Apply for York University Scholarships and Awards

While you wait for an offer of admission, check out your funding options for the upcoming term.

When applying to schools outside of your home country for your undergraduate degree, there are a lot of things to consider. One of the biggest things to think about is the financial aspect of moving and studying.

Exploring available funding support can make a big difference. After you've applied to York University, you can start applying for awards — don't delay it. Find out how to get a head start.

1. Starting your search

Start by searching for awards that you can apply for. Some awards will have a nomination or application deadline — but what's the difference? When awards are open for nominations, you can't apply for them yourself, but a third party can nominate you if you are a good fit.

As an international student, you will have the chance to explore a variety of awards catered to you. A great award for international applicants is the President's International Scholarship of Excellence. This scholarship, with twenty available awards is valued at $180,000 CAD ($45,000 yearly) over four years. International high school applicants who are entering a four-year program and have shown academic excellence, leadership, and volunteer work qualify to receive this scholarship.

Awards can recognize students for a variety of accomplishments. One of York's most notable scholarships, the Tentanda Via Award, which is named after the University's motto, "The way must be tried."

The Tentanda Via Award recognizes students for their resilience and ability to make a difference through initiatives. There are 15 international awards available valued at $120,000 CAD ($30,000 yearly) which can be renewed for four years. Renewal is possible if you meet the requirements, such as keeping a good academic standing, and completing a minimum of 24 credits per term.

If you're a student who has faced significant personal barriers and overcome them to pursue a university education or are a changemaker who is dedicated to making a difference — send an application for this award.

The deadline to apply for both the above scholarships is Thursday, February 15, 2024.

2. Keep deadlines in mind

When you start searching for awards, you will see several things in the descriptions, such as dollar amounts and how to send in your application. Not all processes and deadlines will be the same, and it is important to consider this before you begin applying. By using the Scholarships, Awards, and Bursaries for Incoming Students webpage, you can find awards you'd like to apply for and their dates — make sure you take notes, this will help you stay on track.

If you are applying for an award that asks you to send documentation, such as an essay or reference letters, you can send these in PDF format by email to bursary@yorku.ca. When sending these emails, make sure to properly identify yourself so your submission does not get missed — including your name and York reference number will help staff identify you.

3. Send applications before the start of each term

Once you've browsed the available awards and found the ones you'd like to apply for, you can start your application. Once you become a York student, you can apply for scholarships, awards, and bursaries at the beginning of every term. This can help significantly when paying for tuition.

We can't wait to have you join us at York University, and we look forward to hearing about all the great accomplishments you've had in your life so far. Find out how scholarships have helped other international students by reading about Tentanda Via Award recipient Adeline Chacko.