University of British Columbia Scholarships 2026, Canada (Fully & Partially Funded)

The University of British Columbia Scholarships 2026 are awarded by the University of British Columbia in Canada. UBC is one of North America's most international universities, with campuses in Vancouver and Okanagan. These undergraduate awards support international students through merit-based, need-and-merit-based and entrance scholarships, with funding that is fully or partially covered depending on the award.

They are open to international students from over 108 countries entering bachelor degree study, across many subject areas. UBC invests more than $35 million each year in scholarships and financial assistance, and the exact value differs by award. Deadlines are set by each scholarship, so check the official UBC page. The sections below explain eligibility, funding and how to apply.

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

• Bachelor

• All subjects

Open to applicants of all nationalities.

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 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.