Pursuing higher education can be financially challenging, but a scholarship from Carleton University can significantly alleviate that burden. Carleton University provides scholarships for both domestic and international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, and extracurricular involvement.
Here are some tips on how to apply for and secure a scholarship at Carleton University:
Overview of Carleton University
Carleton University is a research-based public university in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. The institution was established in 1942 under the name Carleton College. However, it later obtained the status of a university in 1957. Carleton is known for its strong academics, research, and experiential learning opportunities. It is also home to the renowned Norman Paterson School of International Affairs.
Carleton offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs, including business, engineering, law, science, social sciences, and the arts. The university has a student body of over 30,000, including over 4,500 international students.
Carleton is located in the heart of Ottawa, the capital of Canada. The university has various academic buildings, research facilities, and student residences. Carleton is also home to the Carleton University Art Gallery, the Carleton University Observatory, and the Carleton University Arboretum.
Learn more about How to get admission to Carleton University.

Scholarship opportunities at Carleton University
Carleton University is an excellent choice for international students pursuing higher education in Canada. Carleton University offers scholarships for international students based on academic merit, financial need, extracurricular involvement, and other factors. Here are some opportunities you may be eligible for:
- Entrance Scholarships for American and International High School Students: If your admission average at Carleton is 80% or higher and you meet language requirements, you will be considered for a renewable entrance scholarship. Your admission average will determine the scholarship value, which ranges from $1,000 to $4,000 annually.
- Prestige Scholarships: These are the highest awards offered by Carleton University and require an application and a letter of reference by March 1. You need a 90% admission average and participation in extracurriculars. The prestige scholarships include the Chancellor’s Scholarship ($30,000), the Richard Lewar Entrance Scholarship ($21,500), the Carleton University Scholarship of Excellence ($20,000), the Carleton University SHAD Scholarship ($20,000), and the Riordon Scholarship ($16,000).
- Cristine Rotenberg Scholarship for Academic and Creative Pursuits: This is a one-time $5,000 award for international students who have demonstrated academic excellence and creativity in any field. Eligibility requires a 90 percent admission average and the submission of a creative portfolio by March 1st.
- International Student Services Office (ISSO) Awards: These are awards offered by the ISSO to support international students facing financial difficulties or who have been impacted by conflicts in their home countries. The awards include the International Student Emergency Bursary ($500–$2,000), the International Student Emergency Loan (up to $2,000), the Ukrainian Student Bursary ($2,000), and the International Student Refugee Bursary ($2,000). You must apply through the ISSO website and provide supporting documents.
How to get a scholarship at Carleton University
Eligibility requirements
The eligibility requirements for a scholarship at Carleton University vary depending on the specific scholarship. However, some standard eligibility requirements include:
- Academic excellence: Most scholarships require a minimum GPA. The required GPA varies, typically between 80% and 90%.
- Leadership: Some scholarships require evidence of leadership skills. This could include participating in extracurricular activities, holding leadership positions, or positively impacting your community.
- Community service: Some scholarships require evidence of community service. This could include volunteering your time to help others, working with a non-profit organization, or participating in a service-learning program.
- Financial need: Certain scholarships are granted to individuals who demonstrate financial need.
- Ethnic or cultural background: Some scholarships are awarded to students of a particular ethnic or cultural background.
- Academic major: Some scholarships are awarded to students in a particular academic field.
- Other factors: Some scholarships may have different eligibility requirements, such as being a first-generation college student or a student with a disability.
You can learn about specific scholarship eligibility requirements on the Carleton University website.
Relevant documents
The relevant documents for a scholarship application at Carleton University vary depending on the specific scholarship. However, some standard documents include:
- Academic transcripts: Your academic transcripts should show your high school or college achievements.
- Personal statement: Your statement should be a well-written essay highlighting your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and unique qualities.
- Letters of recommendation: Recommendation letters should be obtained from teachers, coaches, or other adults who know your character and academic potential.
- Test scores: Some scholarships, such as the SAT or ACT, may require test scores.
- Portfolio: If you’re applying for a scholarship in a creative field, like art or music, you must submit a portfolio of your work.
- Other documents: Some scholarships may require additional documents, such as a resume or a financial aid statement. You can visit the Carleton University website to learn more about the documents needed for a particular scholarship.
How to apply
The scholarship application process at Carleton University varies depending on the specific scholarship. However, the general process is as follows:
- Find scholarships for which you are eligible. You can find scholarships by searching online, talking to your guidance counselor, or contacting Carleton University’s financial aid office.
- Read the eligibility requirements carefully. Before applying for a scholarship, it is essential to make sure that you meet all of the eligibility requirements.
- Gather the required documents. The required documents vary depending on the scholarship, but they typically include academic transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
- Complete the application form. The scholarship application form usually asks for academic performance, extracurricular activities, and personal traits, which may vary by scholarship.
- Submit your application. The deadline for submitting applications varies, so be sure to submit your application on time.

Tips and advice
Here are some additional tips for the scholarship application process at Carleton University:
- Start early. The application deadlines for scholarships vary, so it is essential to start your research early. The deadline for most scholarships is in the fall, so you should start planning in the spring.
- Do your research. Many different scholarships are available, so studying and finding scholarships you are eligible for is essential. You can find scholarships by searching online, talking to your guidance counselor, or contacting Carleton University’s financial aid office.
- Meet the eligibility requirements. Each scholarship has eligibility requirements, so reading them carefully before applying is essential. Some scholarships require a minimum GPA, others require a demonstrated commitment to community service, and others require a personal statement.
- Submit a robust application. You must submit academic transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation to apply. These documents are required and must be included in your application. Your account should be well-written and highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and unique qualities. Your letters of recommendation should be from teachers, coaches, or other adults who can attest to your character and academic potential.
- Don’t give up. The competition for scholarships can be fierce, but it is essential not to give up. If you don’t get one scholarship, keep applying for others. The more scholarships you apply for, the better your chances of getting one.
FAQs
What scholarships are available at Carleton University?
The university offers a wide range of scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students. Some of the scholarships include entrance scholarships, faculty-specific scholarships, scholarships for indigenous students, international student scholarships, and research scholarships.
What are the eligibility criteria for scholarships at Carleton University?
The eligibility criteria for scholarships at Carleton University vary depending on the specific scholarship. However, most scholarships consider academic performance, extracurricular involvement, community service, leadership skills, and financial need.
Is it possible to receive multiple scholarships at Carleton University?
Yes, receiving more than one scholarship at Carleton University is possible. However, some scholarships may have specific regulations regarding the number of concurrent scholarships a student can hold.
Are graduate students eligible for scholarships at Carleton University?
Yes, the university offers scholarships for graduate students as well. These scholarships may be research-based or provided to students based on their academic standing and achievements.
What is the average scholarship amount at Carleton University?
The scholarship amounts at Carleton University vary depending on the scholarship type and the individual’s achievements. Entrance scholarships can range from a few hundred dollars to up to $20,000 or more, while other scholarships may provide funding for a specific amount or cover a percentage of the tuition fees.
Are renewable scholarships available at Carleton University?
Some scholarships at Carleton University are renewable for multiple years. These scholarships usually require the recipient to maintain a minimum GPA or meet specific academic requirements each year to continue receiving the scholarship.
When will I find out if I have been awarded a scholarship at Carleton University?
The timing of scholarship notifications can vary. For entrance scholarships, you may receive information along with your admission offer, while other scholarships may have a separate notification process, generally before the start of the academic year.
Can I apply for scholarships after starting my studies at Carleton University?
In most cases, scholarships at the university require applicants to apply before starting their studies. However, there may be some scholarships available for current students. It is advised to regularly check the university’s scholarship webpage for any updates or announcements regarding scholarships for current students.