Closing Date: 15 November 2026
University of British Columbia International Scholars Program 2027: Fully Supported Undergraduate Scholarships in Canada
The University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program 2027 is now open for applications, offering an exceptional opportunity for high-achieving international students to pursue an undergraduate degree in Canada.
The program is designed for international students who combine outstanding academic performance, leadership, community involvement and significant financial need. Successful International Scholars join a diverse community of students from around the world and receive dedicated support throughout their undergraduate studies.
For students who have strong academic records but would struggle to afford an international university education without substantial financial assistance, the UBC International Scholars Program could be a particularly important opportunity.
About the UBC International Scholars Program
The International Scholars Program is one of UBC’s major opportunities for international undergraduate students. It seeks students who have demonstrated leadership qualities, made exceptional contributions to their communities and have a strong desire to create positive social or global change.
UBC also conducts a detailed financial assessment of applicants. This can include information about family income, expenses and assets because the program is intended for students with a significant level of financial need.
International Scholars receive more than financial support. UBC says scholars have access to dedicated advising, skill-building workshops, retreats and other learning opportunities. Scholars may also have opportunities to participate in exchange and co-op programs while completing their degrees.
Who Can Apply?
The International Scholars Program is specifically aimed at international students entering their first undergraduate degree.
For the 2027 intake, applicants must meet all of UBC’s eligibility requirements, including:
- Be an international student who will study in Canada on a Canadian study permit.
- Be entering UBC directly from an accredited secondary school.
- Be applying for their first undergraduate degree.
- For the 2027 Winter Session, have graduated from high school no earlier than June 2026.
- Demonstrate a significant level of financial need.
- Demonstrate strong academic performance and leadership.
- Show meaningful extracurricular and community involvement.
Applicants should understand that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection. UBC describes the program as highly selective and assesses applicants holistically.
What Does the Scholarship Offer?
The International Scholars Program is intended to provide meaningful financial support to students who would otherwise be unable to pursue a UBC degree because of their financial circumstances.
The program also provides scholars with dedicated support during their undergraduate studies. This includes advising focused on academic, personal and career development, as well as opportunities to build skills and connect with an international community of young leaders.
UBC also offers other awards for international undergraduate students, but applicants should not confuse the International Scholars Program with merit-only awards such as the International Major Entrance Scholarship or Outstanding International Student Award. International Scholars selection considers both merit and financial need.
How to Apply for the International Scholars Program
Applicants should start the process early because the scholarship application involves several steps.
First, decide which UBC undergraduate program and campus you want to apply to. You should then begin your UBC admission application.
You will also need to speak with your secondary school about the nomination process. UBC requires an institutional nominator, such as a guidance counsellor, principal or school administrator, as well as a teacher referee. Applicants are responsible for requesting these recommendations and completing their sections of the award application.
Applicants should also prepare information about their family finances and their academic, leadership and community experiences.
UBC recommends starting early rather than waiting until the deadline, particularly because applicants need time to coordinate nominations and references.
Important 2027 Deadlines
For students applying for the September 2027 intake, the key dates are:
International Scholars Program deadline: November 15, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time.
UBC undergraduate application deadline for this award: November 15, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time.
The general UBC application deadline for the 2027 Winter Session is January 15, 2027, but international students seeking consideration for the International Scholars Program must meet the earlier November 15 scholarship deadline.
UBC expects International Scholars Program award announcements in April 2027.
Why International Students Should Consider This Opportunity
Studying at a leading Canadian university can be financially challenging for international students. The UBC International Scholars Program is therefore particularly valuable because it combines financial assistance with academic, personal and career support.
The opportunity is especially suited to students who have not only achieved excellent grades but have also demonstrated leadership and a commitment to improving their communities.
Students from Africa and other regions who have demonstrated meaningful community impact, leadership potential and academic excellence should consider whether they meet the program’s requirements.
However, applicants should carefully assess the financial-need criteria. This is not simply a scholarship for students with high grades; UBC conducts a financial assessment and expects applicants to provide documentation supporting their financial circumstances.
Apply for the International Scholars Program
Applications for the UBC International Scholars Program 2027 are currently open. Eligible international students should begin their UBC admission and scholarship applications as early as possible.
This is a highly competitive opportunity, so applicants should focus on presenting a clear picture of their academic achievements, leadership, community contributions, financial circumstances and future goals.
