Studying at the University of British Columbia (UBC) is one of the best opportunities for international students looking to gain a globally recognized degree in Canada. UBC is always ranked as one of the best universities in the world. It has strong academic programmes, a lot of research, and a wide range of students.
But studying in Canada can cost a lot of money. The good news is that UBC has a lot of scholarships available, from partially funded entrance awards to fully funded programmes that pay for tuition, living expenses, and more.
This in-depth guide will tell you everything you need to know about UBC scholarships in 2026, such as what kinds of scholarships are available, who can get them, what the benefits are, and how to apply successfully.
Why pick the University of British Columbia?
UBC is one of the best universities in Canada and is known around the world for its high academic standards.
Some of the most important benefits are:
- Strong reputation and ranking around the world
- High graduate employability
- Access to high-tech research labs
- A school with students from many cultures
- A lot of different scholarship options!
Students at UBC’s campuses in Vancouver and the Okanagan get a great education and a great quality of life.
Different kinds of scholarships at UBC
There are three main types of UBC scholarships:
- Scholarships which pay for everything
- Scholarships for entrance are based on merit
- Scholarships based on need
Knowing these groups will help you find the right chances.
Scholarships at UBC that cover all costs
Fully funded scholarships are the most valuable and competitive because they pay for almost everything.
These scholarships usually come with:
- All tuition costs
- Money for living
- Help with housing
- Costs of travel (in some cases)
- Insurance for health
International Scholars Programme (Best Fully Funded Choice)
The International Scholars Programme is the most prestigious undergraduate scholarship available at UBC.
It is for the best international students who show:
- Being great at school
- Skills for being a leader
- Being involved in the community
- Need for money
There are a number of awards in the programme, such as:
- Award for Karen McKellin, International Leader of Tomorrow
- The Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award
- Award for International Impact
This scholarship can pay for:
- All tuition costs
- Costs of living
- Extra money to help based on need
As long as you keep doing well in school, it can be renewed for up to four years.
Entrance Scholarships are Based on Merit
When you apply for admission, you automatically get these scholarships.
International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES)
The International Major Entrance Scholarship is given to international students who do well in school and want to go to college.
Some benefits are:
- $10,000 to $20,000 a year
- Can be renewed for up to three more years
This scholarship is only based on how well you do at school.
Award for Outstanding International Student
Another merit-based scholarship is the Outstanding International Student Award.
Some benefits are:
- One-time payments of $10,000 to $25,000
To be eligible, you must:
- Be an international student for the first time
- Show that you do well in school
- Show that you are involved in activities outside of school
When you apply to UBC, these awards are automatically taken into account.
Fully funded scholarships for African Students
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme is one of the best chances for African students.
This programme helps academically gifted students from Africa who show leadership skills and need money.
Some benefits are:
- All tuition costs
- Rent and living costs
- Costs of travel and visas
- Insurance for health
- Help with your career and leadership skills
This is one of the best fully funded opportunities for students from Nigeria and other African countries.
Scholarships for graduate students (Master’s and PhD)
There are many ways for graduate students at UBC to get money.
These are:
- Fellowships for graduate students
- Assistantships for researchers
- Teaching assistant jobs
- Scholarships from outside sources
PhD students can get funding packages that are typical of:
- $30,000 to $45,000 a year, depending on where the money comes from
Many graduate school scholarships include:
- Paying for school
- Monthly payment
- Funding for research
UBC also gives out many awards in a variety of fields and programs.
Requirements for Eligibility
There are some general requirements for all scholarships, but each one has its own set of rules.
- Good grades (usually the best) in school
- Experience as a leader
- Being involved in the community
- Need for money (for scholarships based on need)
- Ability to speak English
You might also need the following for graduate programmes:
- A proposal for research
- Approval from the boss
- Relevant educational background
How to Apply Step by Step
If you follow the right steps, applying for UBC scholarships is easy.
Step 1: Pick Your Programme
Choose a programme that fits with your education and career goals.
Step 2: Apply to get in
Send in your application before the due date.
Most undergraduate scholarships need you to apply early.
Step 3: Automatic Consideration for Scholarships
You don’t have to fill out a separate application for many scholarships, like IMES and OIS.
If you apply before the deadline, you will be automatically considered.
Step 4: Sign Up for Special Programmes
You must do the following to get scholarships like the International Scholars Programme:
- Send in a separate application
- Give financial papers
- Show leadership and make a difference
Step 5: Send in the documents that support your case
Get ready:
- Transcripts from school
- Statement of purpose
- Resume or CV
- Letters of reference
- Proof of financial need (if necessary)
Step 6: Go to interviews if you have to.
Some scholarships may require interviews to evaluate the following:
- The ability to lead
- Goals for school
- Things you have done well
How to Improve Your Odds
Get a head start
Start getting ready at least 6 to 12 months before the due date.
Keep Your Grades Up
It’s important to do well in school.
Be a Leader
Join in:
- Work as a volunteer
- Service to the community
- Roles of leaders
Compose a Compelling Personal Statement
Your personal statement should:
- Make your goals very clear.
- Show off your accomplishments
- Show ambition and impact
Apply for More Than One Scholarship
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket; apply to more than one funding source.
Things You Shouldn’t Do
Don’t make these mistakes:
- Not meeting deadlines
- Sending in applications that aren’t complete
- Writing general personal statements
- Not paying attention to eligibility requirements
- Not showing leadership
Price of Studying at UBC Without a Scholarship
Understanding the cost shows how important scholarships are.
Costs that are common include:
- Cost of tuition: $30,000 to $50,000 per year
- Cost of living: CAD $15,000 to $25,000 a year
Total: $45,000 to $75,000 a year in CAD
This is why getting money is very important for many international students.
Being a Scholarship Student at UBC
Students who get scholarships at UBC get the following:
- Stability in finances
- Mentorship in school
- Ways to meet new people
- Programmes for developing leaders
- Access to research opportunities around the world
Students also get to experience a multicultural setting, which helps them grow both personally and professionally.
Last Things to Do Before Applying
Make sure of the following before you send in your application:
- You meet all of the academic requirements.
- All of your papers are in order.
- Your personal statement is good.
- You have applied for all the scholarships that are relevant to you.
- You have looked over the deadlines very carefully.
Final Thoughts
It’s hard to get a scholarship to the University of British Columbia, but it’s possible if you plan ahead and have the right strategy. The International Scholars Programme, IMES, and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme are all great ways for international students to get help with their money.
The most important thing is to start early, apply in a smart way, and write a strong application that shows off your academic excellence, leadership potential, and future impact.