The University of Calgary is one of Canada’s top research universities and a leading destination for international students seeking high-quality education with strong financial support. For the 2026 academic year, the University of Calgary offers a wide range of fully funded and entrance scholarships designed to reduce or completely cover tuition fees, living expenses, and academic costs for outstanding international students.
This guide explains, step by step, how international students can apply for University of Calgary scholarships in 2026, who is eligible, what benefits are covered, and how to maximize your chances of success.
About the University of Calgary
The University of Calgary is a public research university located in Alberta, Canada. It is globally recognized for innovation, employability outcomes, and strong academic programs across undergraduate, master’s, and PhD levels. Scholarships at the University of Calgary are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership, research potential, and community involvement.
Types of University of Calgary Scholarships 2026
Entrance Scholarships for International Students
Entrance scholarships are awarded automatically or through a separate application when you apply for admission. These scholarships are mainly for undergraduate international students entering their first year.
Common entrance awards include merit-based scholarships that range from partial tuition coverage to high-value multi-year awards.
Fully Funded and Major Scholarships
Fully funded or near-fully funded scholarships cover most or all of the following:
Tuition fees
Living expenses
Books and academic materials
Accommodation support
Some major awards are renewable for up to four years, provided academic performance is maintained.
Graduate Scholarships (Master’s and PhD)
Graduate students can access funding through:
Faculty-based scholarships
Research assistantships
Graduate awards and fellowships
External funding combined with university support
Many PhD funding packages at the University of Calgary are considered fully funded when combined.
Eligibility Criteria for University of Calgary Scholarships
General Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for most University of Calgary scholarships, international students must:
Be classified as an international student for fee purposes
Apply for an eligible undergraduate or graduate program
Meet academic excellence requirements
Demonstrate strong academic records
Meet English language requirements (IELTS or equivalent, unless exempt)
Additional Criteria for Major Scholarships
Some competitive scholarships also require:
Leadership experience
Community service or volunteering
Extracurricular involvement
Personal statements or essays
Eligibility varies by scholarship, so applicants should always review individual award requirements carefully.
Scholarship Benefits Explained
What Fully Funded Means at the University of Calgary
A fully funded scholarship typically includes:
Full or major tuition coverage
Annual living allowance
Renewable funding across multiple years
No repayment required
Entrance Scholarships Benefits
Entrance scholarships usually provide:
Tuition reduction in the first year
Renewable awards for high achievers
Automatic consideration for qualified applicants
Graduate Funding Benefits
Graduate funding packages may include:
Full tuition coverage
Monthly stipends
Research funding
Teaching or research assistant roles
How to Apply for University of Calgary Scholarships 2026
Step 1: Choose an Eligible Program
Start by selecting an undergraduate, master’s, or PhD program offered by the University of Calgary. Scholarship eligibility is tied to program admission.
Step 2: Apply for Admission
Submit your application through the official University of Calgary admissions portal before the program deadline. Many entrance scholarships are awarded automatically based on this application.
Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documents
Common documents include:
Academic transcripts
Certificates and diplomas
English proficiency results
Personal statements
Letters of reference
Step 4: Apply for Scholarships Separately (If Required)
Some major scholarships require a separate scholarship application after or alongside your admission application.
Step 5: Meet Deadlines
Scholarship deadlines may differ from admission deadlines. Missing a deadline can disqualify you from funding consideration.
Step 6: Accept the Scholarship Offer
If selected, you must formally accept the scholarship and admission offer within the specified timeframe.
Important Application Deadlines for 2026
Most undergraduate entrance scholarships have deadlines between December 2025 and March 2026. Graduate scholarship deadlines vary by faculty and program, often between January and April 2026.
Applicants should always confirm exact dates directly from the University of Calgary scholarship pages.
How to Increase Your Chances of Winning a University of Calgary Scholarship
Maintain Excellent Academic Records
High grades remain the strongest factor for most scholarships.
Demonstrate Leadership and Impact
Show leadership roles, volunteer work, or community contributions.
Write a Strong Personal Statement
Explain your goals, academic journey, and how the scholarship will support your future impact.
Apply Early
Early applicants are more likely to receive full consideration for competitive awards.
Combine Multiple Funding Sources
Many students combine entrance scholarships with faculty awards or external funding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are University of Calgary scholarships fully funded for international students?
Yes, some University of Calgary scholarships provide full or near-full funding, especially for high-achieving undergraduate students and most PhD programs.
Do I need IELTS to get a University of Calgary scholarship?
Most students need proof of English proficiency, but IELTS may be waived if you meet the exemption criteria such as prior education in English.
Are scholarships automatic at the University of Calgary?
Many entrance scholarships are automatic based on academic performance, while major awards require separate applications.
Can scholarships be renewed each year?
Yes, many scholarships are renewable if academic performance and conditions are maintained.
Conclusion
The University of Calgary Scholarships 2026 provide an excellent opportunity for international students to study in Canada with significant financial support. Whether through entrance awards, fully funded scholarships, or graduate funding packages, qualified students can reduce or eliminate the cost of studying at one of Canada’s leading universities.
By applying early, meeting eligibility criteria, and following the step-by-step process outlined in this guide, international students can significantly improve their chances of securing a University of Calgary scholarship in 2026.