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Applications are now open for the fully funded York University Presidential Scholarship 2026 for international students who wish to study in a top university in Canada
The York University Presidential International Scholarship is a prestigious and highly competitive award designed to attract the brightest and most dedicated young leaders from around the globe.
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This scholarship is a cornerstone of the University’s commitment to fostering a diverse and talented student body. The award recognizes exceptional academic performance, a strong dedication to community service and a demonstrated capacity for leadership. If you are a high school student with an outstanding academic record, a passion for extracurricular activities, and a desire to make a positive impact on the world, this could be the ideal scholarship to jumpstart your career.
What is the York University Presidential International Scholarship?
The University International Scholarship is one of the most distinguished awards available to new international undergraduate students. Each year, the University selects twenty outstanding international high school graduates to receive this prestigious honor. The scholarship is specifically for students who are entering their first year of a four-year undergraduate degree program.
This scholarship is a comprehensive financial package, totaling $180,000. It is disbursed in annual installments of $45,000, which are renewable each year for up to four years. The renewal is contingent upon the student maintaining good academic standing, ensuring that recipients remain focused on their studies. By providing such substantial financial support, York University allows these top scholars to fully immerse themselves in their academic and extracurricular pursuits without financial worry.
Recipients of this scholarship are celebrated as President’s International Scholars and form a community of global leaders.
Scholarship Benefits
Being a recipient of the York Presidential Scholarship is about more than just money. It’s about joining an elite group of scholars and receiving the support you need to thrive.
A Full Ride to Your Undergraduate Degree
With an award valued at $180,000 over four years, this scholarship covers a significant portion of the cost of your education. A yearly award of $45,000 can go a long way in covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other university costs. This financial freedom allows you to concentrate on what truly matters: your studies, personal development, and making the most of your university experience.
Professional and Academic Recognition
Being named a President’s International Scholar is a badge of honor that will open doors for you throughout your academic and professional life. It’s a powerful signal to future employers and graduate schools that you are a highly accomplished individual with proven academic excellence and leadership potential. The scholarship is a testament to your hard work and dedication, setting you apart from your peers.
Global Community and Networking
As one of twenty scholars chosen from around the world, you will be part of an exclusive cohort. This provides an excellent opportunity to connect with other high-achieving students from diverse backgrounds, build a strong network, and collaborate on projects. This international community will enrich your university experience and provide lifelong connections.
Eligibility Criteria: Are You the Ideal Candidate?
The York University Presidential Scholarship is highly competitive, and the selection committee looks for a specific profile in its applicants. To be considered, you must be an international high school student who demonstrates a combination of academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to community involvement.
- International Student Status: You must be an international applicant who requires a study permit to attend university in Canada.
- Direct from High School: You must be applying directly to York University from high school. You cannot have any previous university or college studies, and your high school graduation should not have been more than two years prior to your application.
- Academic Excellence: A minimum “A” average or its equivalent is required. The university specifically looks for a final admission average of at least 80% (A), with a higher average increasing your chances of being selected.
- Demonstrated Leadership: This scholarship is not just for straight-A students. You must also have a history of leadership through community service, extracurricular activities, excellence in sports, or other individual achievements. This demonstrates that you are a well-rounded individual who is actively engaged in making a difference.
- Application to an Undergraduate Program: You must have already applied to an undergraduate degree program at York University.
It is important to note that financial need may also be a factor in the selection process, as the university aims to support students who may not otherwise have the opportunity to study in Canada.
How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide
The application for the Presidential International Scholarship is straightforward, but it requires careful attention to deadlines and details. You must submit both your university admission application and a separate scholarship application.
- Submit Your Admission Application: The first step is to apply for admission to an undergraduate program at the University. It is critical to do this well in advance of the scholarship deadline, as you will need your York reference number to access the scholarship application.
- Complete the Online Scholarship Application: After you have received your York reference number, you can complete the online International Student Scholarship Application form. This form is the main component of your scholarship application.
- Prepare Your Supporting Documents: The application form requires several key documents:
- Personal Statement: You will need to write a personal statement of no more than 3,000 characters. This is your chance to tell the selection committee about your academic achievements, leadership experiences, and why you are the perfect candidate for this scholarship.
- Financial Profile: The application includes a section to provide details about your financial situation.
- List of Activities: You must list your extracurricular activities, community service, and volunteer experiences.
- Letter of Recommendation: You must upload at least one letter of recommendation from a person familiar with your academic work and leadership skills.
- Submit Before the Deadline: The scholarship application and all supporting documents must be submitted online by November 1, 2025, at 11:59:59 pm Eastern Time. Make sure all your required documents are marked as “Received” in your York application portal (MyFile) by this deadline.
If you are not selected for this Scholarship, you will automatically be considered for other international entrance scholarships, such as the Liberal Arts & Professional Studies International Undergraduate Leadership Scholarship, if you meet the criteria.
Application Deadline: November 1, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply for the York University scholarship without a study permit?
A: Yes, you must be a student who requires a study permit to study in Canada, but you do not need to have the permit at the time of application. The scholarship is for students who will eventually obtain a study permit.
Q: Is the University Presidential Scholarship a full ride scholarship?
A: While it is an incredibly generous award, its value of $180,000 over four years may not cover all costs, depending on your program and personal expenses. However, it is one of the most substantial undergraduate scholarships available and covers a majority of the financial burden.
Q: What is the minimum GPA to get this University scholarship?
A: The minimum required academic average for consideration is an 80% (A). However, since this is a highly competitive scholarship, a higher GPA will significantly improve your chances.
Q: Does York University require IELTS for international students?
A: Most international students must provide proof of English language proficiency. While the provided source states “No IELTS Required,” this is likely a simplified statement. It is essential to check the university’s official website for their specific language proficiency requirements, which often include a minimum IELTS or TOEFL score.
Q: Can I defer my scholarship if I defer my admission to York University?
A: Scholarship offers can be deferred if you defer your admission to a future term. However, you should confirm the specific details and policies with the university’s financial aid office.
