Why UBC?
UBC is among Canada’s top-ranked universities and globally respected for a wide range of programs sciences, engineering, arts, social sciences, business, and more.
It is also known for its commitment to supporting international students through generous scholarship schemes, including full funding for high-achieving and deserving candidates.
For many students from Africa, Asia, and beyond, UBC offers a pathway to world-class education without the prohibitive cost.
One of the flagship scholarship schemes at UBC is the International Leader of Tomorrow Award (ILOT) a fully (or near-fully) funded scholarship for undergraduates.
What the International Leader of Tomorrow Award (ILOT) Offers
✔ What It Covers
Full (or significantly subsidized) tuition for the duration of the degree.
Living costs / residence assistance based on demonstrated financial need and the student’s situation.
Additional student support services enabling access to UBC’s resources without financial pressure.
✔ Who It Is For
International students (i.e. students requiring a study permit) applying for undergraduate admission to UBC Vancouver or UBC Okanagan campuses.
Students with outstanding academic records, leadership qualities, community/volunteer involvement, and in many cases, financial need (though academic merit is central).
Applicants usually in their final year of high school or recent high school graduates applying directly for first-year undergraduate courses.
✔ Why It Matters
For many international students, ILOT is a “full-ride” scholarship: it removes tuition and residence costs, making studying at a top Canadian university possible without extreme financial burden.
UBC’s global reputation, strong academic programs, and location advantages (Vancouver is a vibrant, diverse city) combine to make this scholarship especially valuable.
Winning ILOT doesn’t just give financial relief it opens doors to global networks, internships, research opportunities, and a strong academic environment.
Other Funding & Scholarship Opportunities at UBC & Canada (Graduate / Research Level)
UBC and other Canadian universities also offer scholarships for graduate and doctoral studies many of which are fully funded or generously supported. Examples across Canada (relevant to those at UBC) include:
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS): for PhD students, offering about CA$50,000 per year for three years.
Graduate fellowships, departmental funding, and research assistantships particularly for strong candidates in research-intensive fields (sciences, engineering, social sciences, etc.) at UBC and other institutions.
So even if you enter as an undergraduate under ILOT, there are longer-term opportunities for fully funded graduate study in Canada a strong incentive if you plan to stay beyond your bachelor’s degree.
What Makes UBC Attractive Beyond Scholarships
While funding is a huge draw, UBC’s appeal goes far beyond just “free tuition.” Here’s why selecting UBC is a holistic investment:
🌍 Diverse Academic Programs
Whether you’re interested in engineering, computer science, environmental science, business, humanities, social sciences, arts UBC offers a broad spectrum of majors and minors. This diversity means you can align your passion and career goals with a program that fits you well.
🌿 Global Recognition & Quality Education
UBC consistently ranks among world-class institutions, offering internationally recognized degrees. This helps with graduate study, job opportunities, and global mobility.
🏙 Location & Lifestyle
Vancouver is a multicultural, dynamic city known for safety, natural beauty, and a high standard of living. As an international student, you’ll find communities from across the globe, cultural events, and a welcoming environment.
🔬 Research & Innovation Opportunities
UBC is research-intensive and provides many opportunities for undergraduates and graduates to engage in research, internships, labs, and global projects a big plus if you aim for academic or scientific careers.
🤝 Support for International Students
From orientation, international student services, visa guidance, to support networks UBC invests in ensuring international students have a smooth, secure, and enriching experience.
How to Apply for ILOT / Fully Funded Scholarships at UBC (Step-by-Step)
If you think UBC could be your ideal destination, here’s what to do to maximize your chances:
1. Meet Eligibility Criteria
Must be an international student (non-Canadian).
Excellent academic record high grades in high school.
Demonstrated leadership, community service, extracurricular achievements.
2. Prepare Strong Application Documents
High school transcripts
Resume / CV (highlighting extracurriculars, leadership, volunteering)
Personal statement or motivation letter clearly explaining why you deserve the scholarship, your goals, financial need (if applicable), and how you will contribute to UBC’s community
Letters of recommendation (teachers, community leaders, etc.)
Proof of English proficiency (if required; many international students use IELTS/TOEFL)
3. Apply for Admission + Scholarship Simultaneously
When you apply to UBC for undergraduate admission, indicate that you’re applying for the International Leader of Tomorrow Award (or other scholarship program). Some scholarships require no extra form, but others may ask for additional documentation always check deadlines carefully.
4. Showcase Well-Rounded Profile
Because ILOT considers not just academics but leadership, community involvement, volunteer work, unique achievements, you need to demonstrate more than just grades. Show how you’ve made impact in school, community, clubs, sports, volunteer initiatives, etc.
5. Apply Early & Prepare Thoroughly
Competition is high. Submit your application early, with all required documents neat, complete, and honestly presented.
6. Plan Backup Options
Even if you don’t get ILOT, UBC and other Canadian universities have other scholarships, bursaries, or financial aid options for instance graduate funding, assistantships, partial awards.
What International Students Should Watch Out For
Studying abroad even with a scholarship comes with challenges. Here are some things to keep in mind:
💡 Cost of Living & Additional Expenses
Scholarship may cover tuition and residence, but you still need to budget for: food, transport, personal expenses, books, supplies, health insurance (if not covered), visa costs, air travel, etc.
🧑💼 Academic & Cultural Adjustment
Moving to a new country means adapting to different academic styles, potential language barrier, cultural differences, climate changes (Vancouver winters), and homesickness.
📑 Visa & Permit Requirements
As an international student, you’ll need to meet immigration and study permit regulations. Ensure your documents, admission letter, funding proof, and visa applications are properly handled.
📆 Scholarship Renewal or Conditions
Some scholarships (especially need-based or merit-based) may have conditions for renewal e.g. maintaining a certain GPA, active participation, good conduct, or continuous enrollment. Always check the scholarship’s terms carefully.
Sample Timeline for a Prospective International Student from Start to Scholarship Award
| Timeframe | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 12–18 months before intake | Research universities & scholarships (like UBC ILOT) | Check eligibility for 2025/2026 entry |
| 10–12 months before intake | Prepare transcripts, take English proficiency tests, build CV | Engage in extracurriculars, volunteering |
| 8–10 months before intake | Draft personal statement & motivation letter, get recommendation letters | Reflect on leadership, community engagement |
| 6–8 months before intake | Submit application for admission + scholarship | Double-check all documents required |
| After submission | Prepare for visa, funding proof, accommodation planning | Research life in Vancouver, cost of living |
| After acceptance | Accept offer, arrange travel, prepare for culture adjustment | Pre-departure checklist: health, insurance, travel, luggage, accommodation |
Who Should Consider Applying to UBC?
UBC is ideal for:
High-school graduates with strong academic records and leadership/community engagement
Students in STEM, social sciences, arts, business, or any broad major interested in global education
Those seeking a scholarship that covers tuition + living expenses especially from developing countries
Students willing to adapt to a new environment, work hard academically, and make the most of their scholarship
Final Thoughts
Choosing where to study abroad is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. If you aim high in academics, future career, global exposure, and personal growth then UBC stands out as a top destination, especially with fully funded scholarships like ILOT.
But beyond the allure of a “free scholarship,” what truly matters is what you do with the opportunity how well you study, the connections you build, the skills you acquire, and the impact you aim to make.
If you intend to study in 2025 or 2026, I strongly encourage you to consider UBC prepare well, apply early, and give it your best shot. With determination, a well-rounded profile, and careful planning, UBC could be your stepping stone to a bright global future.