UBC International Scholars Program: Providing Opportunities to International Students

University of British Columbia

UBC, with its distinguished reputation for cultivating a richly diverse and inclusive academic milieu, champions its commitment through the esteemed International Scholars Program—an expansive scholarship endeavor meticulously crafted to empower international students on their educational journey. This article delves into the details of this program, which consists of four distinct categories of awards, each dedicated to recognizing and assisting international students with exceptional talent, leadership qualities, and financial need.

Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award

The Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award is an esteemed accolade that recognizes the exceptional potential of prospective international undergraduate students. To be eligible for this award, applicants must not only demonstrate superior academic achievements but also exhibit exemplary leadership skills that contribute to the betterment of their communities and empower others. The criteria for selection emphasize qualities such as collaboration, empathy, and active listening. This award is a testament to UBC’s commitment to nurturing global leaders who will make a positive impact on society.

Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award at the University of British Columbia

The Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award is a testament to UBC’s dedication to inclusivity and equal access to education. This award is specifically designed for outstanding international undergraduate students who hail from impoverished or war-torn areas. These students have shown exceptional resilience and academic excellence despite facing challenging circumstances. Without significant financial assistance, they would be unable to pursue their higher education goals. UBC’s recognition of its accomplishments and the provision of financial support underlines the university’s commitment to equity and access to quality education.

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International Impact Award

The International Impact Award is a testament to UBC’s commitment to addressing global challenges. It is presented to exceptional students who have showcased leadership qualities and unwavering commitment to addressing critical issues such as sustainability, climate change, natural resource conservation and management, social justice, equity, inclusion, and societal health and wellness. Priority for this award is given to first-generation learners and students from diverse backgrounds, reinforcing UBC’s belief in the power of diverse perspectives and experiences to drive positive change in the world.

Vantage One Excellence Award at the University of British Columbia

The Vantage One Excellence Award, offered by UBC Vantage College, is tailored for academically outstanding international students who may not yet meet the English Language Admission Standard for direct admission to UBC. This award recognizes the potential of these students and provides them with an opportunity to embark on their academic journey at UBC through UBC Vantage College. By doing so, UBC reaffirms its commitment to providing quality education to international students and ensuring that language proficiency is not a barrier to accessing higher education.

Details About University of British Columbia

  • Host country: Canada
  • Host University: University of British Columbia
  • Offered Programs: Bachelor’s Degree
  • Scholarship Name: UBC International Scholars Program
  • Deadline:15 Nov/1 Dec (annual

Host Institution

The UBC International Scholars Program is hosted by the University of British Columbia in Canada, one of the country’s most prestigious and globally recognized educational institutions.

Level and Field of Study University of British Columbia

The scholarships offered under the UBC International Scholars Program are available for undergraduate degrees in various fields of study. However, there are a few exceptions. The following programs are not covered by these scholarships: UBC Okanagan Bachelor of Nursing degree, Bachelor of Dental Science in Dental Hygiene, Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science, Bachelor + Master of Management degree, dual degrees, joint degrees between UBC Okanagan and UBC Vancouver, and joint degrees with other post-secondary institutions.

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Number of Awards

Each year, approximately 50 scholarships are distributed across the four categories of awards under the UBC International Scholars Program. These awards are highly competitive, and only the most deserving candidates are selected to receive them.

Target Group

The UBC International Scholars Program is primarily aimed at international students who aspire to pursue their undergraduate education at the University of British Columbia.

Scholarship Value and Duration at the University of British Columbia

The value of the UBC International Scholars Program varies depending on the financial need of the recipient. Financial need is determined by calculating the total cost of tuition, fees, and living expenses and then subtracting the financial contribution that the student and their family can make each year. This needs assessment relies on the financial information provided by the student and their family.

Recipients of these awards have the opportunity to renew their scholarships for up to three additional years of undergraduate study, or until they complete their degree, whichever comes first. This renewal is contingent upon the student maintaining satisfactory academic standing in their faculty, demonstrating continued financial need, and holding a valid Canadian study permit (student visa).

Eligibility

To be considered for the UBC International Scholars Program, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria. These criteria ensure that the scholarships are awarded to those who truly deserve and need them.

General Eligibility Criteria
  1. International Student Status: Applicants must be international students who plan to study in Canada on a Canadian study permit.
  2. Educational Background: Students must either be entering UBC directly from a recognized secondary school or transferring from their first year at a post-secondary college or another university.
  3. High School Graduation: Applicants must have graduated from high school no earlier than the month of June two years prior to the academic year for which they are applying. For instance, students applying for the 2024 Winter session must have graduated from high school no earlier than November 2022.
  4. First Undergraduate Degree: Applicants must be applying for their first undergraduate degree.
  5. Academic Excellence: To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate superior academic achievement, typically requiring them to achieve all As or equivalent standards.
  6. Financial Need: Applicants must exhibit a level of financial need that would otherwise hinder them from pursuing a UBC degree.
  7. Admission Requirements: Students must meet UBC’s admission requirements, including general and degree-specific requirements, as well as the English Language Admission Standard.

Additional Criteria for the Vantage One Excellence Award at the University of British Columbia

Applicants will be considered for the Vantage One Excellence Award if they meet the following criteria, in addition to the general eligibility criteria:

  1. English Language Proficiency: Applicants for this award must not yet meet UBC’s English Language Admission Standard for direct admission to UBC.
  2. Vantage College Admission Requirements: Students must meet UBC Vantage College admission requirements, including English proficiency standards specific to Vantage College.
  3. Direct Entry: Applicants must be coming directly from high school and beginning their undergraduate studies at UBC in the UBC Vantage One Program.

University of British Columbia Application Instructions

The application process for the UBC International Scholars Program is designed to be straightforward yet thorough, ensuring that the most deserving candidates are selected for the awards.

Nomination: To initiate the application process, you must be nominated by your school or a non-profit organization. It’s crucial to confirm with your nominator and academic referee that they are willing and able to support your nomination for the International Scholars Program.

  1. Reference: In addition to the nomination, you will need to submit a reference from an academic referee. This reference serves as a crucial component of your application, as it attests to your academic capabilities and potential.
  2. Award Selection: When submitting your application, you won’t need to select a specific award within the program. UBC will automatically consider you for the awards for which you are eligible.
  3. Application Deadlines: It’s essential to adhere to the application deadlines. The application for the International Scholars Program must be submitted by November 15th, and your admissions application to UBC must be submitted by December 1

Conclusion

The UBC International Scholars Program is a testament to the University of British Columbia’s commitment to creating a diverse, inclusive, and globally engaged academic community. It offers financial support to international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to addressing pressing global challenges. Through the Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award, the Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award, the International Impact Award, and the Vantage One Excellence Award, UBC provides a path to academic excellence and leadership development for deserving students.

By recognizing and supporting students from diverse backgrounds and regions, UBC reaffirms its belief in the power of education to transform lives and create a positive impact on society. The benefits of these scholarships extend far beyond financial assistance, offering students an opportunity to excel academically, contribute to their communities, and make a lasting impact on the world.

The UBC International Scholars Program is a testament to the fact that education is a powerful tool for change, and UBC is committed to empowering the next generation of leaders and change-makers from around the world.

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