Scholarships and Awards for Studying in the US and Canada
Many students dream of pursuing their studies abroad. But not every student has the means to do so. Some students are able to bridge this gap through financial aid and scholarships. Usually scholarships are awarded to exceptional students with great grades, gpa etc. Broadly, universities provide the following types of financial support, a) Need Based Financial Aid and b) Merit Based Scholarships.
For Need Based Financial Aid, students need to complete the CSS application provided by the College Board. In the CSS application, students have to provide extensive financial information about their resources and parents income. Only a few universities like Harvard, Yale, Princeton, MIT and Amherst College are need blind for international students.
For several Merit Based Scholarships, students have an option of filling the scholarship application at the time of their Common App university application. However there are other Merit Based Scholarships for which students need to apply separately. In this article we will focus on the Merit Based Scholarships including certain School Nominated Scholarships where the student can be recommended by their school.
Merit Based Scholarships are essentially academic rewards given to students who have demonstrated exceptional achievements, skills, or abilities in various areas such as academics, sports, arts, or community service. Instead of being based on financial need, these scholarships focus on recognizing and supporting individuals who stand out due to their talent, hard work, and dedication.
What are School Nominated Scholarships?
There are certain scholarships where schools nominate their top students based on academic achievements, extracurricular activities, or other outstanding qualities. In this case,the students themselves are not allowed to apply, instead the school does it on their behalf. Schools usually nominate those students who excel academically by maintaining a strong academic record, with most scholarships considering factors like GPA or grades. Additionally, active participation in extracurriculars, such as clubs, sports, or other activities, where students showcase leadership roles or notable contributions, enhances their nomination chances.
For School Nominated Scholarships, the school counselor or principal needs to submit a letter of recommendation emphasizing the student’s suitability, while also highlighting aspects like academic achievements, character, community service, and leadership potential. Usually universities also require the students academic transcripts and resumes. Additional requirements may include a special form, extra essays or short questions, and sometimes, an interview.
How many students can one school nominate?
Each school can nominate 1 or 2 exceptional students for each scholarship. This number depends on the university the student is applying to. You need to inform your school in advance so that you can be considered.
How do schools get in touch with universities?
Most schools are already registered with the universities as it is not the first time they have nominated a student. But those schools that are applying for the first time need to get in contact with the university and fill an application form. After which they will get access to the nomination portal.
Top universities in Canada offering different scholarships are:
Name of University | Name of Scholarship | Eligibility | Amount / What is covered? | No of Seats and Deadline |
Lester. B. Pearson International Scholarships (School Nominated Scholarship) | 1. Should be an international student.2. In grade 12 or have graduated no earlier . | It covers tuition, books, incidental fees and full residence support for four years, awarded. | No of scholarships: 37 Deadline: 30th November for students that will start next year in August.
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Provost Entrance Scholarship for International Students (Merit Based Scholarship) | 1. Should be an international student. 2. Currently studying at a high school. 3. Entering their first baccalaureate degree programme. | A total value of CAD 7500 | No of scholarships: 5 Deadline: February 21 for students that will start the same year in August. | |
Major Entrance Scholarships (Merit Based Scholarship) | 1. A first-time university student. 2. Entering a full-time undergraduate degree programme. 3. The student should not be either a transfer, mature, diploma, exchange, special, part-time or visiting student. | CAD 3,000, CAD 5,000 or CAD 10,000 that’s renewable every year | Deadline: January 15 for students that will start that year in August. | |
International Scholars Program Awards: 1. Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award: It recognizes international undergraduate students who demonstrate superior academic achievement, exceptional leadership skills, involvement in student affairs and community service, and recognized achievement in other key areas. 2. Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award: The award recognizes outstanding international undergraduate students from impoverished or war-torn areas who have achieved academic excellence under challenging circumstances, and who would be unable to attend university without significant financial assistance. 3. International Impact Award: It is offered to exceptional students who have expressed commitment to and solutions for social justice issues, climate change, equity and inclusion, societal health and wellness, and freedom of expression. 4. Vantage One Excellence Award: It is offered by UBC Vantage College for academically outstanding international students who do not yet meet the English Language Admission Standard for direct admission to UBC . The awards range in value up to the full cost of a student’s academic program and living expenses. (Merit and Need Based Scholarship) | 1. Should be an international student. 2. Entering UBC from a recognised secondary school, or transferring from your first year at university. 3. Graduated from high school no earlier than the month of June two years prior to the academic year you are applying to. 4. Applying for your first undergraduate degree. 5. Demonstrate superior academic achievement. 6. Demonstrate a level of financial need. 7. UBC Vantage Scholarship for academically outstanding international students who do not yet meet the English Language. | Covers the full cost of a student’s academic program and living expenses. | No of scholarships: 50 Deadline: November 15 for students that will start next year in August. | |
International Presidential Scholarships (School Nominated Scholarship) | 1. Be an international student. 2. Have a predicted grade of 90% or 35 or A or A* in grade 12. 3. Demonstrate notable leadership or community service achievements. | Covers 50% of tuition fees annually | No of scholarships: 10 Deadline: February 1, for students that will start that year in August. |
Many prestigious universities in the US offer different scholarships. Some of these are:
Name of University | Name of Scholarship | Amount / What is covered? | No of Seats |
Annika Rodriguez Scholars Program (Merit Based Scholarship) | It covers: Multiple full-tuition scholarships with $2,500 stipends Multiple partial-tuition scholarships which are renewable annually | Deadline: January 3 for students that will start that year in August | |
Jefferson and Walentas Scholarships (School Nominated Scholarship) | It covers: The entire cost of attendance for four years Coverage for supplemental enrichment experiences | No of scholarships: 30 Deadline: November 15 for students that will start next year in August | |
Hesburgh-Yusko Scholars Program (*Merit Scholarship offered after enrollment) | A maximum of USD 25,000 a year | No of scholarships: 20 Deadline: November 1 for students that will start next year in August | |
Alan and Jane Handler Endowed Scholarship (School Nominated Scholarship) | It covers: Full-tuition USD 5,000 for academic or professional enrichment | Deadline: November 30 for students that will start next year in August | |
John M. Belk Scholarship (School Nominated Scholarship) | It covers comprehensive costs plus two special opportunity stipends of USD 3,000 each | No of scholarships: 8 Deadline: November 1 for students that will start next year in August | |
Presidential Scholarship (School Nominated Scholarship) | It covers full tuition, room, board the general fee and the cost of textbooks | No of scholarships: 25 Deadline: December 1 for students that will start next year in August | |
Wells Scholars Program (School Nominated Scholarship) | It covers the full cost of attendance | No of scholarships: 18 Deadline: November 1 for students that will start next year in August | |
The Rensselaer Medal (School Nominated Scholarship) | A maximum of USD 120,000 for outstanding math and science students | Deadline: June 1 for students that will start that year in August | |
Open World Scholarship (Need Based Scholarship) | Full ride scholarship of US$ 184,000 for four years. It includes a one-way ticket to the US and a guaranteed on-campus part-time job. | No of scholarships: 4 from India (need-based) Deadline: February 1 for students that will start that year in August | |
CEO Women in Leadership Scholarship (Merit Based Scholarship) | It awards $100,000 over four years with a seat in Wesleyan’s CEO Leadership Institute cohort to those looking to create equal opportunities for women in leadership | No of scholarships:10 Deadline: February 1 for students that will start that year in August | |
Global Leaders Scholarship (Merit Based Scholarship) | It awards $80,000 over four years to groom those with the potential to lead in the future | No of scholarships: 10 Deadline: February 1 for students that will start that year in August |
As you navigate the vast landscape of educational opportunities, remember that scholarships are not merely financial aids, they are endorsements of your character, commitment, and capability. School-nominated scholarships, in particular, weave a narrative of trust and recognition between you and your alma mater. Beyond the tangible benefits, these scholarships signify a community invested in your success.
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