University of Montreal Canada Scholarships 2025-26 for International Students
The University of Montreal (UdeM), one of the largest universities in Canada, offers a wide range of scholarships for international students. These scholarships are aimed at attracting talented students from around the globe to study at UdeM, one of Canada’s top research institutions. For the 2025-26 academic year, international students have access to various scholarships designed to ease the financial burden and provide access to high-quality education in a vibrant and culturally rich environment.
This guide will provide an overview of the available scholarships for international students at the University of Montreal, including eligibility requirements, application processes, and tips for securing funding.
Overview of University of Montreal’s Scholarships for International Students
The University of Montreal has developed a range of scholarship programs to support international students pursuing undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence, leadership potential, and research capabilities.
For the 2025-26 academic year, the university offers the UdeM Exemption Scholarship Program, which is the flagship financial support for international students. This scholarship reduces the tuition fees normally charged to international students, making studies at UdeM more affordable.
The UdeM Exemption Scholarship Program
The UdeM Exemption Scholarship Program is designed specifically for international students. The program aims to reduce the differential tuition fees that international students are typically required to pay, making it more financially feasible for international students to study at UdeM.
A. Eligibility Criteria for the UdeM Exemption Scholarship
To be eligible for the UdeM Exemption Scholarship, international students must meet the following requirements:
- International Student Status:
- Applicants must be international students enrolled in a full-time program at the University of Montreal and hold a valid study permit (student visa).
- Admission to UdeM:
- Applicants must be admitted to a full-time undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral program at the University of Montreal for the 2025-26 academic year.
- Academic Excellence:
- Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit. Applicants must demonstrate superior academic performance in their previous studies.
- Language Requirements:
- Since most programs at UdeM are taught in French, applicants must meet the university’s French language proficiency requirements unless applying for programs taught in English.
B. Scholarship Benefits
The UdeM Exemption Scholarship covers a significant portion of the tuition fees, depending on the level of study. The scholarship does not fully cover the tuition, but it reduces the fees substantially compared to the usual international student rates.
- Undergraduate Level:
- Reduction of tuition fees from approximately CAD 27,300 per year to around CAD 9,000 annually (based on 30 credits per year).
- Master’s Level:
- Reduction of tuition fees from around CAD 24,300 per year to approximately CAD 7,000 annually.
- Doctoral Level:
- Reduction of tuition fees from approximately CAD 24,000 per year to around CAD 7,500 annually.
C. Renewal Criteria
The UdeM Exemption Scholarship is renewable for the duration of the student’s program, provided that they maintain the following:
- Full-time enrollment: The recipient must remain enrolled as a full-time student throughout the duration of the scholarship.
- Academic Performance: Recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress and meet the university’s minimum GPA requirements.
Other Scholarships at the University of Montreal
In addition to the UdeM Exemption Scholarship Program, the University of Montreal offers various other scholarships for international students based on academic merit, leadership, and research capabilities.
A. Faculty-Specific Scholarships
Several faculties at the University of Montreal offer their own scholarships for international students. These scholarships often target students enrolled in specific programs, such as law, engineering, medicine, or business, and are awarded based on academic excellence, research potential, or leadership abilities.
For example:
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences Scholarships: For students enrolled in arts and science programs, scholarships range from CAD 5,000 to CAD 15,000 based on merit.
- Polytechnique Montréal Scholarships: Engineering students can apply for scholarships ranging from CAD 5,000 to CAD 20,000, depending on their academic and research achievements.
B. Graduate Research Scholarships
For students pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees, UdeM offers various research-based scholarships. These scholarships are typically awarded based on research potential, past academic performance, and contributions to the student’s field of study. Examples include:
- UdeM Graduate Research Awards: For master’s and doctoral students engaged in research, scholarships can range from CAD 5,000 to CAD 20,000 annually, depending on the research field and funding availability.
- External Research Funding: UdeM students may also apply for external scholarships from Canadian funding agencies, such as the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).
C. Leadership and Extracurricular Scholarships
UdeM also offers scholarships that recognize international students’ leadership abilities and involvement in extracurricular activities. These scholarships reward students who demonstrate a commitment to community service, volunteer work, and campus leadership.
How to Apply for University of Montreal Scholarships
A. Step 1: Apply for Admission to UdeM
To be considered for the UdeM Exemption Scholarship or other scholarships, the first step is to apply for admission to the University of Montreal. You must apply for a full-time degree program (undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral) for the 2025-26 academic year.
- Complete the online application through the UdeM Admissions Portal.
- Submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and any other required documents.
- Meet the French language proficiency requirements for your program (unless the program is taught in English).
B. Step 2: Automatic Consideration for Scholarships
Once you have applied for admission, eligible international students are automatically considered for the UdeM Exemption Scholarship. No separate application is required for this scholarship.
For other faculty-specific or research scholarships, you may need to submit a separate application depending on the department or faculty’s requirements. Check the specific deadlines and application procedures for these awards on the faculty’s website.
C. Step 3: Notification of Scholarship Awards
Once you have been admitted to the University of Montreal, you will receive notification of any scholarship awards, including the UdeM Exemption Scholarship, in your official admission letter.
For research and faculty-specific scholarships, you will typically be informed of your award after the department reviews your application.
Visit the Official Website
Tips for Securing University of Montreal Scholarships
The competition for scholarships can be intense, especially at a prestigious institution like UdeM. Here are some tips to improve your chances of securing funding:
A. Focus on Academic Excellence
Most scholarships, including the UdeM Exemption Scholarship, are based on academic performance. Ensure that your grades exceed the minimum requirements for your chosen program, and highlight any academic honors or awards you have received in your application.
B. Show Leadership and Extracurricular Involvement
If applying for leadership or extracurricular scholarships, emphasize your involvement in community service, volunteer work, or student organizations. Demonstrating a commitment to making a positive impact in your community will strengthen your application.
C. Prepare a Strong Research Proposal (for Graduate Students)
For graduate research scholarships, your research proposal is a key component of your application. Make sure your proposal clearly outlines your research objectives, methodology, and potential contributions to your field. Highlight any previous research experience and academic publications.
D. Meet Language Proficiency Requirements
Since most programs at UdeM are taught in French, international students must meet the university’s language proficiency requirements. Be sure to prepare for the French language tests (such as TEF or TCF) or English proficiency tests (for programs taught in English).
E. Apply Early
Meeting early application deadlines can increase your chances of receiving scholarships. Be sure to stay informed about the application timelines for both your program of study and any relevant scholarships.
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