The University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program is open for the September 2027 intake and is designed for academically strong international students who have demonstrated leadership and significant financial need. The programme is especially relevant to students seeking undergraduate study in Canada with substantial financial support.
For 2027 entry, international applicants who want to be considered for the International Scholars Program must apply to UBC and complete the award application by 15 November 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time.
Who can apply?
- You must be an international student who will study in Canada on a study permit.
- You must be entering UBC directly from an accredited secondary school.
- For the 2027 Winter Session, you must have graduated from high school no earlier than June 2026.
- You must be applying for your first undergraduate degree.
- You must demonstrate significant financial need.
- You should have strong academic results, leadership qualities and meaningful community contributions.
What support does the International Scholars Program provide?
UBC describes the programme as a need-and-merit-based scholarship pathway for outstanding international students. Awards are intended to make a UBC education possible for students whose financial circumstances would otherwise prevent attendance. Scholars also receive dedicated advising and access to workshops, retreats, exchange and co-op opportunities where available.
Important 2027 deadlines
- Early October 2026: UBC application opens for 2027 entry.
- 15 November 2026: deadline for international applicants to apply to UBC and submit the International Scholars Program award application.
- 31 January 2027: deadline for International Scholars applicants to meet UBC’s English-language standard and submit required admission documents.
- February-April 2027: scholarship results are released on a rolling basis.
School nomination and referee requirements
Applicants need a school nominator, such as a guidance counsellor, principal or administrator, and a teacher referee. Students should contact their school early because nomination and reference steps can take time, especially if the school has never participated before.
How to apply
- Choose your preferred UBC campus and academic programme.
- Discuss the International Scholars nomination with your secondary school.
- Apply for admission to UBC.
- Complete the separate International Scholars Program application.
- Provide accurate family financial information and supporting documents.
- Ensure your nominator and teacher referee complete their required parts.
- Submit by 15 November 2026.
- Complete required admissions and English-language documents by 31 January 2027.
What UBC evaluates
Applicants are assessed on academic performance, leadership, community contribution and financial circumstances. UBC also performs a financial assessment using information about family income, expenses and assets. Students should provide truthful, complete documentation because the award is intended for applicants with genuine financial need.
A note about other UBC scholarships
UBC states that applicants who apply to the International Scholars Program are not considered for its merit-based international awards. Students should therefore read the funding options carefully and decide which route best matches their circumstances.
Application tips for Kenyan students
- Start the school-nomination conversation well before November.
- Prepare financial documents early.
- Use concrete examples of leadership and community contribution.
- Check UBC’s English-language requirements and testing timelines.
- Do not wait until the final week to begin the scholarship application.
Frequently asked questions
Can Kenyan students apply?
Yes. Kenyan students may apply as international applicants if they meet the eligibility, admission, nomination and financial-need requirements.
Is the scholarship only based on grades?
No. UBC also considers leadership, community contribution and demonstrated financial need.
When is the deadline?
The main International Scholars Program application deadline for 2027 entry is 15 November 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time.
Editorial note: This article was independently prepared using official University of British Columbia admissions and scholarship information checked on 2 October 2026. JobScholarship.com is not affiliated with UBC and does not guarantee admission or scholarship selection.