Simon Fraser University scholarships for international students

Scholarship Overview

Simon Fraser University (SFU) in Canada offers various scholarships for international students pursuing undergraduate, master’s, and PhD studies. The flagship International Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship provides a total of CAD 140,000 spread over eight terms. For eligible PhD students, the university guarantees a minimum funding package of at least CAD 28,000 per year for four years, totaling CAD 112,000.

Can Pakistani Students Apply?

Yes, Pakistani students are eligible to apply for these opportunities. Simon Fraser University accepts international applicants for their programmes, and there are no specific restrictions preventing Pakistani citizens from competing for these scholarships if they meet the academic and English language requirements.

What the Funding Covers

The International Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship offers CAD 17,500 per term for eight terms. Exceptionally talented students with demonstrated financial need may also be eligible for an additional CAD 8,000 per term living allowance. For PhD candidates, the university-wide minimum funding guarantee ensures a stable financial foundation through various sources like fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research grants.

Who Is Eligible

For the undergraduate entrance scholarship, you must be completing your final year of secondary school or have graduated within the previous year. You need a minimum average of 90% or at least 31 International Baccalaureate points. Additionally, you must demonstrate excellence in extracurricular or community involvement. Graduate applicants generally need strong research potential and excellent academic performance, typically with a GPA of at least 3.0/4.33 for master’s programmes.

Documents You Need

Undergraduate applicants must submit their SFU admission application, the separate scholarship application, an essay, two references, and academic transcripts. Graduate applicants should prepare an academic CV, statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and research proposals where required. You can use our scholarship recommendation letter guide to assist your referees.

Key Dates

For students entering in Fall 2027, the application for the International Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship opens on October 1, 2026. The deadline to submit your scholarship application is December 15, 2026. Supporting documents and references are due by January 31, 2027, which is also the undergraduate admission deadline.

How the Selection Works

Applications are reviewed between February and March, with notifications sent starting in mid-March. The selection process for undergraduates focuses on academic achievement and meaningful extracurricular contributions. For graduate students, many awards are nomination-based, meaning your academic department will identify top applicants for funding without requiring a separate application from you.

How to Apply

1. Submit your undergraduate or graduate admission application to receive your student number.
2. Complete the separate online application for the entrance scholarship if required.
3. Prepare your scholarship essay and request references from those who know your academic and personal achievements well.
4. Monitor your SFU student account for status updates and ensure all supporting documents are uploaded before the deadline.

For more detailed advice, you can explore our resources on scholarship applications.