Exclusive Undergraduate Funding: The UBC International Scholars Program 2025-2026.
The University of British Columbia (UBC) in Canada is inviting applications for its prestigious International Scholars Program (ISP) for the 2025-2026 academic year. This initiative offers four distinct, need-and-merit-based awards designed to recognize and support exceptional international students poised to make a significant global impact.
This is a premier opportunity for prospective international students seeking a world-class undergraduate education in Canada who demonstrate both superior academic achievement and significant financial need.
Key Opportunity Details
| Feature | Information |
| Host Institution | University of British Columbia, Canada |
| Academic Level | Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Degree) |
| Target Group | International Students requiring a Canadian study permit |
| Scholarship Value | Proportional to demonstrated financial need (covering tuition, fees, and living costs minus expected family contribution) |
| Duration | Up to four years of undergraduate study or degree completion, subject to satisfactory academic standing and ongoing financial need |
| Deadlines | Scholars Program Application: November 15, 2025 (Annual) UBC Admissions Application: December 1, 2025 (Annual) |
| Program Start | 2026 |
Four Paths to Excellence: The UBC ISP Awards
The International Scholars Program encompasses four highly selective awards, ensuring a diverse range of exceptional candidates are recognized:
- Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award: Recognizes superior academic achievement and exemplary leadership skills demonstrated through collaboration, empathy, and active listening.
- Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award: Targets outstanding students from impoverished or war-torn regions who have maintained academic excellence despite challenging circumstances and require substantial financial aid.
- International Impact Award: Dedicated to students who have shown leadership and commitment to developing solutions for critical global issues such as sustainability, climate change, social justice, equity, and societal health. Priority is given to first-generation learners and those from diverse lived backgrounds.
- Vantage One Excellence Award: Offered through UBC Vantage College for academically outstanding students who meet all criteria but do not yet satisfy UBC’s English Language Admission Standard for direct entry.
Eligibility Criteria (Core Requirements)
To be considered for the International Scholars Program, applicants must meet all the following foundational criteria:
- Must be an international student studying in Canada on a Canadian study permit.
- Must be applying for their first undergraduate degree and entering UBC directly from a recognized secondary school or transferring from their first year at a post-secondary institution.
- Must demonstrate superior academic achievement (typically achieving all A’s or an equivalent standard).
- Must demonstrate a level of financial need that would otherwise prevent enrollment at UBC.
- Must meet UBC’s general and degree-specific admission requirements, including the English Language Admission Standard (unless applying specifically for the Vantage One Award).
- High school graduation must have occurred no earlier than June two years prior to the academic year of application (e.g., no earlier than November 2023 for the 2025 Winter session).
Application and Nomination Process
A distinctive feature of the ISP is the required nomination process, emphasizing the calibre of candidates sought:
- Secure Nomination: You must be nominated by your current school or a recognized non-profit organization.
- Academic Reference: You must also submit a reference from an academic referee.
- Submit Applications:
- Complete and submit the International Scholars Program application by November 15, 2025.
- Complete and submit your UBC admissions application by December 1, 2025.
- Consideration: You do not select a specific award; UBC automatically considers you for all awards for which you are eligible.
Next Steps: Candidates are strongly advised to visit the official UBC scholarship website for the online application form and the most detailed, up-to-date instructions.
Proceed to the Official Scholarship Website: http://you.ubc.ca/financial-planning/scholarships-awards-international-students/international-scholars/
See also: Reach Oxford Scholarships for Developing Country Students 2025-2026
See also: Gates Cambridge Scholarships 2025-2026
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