UBC International Scholars Program 2027 in Canada (Need-Based Undergraduate Awards at the University of British Columbia)

The UBC International Scholars Program is the University of British Columbia's need-and-merit-based award programme for international students who want to start a first Bachelor's degree in Canada in September 2027. It is for high school graduates with outstanding grades, proven leadership and community contributions, and significant financial need, and it brings together a cohort of scholars from many countries at UBC's Vancouver and Okanagan campuses. UBC says more than 680 International Scholars from over 111 countries have joined the programme since 2001. There are four award categories, and you do not choose one: UBC considers you for every award you are eligible for. The Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award recognises academic achievement and leadership; the Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award is for outstanding students from impoverished or war-torn areas; the International Impact Award is for leaders in areas such as sustainability, social justice or health, with priority for first-generation learners; and the Vantage One Excellence Award is for students entering through UBC Vantage College. Award values depend on your assessed financial need; UBC says Vantage One awards range up to the full cost of the programme and living expenses. Scholars also get dedicated advising, workshops and retreats. To be eligible you must be an international student who will study in Canada on a study permit, enter UBC directly from an accredited secondary school, have graduated no earlier than June 2026, be applying for your first undergraduate degree, achieve all As or the equivalent, meet UBC's admission and English requirements and prove significant financial need with official documents. Some degrees, including Nursing, Dental Hygiene, Medical Laboratory Science, the Bachelor + Master of Management and dual or joint degrees, are not eligible. If you apply to this programme, you will not be considered for UBC's merit-based awards. You must apply to UBC and submit the International Scholars award application by 15 November 2026 at 11:59 pm Pacific time. You need a nominator from your school (or an eligible non-profit) and a separate teacher referee, financial details about your family and four short essays of about 150 to 250 words. Admission documents and English proof are due by 31 January 2027, some applicants are invited to a video interview between January and March, and award results come by early to mid-April 2027. Last checked on 27 October 2026 against UBC Undergraduate Programs and Admissions: International Scholars, Dates and deadlines, and Scholarships and awards for international students.