University is an investment. Something you've likely heard before. But of course, an investment requires payment, and university has a considerable cost. When you're an international student, you also have to think about housing and travel. Fortunately, there are funding opportunities for international students to help make these costs more affordable. Keep reading to see what you can apply for:

1. Entrance scholarships

Ontario Tech offers tons of financial aid! Last year alone we provided $1.4 million to our students in donor awards and $7 million in non-repayable support. We understand that access to education can be hindered by the cost of education, which is why we (and our generous donors) dedicate awards and scholarships to international students. 

We offer both application-based scholarships and awards of recognition for incoming and current international students. Canadian citizens and permanent residents are not eligible for these awards.

Global Leadership Award (GLA)

The GLA is one of our most prestigious awards, which recognizes your strong leadership and academic skills. The GLA is valued at $120,000. Meaning if you're a recipient, you'll receive $30,000 toward tuition each year for four years.

International Leaders Award (ILA)

If you complete an application for the GLA, you'll also be considered for the ILA. This award recognizes your hard work in becoming a high-achieving (international) student. It is a one-year award valued at $10,000 CAD. If you're a recipient, you may be required to complete up to 40 hours of volunteer work per semester in the International Recruitment office.

International Merits Award

Merit awards are valued at up to $4,000 CAD and are automatically awarded to international applicants with the highest grade point average from each identified region. These Merit Awards do not require an application and are non-renewable.

English Learning Centre (ELC) Scholarships

If you've successfully completed the ELC program and are entering an undergraduate program at Ontario Tech on a study permit, you may be eligible for one of our ELC Scholarships. These scholarships are valued at $1,000 CAD and are awarded upon enrolment in your first year of an undergraduate program.

The ELC Scholarships are one-time-only and are not renewable. Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and students receiving funding from a sponsor or third party are not eligible for this scholarship.

Awards of recognition 

Recognition awards are based on your grade point average (GPA) from your best six 4U/4M high school courses. These awards are given to international students who graduated from a Canadian high school and are automatically applied to your tuition account. Though it can vary from year to year, you may receive up to:

• $4,000 for an average of 95 per cent or higher. 
• $2,000 for an average of 90 to 94.9 per cent.
• $1,000 for an average of 85 to 89.9 per cent.

So, if you have a course or two that you didn’t knock out of the park, that doesn’t eliminate the possibility of receiving an award! 

2. In-course scholarships 

Of course, tuition is billed each year of your program, not just the first one. So, in order to help cover the ongoing costs of your education, we offer in-course scholarships based on your GPA in the previous year. 

To be eligible, you must have achieved a 3.7 GPA or higher (on a 4.3 scale) during the previous academic year and return to a full-time course load. Additionally, you must have been enrolled in an 80 per cent course load in the previous academic year. If you satisfy these requirements, you will be awarded the following:

• $ 1,500 for a 4.0 or higher GPA
• $ 1,000 for 3.7 to 3.99 GPA

3. Job opportunities

An additional way we help support the ongoing costs of education (and housing) is through University Works. This program offers job opportunities within the school so you can earn money while completing your courses. Hours are flexible and work around your schedule to ensure your studies are not negatively impacted. Several positions each year are reserved for international students, so be sure to apply!

Education is a journey that can take you anywhere. But of course, university has expenses. If you are considering post-secondary education, be sure to look for all the financial aid opportunities. There is so much money dedicated to supporting students and their education; don't let it pass you by!

Want to learn more about financing your education?