You want a world-class Canadian degree without the heavy price tag. The University of Alberta delivers exactly that, with powerful scholarships for international students at every level. If you are targeting Canada for 2026 or 2027, this is one of the strongest routes to cut costs, secure funding, and boost your chances of a study permit approval.
--Advertisement----Advertisement--
UAlberta offers high-value entrance awards, competitive merit scholarships, and fully funded packages through graduate assistantships and external awards. Many undergraduate entrance awards consider you automatically when you apply for admission. For graduate students, funding often combines scholarships with paid research or teaching work. Read on to see what’s covered, who qualifies, and how to submit a winning application for the 2026/2027 intake.
Why the University of Alberta Scholarships Stand Out
Top-ranked Canadian university with global recognition and strong employability outcomes
Generous funding options for both undergraduates and graduates, including fully funded pathways
Automatic consideration for many entrance awards once you apply for admission
Research-rich environment with paid assistantships that support living costs
Edmonton’s growing tech and energy ecosystem for internships and co-op opportunities
Online admission plus scholarship consideration and/or separate scholarship forms where required
What the Scholarships Cover
Coverage varies by award and study level. Depending on your profile and program, packages may include:
Full or partial tuition coverage
Living stipend to support accommodation and daily expenses
Paid research or teaching assistantships for graduate students
Top-up awards from departments and faculties
Health insurance coverage through student plans
Research and conference travel support for thesis-based programs
Some awards are fully funded, especially for strong graduate candidates who secure a combination of scholarships and assistantships. High-achieving undergraduates can also win large multi-year entrance awards that significantly reduce the total cost.
Types of Scholarships at UAlberta
Undergraduate Awards
Automatic Entrance Awards for International Students
Competitive Application-Based Scholarships for outstanding academics, leadership, and community impact
Faculty-specific awards in Engineering, Business, Science, Arts, Education, and more
Many undergraduate awards consider you automatically once you submit your admission application. For the largest and most competitive awards, you complete short essays and submit a separate scholarship form in the university portal after you apply.
Graduate Funding
Department-funded Graduate Research or Teaching Assistantships
University-wide merit scholarships for Masters and PhD
Supervisor-backed funding packages for thesis-based programs
External national awards that UAlberta hosts and supports applicants to pursue
Graduate students often receive combined packages that can fully fund tuition and provide a monthly stipend. Strong early contact with potential supervisors is a game-changer for thesis-based programs.
Who Can Apply: Eligibility
Category
Key Criteria
Undergraduate (International)
Applying from outside Canada or studying in Canada on a study permit. Strong academic results in senior secondary school. Meet program prerequisites and UAlberta English language requirements.
Masters
Recognized 4-year bachelor’s degree or equivalent with competitive GPA. Program prerequisites met. Proof of English proficiency. For thesis-based programs, supervisor and research alignment are important.
PhD
Recognized Masters or equivalent with strong research background. Supervisor match and research proposal fit. English proficiency as required by the department.
Leadership/Community Awards
Documented leadership, extracurriculars, innovation, entrepreneurship, or community service. Solid references and compelling essays.
English proficiency options typically include IELTS, TOEFL, or approved alternatives. Some applicants may qualify for waivers based on previous study in English, but always confirm the latest policy. See UAlberta language requirements: official page.
List of Available Study Fields
Engineering and Applied Sciences
Business, Accounting, and Finance
Computer Science, Data Science, and AI
Health Sciences, Nursing, Medicine-related programs
Pharmacy, Public Health, and Rehabilitation Sciences
Natural Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
Agricultural, Life, and Environmental Sciences
Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
Education and Psychology
Law and Policy Studies
Availability can vary by term and program. Confirm prerequisites and intakes on the official program page before applying.
How to Apply for University of Alberta Scholarships
Choose your program: shortlist 1 to 2 programs that match your background and goals. Check prerequisites and portfolio or research requirements.
Prepare documents: transcripts, passport, English test, CV, personal statement or essays, references, portfolio or research proposal if needed.
Apply for admission online: undergraduate applicants start here Undergraduate Apply. Graduate applicants apply via department portals starting here Graduate Apply.
Complete scholarship applications: many entrance awards are automatic. For competitive awards, fill out the scholarship section in your application portal and upload required essays.
Contact potential supervisors (graduate thesis-based): email concise research-fit messages with your CV, transcripts, and a draft proposal.
Track your portal: respond quickly to any requests for additional documents or references.
Secure your funding letter: if awarded, you will receive details in your offer package or a separate award letter, essential for your study permit.
Apply for your study permit: use your admission and scholarship letters to apply for a Canadian study permit. Guide: IRCC Study Permit.
Documents You Will Typically Need
Academic transcripts and grading scale
Passport identification page
English language test results or proof of waiver eligibility
CV or resume highlighting achievements
Statement of purpose or scholarship essays
Letters of recommendation
Portfolio or research proposal where required
Selection Criteria: What UAlberta Looks For
Strong grades and upward academic trend
Leadership, community service, entrepreneurship, or innovation
Clear goals and program fit demonstrated in essays
Research alignment and supervisor interest for thesis-based programs
Professional achievements, awards, and unique impact
Deadline for 2026/2027 Intake
Would You Like To Apply For This Opportunity?
Application timelines vary by program and award. For the most accurate dates for the 2026/2027 cycle, visit the official pages below and plan early. Competitive awards fill fast.
Visit the official website for the current deadline.
Tips to Maximize Your Chances
Apply early in the cycle for 2026 or 2027 to be considered for the widest range of awards
Tailor your essays to impact, not just activities. Show measurable results and leadership
Ask referees early and provide them with your CV and draft essays so they can write strong letters
Keep your application clean and consistent. Matching dates, titles, and achievements matter
For graduate applicants, secure a supervisor’s interest before the department deadline
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these scholarships fully funded?
Some are fully funded, particularly at the graduate level when scholarships combine with research or teaching assistantships. High-value undergraduate awards also exist. Funding depends on your profile and program.
Do I need to submit a separate application for scholarships?
Many entrance scholarships are automatic after you submit your admission application. The largest competitive awards typically require short essays and a separate submission in the portal. Always check the instructions in your application center.
Can I apply without IELTS?
You must meet UAlberta’s English language requirement. The university accepts several tests and may grant waivers in specific cases. Verify current options on the English language requirements page before applying.
--Advertisement----Advertisement--
Can I work part-time while studying?
International students in Canada can usually work part-time during studies if they meet study permit conditions. Always check the latest IRCC rules before you arrive.
What if I miss the scholarship deadline?
Apply for admission anyway. You might still be considered for later awards or departmental funding, especially at the graduate level. Set reminders and apply early for the next cycle if needed.
If you want a Canadian degree with serious funding, the University of Alberta should be on your shortlist. Start your application, craft strong essays, and target the 2026/2027 scholarships now. Apply early, aim high, and let UAlberta help fund your future. Apply now.
