The UBC International Scholars Program 2026 in Canada

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Scholarships at UBC International Scholars Program

How To Apply for the UBC International Scholars Program 2026 in Canada

Are you a bright and motivated international student dreaming of studying at one of the world’s top universities but worried about the costs?
The University of British Columbia (UBC) in Canada is offering the UBC International Scholars Program 2026, designed to help exceptional students from around the globe pursue their academic goals.

This prestigious program supports students who have:

Outstanding academic performance
Strong leadership potential
A history of community involvement
Significant financial need

If this sounds like you, then the UBC International Scholars Program might just be your pathway to success.

The University of British Columbia (UBC) at a Glance

UBC is ranked among the top 40 universities in the world and is recognized for its excellence in teaching, research, and innovation.
Located in Vancouver and Kelowna (Okanagan campus), the university attracts students from over 160 countries.
With its diverse learning environment, world-class faculty, and focus on innovation, UBC has built a reputation as one of the most international and student-friendly universities in North America.

Profile of the UBC International Scholars Program

The UBC International Scholars Program is designed to attract talented students from across the globe who would otherwise be unable to study at UBC without financial assistance.

It’s more than just a scholarship—it’s a transformative program that provides academic, financial, and personal support throughout your undergraduate degree.

As a UBC International Scholar, you’ll:

Earn a globally recognized degree at a leading Canadian university.
Study alongside some of the brightest students from around the world.
Gain access to unique learning opportunities, including workshops, retreats, and leadership development programs.
Receive dedicated advising and mentorship to help you thrive academically and personally.
Have the chance to participate in exchange programs, co-op placements, and skill-building retreats.

This program isn’t just about paying for your education—it’s about helping you build your future.

Benefits of the International Scholars Program

The program offers a wide range of benefits that go far beyond tuition support:

Full Financial Assistance
- Covers tuition and living expenses based on your demonstrated financial need.
- Ensures that finances are not a barrier to your education.
Global Recognition
- A UBC degree opens doors worldwide, with alumni excelling in every sector imaginable.
Leadership Development
- Participation in workshops, retreats, and hands-on experiences that strengthen leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.
Exclusive Academic Support
- Personalized guidance from advisors in the International Scholars Program.
- Academic, career, and personal development support to help you succeed.
Networking Opportunities
- Join a global community of scholars and connect with peers, professors, and professionals from diverse backgrounds.
Real-World Experience
- Opportunities for co-op placements, internships, and international exchanges.
Personal Growth
- A chance to live and study in Canada, one of the most welcoming, multicultural countries in the world.

Needed Qualifications

To be considered for the UBC International Scholars Program, you must meet the following criteria:

Educational Background

Be an international student planning to study in Canada on a study permit.
Enter UBC directly from an accredited secondary school, or transfer after your first year of university/college.
Applicants for the 2026 Winter Session must have graduated from high school no earlier than November 2024.
Are you applying for your first undergraduate degree?

Qualifications

Demonstrate superior academic achievement (equivalent to all As or a very high academic standard).
Meet UBC’s general and program-specific admission requirements.
Satisfy UBC’s English Language Admission Standard.
- If not, you may still qualify through Vantage College and the Vantage One Excellence Award.

Financial Need

Demonstrate a significant level of financial need.
Show that it would be impossible to pursue a UBC degree without financial support.
Provide financial documentation showing family income, expenses, and assets.

Restrictions

Certain degrees are not eligible for this award, including:

Bachelor of Nursing (Vancouver and Okanagan)
Bachelor of Dental Science in Dental Hygiene
Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science
Bachelor + Master of Management dual degree
Joint degrees between UBC Okanagan and UBC Vancouver
Joint degrees with other universities

The Application Process: Step by Step

Applying for the UBC International Scholars Program is a multi-step process. Here’s how it works:

1. Mid-September: Choose Your Program and Campus

Decide on your academic program and which campus (Vancouver or Okanagan) you want to study at.
You’ll be considered for awards based on your first-choice program, though you can list a second option.

2. Late September: Secure Your Nominator and Referee

You will need two people:
- One nominator (guidance counselor, principal, or school administrator).
- One teacher referee who knows your academic abilities.
Both must be different people.

3. Early October: Set Up Your Application

Please inform your nominator and referee that they will receive an email request to submit their recommendations.
Create your application account and invite them to complete their forms.

4. Early October: Begin Your UBC Admission Application

Apply for admission to UBC.
You must complete this step to be considered for the International Scholars Program.

5. Mid-October: Prepare Application Documents

You’ll need to provide:

Family financial information (income, expenses, assets).
Details of dependents and school fees.
Sources of financial support.
Extracurricular activities and awards.
Four short essays (150–250 words each).

6. November 15: Submit Your Application

The deadline for the International Scholars Program application is November 15.
Submit your work well in advance of the deadline to avoid technical issues.

7. December 1: Apply to UBC

Your UBC undergraduate application must be submitted by this date.

8. January 31: Submit Required Documents

Upload required transcripts and certificates by January 31.
If your documents aren’t ready, submit them as soon as possible after the deadline.

9. Mid-April: Check Award Results

Successful candidates will be notified by mid-April.
If you plan to apply for UBC Housing, wait until the award decision is announced. The housing application deadline is May 1.

Benefits of the UBC International Scholars Program

Here’s why thousands of international students apply each year:

Full support to study at one of the world’s top universities.
World-class education with endless career opportunities.
Financial security so that you can focus on your studies and growth.
Belonging to a global community of scholars and future leaders.
Personal and professional development through workshops, advising, and real-world experiences.

If you are a motivated student who has excelled academically, contributed to your community, and demonstrated leadership, this program could transform your life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the UBC International Scholars Program a full scholarship?
Yes, it provides financial support based on your demonstrated need, covering tuition and living expenses.

2. Can I apply if I already have a degree?
No. This program is only for students applying to their first undergraduate degree.

3. Do I need to find my own nominator and referee?
Yes. Your nominator (a school official) and referee (a teacher) must be different individuals.

4. Is English required?
Yes. You must meet UBC’s English Language Admission Standard, or you may be eligible through Vantage College.

5. When will I know if I’ve received the award?
By mid-April 2026.

Apply Now

Applications for the UBC International Scholars Program 2026 are now open. Don’t miss your chance to study at one of the world’s best universities with full financial and academic support.

How To Apply For The UBC International Scholars Program 2026 in Canada