How to Secure Funding with the University of British Columbia International Scholars Program: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re a student from Nigeria or other African countries seeking financial aid for higher education, you’re in the right place. The University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program is a prestigious opportunity that offers substantial financial support to outstanding students around the world. This program can be your gateway to pursuing an undergraduate degree in one of the top universities in Canada.

In this guide, I will walk you through everything you need to know about the UBC International Scholars Program—from its scholarship coverage and eligibility criteria to the step-by-step application process. My goal is to help you understand the program and apply successfully so that you can achieve your educational dreams.

Overview of the University of British Columbia International Scholars Program

The UBC International Scholars Program is designed for high-achieving international students who demonstrate financial need and a commitment to their communities. UBC offers four different awards under this program, allowing the university to support a diverse range of students based on both merit and need.

UBC’s International Scholars Program provides international students with the following four prestigious awards:

1. Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award (ILOT): This award is for students who demonstrate outstanding leadership skills, involvement in student affairs, and a strong commitment to social justice.
2. Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award: Awarded to students from war-torn or economically disadvantaged regions who excel academically despite challenging circumstances.
3. Vantage One Excellence Award: For academically strong international students who need to improve their English language skills before beginning undergraduate studies.
4. International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES): This merit-based award is for international students entering UBC for the first time and is not part of the need-based International Scholars Program.

By offering both need- and merit-based awards, UBC ensures that deserving students have the opportunity to access top-tier education, regardless of their financial situation.

Scholarship Coverage

When you’re awarded a scholarship through the UBC International Scholars Program, you can expect the following benefits:

• Tuition Coverage: Depending on your financial need, the scholarship will cover your full tuition fees or a significant portion of them.
• Living Stipend: The scholarship provides additional funds for living expenses, including accommodation, meals, and other essential costs.
• Books and Supplies: The program also supports students by covering the costs of textbooks and study materials.
• Health Insurance: Awardees receive health insurance coverage throughout their studies at UBC.
• Other Expenses: Depending on the award, some scholars may receive funds for transportation costs or other miscellaneous expenses related to studying abroad.

If you’re concerned about affording international education, these scholarships can make the difference between struggling financially and being able to fully focus on your studies.

How much is the UBC International Scholars Program worth?

The value of the University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program varies depending on the financial need of the student and the specific award they receive. The program offers four prestigious awards that are both need- and merit-based:

1. Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award: This award provides financial support based on the student’s demonstrated financial need. The amount covers the difference between the student’s financial ability (tuition, living expenses, and other associated costs) and what they and their family can contribute.
2. Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award: This award is also based on financial need and is designed for students from war-torn or politically unstable regions, or from countries facing severe economic hardships. Similar to the McKellin award, it covers the difference between the student’s financial need and what they and their family can afford.
3. International Impact Award: This award recognizes exceptional students who have a history of making a significant positive impact in their communities. The value of the award is adjusted based on the student’s financial need.
4. Vantage One Excellence Award: This award is for academically strong students who are enrolled in the UBC Vantage One program. Like the other awards, the Vantage One Excellence Award also covers the financial shortfall between what the student can afford and the full cost of attending UBC.

Since these awards are need-based, their total worth can cover full tuition, fees, and living expenses for the student’s degree program, making them potentially fully-funded scholarships depending on the individual’s financial situation.

Eligibility Criteria – Who is eligible for UBC International Scholars Program?

To apply for the University of British Columbia International Scholars Program, you need to meet specific eligibility requirements. Here’s a list of key criteria:

1. International Student: You must be an international student (not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident) who requires a Canadian study permit.
2. Academic Excellence: Applicants must have an exceptional academic record and meet the requirements for UBC’s undergraduate programs.
3. Financial Need: Candidates must demonstrate that their financial circumstances make it impossible to pursue a degree without this scholarship.
4. Leadership and Community Involvement: UBC looks for students who have made a significant impact in their communities through leadership roles, volunteer work, or social justice initiatives.
5. New Student: You must be applying to UBC for your first undergraduate degree. Transfer students are not eligible.

If you meet these criteria, you’re a good candidate for the program. However, it’s important to note that this is a highly competitive scholarship, and only a small number of students are selected each year.

What is the GPA for UBC International Student?

The University of British Columbia (UBC) does not have a fixed minimum GPA requirement for international students as the admissions process is holistic, meaning they consider a range of factors beyond just GPA. However, UBC generally expects competitive applicants to have strong academic records that place them among the top students in their class.

For undergraduate programs, successful international applicants typically have a GPA equivalent to:

• A average or higher for competitive programs.
• A minimum of 80% or higher in most subjects, depending on the grading system used in your country.

Additionally, for students applying to the UBC International Scholars Program, a high academic standing is essential, as this program is merit-based, in addition to considering financial need. Therefore, students applying for this prestigious scholarship are expected to have an outstanding GPA that reflects strong academic performance.

Required Documents

When applying for the UBC International Scholars Program, you will need to submit several key documents to support your application. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Academic Transcripts: Provide your high school transcripts showing your academic performance. Make sure your grades are strong and meet UBC’s admission standards.
• Standardized Test Scores: Depending on your chosen program, you may need to submit SAT, ACT, or other test scores. Ensure your scores meet UBC’s requirements.
• Financial Documents: Submit documentation that proves your financial need, such as bank statements, income reports, or affidavits of financial support.
• Letters of Recommendation: You’ll need references from teachers or mentors who can speak to your leadership abilities and academic excellence.
• Personal Statement or Essays: Prepare a compelling personal statement explaining why you deserve the scholarship, how you’ve impacted your community, and what your future aspirations are.

Take time to gather these documents and ensure they are accurate and complete before submitting them.

Application Process – How to Apply for University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program

Ready to apply? Follow these steps to maximize your chances of securing the UBC International Scholars Program scholarship:

1. Apply to UBC

First, you need to apply to the University of British Columbia. You can do this by visiting UBC’s official website and filling out an undergraduate application. Choose the academic program you wish to pursue and submit all required documents, including your high school transcripts and test scores.

2. Nomination from Your School

Next, you must be nominated by your high school or previous educational institution for the International Scholars Program. UBC only accepts applications from students who have been nominated by their school, so ensure your school is aware of your intention to apply.

3. Complete the UBC Scholarship Application

Once your nomination is confirmed, fill out the UBC International Scholars Program application. This form asks for detailed information about your financial situation, academic achievements, leadership experience, and community involvement.

4. Submit Supporting Documents

Upload all the required documents mentioned above, including your transcripts, test scores, financial records, and recommendation letters. Make sure everything is submitted before the application deadline.

5. Await Results

After submitting your application, all you can do is wait. UBC reviews applications based on academic merit, financial need, and the strength of your leadership and community contributions. If you’re selected, you’ll receive a notification with details of your scholarship award.

Application Deadlines

Deadlines are crucial, so make sure to submit your application on time. For the 2025 UBC International Scholars Program, the general timeline is as follows:

• Nomination Deadline: Schools must nominate students by December 1, 2024.
• Application Deadline: The deadline to submit your scholarship application is January 31, 2025.
• Admission Application Deadline: Ensure your UBC undergraduate admission application is submitted by January 15, 2025.

It’s essential to keep track of these dates and plan ahead. Missing the deadline will disqualify you from consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion: Take the First Step Toward a Bright Future

If you’re an ambitious, high-achieving student from Nigeria or elsewhere in Africa, the University of British Columbia International Scholars Program could be your ticket to a world-class education. With four prestigious awards available and substantial financial support, this program can help you overcome the financial barriers that stand in the way of your academic dreams.

Don’t miss out on this life-changing opportunity! Start your UBC application today, and make sure your school nominates you for the International Scholars Program before the deadline. With proper preparation and determination, you could be one of the few lucky students awarded this prestigious scholarship.

Take action now and begin your journey to studying at one of the world’s best universities!

Apply Here