How to Apply for STFX Scholarships | St. Francis Xavier University Guide

St. Francis Xavier University (STFX), located in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Canada, is well known for academic excellence, leadership development, and generous scholarship opportunities. Each year, STFX awards millions of dollars in scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid to outstanding students from Canada and around the world.

STFX scholarships support domestic and international students through merit-based and need-based awards. Applicants must first gain admission, then submit an online scholarship application via the STFX portal. Deadlines typically fall between February and March for Fall entry.

This complete guide explains how to apply for STFX scholarships, eligibility requirements, types of awards available, deadlines, and expert tips to increase your chances of success.

STFX Scholarships Overview

St. Francis Xavier University (STFX) offers a wide range of scholarships and bursaries for domestic and international students based on academic excellence, leadership, community involvement, and financial need. Awards are available for new, continuing, and international students.

How Do You Apply for STFX Scholarships?

To apply for STFX scholarships, you must first apply for admission to St. Francis Xavier University, then complete the STFX online scholarship and bursary application through the university’s student portal before the stated deadline.

About STFX Scholarships

STFX offers a wide range of scholarships designed to support:

Academic excellence
Leadership and community service
Financial need
Athletic achievement
International students

Scholarships are available for:

Undergraduate students
Graduate students
International students
Continuing students

Types of STFX Scholarships

STFX offers entrance scholarships, major and prestigious awards, in-course scholarships, need-based bursaries, and scholarships specifically for international students. Some awards are automatic, while others require a separate application.

1. Entrance Scholarships

Awarded to new students entering STFX for the first time.

Based mainly on academic performance
Some awards consider leadership and extracurricular activities
Automatically considered for many entrance scholarships after admission

2. Major & Prestigious Scholarships

Highly competitive awards with higher funding values.

Require a separate application
Focus on leadership, service, and academic excellence
May involve interviews or additional documentation

3. In-Course Scholarships

For students already studying at STFX.

Based on academic results from previous years
Awarded annually

4. Bursaries & Financial Aid

Need-based support for students who require financial assistance.

Requires disclosure of financial information
Often combined with scholarships

5. International Student Scholarships

Specifically for non-Canadian students.

Based on academic merit and leadership
Some awards automatically assessed
Others require an application

Eligibility Requirements for STFX Scholarships

Eligibility typically requires admission to STFX, strong academic performance, and in some cases demonstrated leadership, extracurricular involvement, or financial need. International students must also meet STFX English language requirements.

While requirements vary by award, most STFX scholarships require:

Admission to St. Francis Xavier University
Strong academic records
Proof of leadership, community involvement, or extracurricular activities (for major awards)
Meeting English language requirements (for international students)

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for STFX Scholarships

Students must first apply for admission to St. Francis Xavier University. After receiving an STFX student ID, applicants complete the online scholarship and bursary application through the university’s student portal before the stated deadline.

Step 1: Apply for Admission to STFX

You must first submit an application for admission to St. Francis Xavier University through the official admissions portal.

Important: You cannot apply for most scholarships without an STFX student number.

Step 2: Receive Your STFX Student ID

Once your admission application is processed, you will receive:

An STFX student number
Access to the student portal

Step 3: Complete the STFX Scholarship Application

Fill in personal and academic details
Upload required documents (if applicable)
Provide information on leadership, volunteering, and achievements
Submit financial information for bursary consideration

Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline

Most entrance and major scholarship applications for Fall intake close between February and March. Bursary deadlines often follow later in the spring. Deadlines vary by award and should be confirmed on the official STFX website.

Late applications are usually not considered.

Step 5: Monitor Your Email & Portal

Scholarship offers are sent via email or the student portal
Some awards may require acceptance by a specific date

Required Documents

You may be asked to submit:

Academic transcripts
Personal statements or essays
Reference letters
Proof of extracurricular activities
Financial information (for bursaries)

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning an STFX Scholarship

Apply early – avoid last-minute submissions
Highlight leadership, volunteering, and community impact
Write clear, honest, and compelling responses
Ensure your academic records are accurate
Apply for both scholarships and bursaries
Regularly check your STFX email

STFX Scholarship Deadlines (General Guide)

Scholarship Type	Typical Deadline
Entrance & Major Scholarships	February – March
Bursaries	March – April
In-course Scholarships	Automatically assessed

Always confirm deadlines on the official STFX website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the STFX scholarship application separate from admission?

Yes. Admission and scholarship applications are two separate processes.

Can international students apply for STFX scholarships?

Yes. STFX offers scholarships and bursaries for international students.

Are STFX scholarships fully funded?

Most scholarships are partial funding, but major awards can cover a significant portion of tuition and fees.

Do I need IELTS to apply for STFX scholarships?

You need to meet STFX English language requirements for admission. Scholarships depend on admission eligibility.

Are STFX scholarships available for international students?

Yes. St. Francis Xavier University offers scholarships and bursaries specifically for international students based on academic merit, leadership, and community involvement.

Is the STFX scholarship application automatic?

Some entrance scholarships are awarded automatically based on academic performance, but major scholarships and bursaries require a separate online application.

What documents are needed for STFX scholarships?

Required documents may include academic transcripts, personal statements, reference letters, proof of extracurricular activities, and financial information for bursary consideration.

Do STFX scholarships cover full tuition?

Most STFX scholarships provide partial funding, but major and prestigious awards can cover a significant portion of tuition and academic expenses.

Can I apply for both STFX scholarships and bursaries?

Yes. Students are encouraged to apply for both scholarships and bursaries using the same online application to maximize financial support.

How are STFX scholarships awarded?

STFX scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, community service, financial need, or a combination of these factors.

Do I need IELTS for STFX scholarships?

You must meet STFX English language requirements for admission. Scholarship eligibility depends on admission approval, not IELTS alone.

Final Thoughts

Applying for STFX scholarships is a straightforward process if you start early and follow all instructions carefully. With strong academics, leadership experience, and a complete application, students have an excellent chance of receiving financial support to study at one of Canada’s top undergraduate universities.