Computer Science Scholarship Guide

Many universities, colleges and schools in Canada offer student scholarships and student bursaries for for international students applying to computer science programs. Awards typically range in value from $250 - $5,000, but may go as high as $16,000 over the course of the four-year degree. These awards are often renewable and are based on outstanding academic achievement or a combination of outstanding academic achievement and leadership qualities. As well, international students in computer science may be eligible for bursaries, which typically are based on financial need. Work-study programs (involving part-time work on campus for full-time students) may be another source of money for school.

Student Scholarships and Student Bursaries
Entrance scholarships for students entering a bachelor's degree in computer science from high school and other post-secondary institutions are typically awarded to outstanding new students, and are usually also available to international students. Bursaries are available based on a combination of academic achievement and financial need and/or achievement in other areas such as leadership and community service. These awards may be offered by high schools, university and college computer schools or departments, professional organizations, local businesses and national chains, and charitable foundations. They may be available on a non-renewable or renewable basis.

Start your search by talking to your high school career counsellor to learn what kinds of scholarships and bursaries may be available from your home country. Often high schools will offer awards to the best students or those most involved in club activities, which could include computer, math, and engineering oriented clubs.

Most universities, colleges, schools and program departments offer entrance awards either directly or through benefactors and foundations that support them. International students should contact an admissions advisor at the university, college, school or program department itself or look on the institution's website to identify the awards that are offered. Some scholarships and bursaries are program-specific and are limited to applicants to particular majors or diplomas within computer science.

Many local businesses and national chains offer funding, either in the form of scholarships or bursaries and international students may be eligible for some of these awards.

Many professional organizations will provide scholarships as a way of promoting their profession and ensuring the development of future computer science professionals. These could include organizations dedicated to information technology, computing research, computing engineering, and more!

And finally, there are a variety of charitable organizations that provide literally millions of dollars of awards to post-secondary students.

For more general information on international student scholarships and financial aid, check out the articles on international student scholarships under each school type.