York University International Scholarships 2026 (President's & Tentanda Via)

About This Scholarship

The York University International Scholarships (featuring the President’s International Scholarship of Excellence and the Tentanda Via Award) are among the most lucrative undergraduate funding packages in Canada. Valued at up to $180,000 over four years ($45,000 annually), these awards are designed for direct-entry international high school students possessing a stellar 90%+ academic average. York University looks beyond just grades; they seek visionary students with documented community leadership, resilience, and a drive to make a global impact.

Scholarship Benefits & Coverage

• President’s International Scholarship of Excellence: $180,000 total ($45,000/year for 4 years) covering full tuition and living expenses
• Tentanda Via Award: $120,000 total ($30,000/year for 4 years) for students overcoming significant barriers
• Global Leader of Tomorrow Award: $80,000 total ($20,000/year for 4 years) recognized for international leadership
• Automatic renewable entrance scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $37,500 based on admission average
• Comprehensive 4-year renewable funding packages awarded across all direct-entry faculties

Eligibility Criteria

• 1
  Nationality: International student (requires a Study Permit for Canada).
• 2
  Admission Status: Must be applying to a direct-entry undergraduate program at York University for Fall 2026.
• 3
  Education History: Must be a high school student applying directly (no gap year > 2 years, no previous university studies).
• 4
  Academic Merit (President's): Minimum 'A' average or equivalent (usually 80-85%+, but winners typically have 90-95%).
• 5
  Leadership (Crucial): Must demonstrate significant leadership through community service, arts, sports, or student government.
• 6
  Tentanda Via Specifics: Must have overcome significant personal barriers/challenges while maintaining high academic standing.
• 7
  Nomination: Must be nominated by the high school (Guidance Counselor or Principal).

How to Apply – Step by Step

1. 1

   Step 1: Apply for admission to York University (via OUAC or York Application) to get a 'York Reference Number'. (Do this by mid-January).

2. 2

   Step 2: Access the 'International Student Scholarship & Award Application' portal using your Reference Number.

3. 3

   Step 3: Complete the application form (Personal Statement: 500 words on leadership/goals).

4. 4

   Step 4: Enter the email of your Nominator (School Counselor/Principal).

5. 5

   Step 5: Your Nominator will receive a link to upload the 'Reference Letter'. Ensure they submit it by the Feb 4 deadline.

Required Documents

• York University Reference Number (from admission application)
• Personal Statement (500 words)
• Financial Profile (Budget estimation)
• One Recommendation/Reference Letter (from School Official)
• List of Extracurricular Activities & Community Service
• Transcripts (submitted with admission application)

Frequently Asked Questions