Natural and Applied Sciences Scholarship Guide

Many university or college science departments in Canada offer student scholarships and bursaries for international students applying to natural and applied science studies. Awards typically range in value from $250 - $5,000, but may go as high as $16,000 over the course of a four-year degree. Entrance scholarships for students beginning natural and applied science programs from high school and other post-secondary institutions are often renewable and are based on outstanding academic achievement or a combination of outstanding academic achievement and leadership qualities. As well, international natural and applied science students 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.

These scholarships may cover tuition and residence costs. In some cases, no application is required as international students will be automatically considered when they apply to a given institution. Financial awards may be offered by high schools, university and college science departments, professional organizations, local businesses and national chains, and charitable foundations.

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 a science-oriented club.

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 department’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 the field of natural and applied sciences.

Many local businesses and national chains offer some kind of 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 natural and applied science professionals. These could include monies from professional organizations that cover everything from agriculture, astronomy, biology, chemistry, earth sciences, meteorology, physics, zoology, and more!

And finally, there are a variety of charitable organizations, both Canadian and international, 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.