re eligible for based on your application.
- Application Opens: The application period officially opens in mid-September 2025.
- Key Deadlines:
- Submit your International Scholars Program application by 15 November 2025.
- Submit your general UBC admissions application by 1 December 2025.
Important: Always visit the official UBC scholarship website for the most up-to-date information and to access the application forms. Don’t miss out on this life-changing opportunity!
Official Bursary Website: http://you.ubc.ca/financial-planning/scholarships-awards-international-students/international-scholars/
If pursuing an undergraduate degree at UBC with financial support sounds like your ideal next step, then start preparing your application today! This bursary is a fantastic chance for South African students to gain international exposure and an excellent education. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by – apply now and remember to explore more amazing bursaries on Bursaries Room!
