International students who want a high-quality education in Canada at a lower cost than at other top universities should consider studying at the University of Alberta. The university is known for doing a lot of research, having a lot of different programmes, and having a lot of scholarships available for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students.
One of the best things about the university is that it gives out more than $52 million in scholarships and financial aid every year, making it one of the most scholarship-friendly schools in Canada.
This guide has all the information you need about University of Alberta scholarships in 2026. It covers fully funded options, who can apply, how to apply, and tips for improving your chances.
Why go to the University of Alberta?
The University of Alberta is one of Canada’s top schools, known for its research and academic excellence.
Some of the most important benefits are the following:
- Good reputation around the world
- Tuition is cheaper than at top-tier universities.
- Getting money for research
- A lot of different scholarships
- Canada has a safe and welcoming environment for students.
For international students, it strikes a beneficial balance between good education and ways to pay for it.
Different kinds of scholarships at the University of Alberta
There are three main types of scholarships at the University of Alberta:
- Scholarships based on admission (automatic)
- Scholarships based on applications (competitive)
- Funding for graduate school and research grants
To have the best chance, you need to know these groups.
Automatic Awards for Admission-Based Scholarships
You don’t need to fill out a separate application for these scholarships. When you apply for admission, you are automatically considered.
Scholarship for International Students
- Value: Up to $5,000 CAD
- Based on your average admission score
- Given automatically
Scholarship for Gold Standard
- Value: up to $6,000 CAD
- Given to the best 5% of students in each faculty
Scholarship for Regional Excellence
- Value: Up to $5,000 CAD
- For students from certain areas
These scholarships are a great way to get money because they reward good grades.
High-Value Awards: Scholarships Based on Applications
These are more competitive, and you have to fill out a separate application after you apply for admission.
International Distinction Scholarship from the President
This is one of the most important scholarships for college students.
- Value: Up to CAD $120,000 over four years
- Given to the best students who are also good leaders
- A small number of recipients each year
Scholarship for International Leaders
- Worth: Up to CAD $15,000
- Given to students who have done well in school and shown good leadership skills
These scholarships are very competitive because they look at both academics and leadership.
The University of Alberta offers fully funded scholarships.
There aren’t many fully funded scholarships, but they do exist, especially for graduate students.
Scholarship for Graduate School
- Value: About CAD $17,500 (Master’s)
- International students pay an extra CAD $10,000.
- Demands high academic achievement
You can be eligible if:
- GPA of at least 3.7 to get in
- Enrolment full-time
- Nomination by the department is required
The Alberta Graduate Excellence Scholarship (AGES)
- Worth: About CAD $12,000 to $15,000
- Given out for doing well in school
- Open to students from other countries
Funding for Research and Departments
Many graduate students get money for school through:
- Assistantships for researchers
- Teaching assistant jobs
- Scholarships for departments
These can all come together to make a fully funded package, which is especially helpful for PhD students.
Grants for College Students
Undergraduates can apply for both automatic and competitive scholarships.
The best choices are:
- Scholarship for International Students
- Scholarship for Gold Standard
- International Distinction Scholarship from the President
- Scholarship for International Leaders
Most undergraduate scholarships only cover part of the costs, but high-value awards can make a big difference.
Master’s Degree Scholarships
Students in a master’s program have access to:
- Scholarships for Graduate School
- Scholarship for Graduate Students in Alberta
- Money for departments
Full funding is less common for programs that are based on coursework; master’s programs that are based on research have better funding options.
PhD Student Scholarships
Full funding is most likely for PhD students.
Here are some common funding packages:
- Full or partial payment of tuition
- Yearly payment
- Funding for research
- Jobs as assistants
Usually, PhD funding comes from more than one source.
Scholarships from the government and other sources
International students at the University of Alberta can also apply for scholarships that the government pays for.
For example:
- Scholarships to Study in Canada
- Scholarships for Canada and ASEAN
- The Emerging Leaders in the Americas Programme
These programs help both undergraduate and graduate students, and they may pay for things like travel, tuition, and living expenses.
Requirements for Eligibility
Most scholarships require:
Requirements for School
- Good grades in school
- A high GPA is important, especially for competitive scholarships.
- Relevant educational background
Extra Requirements
- Experience in leadership (for top scholarships)
- Being involved in the community
- Ability to speak English
- Proposal for graduate school research
Graduate scholarships also require:
- Admission into a program
- Department nomination (in some cases)
How to Apply Step by Step
Step 1: Submit an application for admission
You must first apply to a programme at the University of Alberta.
You can’t get scholarships unless you are accepted.
Step 2: Automatic Thinking
You will automatically be considered for scholarships based on your admission.
Step 3: Apply for competitive scholarships. offering a lot of different programs
After you get your login information, apply for the following:
- Scholarships based on applications
- Awards based on leadership
Step 4: Send in Your Papers
Get ready:
- Transcripts from school
- Statement of purpose
- Resume or CV
- Letters of reference
- Proof that you know English
Step 5: Keep Your Word
For the 2026 intake:
- Most scholarship applications open in October.
- Deadlines are between January and March.
One of the main reasons students lose funding opportunities is because they miss deadlines.
How to Make Your Chances Better
Apply soon
More scholarships and funding opportunities are available to people who apply early.
Keep your grades up.
Most scholarships go to students who do well in school.
Be a Leader
Leadership is essential for high-value scholarships.
For example:
- Work as a volunteer
- Service to the community
- Roles of leaders
Compose a Compelling Personal Statement
Your statement should:
- Talk about your successes
- Tell me what you want to achieve.
- Please elaborate on why you believe you are a suitable candidate for the scholarship
Aim for Multiple Scholarships
Don’t count on just one award; apply for as many scholarships that are relevant to you as you can.
Things You Shouldn’t Do
- Not meeting scholarship deadlines
- Not applying for scholarships that require an application
- Sending in documents that aren’t complete
- Writing general personal statements
- Not paying attention to eligibility requirements
You have a much better chance if you don’t make these mistakes.
How Much It Costs to Study Without a Scholarship
Typical yearly costs for students from other countries:
- Cost of tuition: CAD $20,000 to $40,000
- Cost of living: CAD $15,000 to $20,000
Total: $35,000 to $60,000 per year in Canadian dollars
This figure is why many students need scholarships.
Being a scholarship student
Students at the University of Alberta who get scholarships get the following:
- Less stress about money
- Getting to do research
- Mentorship in school
- Ways to meet new people
- Help with career growth
You also join a global community of scholars.
Last Things to Do Before Applying
ensure that you complete all of the following before you send in your application:
- You meet the requirements for school.
- All of your papers are in order.
- You asked for scholarships.
- You looked at all the due dates.
- Your personal statement is excellent.
Final Thoughts
The University of Alberta has one of the most varied scholarship systems in Canada, with options for both undergraduate and graduate students. There are many ways to study in Canada with financial help, such as automatic admission-based awards, competitive scholarships like the President’s International Distinction Scholarship, and fully funded graduate funding packages.
The secret to success is simple:
- Apply early
- Keep doing well in school
- Apply for more than one scholarship
- Send in a strong application
If you have the right plan, you can go to school at the University of Alberta without having to pay much or anything at all.