University of Ottawa Scholarships for International Students 2027 | Funded

Dreaming of studying in Canada? The University of Ottawa offers exciting opportunities for international students to pursue their academic goals. With a range of scholarships available, your educational journey in one of Canada’s top universities could be more accessible than you think.

This article will guide you through the University of Ottawa’s scholarship landscape for international students. We’ll explore the different awards, what they cover, who can apply, and how to navigate the application process. Get ready to discover how you can fund your studies in Ottawa.

The University of Ottawa is known for its bilingual environment, offering programs in both English and French. This unique feature extends to its scholarship offerings, providing tailored support based on your language of study and academic achievements. Whether you’re aiming for an undergraduate degree or a PhD, there are options designed to help you succeed.

Let’s break down the University of Ottawa scholarships for international students, covering everything from the International English Admission Scholarship to doctoral funding. Understanding these opportunities is the first step toward securing your spot at this esteemed institution.

What are the University of Ottawa Scholarships for International Students?

The University of Ottawa provides several scholarships specifically for international students across undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs. These scholarships aim to reduce the financial burden of studying abroad and recognize academic excellence. The main awards include those for English-language study, French-language study, and doctoral research.

Several key scholarships are available:

• International English Admission Scholarship: This is a primary scholarship for international undergraduates studying in English.
• International English Academic Excellence Scholarship: This award recognizes high-achieving international undergraduates in English-language programs.
• Differential Tuition Fee Exemption Scholarship: This scholarship benefits Francophone and Francophile students studying in French or French Immersion programs.
• International Doctoral Scholarship: This scholarship supports international students pursuing PhD studies.
• PhD Admission Scholarship: This provides a funding package for eligible international doctoral candidates.

These scholarships are designed to attract talented students from around the world and support their academic endeavors at the University of Ottawa.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits

The University of Ottawa offers various levels of financial support through its scholarships, with coverage varying by award and program level. Understanding the specifics of each scholarship will help you determine the best fit for your financial needs.

International English Admission Scholarship

This scholarship is a significant source of support for international undergraduates studying in English. It provides:

• CAD 7,500 per eligible term.
• Up to a total of CAD 60,000 over a four-year undergraduate degree.
• The support is renewable, provided students maintain full-time enrollment in an eligible program.
• Awards are given automatically to eligible students, with an unlimited number available for those who meet the conditions.

This scholarship is applicable to undergraduate programs in the Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Faculty of Social Sciences, and the Telfer School of Management.

International English Academic Excellence Scholarship

This scholarship is for high-achieving international undergraduates studying in English. It offers:

• A total of CAD 10,000, distributed as CAD 5,000 per term.
• There are 100 scholarships available.
• This funding is non-renewable.

A key advantage is that this scholarship can be combined with the International English Admission Scholarship. This means eligible students could receive up to CAD 70,000 in total scholarship funding from these two awards. To qualify, students need a minimum admission average of 90%.

Differential Tuition Fee Exemption Scholarship

This scholarship is designed for students who study in French or French Immersion programs. Instead of a fixed cash award, it significantly reduces the international tuition fee charged each term. The value of the reduction varies by faculty:

• Undergraduate Students:
• Telfer School of Management: CAD 16,000 per term
• Arts, Social Sciences, Health Sciences, Science: CAD 12,500 per term
• Engineering: CAD 18,000 per term
• Master’s Students:
• Arts, Social Sciences, Science, Law, Engineering: CAD 5,500 per term
• Education, Telfer Management: CAD 7,000 per term

This scholarship can continue for up to 12 undergraduate terms or six master’s terms, provided students meet the language and enrollment conditions.

International Doctoral Scholarship

This scholarship supports full-time international students pursuing a PhD. It provides:

• CAD 45,000 over five years.
• A maximum of CAD 3,000 per term.
• Funding is credited directly to the student’s account for up to 15 consecutive terms.

This scholarship is applied when students are charged international doctoral tuition fees and cannot be combined with the Differential Tuition Fee Exemption Scholarship.

PhD Admission Scholarship

International students admitted to eligible doctoral programs may also receive the university’s Admission Scholarship. The current minimum funding package is substantial:

• CAD 72,000 over four years.
• This package includes CAD 9,000 per year from the Admission Scholarship and at least CAD 9,000 per year from the academic unit (through assistantships or other internal funding).
• This results in a minimum annual support of CAD 18,000 for four years.

Some faculties, like the Telfer School of Management, offer even higher funding packages, potentially up to CAD 47,000 per year for international PhD students.

Eligibility Criteria for University of Ottawa Scholarships

Meeting the eligibility criteria is essential for any scholarship application. The University of Ottawa has specific requirements for each of its international student scholarships, focusing on student status, academic performance, and program enrollment.

International English Admission Scholarship

To qualify for this scholarship, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Be an international student with a valid study permit.
• Be newly admitted to an eligible English-language undergraduate program.
• Possess a minimum admission average of 80%.
• Enroll in an eligible faculty.
• Not enroll in a French Immersion program.
• Maintain full-time study status.
• Pay international tuition fees.

The scholarship is renewable as long as these conditions are met.

International English Academic Excellence Scholarship

This scholarship is for top-tier students and has slightly higher academic requirements:

• Be an international student with a valid study permit.
• Be newly admitted to an eligible English-language undergraduate program.
• Achieve a minimum admission average of 90%.
• Maintain full-time study status.
• Not enroll in a French Immersion program.
• Pay international tuition fees.

While not renewable, it can be combined with the International English Admission Scholarship.

Differential Tuition Fee Exemption Scholarship

Eligibility for this scholarship depends on your program’s language of instruction:

• Undergraduate applicants must be international students paying international tuition fees and accept admission to an eligible program offered in French. They must also study full-time and take at least three courses or nine units taught in French each term. Alternatively, students in eligible English-language programs with French Immersion can qualify by completing the required French coursework.
• Master’s students must be enrolled full-time and either study in a program offered in French or meet the university’s French-language education requirements.

International Doctoral Scholarship

To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must:

• Be an international student.
• Be admitted to a doctoral program.
• Maintain full-time study.
• Be charged international tuition fees.
• Continuously meet their doctoral program requirements.

PhD Admission Scholarship

International PhD applicants can qualify if they:

• Are admitted to an eligible doctoral program.
• Have an admission average of at least 8.0/10.
• Register full-time and maintain uninterrupted full-time enrollment.
• Meet the academic requirements of their specific program.

Some academic units may have higher minimum average requirements than the university-wide threshold.

English-Language Requirements

Students applying to English-language programs must demonstrate English proficiency unless their prior education meets the university’s standards. Accepted scores for undergraduate entry typically include:

• IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall, with 6.5 in Writing.
• Duolingo English Test: 120 overall, with 120 in Literacy.
• TOEFL (revised scale): 4.5 overall, with 4.5 in Writing.

Graduate programs generally require at least IELTS Academic 6.5 overall (6.5 in Writing, no component below 6) or a revised TOEFL score of 4.5 overall, with program-specific component requirements. Some graduate programs may demand higher scores.

Required Documents for University of Ottawa Scholarships

Gathering the correct documents is a critical part of the scholarship application process. While specific requirements can vary by program, international applicants should generally prepare the following:

1. Completed Admission Application: This is the foundational document for all applications.
2. Academic Transcripts: Official records of your previous academic performance.
3. Secondary School Certificate: For undergraduate applicants.
4. Bachelor’s Degree Certificate: For master’s applicants.
5. Bachelor’s and Master’s Records: Where required for PhD study.
6. Certified Translations: If your academic documents are not in English or French.
7. English or French Language Proficiency Evidence: Test scores like IELTS, TOEFL, or DELF/DALF, if applicable.
8. Passport and Citizenship Information: Proof of identity and nationality.
9. Academic CV: For graduate programs, highlighting your academic and research experience.
10. Statement of Purpose or Letter of Intent: Explaining your academic goals and reasons for applying.
11. Recommendation Letters: From academic or professional referees.
12. Research Proposal: Often required for PhD applications.
13. Additional Programme-Specific Documents: Check your chosen program for unique requirements.

For graduate applications, resources are available to help prepare your academic CV, statement of purpose, and scholarship recommendation letters.

How to Apply for University of Ottawa Scholarships

The application process for University of Ottawa scholarships differs slightly depending on whether you are applying for undergraduate or graduate studies. Understanding these steps will help you submit a strong application.

Undergraduate Scholarships Application Process

Applying for undergraduate scholarships involves a few key steps:

1. Choose Your Program: Select an eligible University of Ottawa undergraduate program. Note whether it’s offered in English, French, or French Immersion, as this impacts scholarship eligibility.
2. Submit Admission Application: Apply for admission through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC). You’ll need to provide personal details, academic history, and program choices.
3. Submit Supporting Documents: Upload your academic documents and language proficiency evidence as required by your program. It’s advisable to submit these early, as some programs have limited capacity.
4. Automatic Scholarship Consideration: For the International English Admission Scholarship, no separate application is needed. Students meeting the 80% admission average and other criteria are automatically considered upon admission. High-achieving students (90% average) are also considered for the International English Academic Excellence Scholarship.
5. French Program Requirements: If you plan to study in French or French Immersion, ensure your course selections align with the Differential Tuition Fee Exemption Scholarship requirements, which are tied to the number of French courses taken.

Graduate and PhD Scholarships Application Process

Graduate and PhD scholarship applications are closely linked to your admission application:

1. Select Your Program: Choose a master’s or PhD program that matches your academic background and research interests. For research-based programs, identify potential supervisors and research groups.
2. Prepare Application Documents: Gather necessary documents, which typically include academic transcripts, a CV, a statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and proof of language proficiency. A research proposal may also be required.
3. Submit Admission Application: Apply through OUAC and fulfill all requirements specified by your chosen academic unit. Graduate scholarship consideration is often integrated with the admission process and faculty funding policies.
4. Meet PhD Scholarship Averages: For the PhD Admission Scholarship, ensure your academic record meets the university’s minimum average of 8.0/10, or a higher departmental requirement.
5. Review Funding Offers: If admitted, carefully examine your funding offer. Doctoral funding packages can combine university scholarships, academic unit support, assistantships, and the International Doctoral Scholarship.

Application Deadlines

Timeliness is crucial when applying for university admissions and scholarships. The University of Ottawa has specific deadlines that international students must be aware of to ensure their applications are considered.

For Fall 2027 undergraduate admission, the University of Ottawa begins accepting applications on September 17, 2026. While deadlines vary by program, international applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications by January 15, 2027, especially for competitive programs. It is also recommended to submit required documents as soon as possible, with February 15, 2027, noted as an important date for document completion for many programs.

There is no separate application deadline for the International English Admission Scholarship because eligible students are automatically considered when they apply for admission. Similarly, the International English Academic Excellence Scholarship is linked to admission for eligible students, with consideration for those entering Winter 2026 or later, which includes the 2027 intake.

Graduate and PhD application periods vary significantly by program and faculty. They generally occur between autumn and early spring. Applicants must check the specific application period for their chosen graduate program. There isn’t a single common deadline for the International Doctoral Scholarship or the main PhD Admission Scholarship; these are typically assessed as part of the overall admission and funding package.

Tips for a Strong Scholarship Application

To maximize your chances of securing a University of Ottawa scholarship, focus on presenting a compelling and well-prepared application. Attention to detail and a clear demonstration of your qualifications can make a significant difference.

• Research Thoroughly: Understand the specific requirements and benefits of each scholarship you are interested in. Ensure your academic profile and program choice align with the scholarship’s objectives.
• Excel Academically: Maintain a strong academic record. For scholarships like the International English Academic Excellence Scholarship, a high admission average (90% or above) is essential.
• Craft a Clear Statement of Purpose: For graduate applications, your statement of purpose should articulate your research interests, academic goals, and why you are a good fit for the program and university. Tailor it to highlight your suitability for any specific scholarships.
• Secure Strong Recommendation Letters: Choose referees who know you well academically and can speak to your strengths, potential, and character. Provide them with your CV, statement of purpose, and information about the scholarship.
• Submit Documents Early: Avoid last-minute rushes by preparing and submitting all required documents well before the deadlines. This also allows time for any potential issues to be resolved.
• Highlight Language Skills: If applying for French-language scholarships, clearly demonstrate your proficiency and commitment to studying in French. For English programs, ensure your language test scores meet or exceed the requirements.
• Understand Automatic Consideration: For undergraduate English scholarships, your admission application is your scholarship application. Ensure your application is complete and strong to be considered automatically.
• Check Program-Specific Requirements: Always verify if your chosen program has unique scholarship application procedures or additional document requirements. This information is usually found on the program’s departmental website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of scholarships does the University of Ottawa offer to international students?

The University of Ottawa offers several scholarships for international students, including the International English Admission Scholarship, International English Academic Excellence Scholarship, Differential Tuition Fee Exemption Scholarship, International Doctoral Scholarship, and PhD Admission Scholarship.

How much is the International English Admission Scholarship worth?

The International English Admission Scholarship provides CAD 7,500 per eligible term, with a potential total of CAD 60,000 over a four-year undergraduate degree. It is renewable for students maintaining full-time enrollment.

Can international students combine scholarships at the University of Ottawa?

Yes, students can combine the International English Admission Scholarship with the International English Academic Excellence Scholarship, potentially receiving up to CAD 70,000 in total funding if they meet the high academic requirements.

What are the general eligibility requirements for undergraduate international scholarships?

Generally, international students must have a valid study permit, be newly admitted to an eligible program, maintain full-time status, pay international tuition fees, and meet specific academic averages (e.g., 80% for the Admission Scholarship, 90% for the Academic Excellence Scholarship).