Dreaming of studying in Canada? Simon Fraser University (SFU) offers incredible opportunities for international students to pursue their academic goals. With a range of scholarships designed to support aspiring scholars, SFU aims to make higher education accessible and rewarding.
This guide will walk you through the Simon Fraser University scholarships available for 2027. We’ll cover everything from the impressive International Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship to graduate and PhD funding options. Discover the benefits, eligibility requirements, and how to successfully apply for these prestigious awards.
Whether you’re aiming for an undergraduate degree, a master’s, or a PhD, SFU provides pathways to fund your education. Let’s explore how you can secure your spot and financial support at this renowned Canadian institution.
What are Simon Fraser University Scholarships?
Simon Fraser University (SFU) provides several scholarship opportunities for international students looking to study in British Columbia, Canada. These scholarships are designed to attract talented individuals and support them financially throughout their academic journey at SFU. The funding covers undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs, ensuring a broad range of students can benefit.
The university’s commitment to international education is evident in its generous scholarship offerings. These awards aim to reduce the financial burden of studying abroad, allowing students to focus on their academic and personal growth. SFU scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and demonstrated financial need.
Key Scholarship Opportunities at SFU
Simon Fraser University offers a variety of scholarships, with a few standout programs for international students. These include the flagship International Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship, as well as various graduate entrance scholarships and a minimum funding guarantee for PhD students.
International Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship (USES)
The International Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship (USES) is SFU’s premier scholarship for international undergraduates. This award provides significant financial support, aiming to cover a substantial portion of tuition and living expenses over a standard four-year degree. It is designed to attract academically gifted students from around the globe.
For undergraduate students, the USES offers a total of CAD 140,000, distributed as CAD 17,500 per term over eight terms. This funding supports a standard four-year undergraduate program. Recipients also benefit from priority access to university residences and earlier course enrollment, providing a smoother transition into university life.
Additional Living Allowance
In select cases, exceptionally talented students who also demonstrate significant financial need may receive an additional CAD 8,000 per term as a living allowance. This extra support is separate from the main scholarship payment and is not guaranteed to all recipients. It aims to further assist students facing considerable financial challenges.
SFU Graduate Entrance Scholarships
Simon Fraser University also offers a range of graduate entrance scholarships for students pursuing master’s and PhD degrees. These scholarships are funded by the university and generous donors, with award amounts varying significantly. Many of these scholarships are nomination-based, meaning departments select outstanding applicants.
Graduate entrance scholarships can range from approximately CAD 7,000 to CAD 50,000. Examples include the Graduate Dean’s Entrance Scholarship, which can provide between CAD 1,000 and CAD 8,000 per term, and the Darcy and Karina Biagioni Family Graduate Scholarship, offering at least CAD 50,000 over the first two years of study.
SFU PhD Minimum Funding
For doctoral students, SFU guarantees a minimum funding package. Eligible PhD students in covered programs receive at least CAD 28,000 per year for a minimum of four years. This amounts to a total minimum commitment of CAD 112,000 for doctoral studies. This funding can come from a combination of scholarships, fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships.
Scholarship Coverage and Benefits
The coverage provided by SFU scholarships varies depending on the specific award. The International Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship is one of the most substantial awards available to international students at a Canadian university.
Undergraduate Scholarship Coverage
The International Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship provides CAD 140,000 over eight terms, equating to CAD 17,500 per term. This significant award helps cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs. The additional living allowance of CAD 8,000 per term can further offset costs for students with demonstrated financial need.
While the USES is a very generous award, students should still compare their total scholarship package against their estimated expenses, including tuition, housing, food, health insurance, books, and personal costs, to determine if it is fully funded for their specific situation.
Graduate Scholarship Coverage
Graduate entrance scholarships offer varying levels of financial support. The Graduate Dean’s Entrance Scholarship can provide between CAD 1,000 and CAD 8,000 per term, up to CAD 24,000 per year, for up to two years for master’s students and four years for PhD students. The Darcy and Karina Biagioni Family Graduate Scholarship offers at least CAD 50,000 over the first two years.
PhD Funding Package
The minimum funding guarantee for PhD students ensures they receive at least CAD 28,000 per year for four years, totaling a minimum of CAD 112,000. This funding package can be composed of various sources, including university scholarships, teaching assistantships (TA), research assistantships (RA), and supervisor research grants.
Eligibility Criteria for SFU Scholarships
Meeting the eligibility criteria is the first step toward securing a Simon Fraser University scholarship. Requirements differ for undergraduate, graduate, and PhD programs.
Undergraduate Scholarship Eligibility
To be eligible for the International Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship, applicants must:
- Apply for undergraduate study at SFU for the Fall term.
- Be in their final year of secondary school or have graduated within the past year without post-secondary study.
- Meet the admission requirements for their chosen program.
- Achieve a minimum academic average of 90% or 31 International Baccalaureate (IB) points (excluding bonus points).
- Demonstrate strong academic performance, significant extracurricular involvement, and community engagement.
- Provide two complete references.
- Submit a separate USES scholarship application.
The minimum academic threshold is a starting point; successful candidates typically exceed these requirements significantly due to the scholarship’s competitive nature.
Extracurricular and Leadership Contributions
SFU places importance on a student’s contributions beyond academics. Strong applicants showcase achievements in areas such as:
- Community service and volunteer work
- Student leadership roles
- Employment and entrepreneurship
- Athletics and arts
- Academic competitions
- Participation in clubs and societies
- Personal projects and other significant accomplishments
Applicants should focus on the impact and meaning of their activities rather than just listing them.
Graduate Scholarship Eligibility
Eligibility for graduate entrance scholarships generally requires:
- Admission to a full-time master’s or PhD program at SFU.
- Excellent academic records from previous studies.
- Demonstrated potential for advanced research.
- Strong recommendation letters.
- Relevant academic or research experience.
- A compelling statement of purpose or research interests.
- Nomination by the academic program for specific awards.
Individual graduate programs may have additional admission and scholarship requirements.
PhD Minimum Funding Eligibility
To be eligible for the university-wide PhD minimum funding, students must:
- Be enrolled in an SFU PhD program covered by the funding policy.
- Study full-time as required by their program.
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress.
- Meet the funding requirements set by their academic unit.
- Accept or apply for funding components as part of their package.
Professional doctoral programs are typically excluded from this minimum funding policy.
English-Language Proficiency Requirements
International students must demonstrate English-language proficiency to be admitted to SFU. Several standardized tests are accepted for both undergraduate and graduate admissions.
Undergraduate English Requirements
Accepted tests and minimum scores for undergraduate admission include:
- IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall, with no section below 6.0.
- TOEFL (revised scale): 4.5 overall, with no section below 4.0.
- Duolingo English Test: 125.
- PTE Academic: 65 overall, with a minimum of 60 in each communicative skill.
- CAEL: 70 overall, with no section below 60.
- Cambridge English: 176 overall, with no section below 169.
Meeting English requirements can also be fulfilled through specific prior English-language education or accepted academic qualifications.
Graduate English Requirements
For graduate admissions, the minimum English proficiency scores are:
- IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in each section.
- TOEFL (revised scale): 4.5 overall, with a minimum of 4.0 in each section.
- Duolingo English Test: 125 overall, with a minimum of 105 in each section.
- PTE Academic: 65 overall, with a minimum of 60 in each section.
- CAEL: 70 overall, with a minimum of 60 in each section.
- Cambridge C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency: 180.
It is important to note that individual graduate programs may require higher English proficiency scores than the general university minimums.
Application Process for SFU Scholarships
Applying for scholarships at Simon Fraser University involves distinct steps for undergraduate and graduate applicants. Understanding these processes is key to a successful application.
Applying for the Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship
The application process for the International Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship involves several key steps:
- Apply for SFU Undergraduate Admission: First, submit your application for admission to an undergraduate program at SFU. You will need your SFU student number to proceed with the scholarship application.
- Complete the USES Application: Access and fill out the separate Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship application form. This section requires details about up to five extracurricular activities and achievements.
- Write the Scholarship Essay: Craft a compelling 500-word essay explaining how your personal experiences have shaped your outlook and how they connect to your future at SFU. Focus on specific examples of personal growth, values, leadership, and community contribution.
- Secure Two References: Choose individuals who know your accomplishments well and can provide strong testimonials for your academic, extracurricular, or personal achievements.
- Submit All Admission Documents: Ensure all required admission documents are submitted through your SFU Student Centre. Incomplete admission applications can impact scholarship consideration.
- Await Decision Notification: Monitor your SFU account and email for updates regarding your scholarship decision. Successful candidates will be informed of the award and payment schedule.
Applying for Graduate Entrance Scholarships
For graduate entrance scholarships, the process is often integrated with the admission application:
- Select an SFU Program: Identify a master’s or PhD program that aligns with your academic and research interests. Research faculty profiles and current projects.
- Prepare a Strong Admission Application: Compile all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, CV, statement of purpose, research interests, and recommendation letters.
- Submit Graduate Application: Submit your complete graduate admission application to your chosen program. Many scholarships are awarded based on the strength of this application.
- Provide Additional Information (If Requested): Some graduate scholarships may require shortlisted candidates to submit further details about their research proposals or interests.
- Departmental Nomination: For many awards, such as the Darcy and Karina Biagioni Family Graduate Scholarship, your academic program will nominate strong candidates.
Applying for SFU PhD Funding
Securing PhD funding at SFU typically involves the following steps:
- Apply to an Eligible PhD Program: Begin by applying to a PhD program at SFU that is covered by the university’s minimum funding policy.
- Identify a Supervisor (If Required): For many research-based PhD programs, identifying and contacting a potential supervisor is a crucial step. Clearly articulate your background, research interests, and why their work aligns with yours.
- Submit a Complete Doctoral Application: Ensure your PhD application is thorough and includes all required academic documents, research proposals, and references.
- Review the Funding Offer: If admitted, carefully review the funding offer letter. This document details the guaranteed annual funding, duration, components of the package (scholarships, TA/RA), and any obligations.
Required Documents for SFU Scholarships
Gathering the correct documents is essential for a successful scholarship application. The requirements vary for undergraduate and graduate levels.
Undergraduate Scholarship Documents
Applicants for the International Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship typically need:
- SFU undergraduate admission application.
- Official secondary school academic records.
- The completed Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship application.
- Details of up to five extracurricular activities or achievements.
- A scholarship essay.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Proof of English-language proficiency, if required.
- Any additional supporting documents requested by SFU admissions.
It is important to provide accurate information about your achievements, as referees may be asked to verify these details.
Graduate Scholarship Documents
Graduate applicants generally need to prepare:
- Graduate admission application.
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts.
- Master’s degree certificate and transcripts (if applicable).
- An up-to-date academic Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A well-written statement of purpose.
- Strong letters of recommendation.
- English-language proficiency test results, if required.
- A research statement or proposal, as specified by the program.
- A writing sample, if requested.
- Evidence of publications or other research contributions.
- Any program-specific documents.
For nomination-based graduate scholarships, the academic department may use the documents submitted with your admission application.
Application Deadlines for SFU Scholarships
Meeting application deadlines is critical for scholarship consideration. SFU has specific dates for its undergraduate scholarships, while graduate deadlines can vary by department.
Undergraduate Scholarship Deadlines (Fall 2027 Entry)
For students entering in Fall 2027, the key deadlines for the International Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship are:
- USES Application Opens: October 1, 2026
- USES Scholarship Deadline: December 15, 2026
- Supporting Documents and References Deadline: January 31, 2027
- SFU Undergraduate Admission Deadline: January 31, 2027
Scholarship applications are typically reviewed between February and March, with notifications sent out from mid-March onwards.
Graduate Scholarship Deadlines
Graduate admission and scholarship periods vary significantly by department and program. Graduate entrance scholarships are often tied to the admission process, and academic units nominate strong applicants for relevant awards. It is essential to check the specific deadlines for the graduate program you are interested in on the SFU Graduate Studies website.
Tips for a Strong Scholarship Application
To maximize your chances of success with Simon Fraser University scholarships, consider these tips:
- Start Early: Begin your research and application preparation well in advance of the deadlines. This allows ample time to gather documents and craft thoughtful responses.
- Tailor Your Application: Customize your essays and statements to directly address the scholarship’s criteria and SFU’s values. Avoid generic applications.
- Highlight Extracurriculars: Clearly articulate the impact and significance of your extracurricular activities and community involvement. Show leadership and commitment.
- Choose References Wisely: Select referees who know you well and can speak to your strengths and potential. Provide them with your CV and information about the scholarship.
- Proofread Meticulously: Ensure all parts of your application are free of grammatical errors and typos. A polished application demonstrates attention to detail.
- Understand the Funding: For graduate and PhD applicants, thoroughly understand the components of your funding package, including any assistantship duties or external scholarship obligations.
- Connect with Programs: For graduate studies, engage with potential supervisors and faculty members whose research aligns with your interests. This can strengthen your application and provide valuable insights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the International Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship (USES) at SFU?
The USES is SFU’s main scholarship for international undergraduates, offering CAD 140,000 over four years to cover tuition and living expenses.
What is the minimum funding guarantee for PhD students at SFU?
SFU guarantees eligible PhD students a minimum of CAD 28,000 per year for four years, totaling at least CAD 112,000.
How do I apply for undergraduate scholarships at SFU?
You need to apply for SFU undergraduate admission first, then complete a separate USES application, write an essay, and secure two references.
Are there specific English language proficiency requirements for international students at SFU?
Yes, international students must meet minimum scores on tests like IELTS or TOEFL, with specific requirements for undergraduate and graduate admissions.
