Are there scholarships for students without permanent residency?

Studying in Canada, particularly in Calgary, attracts many foreign students, including Ukrainians. However, the financial costs of studying are often a significant obstacle. Therefore, the question of whether scholarships are available for students without permanent residency (i.e., foreign students) is very relevant. In this article, we will take a detailed look at what scholarships are available in Calgary for foreign students, the conditions for obtaining them, and what financial support options exist.

1. Scholarships for international students in Calgary: overview

Calgary universities, including the University of Calgary, offer a wide range of scholarships and grants for international students who do not have permanent resident status in Canada. These scholarships can be full or partial and cover tuition, accommodation, or other expenses. According to simplex.ua, scholarships for international students in Canada range from CAD 500 to CAD 60,000, depending on the university, program, and level of study.

2. University of Calgary: scholarships for international students

Main scholarships

  • International Entrance Scholarships – scholarships for students entering bachelor's programs. The scholarship amount can be up to CAD 15,000 per year and continue for the entire period of study, provided that high academic performance is maintained.
  • International Entrance Awards – partial scholarships of up to CAD 10,000, which are also automatically considered when applying for admission.
  • In addition, the university offers dozens of named, academic, research, and social scholarships available to international students without permanent residency.

Eligibility

  • High academic level (usually a GPA of 3.0 or equivalent).
  • Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, CELPIP certificates).
  • Automatic consideration for scholarships upon admission, no separate application is usually required.
  • Application deadline – early February each year.

3. Other scholarships in Canada for international students

Provincial and university scholarships

  • University of Manitoba, Carleton University, Concordia University, Dalhousie University – offer various full and partial scholarships for international students who do not have permanent residency. Scholarship amounts range from CAD 1,000 to CAD 40,000.
  • Scholarships may be academic, named, for leadership qualities, research activities, or social activism.
  • Often, international students are automatically considered for scholarships when they apply for admission.

Government scholarships

  • Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships – a program for doctoral students from around the world, providing CAD 50,000 per year for three years.
  • Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships – scholarships of up to CAD 70,000 per year for postdoctoral fellows.
  • Provinces also have their own programs to support international students.

4. Special scholarships for Ukrainians in Calgary

  • Global Village English Centre offers scholarships for Ukrainian students, including 4-week free English courses in Calgary.
  • Support programs for newly arrived Ukrainians include tuition discounts and special scholarship offers.
  • Collaboration with organizations such as Language Canada and Global Shapers Community expands opportunities for financial assistance.

5. How to apply for a scholarship without permanent residency?

Steps:

  1. Choose a university and study program.
    Choose institutions that offer scholarships for international students. The University of Calgary is one of the best options in Calgary.
  2. Submit an application for admission. When you apply for admission, you are automatically considered for scholarships, if this is provided for in the university's rules.
  3. Prepare documents.
    This includes academic transcripts, English language certificates, a motivation letter, and recommendations.
  4. Meet deadlines. Scholarship applications are usually reviewed along with admission applications, with deadlines in January-February.
  5. Wait for results.
    The university will notify you of its decision on the scholarship along with the acceptance letter.
  6. Confirm your participation and complete the paperwork.

6. Tips for successfully obtaining a scholarship

  • Maintain high academic standards.
  • Prepare high-quality motivation letters and recommendations.
  • Submit all documents on time.
  • Study the conditions of each scholarship separately.
  • Seek advice from educational agencies or university offices.

Conclusion

In Calgary, particularly at the University of Calgary, there are many opportunities to obtain scholarships to study even without permanent resident status in Canada. Scholarships can be full or partial and are available for bachelor's, master's, and doctoral students. In addition to university programs, there are government and private grants, as well as special scholarships for Ukrainian students. It is important to prepare thoroughly, meet deadlines, and submit a complete application package.