University of British Columbia Scholarships 2026, Canada (Fully & Partially Funded)
The University of British Columbia (UBC) is one of Canada’s top-ranked universities and a global leader in teaching, research, and innovation. To support talented students from around the world, UBC invests more than $35 million annually in scholarships, awards, and financial assistance for international undergraduate students.
With students from 108+ countries and over 560 International Scholars since 2001, UBC offers one of the most generous and competitive scholarship ecosystems in Canada.
This article provides a complete guide to UBC scholarships for international students, including eligibility, award amounts, application process, and key deadlines.
Degree Level
- Bachelor
Available Subjects
- All subjects
Benefits
Scholarship value differs with each scholarship visit official website for more information.
Why Study at the University of British Columbia?
Ranked among the top 40 universities globally
One of North America’s most international universities
World-class programs, research opportunities, and co-op placements
Strong global alumni network
Campuses in Vancouver and Okanagan
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
UBC Scholarships for International Students – Overview
Total funding: $35 million+ annually
Countries represented: 108+
Scholarship types: Merit-based, need-and-merit-based, entrance awards
Level: Undergraduate (with some in-program awards)
Merit-Based Scholarships at UBC
International students who apply to UBC by the admission deadline are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships—no separate application required.
International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES)
The International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES) is awarded to exceptional international students entering UBC undergraduate programs directly from secondary school.
Scholarship Value (2026/2027):
$10,000 – $25,000 per year
Renewable for up to 4 years (subject to academic performance)
Eligibility Criteria:
New student entering UBC from secondary school
International student studying on a Canadian study permit
Outstanding academic achievement
Strong extracurricular and community involvement
Not nominated for the International Scholars Program
Apply to UBC by the official deadline
Outstanding International Student (OIS) Award
The Outstanding International Student Award is a one-time entrance scholarship for high-achieving international students.
Scholarship Value (2025/2026):
$10,000 – $25,000 (one-time)
Eligibility Criteria:
New international student (from secondary school or post-secondary)
Strong academic performance
Active involvement outside the classroom
Studying at UBC on a Canadian study permit
Apply by UBC’s admissions deadline
How to Apply for IMES and OIS Awards
👉 No separate application is required.
All international applicants who apply to UBC by the admissions deadline are automatically considered.
Timeline:
Admission offers: December onward
Scholarship decisions: Mid-February to end of April
Only successful candidates are notified
Award offers must be accepted by the admission acceptance deadline (usually May 1)
UBC Okanagan Scholarships for International Students
UBC Okanagan Global Elevation Award
Value: $8,000 per year
Applied directly to tuition
Renewable for up to 4 years
Eligibility:
New international undergraduate students
Enrolled at UBC Okanagan
How to Apply:
Automatically applied after accepting the offer of admission
UBC Okanagan International Welcome Award
Value: $5,000 (first year only)
Applied as tuition credit (50% per term)
Eligibility:
First-year international students
UBC Okanagan degree listed as first choice
Accepted and enrolled in that program
How to Apply:
Automatically awarded upon enrollment
International Scholars Program (Need & Merit Based)
The International Scholars Program is UBC’s most prestigious scholarship initiative, targeting students who demonstrate:
Exceptional academic performance
Strong leadership and extracurricular achievements
Commitment to social impact and global change
Financial need
Benefits Include:
Significant financial support
Dedicated academic and personal advising
Leadership development opportunities
Access to exclusive scholar communities
Nomination required (usually through your school or organization)
UBC Vantage One Scholarships
The Vantage One Program supports academically strong international students who do not yet meet UBC’s English language requirements.
Available Awards:
International Major Entrance Scholarship for Vantage One
Vantage One Entrance Award
Vantage One Excellence Award
Some Vantage One awards also consider financial need.
Financial Planning at UBC
UBC scholarships are merit-based and do not usually cover the full cost of education. Students are encouraged to plan for:
Tuition fees
Housing and meals
Books and supplies
Transportation
Living expenses
UBC provides a cost estimator tool to help students calculate first-year expenses accurately.
Scholarships for Current International Students
UBC also offers in-program scholarships and awards for students who are already enrolled. These awards vary by:
Campus (Vancouver or Okanagan)
Faculty or department
Academic performance
Application Procedure
Application process varies with each scholarship, click 'Apply Now' down below to start your application journey.
Final Thoughts
The University of British Columbia scholarships for international students provide outstanding financial support and access to a world-class education in Canada. With automatic consideration for many awards, strong academics and extracurricular involvement can open doors to generous funding opportunities.
If you’re planning to study in Canada, UBC should be at the top of your scholarship list.
