How to Apply for University of Guelph Scholarships – Complete Guide for Domestic & International Students

The University of Guelph, located in Ontario, Canada, offers a wide range of scholarships, awards, and bursaries to support students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, research potential, and financial need. Funding is available for domestic and international students across undergraduate and graduate programs.

This guide explains how to apply for University of Guelph scholarships, eligibility requirements, scholarship types, deadlines, and proven tips to improve your chances.

How Do You Apply for University of Guelph Scholarships?

To apply for University of Guelph scholarships, you must apply for admission to the University of Guelph, access the student or applicant portal, and complete any required scholarship or financial aid applications before the deadline.

About University of Guelph Scholarships

The University of Guelph awards millions of dollars annually through:

• Merit-based scholarships

• Leadership and achievement awards

• Need-based bursaries

• International student scholarships

• Faculty-specific awards

Scholarships are available for:

• Incoming (entrance) students

• Continuing students

• Graduate students

• International students

Types of University of Guelph Scholarships

1. Entrance Scholarships (Automatic)

Awarded to new undergraduate students.

• Based on academic admission average

• No separate application required

• Available to domestic and international students

2. Competitive & Prestigious Scholarships

High-value awards requiring a separate application.

• Based on leadership, community involvement, and academic excellence

• May include references or interviews

3. In-Course Scholarships

For students already enrolled at Guelph.

• Based on GPA from previous academic years

• Many are automatically assessed

4. Bursaries (Need-Based Financial Aid)

Support students with demonstrated financial need.

• Requires submission of financial information

• Can be combined with scholarships

5. International Student Scholarships

Designed for non-Canadian students.

• Based on academic merit and leadership

• Some awards are automatic, others require an application

Eligibility Requirements for University of Guelph Scholarships

General eligibility includes:

• Application or admission to the University of Guelph

• Enrollment in an eligible program

• Strong academic performance (for merit-based awards)

• Demonstrated financial need (for bursaries)

• Meeting English language requirements (for international students)

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for University of Guelph Scholarships

Step 1: Apply for Admission

Submit your application through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) or the appropriate admissions portal.

Scholarship consideration begins after you apply for admission.

Step 2: Receive Your Student or Applicant Portal Access

After applying, you will receive:

• A University of Guelph student number

• Access to the Guelph applicant or student portal

Step 3: Automatic Scholarship Assessment

Most entrance scholarships are automatically assessed using your admission average.

No separate application required for automatic awards.

Step 4: Apply for Competitive Scholarships & Bursaries

For competitive awards:

• Complete the online scholarship or financial need application

• Submit leadership statements and references if required

Step 5: Monitor Email & Portal

• Scholarship offers are communicated via email or portal

• Some awards must be accepted by a specified deadline

Documents You May Need

Depending on the award:

• Academic transcripts

• Leadership or personal statements

• Reference letters

• Proof of extracurricular or community involvement

• Financial information (for bursaries)

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Winning a Guelph Scholarship

• Maintain a strong academic average

• Apply early through OUAC

• Highlight leadership and volunteer experience

• Apply for both scholarships and bursaries

• Check your University of Guelph email regularly

University of Guelph Scholarship Deadlines (General Guide)

Always confirm exact deadlines on the official University of Guelph website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do you apply for University of Guelph scholarships?

Apply for admission to the University of Guelph, then complete any required scholarship or financial aid applications through the student or applicant portal.

Are University of Guelph scholarships automatic?

Many entrance and in-course scholarships are automatic, while competitive awards and bursaries require a separate application.

Are University of Guelph scholarships available for international students?

Yes. The University of Guelph offers scholarships and awards for international students based on academic merit and leadership.

What academic average is needed for University of Guelph scholarships?

Eligibility depends on the scholarship, but higher admission averages qualify students for higher-value entrance awards.

When is the University of Guelph scholarship deadline?

Automatic scholarships have no deadline, but competitive awards usually close between January and February.

Can students receive more than one Guelph scholarship?

In most cases, students receive the highest-value award for which they are eligible.