The University of Calgary, renowned for its diverse educational environment and vibrant campus life, offers numerous scholarship opportunities aimed at fostering the growth of international students. These financial aids are designed not only to alleviate the financial burden but also to attract intellectually gifted students from around the globe. This comprehensive guide explores various scholarships, their eligibility requirements, application processes, and financial benefits, offering a gateway to prospective students aiming for academic excellence in one of Canada’s most stimulating educational settings.
Overview of University of Calgary
- Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Student Population: Approximately 33,000
- International Students: Around 25%
- Academic Offerings: Over 250 programs across undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees
Available Scholarships
The University of Calgary proudly offers a range of scholarships that cater specifically to the needs of international students at both undergraduate and graduate levels. These scholarships not only support tuition fees but also cover living expenses to some extent, thereby making higher education more accessible.
Undergraduate Scholarships
International Entrance Scholarship: Awarded based on outstanding academic achievements and extracurricular involvement; valued up to CAD 15,000.
President’s Admission Scholarship: Offers CAD 5,000 to students showing exceptional academic records.
Graduate Scholarships
Research Scholarship: Targets Master’s and Ph.D. candidates, focusing on providing financial support for research endeavors.
Graduate Awards Competition: Includes various awards, some of which are funded by the university and others through external funding.
Eligibility and Application Requirements
Eligibility criteria for scholarships at the University of Calgary vary widely but generally include academic excellence, language proficiency, and sometimes specific qualifications related to the student’s country of origin or field of study.
Academic Requirements
Undergraduate: Typically requires a high school average above 85% or equivalent.
Graduate: Depends on the program but usually necessitates a minimum GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 credits of coursework.
Language Proficiency
For IELTS, applicants must achieve at least a 6.5 overall with no individual band score less than 6.0.
TOEFL IBT: Minimum score of 86, with no section below 20.
Admission Requirements
Application Fee: CAD 125 for international students.
Documents: Transcripts, statement of purpose, reference letters, and standardized test scores as required by the program.
Application Process and Deadlines
The application process for scholarships is tightly integrated with the admissions process. It is crucial for applicants to be aware of the deadlines and prepare their applications accordingly.
Deadlines
Undergraduate: Applications for Fall admission must be submitted by March 1st.
Graduate: Varies by program but typically falls between December and February.
Tuition Fees and Funding Details
Undergraduate Tuition: Ranges from CAD 18,000 to CAD 25,000 per academic year for international students, depending on the program.
Graduate Tuition: Generally ranges from CAD 12,000 to CAD 20,000 per academic year for international students.
Acceptance Rate and Competition
The University of Calgary has a competitive acceptance rate of around 20% for international students, reflecting the high standards expected by the university.
Living in Calgary
Calgary offers a dynamic environment with a high quality of life and a lower cost of living compared to other major Canadian cities. International students can expect to spend on average CAD 1,000 to CAD 1,500 per month on living expenses.
Conclusion
The University of Calgary’s scholarships provide a significant opportunity for international students to pursue their academic and professional dreams in Canada. By meeting the eligibility criteria and adhering to the application procedures, students can leverage these opportunities to significantly offset the financial costs of their education.
FAQs
Q1: Are there specific scholarships for students from underrepresented countries? Yes, the University of Calgary offers several scholarships aimed at increasing diversity on campus, including awards for students from underrepresented regions.
Q2: Can scholarship funds be used for non-tuition expenses? Yes, some scholarships provide a stipend that covers living expenses, books, and other educational costs.
Q3: What support services are available for international students at the University of Calgary? The university offers a wide range of support services, including academic advising, career services, mental health support, and an international student centre.
Q4: What steps can I take to improve my likelihood of obtaining a scholarship? Focus on maintaining a high GPA, engaging in extracurricular activities, and preparing a strong application package including a well-crafted statement of purpose and strong reference letters.
Q5: Are there opportunities for scholarship renewal? Some scholarships are renewable based on academic performance, while others are awarded for the duration of the program.