2024 University of Alberta Graduate Scholarships | Fully Funded

Types of Scholarships Available

1. Graduate Entrance Scholarship (GES)The Graduate Entrance Scholarship is aimed at newly admitted graduate students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance. Key features include:
   • Stipend Value: $17,500 for Master’s students and $21,000 for Doctoral students.
   • Tuition Support: Domestic students receive an additional $7,100, while international students receive $10,000 to help cover tuition fees.
   • Eligibility: Open to full-time students with an Admission GPA of 3.7 or higher, newly admitted for specific terms (January, May, July, September).
   • Nomination Process: Students cannot apply directly; they must be nominated by their admitting department, which will submit nominations through the GSMS Awards Portal by April 15, 2024.
2. Graduate Recruitment Scholarship (UAGRS)This scholarship aims to attract top-tier graduate students to the University of Alberta. Key points include:
   • Value: Minimum of $5,000, with the possibility of multiple units awarded based on departmental discretion.
   • Eligibility: Newly admitted doctoral or thesis-based Master’s students with an Admission GPA of at least 3.5.
   • Nomination: Like the GES, students are nominated by their departments, and there is no direct application process. Departments must submit nominations by specific deadlines depending on the admission term.
3. Graduate Student Support Award (GSSA)The GSSA provides ongoing financial support to current graduate students engaged in full-time research. Important aspects include:
   • Eligibility: Current students in doctoral or thesis-based Master’s programs with satisfactory academic standing.
   • Value: Varies based on departmental allocations, but generally starts at $5,000.
   • Renewability: Not automatically renewable; students may be nominated for new awards each year.

Application Process for Graduate Scholarships

The application process for scholarships at the University of Alberta is primarily managed through departmental nominations. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Research Departments: Prospective students should begin by researching the departments they are interested in, as each department has its own selection criteria and processes for nominating students for scholarships.
2. Contact Admissions: Reach out to the admissions office or the specific department to inquire about the scholarship nomination process and any internal deadlines.
3. Prepare Application Materials: While students do not apply directly for these scholarships, they may need to provide supporting documents, such as academic transcripts and letters of recommendation, as part of their admission application.
4. Departmental Nomination: Departments will review eligible candidates and submit their nominations to the GPS by the specified deadlines.
5. Notification: Award recipients will be notified directly by the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies.

Funding for International Students

The University of Alberta is committed to providing funding opportunities for international students. Some notable scholarships include:

• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship: A prestigious award for doctoral students that provides substantial funding.
• Izaak Walton Killam Memorial Scholarship: Available to both domestic and international students, covering tuition and living expenses.
• China Scholarship Council Program: Offers scholarships for Chinese students pursuing doctoral studies at the University of Alberta, including a monthly stipend and coverage of tuition fees.

Additional Funding Opportunities

Beyond the primary scholarships, the University of Alberta offers various other funding options for graduate students:

• Research and Teaching Assistantships: Many departments offer assistantships that provide students with valuable teaching or research experience while earning a stipend.
• Department-Specific Awards: Various departments may have their own funding opportunities based on specific research areas or student needs.
• Travel Awards: These awards help offset costs for students presenting their research at academic conferences, promoting professional development and networking.

Financial Planning for Graduate Students

Managing finances as a graduate student is crucial for academic success. Here are some tips for effective financial planning:

1. Budgeting: Create a detailed budget that includes tuition, living expenses, and any anticipated costs for research materials or travel.
2. Explore Part-Time Work: Consider part-time employment opportunities that align with your academic schedule, such as tutoring or research assistant positions.
3. Utilize Campus Resources: Take advantage of workshops and resources offered by the Academic Success Centre to improve financial literacy and budgeting skills.
4. Apply for Additional Scholarships: Continuously search for other scholarship opportunities throughout your studies, as many organizations offer funding for specific research areas or demographics.

Final Thought

The University of Alberta offers a wealth of scholarship opportunities for graduate students, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder academic pursuits. By understanding the various scholarships available, the application process, and additional funding options, prospective students can better prepare for their graduate studies. Whether you are a domestic or international student, the University of Alberta’s commitment to supporting its graduate community makes it an excellent choice for higher education. For more information about the scholarships and the application process, prospective students should visit the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies website or contact their desired department directly.