McMaster University, located in Hamilton, Ontario, is one of Canada’s leading research universities and offers a variety of entrance scholarships to support high-achieving students entering undergraduate programs. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement and are available to Canadian and international students.

This guide explains how to apply for McMaster entrance scholarships, eligibility requirements, scholarship types, deadlines, and expert tips to maximize your chances.

How Do You Apply for McMaster Entrance Scholarships?

To apply for McMaster entrance scholarships, you must apply for admission to McMaster University through OUAC, receive your McMaster student number, and complete any required supplementary scholarship applications before the deadline.

About McMaster Entrance Scholarships

McMaster entrance scholarships are designed for:

• High-achieving high school students

• Incoming undergraduate students

• Students demonstrating leadership and community involvement

Most entrance scholarships are automatically awarded, while some major awards require a separate application.

Types of McMaster Entrance Scholarships

1. Automatic Entrance Scholarships

Awarded based on academic average at the time of admission.

• No separate application required

• Value depends on final admission average

• Available to both domestic and international students

2. Prestige & Major Entrance Awards

Highly competitive scholarships with higher funding values.

• Require a separate application

• Focus on leadership, service, and academic excellence

• May include interviews or references

3. Faculty-Specific Entrance Awards

Offered by specific faculties or programs.

• Eligibility depends on program of study

• May require additional documentation

4. Indigenous, Equity & Special Category Scholarships

Targeted awards supporting underrepresented or special-status students.

• May require proof of eligibility

• Separate application often required

Eligibility Requirements for McMaster Entrance Scholarships

General requirements include:

• Application for admission to McMaster University

• Enrollment in a first-year undergraduate program

• Strong academic performance

• Meeting program-specific requirements

• Additional criteria for competitive awards (leadership, service, equity status)

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for McMaster Entrance Scholarships

Step 1: Apply for Admission via OUAC

Submit your undergraduate application to McMaster University through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC).

You must apply to McMaster before being considered for entrance scholarships.

Step 2: Receive Your McMaster Student Number

After applying, you’ll receive:

• A McMaster student number

• Access to the McMaster Applicant Portal

Step 3: Automatic Scholarship Assessment

Most entrance scholarships are assessed automatically using your final or conditional admission average.

✔️ No additional action required for automatic awards.

Step 4: Apply for Competitive Entrance Awards (If Applicable)

For prestige or special scholarships:

• Complete the supplementary scholarship application

• Submit leadership statements and references

• Meet specific deadlines

Step 5: Monitor Portal & Email

• Scholarship offers appear in the applicant portal

• Acceptance may be required by a specific date

Documents You May Need (For Competitive Awards)

• Academic transcripts

• Leadership or personal statements

• Reference letters

• Proof of special eligibility (Indigenous, equity-based awards)

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Winning a McMaster Entrance Scholarship

• Maintain a high academic average

• Apply early through OUAC

• Highlight leadership and community involvement

• Carefully complete supplementary applications

• Check your McMaster email regularly

McMaster Entrance Scholarship Deadlines (General Guide)

Always confirm deadlines on the official McMaster University website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do you apply for McMaster entrance scholarships?

Apply for admission to McMaster University through OUAC. Most entrance scholarships are automatic, but competitive awards require a separate application.

Are McMaster entrance scholarships automatic?

Yes. Many McMaster entrance scholarships are automatically awarded based on academic average, while major awards require an application.

Are McMaster entrance scholarships available for international students?

Yes. McMaster offers entrance scholarships to both Canadian and international students.

What academic average is needed for McMaster entrance scholarships?

Eligibility and award values depend on your admission average, with higher averages qualifying for higher-value scholarships.

When is the McMaster entrance scholarship deadline?

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

Can I receive more than one McMaster entrance scholarship?

In most cases, students receive the highest-value entrance award they qualify for.