The University of British Columbia (UBC) recognizes the academic achievement of outstanding students from around the world by devoting more than $35 million annually to awards, scholarships, and other forms of financial support for international undergraduate students.
When is the Application Deadline:
📅 January 15, 2026 (Final deadline for admission to be considered for IMES & OIS)
📅 November 15, 2025 (Deadline for International Scholars Program awards)
📅 December 1, 2025 (Final deadline for International Scholars Program applications)
Tell Me About The Award:
The University of British Columbia (UBC), one of the world’s top 40 universities, invests over $35 million annually in scholarships and awards for international students. UBC offers several merit-based entrance scholarships to recognize outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and extracurricular involvement. These highly competitive awards support talented international students pursuing undergraduate studies in Canada.
Which Fields are Eligible?
All undergraduate degree programs at UBC.
Type:
🎓 Merit-based entrance scholarships for international undergraduate students.
Who can Apply?
- New international students applying directly from secondary school (IMES, OIS, UBC Okanagan Welcome Award).
- International students transferring from a post-secondary institution (OIS only).
- Must hold a Canadian study permit (student visa).
- Must demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and extracurricular/community involvement.
- Cannot be nominated for UBC’s International Scholars Program if applying for IMES or OIS.
How are Applicants Selected?
✅ Selection is based on:
- Academic excellence (grades, rigor of studies).
- Leadership, extracurricular activities, and community contributions.
- Admissions application profile.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
🌍 Open to all international students worldwide.
Where will the Award be Taken?
📍 University of British Columbia, Canada (Vancouver and Okanagan campuses).
How Many Awards?
🔹 Hundreds awarded annually, though highly competitive.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES): $10,000 – $20,000 per year, renewable for up to 3 additional years.
- Outstanding International Student Award (OIS): $10,000 – $25,000, one-time award.
- UBC Okanagan International Welcome Award: $5,000 tuition credit (first year only).
How Long Will the Award Last?
- IMES: Renewable for up to 4 years of undergraduate study.
- OIS: One-time entrance award.
- Okanagan Welcome Award: First-year tuition credit only.
How to Apply:
- No separate application required for IMES and OIS – applicants are automatically considered if they apply to UBC by the admissions deadline.
- For the Okanagan Welcome Award, select UBC Okanagan as your first-choice campus.
- Apply online through the official UBC admissions portal.
👉 Visit the Award Webpage for Details: UBC Scholarships & Awards for International Students

