Dreaming of studying in Canada? The University of Manitoba offers a gateway to world-class education with a range of scholarships designed to support international students. Pursuing higher education abroad is a significant step, and financial assistance can make that dream a reality. This guide will walk you through the exciting scholarship opportunities available at the University of Manitoba for the 2027-2028 academic year, helping you understand your options and how to apply.
The University of Manitoba is committed to attracting talented students from around the globe. With over CAD 40 million awarded annually in scholarships and bursaries, there are numerous avenues for both new and continuing international students to receive financial support. From undergraduate entrance awards to substantial graduate fellowships, these scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
This article will break down the key scholarships, their benefits, who is eligible, and the steps you need to take to submit a strong application. Whether you’re aiming for an undergraduate degree or pursuing advanced research at the master’s or PhD level, understanding these opportunities is the first step toward securing your place at this esteemed Canadian institution.
Understanding the University of Manitoba Scholarships
The University of Manitoba offers a variety of scholarships for international students, catering to different academic levels and program types. These awards are designed to attract and support global talent, recognizing academic merit and potential. The university provides over CAD 40 million in scholarships and bursaries each year, making it a significant destination for international students seeking financial aid.
The main scholarships covered in this guide are:
- International Excellence Entrance Scholarship: A new award for exceptional international undergraduate students entering directly from high school.
- International Undergraduate Student Entrance Scholarship: An automatic award for high-achieving international students entering undergraduate programs.
- University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF): A substantial fellowship for master’s and PhD students.
- International Graduate Student Entrance Scholarship: An award for international students entering eligible master’s programs.
Benefits and Coverage of University of Manitoba Scholarships
The value and coverage of scholarships vary significantly depending on the award. Understanding what each scholarship offers is key to assessing its suitability for your academic journey. Some scholarships provide a fixed amount, while others can cover a portion of tuition fees.
International Excellence Entrance Scholarship
This scholarship is a new initiative for the 2027-2028 academic year, aimed at recognizing outstanding international undergraduates. It is not renewable.
- Top Award: One scholarship worth CAD 25,000.
- Additional Awards: Two scholarships worth CAD 10,000 each.
This scholarship can be combined with other University of Manitoba awards. The selection process considers academic performance, leadership, community involvement, and the overall admission and scholarship applications.
International Undergraduate Student Entrance Scholarship
This scholarship is automatically awarded to academically strong international students entering the University of Manitoba from high schools outside Canada. The value is determined by academic performance.
- Example Award Tiers:
- 95% or higher average: CAD 3,000
- 90% or higher average: CAD 2,000
- 85% or higher average: CAD 1,000
The final award tiers for 2027 may be adjusted. Students must enroll full-time in both fall and winter terms to remain eligible. This scholarship typically cannot be combined with other entrance scholarships within the university’s program.
International Undergraduate Student Scholarship
For international students already pursuing their degree at the University of Manitoba, this scholarship offers funding for continuing students.
- Total Annual Funding: CAD 70,000 is divided among eligible recipients.
- Eligibility: Requires a minimum sessional GPA of 3.5 and continued full-time study.
Awards are based on academic performance, and funding continues until the available budget is used.
International Graduate Student Entrance Scholarship
This scholarship is available for international students entering eligible master’s programs.
- Minimum Value: CAD 5,000.
- Maximum Value: Can cover up to the international student differential tuition fee.
Eligibility requires being an international student, entering the first year of a full-time master’s program, paying international differential tuition, and having an admission GPA of at least 3.75, without holding another external award that covers tuition.
University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF)
The UMGF is one of the most significant scholarships for international master’s and PhD students, available for research-based programs eligible for Tri-Agency graduate student awards.
- For Master’s Students:
- CAD 20,000 per year.
- Funding for 12 or 24 months.
- Maximum scholarship value: CAD 40,000.
- For PhD Students:
- CAD 25,000 per year.
- Funding for 12, 24, 36, or 48 months.
- Maximum scholarship value: CAD 100,000.
Both Canadian and international students are eligible. Departments nominate successful candidates, and the department also determines the fellowship’s length. While substantial, it is important to note that the UMGF may not cover all expenses, such as tuition, fees, and living costs, depending on the program.
Eligibility Criteria for University of Manitoba Scholarships
Meeting the specific eligibility requirements is the first step in applying for any scholarship. These criteria ensure that applicants are well-suited for the opportunities offered.
International Excellence Entrance Scholarship Eligibility
To be considered for this award, applicants must:
- Be an international student.
- Apply directly from high school.
- Enter University 1 or another eligible direct-entry undergraduate faculty, college, or school.
- Commit to full-time study.
- Demonstrate strong academic achievement.
- Show evidence of leadership.
- Provide proof of sustained and meaningful community involvement.
- Complete the dedicated scholarship application.
Candidates for the top CAD 25,000 award need a minimum admission average of 90% or equivalent based on five approved senior-level academic subjects.
International Undergraduate Student Entrance Scholarship Eligibility
This scholarship is for international students who meet the following criteria:
- Be an international student studying in Canada on a valid study permit.
- Pay international tuition fees.
- Apply to an eligible University of Manitoba undergraduate program.
- Possess at least an 85% high-school average or equivalent.
- Enroll in at least 24 credit hours across the fall and winter terms.
International qualifications are assessed for academic standing equivalent to Canadian requirements.
International Undergraduate Student Scholarship Eligibility
Continuing undergraduate students must meet these requirements:
- Be an international student.
- Hold a valid Canadian study permit.
- Have completed at least 24 credit hours at the University of Manitoba.
- Maintain a minimum sessional GPA of 3.5.
- Continue into the next consecutive year of study.
- Remain enrolled full-time in at least 24 credit hours.
International Graduate Student Entrance Scholarship Eligibility
Key requirements for this scholarship include:
- Being an international student.
- Entering a full-time master’s program.
- Paying international differential tuition.
- Having at least a 3.75 admission GPA.
- Not receiving external scholarship funding that already covers tuition.
University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF) Eligibility
To be eligible for the UMGF, applicants must:
- Be admitted to a master’s or PhD program.
- Study full-time.
- Have a minimum admission GPA of 3.0.
- Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 throughout their studies.
- Demonstrate strong research potential.
- Make satisfactory academic progress.
- Study in a program eligible for Tri-Agency graduate funding.
- Receive a nomination from their department or academic unit.
Individual departments may have higher GPA requirements than the university-wide minimum.
English-Language Requirements
International students must demonstrate English proficiency. Accepted tests and minimum scores include:
- Undergraduate Applicants:
- IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL revised scale: 4.5 overall, with a minimum of 4.0 in each component.
- Duolingo English Test: 120 overall, with a minimum of 105 in each subscore.
- PTE Academic: 58.
- CAEL: 60.
- Cambridge C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency: 180.
- Graduate Applicants:
- IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall.
- TOEFL revised scale: 4.5 overall with at least 4.0 in each component.
- Duolingo English Test: 120 overall with at least 100 in each component.
- PTE Academic: 61.
- Cambridge C1/C2: 180.
Some graduate programs may require higher scores.
How to Apply for University of Manitoba Scholarships
The application process varies depending on the specific scholarship. Some scholarships are awarded automatically, while others require a separate application.
Applying for the International Excellence Entrance Scholarship
This scholarship requires a dedicated application process:
- Apply for Admission: First, apply for an eligible undergraduate program at the University of Manitoba, such as University 1 or another direct-entry faculty.
- Complete Scholarship Application: Submit the separate International Excellence Entrance Scholarship application. This application assesses academics, leadership, and community involvement.
- Prepare Transcripts: Provide an interim senior-level secondary-school transcript showing current courses and grades. If not in English, an official translation is needed.
- Obtain a Reference Letter: Secure a reference letter from a current teacher or school principal. This letter should detail your academic performance, leadership, character, community involvement, and potential for university study.
- Complete Scholarship Responses: Carefully answer all questions, using specific examples to highlight your leadership and community contributions.
Applying for the International Undergraduate Student Entrance Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded automatically:
- Apply for Admission: Submit your application for an eligible undergraduate program at the University of Manitoba.
- Submit Academic Records: Provide all required high-school academic records and admission documents.
- Automatic Consideration: No separate scholarship application is needed. Eligible international applicants are automatically considered based on their academic record.
- Notification: If selected, the university will communicate the scholarship offer.
Applying for the International Graduate Student Entrance Scholarship
This scholarship is integrated into the graduate admissions process:
- Choose a Program: Select an eligible research-based master’s program at the University of Manitoba.
- Prepare Graduate Application: Gather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, CV, statement of purpose, and recommendation letters.
- Submit Application: Submit a complete graduate admission application. Eligible students are automatically assessed for this scholarship.
Applying for the University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF)
The UMGF application is managed by individual departments:
- Apply to a Program: Apply to an eligible research-based master’s or PhD program at the University of Manitoba.
- Identify a Supervisor: For research programs, find a supervisor whose research aligns with your interests. Review their work and contact them with a focused academic CV.
- Inquire About UMGF Process: Contact your academic department to understand its specific UMGF selection process.
- Complete Departmental Application: If required, complete any fellowship application requested by your department.
- Nomination: Your department will nominate successful candidates to the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, which then extends the official fellowship offer.
Required Documents for University of Manitoba Scholarships
Gathering the correct documents is crucial for a successful scholarship application. Requirements vary by program level.
Undergraduate Documents
International undergraduate applicants typically need:
- Online undergraduate application.
- Secondary-school transcripts.
- Final secondary-school certificate (if available).
- English-language proficiency test results (if required).
- Certified English translations of documents (if necessary).
- Passport and international student information.
- Any program-specific documents.
The undergraduate application fee is CAD 130.
International Excellence Entrance Scholarship Documents
In addition to undergraduate application documents, applicants for this scholarship need:
- Completed International Excellence Entrance Scholarship application.
- Interim senior-level high-school transcript.
- Reference letter from a current teacher or principal.
- English translations of documents (if needed).
- Details of leadership experience.
- Evidence of community involvement.
Graduate Documents
Graduate applicants generally require:
- Graduate admission application.
- Bachelor’s degree certificate.
- Master’s degree certificate (if applicable).
- Academic transcripts.
- Academic CV.
- Statement of purpose.
- Recommendation letters.
- English-language test results (if required).
- Research proposal (if requested).
- Supervisor information (if required).
- Publications or research evidence (if applicable).
- Program-specific documents.
Application Deadlines
Application deadlines are critical for scholarship applications. For undergraduate entrance scholarships, the main consideration period generally closes in March for students beginning in the fall. Specific deadlines for the new International Excellence Entrance Scholarship for the 2027-2028 academic year will be announced.
Graduate fellowship and scholarship deadlines vary by department. Each graduate department sets its own competition schedule for the University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF). International Graduate Student Entrance Scholarships are assessed as part of the graduate admission process, aligning with program admission schedules. It is essential to check the specific deadlines for your chosen program and scholarship.
Tips for a Strong Scholarship Application
To stand out among a competitive pool of applicants, consider these tips:
- Academic Excellence: Maintain a strong academic record. For undergraduate entrance scholarships, high averages are paramount. For graduate studies, a high GPA is essential for fellowships like the UMGF.
- Highlight Leadership and Involvement: For scholarships like the International Excellence Entrance Scholarship, clearly articulate your leadership roles and community contributions. Use specific examples to demonstrate impact.
- Tailor Your Application: Customize your statement of purpose and essays to align with the scholarship’s objectives and the program’s focus.
- Strong Recommendation Letters: Choose referees who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities, character, and potential. Provide them with your CV and information about the scholarship.
- Proofread Carefully: Ensure all application materials are free of grammatical errors and typos. A polished application reflects attention to detail.
- Meet Deadlines: Submit all required documents well before the stated deadlines to avoid any last-minute issues.
- Research Thoroughly: Understand the specific requirements and selection criteria for each scholarship you apply for.
By following these guidelines and thoroughly preparing your application, you can significantly increase your chances of securing a scholarship at the University of Manitoba and embarking on your academic journey in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total amount of scholarships and bursaries offered annually by the University of Manitoba to international students?
The University of Manitoba offers over CAD 40 million annually in scholarships and bursaries to support international students.
Which scholarship is specifically for new international undergraduate students with outstanding academic achievements and leadership potential?
The International Excellence Entrance Scholarship is a new award for exceptional international undergraduate students, offering up to CAD 25,000.
What is the University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF) and who is it for?
The UMGF is a significant scholarship for research-based master’s and PhD students, offering CAD 20,000 annually for master’s and CAD 25,000 annually for PhD students.
Are there automatic scholarships for international undergraduate students at the University of Manitoba?
Yes, the International Undergraduate Student Entrance Scholarship is automatically awarded to high-achieving international students based on their academic record.
