West African students dreaming of a world-class degree in Canada — this is one to act on fast. The University of British Columbia (UBC) has opened applications for its International Scholars Program for September 2027 entry, and the award application deadline is 15 November 2026.
What is the UBC International Scholars Program?
The program is for international students who have demonstrated leadership qualities, exceptional contributions to their communities, and outstanding academic performance — and who require meaningful financial support to attend UBC. Scholars study at UBC’s Vancouver or Okanagan campus, earn a globally recognized degree, and get dedicated advising, skill-building workshops and retreats, and the option to join exchange and co-op programs. One application automatically considers you for four need-and-merit award categories, including the Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award, the Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award, the International Impact Award, and the Vantage One Excellence Award.
Who can apply?
You must meet all of these requirements:
- You are an international student who will study in Canada on a Canadian study permit
- You are entering UBC directly from an accredited secondary school, and you graduated from high school no earlier than June 2026
- You are applying for your first undergraduate degree
- You can prove significant financial need — it would be impossible to pursue a UBC degree without meaningful financial help
- You demonstrate superior academic achievement (all As or equivalent) and meet UBC’s admission and English language requirements
How to apply
First, apply for admission to UBC. Then talk to your school: a high school or registered non-profit can nominate you, and you also need a separate teacher referee. Both the nominator and referee forms must be completed before you can submit, so start early. The award application is due 15 November 2026, and your supporting admission documents are due by 31 January 2027. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to a video interview between January and March 2027.
Official application and information page: https://you.ubc.ca/financial-planning/scholarships-awards-international-students/international-scholars/
Need help with your application?
Isaac Explains helps students across Liberia, Ghana, Nigeria, Sierra Leone and beyond prepare strong scholarship applications — documents, essays, deadlines and submission support. Follow Isaac Explains for daily scholarship and immigration updates, and book a consultation on this site: https://www.isaacexplains.com — let’s get your application ready before November 15.
