Dalhousie University, located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, is one of Canada’s top research universities and offers a wide range of scholarships, awards, and bursaries to support students based on academic merit, leadership, research excellence, and financial need. Funding opportunities are available for domestic and international students across undergraduate and graduate programs.
This guide explains how to apply for Dalhousie scholarships, eligibility criteria, scholarship types, deadlines, and expert tips to maximize your chances of success.
How Do You Apply for Dalhousie Scholarships?
To apply for Dalhousie scholarships, you must apply for admission to Dalhousie University, activate your Dal Online account, and complete the General Online Award Application before the deadline.
About Dalhousie Scholarships
Dalhousie awards millions of dollars annually through:
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Merit-based scholarships
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Leadership and achievement awards
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Need-based bursaries
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Faculty-specific awards
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International student scholarships
Scholarships are available for:
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Incoming (entrance) students
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Continuing students
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Graduate students
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International students
Types of Dalhousie Scholarships
1. Entrance Scholarships
For students entering Dalhousie for the first time.
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Some are automatically awarded based on academic performance
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Major entrance awards require a separate application
2. Major & Prestige Awards
Highly competitive scholarships with high funding value.
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Focus on leadership, community service, and academic excellence
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Require essays, references, or interviews
3. In-Course Scholarships
For students currently enrolled at Dalhousie.
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Based on GPA and academic progress
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Many are automatically assessed
4. Bursaries (Financial Need-Based)
Support students with demonstrated financial need.
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Requires financial information
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Can be combined with scholarships
5. International Student Scholarships
Available to non-Canadian students.
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Based on academic merit and leadership
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Some awards are automatic; others require an application
Eligibility Requirements for Dalhousie Scholarships
General eligibility includes:
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Application or admission to Dalhousie University
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Enrollment in an eligible program
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Strong academic performance
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Demonstrated leadership or community involvement (for competitive awards)
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Financial need (for bursaries)
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Meeting English language requirements (for international students)
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Dalhousie Scholarships
Step 1: Apply for Admission to Dalhousie University
Submit your application through Dalhousie’s official admissions portal.
Scholarship access is only available after applying for admission.
Step 2: Activate Your Dal Online Account
Once you apply, you will receive:
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A Dalhousie student ID
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Access to Dal Online, the student application portal
Step 3: Complete the General Online Award Application
Log in to Dal Online and:
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Complete the General Award Application
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Provide academic, leadership, and extracurricular information
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Submit financial details for bursary consideration
Step 4: Apply for Major Scholarships (If Required)
Some prestige awards require:
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Additional applications
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Essays and reference letters
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Submission before earlier deadlines
Step 5: Monitor Email & Dal Online
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Award decisions are communicated via Dal email or Dal Online
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Some awards require acceptance by a set date
Documents You May Need
Depending on the award:
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Academic transcripts
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Personal or leadership statements
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Reference letters
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Proof of extracurricular involvement
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Financial information (for bursaries)
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Winning a Dalhousie Scholarship
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Apply early and submit complete applications
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Maintain a strong academic record
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Highlight leadership and community involvement
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Apply for both scholarships and bursaries
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Check your Dalhousie email frequently
Dalhousie Scholarship Deadlines (General Guide)
| Scholarship Type | Typical Deadline |
|---|---|
| Major Entrance Scholarships | December – January |
| General Award Application | February |
| Bursaries | March – April |
| In-Course Scholarships | Automatically assessed |
Always confirm exact deadlines on Dalhousie University’s official website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do you apply for Dalhousie scholarships?
Apply for admission to Dalhousie University, log in to Dal Online, and complete the General Online Award Application before the deadline.
Are Dalhousie scholarships automatic?
Some entrance and in-course scholarships are automatic, while major awards and bursaries require a separate application.
Are Dalhousie scholarships available for international students?
Yes. Dalhousie University offers scholarships and awards for international students based on academic merit and leadership.
What documents are required for Dalhousie scholarships?
Documents may include transcripts, leadership statements, reference letters, and financial information for bursaries.
When is the Dalhousie scholarship deadline?
Major entrance scholarships usually close between December and January, while general awards close in February.
Can students receive more than one Dalhousie scholarship?
In most cases, students receive the highest-value award for which they are eligible.