How to get a scholarship at the University of Victoria

The University of Victoria (UVic) is one of the top-ranked universities in Canada, offering a wide range of academic programs and research opportunities. UVic is also known for its diverse and inclusive campus culture, beautiful Vancouver Island location, and commitment to sustainability and social justice. If you are an international student who wants to study at UVic, you may wonder how to get a scholarship to help you with tuition, living expenses, and other fees. This article will provide tips and information on applying for and receiving scholarships at UVic.

Overview of the University of Victoria

The University of Victoria (UVic) is a renowned public research university in Oak Bay and Saanich, British Columbia, Canada. Its roots date back to 1903, when it was established as a college affiliated with McGill University. UVic obtained full autonomy through a charter on July 1, 1963, solidifying its position as an independent educational institution.
UVic is a member of the U15 Group of Canadian research universities and is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world. It is also designated a “University of Canada with Doctoral Degree-Granting Capacity” by the Government of Canada.

UVic offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including arts, sciences, business, engineering, education, and law. The university also strongly focuses on research and innovation, and its faculty members have made significant contributions in various fields.

UVic is a highly preferred destination for international students, boasting a diverse student population of over 4,000 from more than 100 countries. To ensure a seamless transition, the university provides various support services, such as English language instruction, cultural orientation, and academic advising, specifically tailored for international students.

Read more about How to get admission to the University of Victoria.

Scholarship opportunities at the University of Victoria

Various types of scholarships are available for international students at UVic, depending on your level of study, academic performance, financial need, and other criteria. Some of the notable scholarships are:

• University of Victoria International Entrance Scholarship: This scholarship is open to all international students admitted to UVic as full-time undergraduates. The scholarship amount is CAD 10,000 and is renewable for up to four years, provided that you maintain a minimum GPA of 6.5 on the UVic scale.
• International IB Scholarship: International students with a minimum score of 32 points in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program are eligible for a CAD 2,500 scholarship. The scholarship is awarded for one year only. Apply now to seize this opportunity.
• UVic International Women’s Achievement Scholarship: This scholarship is open to female international students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and involvement in community service. The scholarship is CAD 5,000 and is awarded for one year only.
• Aga Khan Academy Renewable Scholarship: This scholarship is open to international students who have graduated from one of the Aga Khan Academies in Africa or Asia. The scholarship amount is CAD 22,500 per year and is renewable for up to four years, provided that you maintain a minimum GPA of 6.5 on the UVic scale.
• Vikes International Athlete Award: This award is open to international students who UVic coaches recruit to join one of the varsity sports teams at UVic. The award amount varies depending on the sport and the level of competition, but it can range from CAD 2,000 to CAD 10,000 per year.
• East China Normal University Renewable Scholarship: This scholarship is open to international students who have graduated from East China Normal University (ECNU) in Shanghai, China. The scholarship amount is CAD 5,000 per year and is renewable for up to two years for master’s students or four years for doctoral students, provided that you maintain a minimum GPA of 6.5 on the UVic scale.

How to get a scholarship at the University of Victoria

Eligibility requirements

UVic entrance scholarships have specific academic and admission requirements that vary based on your level of study, citizenship, and prior education. Meeting these criteria is necessary to qualify for any scholarships. You can find more information about these requirements on UVic’s website or by contacting the relevant academic unit.

Some of the general requirements for UVic entrance scholarships are:

• You must be admitted to UVic as a full-time undergraduate or graduate student.
• You must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 6.5 on the UVic scale for undergraduate scholarships or 7.0 for graduate scholarships.
• You must submit an online application form by February 28th of the year of admission for most scholarships unless otherwise specified.
• You must submit your final transcripts, test scores, language proficiency, and other documents by July 15th of the year of admission unless otherwise specified.
• You must meet additional criteria specific to each scholarship, such as academic excellence, leadership potential, community service, or research area.

Relevant documents

The documents you need to submit for a scholarship application at UVic may vary depending on the type and criteria of the scholarship you are applying for. However, some of the standard documents that you may need are:

• An online application form that includes your personal information, academic background, and scholarship preferences. To access the online application form, visit UVic’s website and navigate to the Online Tools section.
• Your official transcripts and other documents that show your academic qualifications, such as test scores, diplomas, certificates, or awards. You may need to submit these documents by email or mail to UVic by July 15th of the year of admission.
• Your proof of language proficiency, such as TOEFL, IELTS, or CAEL scores, if English is not your first language. You may need to submit these scores by email or mail to UVic by July 15th of the year of admission.
• A personal statement of up to 500 words that outlines why you wish to study at UVic, your academic goals, and why you merit the scholarship. 
• Any additional documents are specific to the scholarship you are applying for, such as letters of recommendation, essays, portfolios, or research proposals. You can find more information about these documents on the application required page on UVic’s website or by contacting the relevant academic unit.

These are some relevant documents for a scholarship application at UVic. To increase your odds of receiving a scholarship, carefully examine the requirements and guidelines for each opportunity that catches your attention. Additionally, submit all necessary documents in the correct format and by the specified deadline.

Opening and closing dates

The opening and closing dates of scholarships at UVic depend on the type and criteria of the scholarship you are applying for. However, some of the general dates and deadlines that you should be aware of are:

• For most scholarships based on admission average and other criteria, you must submit an online application form by February 28th of the year of admission.
• For most scholarships based on admission average only, you must self-report your grades by March 15th of the year of admission.
• For most scholarships, you must submit your final transcripts, test scores, language proficiency, and other documents by July 15th of the year of admission.
• For some scholarships, such as the East China Normal University Renewable Scholarship or the Aga Khan Academy Renewable Scholarship, you must submit an online application form by April 30th of the year of admission.

How to apply

The scholarship application process at UVic depends on the type and criteria of the scholarship that you are applying for. However, some of the general steps that you should follow are:

• Step 1: Select a suitable study level and program that matches your interests and qualifications. You can find more information about the programs offered by UVic on their website.
• Step 2: Check your eligibility for the scholarships available for your chosen program and student category. You can use UVic’s online search tool to find scholarships that match your profile and interests.
• Step 3: To maximize your chances of receiving a scholarship, it is crucial to prepare your application materials thoroughly. This includes transcripts, test scores, language proficiency, recommendation letters, a personal statement, or a research proposal. Before applying, it is crucial to carefully review the qualification criteria and application instructions for each scholarship you are interested in. Be sure to submit all required documents on time and in the correct format to avoid disqualification.
• Step 4: To apply for scholarships that require an application, please complete the online application form by February 28th or April 30th of the admission year, depending on the scholarship. For most scholarships based on admission average only, you do not need to submit an application form, but you must self-report your grades by March 15th of the year of admission.
• Step 5: Wait for notification of outcomes from UVic. You will receive an email from UVic confirming your admission status and scholarship offer, if any. You should also check your online application status regularly for any updates or requests from UVic.
• Step 6: Accept your scholarship offer by following the instructions provided by UVic. You may need to complete additional steps, such as signing a contract, submitting a thank-you letter, or attending an orientation session.

Tips and Advice

Here are some tips for applying for scholarships at UVic:

• Start early. The scholarship application process can take some time, so it is essential to start early. This will give you enough time to gather the required documentation and complete the online application.
• Be organized. It is essential to manage it when applying for scholarships. This will help you keep track of the deadlines and make sure that you submit all of the required documentation.
• Get help from others. If you need help with the scholarship application process, don’t be afraid to ask for help from others. Ask your teachers, guidance counselors, or other mentors for support.
• Don’t give up. The competition for scholarships can be fierce, but don’t give up if you don’t win the first few scholarships you apply for. Keep applying for scholarships, and eventually, you will be successful.

FAQs

What types of scholarships are available at the University of Victoria?

The University of Victoria offers several types of scholarships, including entrance, in-course, graduate, and international.

How can I apply for scholarships at the University of Victoria?

To apply for scholarships at the University of Victoria, you need to submit a general admission application and a separate scholarship application.

Are there any specific scholarships for international students at the University of Victoria?

Yes, the University of Victoria offers a variety of scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are on the university’s website or through the international student services office.

Who can apply for scholarships at the University of Victoria?

Eligibility criteria for scholarships at the University of Victoria vary depending on the specific scholarship. Some scholarships may be based on academic achievement, while others may consider financial need, extracurricular involvement, or other factors.

Are scholarships at the University of Victoria renewable?

A: If you’re looking to secure a scholarship at the University of Victoria, it’s important to note that some scholarships can be renewed for multiple years. However, each scholarship’s specific terms and conditions will ultimately determine whether it is eligible for renewal.

When is the deadline to apply for scholarships at the University of Victoria?

A: The deadline to apply for scholarships at the University of Victoria varies depending on the specific scholarship. To ensure accurate and up-to-date information regarding deadlines, we recommend checking the university’s website or contacting the scholarship office directly.

Can someone apply for multiple scholarships at the University of Victoria?

You can apply for multiple scholarships at the University of Victoria. However, each scholarship may have its application process and requirements. Be sure to carefully read and follow the instructions for each scholarship you apply for.

How will I be notified if I am awarded a scholarship at the University of Victoria?

If you are awarded a scholarship at the University of Victoria, you will usually receive a notification via email or regular mail. The report will include information on the scholarship amount, any additional requirements, and how to accept the award.

Can scholarships at the University of Victoria be used for any program of study?

Scholarships at the University of Victoria may be available for various programs of study, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. However, some scholarships may be specific to certain faculties or departments. Reviewing the eligibility requirements for each scholarship to determine if it can be applied to your desired program is essential.

Can I use a scholarship at the University of Victoria to cover my tuition?

The amount of each scholarship at the University of Victoria varies. While some scholarships may cover a significant portion of tuition, others may only provide a smaller amount. It is uncommon for scholarships to cover tuition, but they can still be a valuable financial resource.