Study in Canada with UBC Scholarships: How to Win the International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES) & OIS 2025

Dreaming of studying at one of the world’s top universities without worrying about tuition fees? The University of British Columbia (UBC) in Canada might just make that dream come true.

Every year, UBC welcomes brilliant students from around the world and rewards them with prestigious scholarships that recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. Two of the most popular awards are the International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES) and the Outstanding International Student Award (OIS) and the next application round opens this January 2026.

Let’s break down everything you need to know about these incredible opportunities from what they cover, to how to apply and what makes you eligible.

Why Choose UBC?

Before we dive into the scholarships, let’s talk about why UBC is such a dream destination.

UBC is located in beautiful British Columbia, with campuses in Vancouver and Kelowna  surrounded by ocean views, mountains, and a vibrant city life. It ranks among the top 40 universities worldwide, and it’s known for world-class research, innovation, and diversity.

But here’s the best part UBC believes in investing in talent. Whether you’re from Africa, Asia, Europe, or the Americas, you have a chance to study at UBC with scholarships that can cover your tuition and living costs.

UBC Scholarships for International Students

UBC offers two major entrance scholarships for outstanding international students entering undergraduate programs:

1. International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES)

This is one of UBC’s most generous awards. The IMES recognizes students with exceptional academic performance, leadership skills, and community engagement.

Coverage: Partial to full tuition, renewable for up to four years, depending on academic performance.

Selection: Automatically considered when you apply for admission to UBC.

 2. Outstanding International Student Award (OIS)

The OIS is a one-time entrance award offered to students who demonstrate strong academic achievements and leadership potential.

Coverage: Partial tuition (typically CAD $5,000 – $10,000).

Selection: Automatically awarded based on your admission application.

You don’t need to submit a separate form for these scholarships; your application to UBC also counts as your scholarship application.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for UBC scholarships, make sure you meet these simple yet important criteria:

• You must be an international student with a valid study permit.
• You must be entering UBC directly from high school (first undergraduate degree).
• You should have excellent academic records and strong extracurricular involvement.
• You must demonstrate leadership, volunteer work, or community engagement.
• You should meet UBC’s English language requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, or proof of instruction in English).

Tip: UBC looks beyond grades, they value your story, passion, and positive impact in your community.

Application Deadline

The application deadline for the UBC IMES and OIS scholarships is typically January 15, 2026 for students applying to start in September 2026 (Fall intake).

Since these are entrance awards, you must apply for admission before the deadline to be considered automatically.

How to Apply for UBC Scholarships

Applying for UBC scholarships is easier than you might think. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the UBC Application Portal: Go to you.ubc.ca

2. Choose Your Program: Explore over 200 undergraduate programs and pick what suits you best.

3. Create Your Account: Start your online application and fill in your academic details.

4. Upload Documents: Submit transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and your personal profile.

5. Submit Application Fee: Pay and confirm your application before the deadline.

6. Wait for Results: If you qualify, you’ll automatically be considered for IMES or OIS scholarships.

You don’t need a separate scholarship form, just make sure your application is strong, complete, and on time.

Scholarship Value at a Glance

Scholarship Name	Type	Coverage	Renewable
IMES	Entrance Scholarship	Partial to Full Tuition	Up to 4 Years
OIS	Entrance Scholarship	CAD $5,000–$10,000	One-time award

Why You Should Apply

UBC doesn’t just offer an education but it offers a life-changing experience. Imagine studying with people from over 150 countries, working on global projects, and preparing for a future of impact all while being supported financially.

Thousands of international students apply each year, but what makes winners stand out is their story, resilience, and community involvement.

So don’t just list your achievements show how you’ve made a difference. That’s what UBC values most.

The University of British Columbia gives international students a golden chance to study in Canada with scholarships that recognize both excellence and heart. Whether you’re a high school topper, a young changemaker, or a community volunteer, there’s space for you at UBC.

Apply before January, 2026 at you.ubc.ca and take your first step toward a world-class education, funded by one of Canada’s best universities.

Your journey to a global classroom in Vancouver could start with just one click. Don’t wait, your scholarship story begins today.