The University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program 2026 is one of Canada’s most prestigious and competitive undergraduate scholarships for international students. This program provides talented students from around the world with full financial support to pursue their bachelor’s degree at UBC, one of the top universities globally.
UBC, located in Vancouver and Okanagan, Canada, is recognized for its academic excellence, research strength, and diverse international community. The International Scholars Program is unique because it combines need-based and merit-based support, ensuring that exceptional students from all backgrounds can study at UBC without financial barriers.
Benefits of the UBC International Scholars Program 2026
Recipients of this scholarship enjoy a wide range of benefits that make studying at UBC more accessible and enriching:
- Full tuition coverage for the entire duration of the undergraduate program.
- Living allowance and stipends to cover accommodation, food, and daily expenses.
- Health insurance and other mandatory student fees.
- Access to academic mentorship, leadership workshops, and community development opportunities.
- Possibility to participate in study-abroad programs, research projects, and social impact initiatives.
- Renewable funding for up to four years of undergraduate study, provided students maintain good academic standing and a valid Canadian study permit.
Eligibility Criteria for the UBC International Scholars Program 2026
To qualify for this program, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be an international student who requires a Canadian study permit.
- Be applying for your first undergraduate degree at UBC.
- Have graduated from high school no earlier than November 2024 (only one gap year allowed).
- Must be applying directly from secondary school, or transferring from the first year of a post-secondary institution.
- Demonstrate academic excellence (typically all As or equivalent).
- Show a strong record of leadership and community engagement.
- Demonstrate financial need that would otherwise prevent attending UBC.
- Meet UBC’s general and degree-specific admission requirements, including English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).
Required Documents for the UBC International Scholars Program 2026
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Completed scholarship application form (via the UBC application portal).
- High school transcripts and academic records (official, in PDF format).
- Nomination letter from your school or a recognized non-profit organization.
- Reference letter from an academic referee familiar with your work.
- Personal statement/essays outlining leadership, community service, and academic goals.
- Financial documentation proving your need for financial assistance.
- Proof of meeting English language requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, or UBC’s English standard).
Application Timeline for the UBC International Scholars Program 2026
- Application Opens: September 2025 (mid-September)
- Scholarship Application Deadline: November 15, 2025
- UBC Admission Application Deadline: December 1, 2025
- English Language Proficiency Deadline: January 31, 2026
- Final Results Notification: Mid-April 2026
How to Apply for the UBC International Scholars Program 2026
Follow these steps to complete your application:
- Review eligibility and requirements on UBC’s official scholarship page.
- Choose your degree program and campus (Vancouver or Okanagan). Note that certain programs like Nursing and Dental Hygiene are not eligible.
- Secure a nomination from your school or a recognized non-profit (each school can nominate up to two students).
- Inform your nominator and referee about the deadlines and provide them sufficient time to prepare.
- Prepare your financial information and supporting documents (essays, extracurricular records, awards).
- Submit the scholarship application by November 15, 2025.
- Submit the admission application to UBC by December 1, 2025.
- Ensure all supporting documents (including English proficiency scores) are uploaded by January 31, 2026.
Tips for Applicants:
- Start early to give your recommenders and school time to prepare nomination letters.
- Highlight your achievements in leadership, sustainability, and social impact.
- Double-check deadlines as both the scholarship application and UBC admission application must be submitted separately.
FAQs about the UBC International Scholars Program 2026
Is IELTS required for this scholarship?
Yes, applicants must meet UBC’s English language admission standard. If you don’t meet it, you may be considered for the Vantage One Excellence Award.
Can students from all countries apply?
Yes, the program is open to students worldwide.
When will the results be announced?
Successful candidates will be notified by mid-April 2026.
Do I need a nomination to apply?
Yes, a nomination from your school or a recognized non-profit is mandatory.
Final Thoughts on the UBC International Scholars Program 2026
The UBC International Scholars Program 2026 is more than just a scholarship—it’s a pathway to becoming part of a global community of changemakers. With full funding, leadership opportunities, and access to a world-class education in Canada, this program opens doors to students who aspire to make a difference.
If you are a high-achieving international student with strong leadership skills and financial need, this is your chance. Apply before November 15, 2025, and take the first step toward studying at one of the world’s top universities.