University of British Columbia — International Scholars Program#

The University of British Columbia is one of the top universities in Canada and one of the best in the entire world. It consistently ranks in the top 40 globally. And yes — they offer a full scholarship for international students.

The International Scholars Program at UBC covers full tuition plus living costs for the entire duration of your degree. This is one of the most generous and most prestigious scholarships you can get in Canada.

But here is the thing — the process is more involved than other schools. There are TWO separate applications. Let me walk you through everything so you know exactly what to do.

Where Is UBC?#

UBC is in Vancouver, British Columbia. Vancouver is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Mountains, ocean, forests — all in one place. The quality of life is incredible.

It is also a very diverse city with large international communities. You will not feel alone. There are students and families from every part of the world living in Vancouver.

The downside? Vancouver is expensive. Rent and food cost more than most other Canadian cities. But that is exactly why this scholarship is so valuable — it covers your living costs too.

What Does the Scholarship Cover?#

The International Scholars Program covers:

• Full tuition for the duration of your undergraduate degree
• Living costs — this includes housing and basic expenses
• The scholarship is renewable each year

This is a life-changing amount of money. We are talking about potentially $200,000+ in total value over four years.

The Two Applications You Need#

This is where students make mistakes. At UBC, you need to submit two separate applications:

1. Admission Application — this gets you accepted into UBC
2. Scholarship Application — this is a separate application for the International Scholars Program

You cannot just apply for admission and hope they give you money. The scholarship requires its own dedicated application with additional materials. Let me break each one down.

Application 1: Admission to UBC#

Step 1: Go to the Application Portal#

Visit you.ubc.ca/applying-ubc. This is the main admissions website. Read through the requirements for international students carefully.

Step 2: Create Your Account#

Set up your applicant account. Use a reliable email address — UBC will send all updates and decisions there.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application#

Fill out all sections of the application form. This includes your personal information, educational background, and the program you want to study.

Step 4: Submit Your Documents#

You will need:

• High school transcripts — official transcripts from your school
• English proficiency scores — IELTS or TOEFL. Check UBC's website for the minimum scores required for your program.
• Personal Profile — this is important. UBC asks you to write short essays about your activities, experiences, and what matters to you. Do not rush this. It is a big part of how they evaluate you.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee#

The application fee is approximately $116 CAD. Non-refundable.

Step 6: Watch the Deadline#

The deadline for fall entry is typically December 1. Do not miss this. Mark it on your calendar right now.

Application 2: International Scholars Program#

After you start your admission application, you will be able to access the scholarship application through the same portal. This is the part that requires serious effort.

The scholarship application requires:

Four Essays#

UBC will give you essay prompts. You need to write four separate essays. These are your chance to show who you are, what you have accomplished, and why you deserve this scholarship. Take them seriously.

A Nominator#

You need someone who knows you well to act as your nominator. This should be a teacher, mentor, or school counselor who can speak to your character, your achievements, and your potential. Choose someone who truly knows you — not just someone with a fancy title.

A Teacher Referee#

In addition to your nominator, you need a teacher referee who can provide a reference about your academic abilities and character.

Financial Documentation#

This is critical. You need to provide detailed financial documentation proving that your family cannot afford the cost of attending UBC. This includes things like:

• Family income statements
• Tax documents
• Bank statements
• Any other proof of financial situation

Be honest and thorough. This scholarship is need-based AND merit-based. UBC wants to support exceptional students who genuinely cannot pay. If your family can afford it, this scholarship is not for you — and that is okay. But if you truly need financial support, do not be ashamed to show your real situation.

Tips for a Strong Application#

1. Start your essays early — do not try to write four essays in one weekend. Give yourself weeks. Write drafts, revise, get feedback, revise again.

2. Be authentic about your financial situation — do not exaggerate, but do not downplay either. Be clear and honest about why you need this support.

3. Choose your nominator carefully — pick someone who knows your story deeply. Someone who has seen your growth, your struggles, and your achievements. A generic letter from someone who barely knows you will not help.

4. Show impact, not just participation — it is not enough to say you joined a club. What did you do there? What changed because of your involvement? UBC wants students who make a difference.

5. Research UBC — understand what makes UBC special and why you want to be there specifically. Show that you are not just applying everywhere and hoping for the best.

6. Prepare your documents early — gathering financial documents takes time, especially if you need official translations. Do not leave this to the last minute.

Why UBC Is Worth the Effort#

Yes, this application process is more demanding than other schools. Two applications, four essays, nominators, referees, financial documents — it is a lot of work.

But consider what you get in return. A world-class education at a top-40 global university. A full scholarship covering tuition and living. A degree from UBC that opens doors anywhere in the world. And four years living in one of the most incredible cities on the planet.

The effort is worth it. Start early, prepare well, and give it your best.