What are School-Nominated Scholarships in the US and Canada

When thinking about studying abroad, you will look at many factors. One of the main things that can drive your decision is cost. According to College Board, the average yearly out-of-state tuition fee at US public four-year institutions is USD 29,150, and at private non-profit four-year institutions, it is USD 41,540. In Canada, between 2023-24, the average annual fee for international undergraduate students is CAD 38,081. 

For individuals needing financial aid, several funding options exist, such as loans, grants, financial aid, and scholarships. While you can apply for some of these options directly, there are specific scholarships for which only your school counsellor or principal can nominate.

What are the most popular school-nominated scholarships for international students in Canada?

What do these Canadian school-nominated scholarships look for in a student?

 1) Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships:

Counsellors can nominate students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement and creativity along with leadership qualities. The counsellor will have to show that the student has had a positive impact on the school and community, along with the potential to contribute positively to the global community. 

Eligibility Criteria:

• An international student
• In grade 12 or have graduated no earlier than June 2024
• An incoming student in September 2025 

H2) International Scholars Program Awards:

This scholarship programme offers four need-and-merit-based awards. Students are not allowed to select which award they receive. These awards are:

• Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award: It is for academically excellent students who have demonstrated leadership skills, involvement in student affairs and community service and have been recognised in other key areas.

• Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award: It recognises outstanding international students who come from impoverished or war-torn areas. These students have achieved academic excellence under challenging circumstances and can not attend university without significant financial assistance.

• International Impact Award: It is based on a commitment to social justice issues, climate change, equity and inclusion, societal health and wellness, and freedom of expression, students will be considered for this award. 

• Vantage One Excellence Award: Offered by UBC Vantage College, this award is for international students who are outstanding academically but who do not yet meet the English Language Admission Standard for direct admission.

Eligibility Criteria:

• An international student 
• Entering UBC from a recognised secondary school or transferring from your first year at university.
• Graduated from high school no earlier than June two years before the academic year you are applying to
• Applying for your first undergraduate degree
• Demonstrate superior academic achievement
• Demonstrate a level of financial need 
• Meet UBC’s admission requirements, including general and degree-specific requirements and the English Language Admission Standard.

 3) Provost Entrance Scholarship for International Students:

For this scholarship, students must demonstrate academic merit and involvement in the community, leadership or other non-academic activities. 

Eligibility criteria: 

• An international student
• Currently studying at a high school 
• Entering their first baccalaureate degree programme

 4) Major Entrance Scholarships:

This scholarship is awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic skills and outstanding leadership in school or community activities, as determined by selection committees.

Eligibility criteria: 

• A first-time university student
• Entering a full-time undergraduate degree programme
• Neither of the following: A transfer, mature, diploma, exchange, special, part-time or visiting student

5) International Presidential Scholarships:

For this scholarship, the student needs to demonstrate heart and mind. It is for students who are committed to the community and want to use their minds to make it better.

Eligibility criteria: 

• Be an international student
• Have a predicted grade of 90% or 35 or  A or A* in grade 12
• Demonstrate notable leadership or community service achievements 

What are the most popular school-nominated scholarships for international students in the US

What do these US school-nominated scholarships look for in a student

1) Morehead-Cain Scholarship

This scholarship is for students who have shown leadership and a genuine passion for learning.

Eligibility criteria: 

• Graduating high school in the spring
• A competitive applicant to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Demonstrate excellent grades in their overall academic performance

2) Annika Rodriguez Scholars Program:

Students who show academic prowess, leadership abilities, and a dedication to community service are eligible for nomination for this scholarship. They should also exhibit a commitment to uniting diverse groups and fostering an appreciation for various cultures.

Eligibility criteria: 

• Be an international student 
• A first-time university student

 3) Jefferson and Walentas Scholarships: 

Two similar yet distinct scholarships, The Jefferson and Walentas Scholarships, seek students accomplished in and out of the classroom who understand their community.

Eligibility criteria: 

• To be an international student
• Exceptional leadership talents, citizenship and scholarship

4) Hesburgh-Yusko Scholars Program:

Through the Hesburgh-Yusko Scholars Program, the University of Notre Dame is looking for students who will not only fit into the University but also have a transformational effect on the Church and the world. 

Eligibility criteria: 

• Distinguished academic accomplishment
• Exemplary moral character
• Exceptional leadership abilities
• Sincere commitment to service

5) Alan and Jane Handler Endowed Scholarship:

Students applying for the Alan and Jane Handler Endowed Scholarship must demonstrate outstanding academic performance. Additionally, they should exhibit potential for future leadership and the ability to overcome complex challenges.

Eligibility criteria: 

• Academically qualified 
• Able to demonstrate financial need

6) John M. Belk Scholarship:

To qualify as a Belk scholar, students must be curious, well-rounded individuals with diverse experiences, talents, and accomplishments. They should also demonstrate a dedication to serving others and driving positive change.

Eligibility criteria: 

• Demonstrate academic excellence
• Have purposeful engagement beyond the classroom
• Exhibit intellectual curiosity 
• Be committed to their local and global communities

7) Presidential Scholarship:

The Presidential Scholarship seeks students from diverse intellectual, social, ethnic, and economic backgrounds who are transformational leaders inside and outside of the classroom and are committed to learning and community service.

Eligibility criteria: 

• Academic achievement is indicated through their high school course selection and GPA, as well as high scores on the SAT or ACT
• Civic engagement, both inside and outside of school 
• Expertise in their field, capacity for creative expression and a willingness to engage in new ideas
• Leadership and the ability to effect change
• Resiliency and the ability to handle challenges

 8) Wells Scholars Program:

This scholarship seeks students who can contribute to and impact their community.

Eligibility criteria: 

• Shown exceptional qualities of character and leadership
• Been significantly involved in extracurricular activities
• Demonstrated a concern for their community
• Excelled in terms of class rank, GPA, and/or standardised test scores
• Expressed interest in joining a community of scholarly individuals with diverse interests beyond a pre-professional track

9) The Rensselaer Medal:

The Rensselaer Medal scholarship is awarded to students who have demonstrated excellence in mathematics and science. It aims to inspire careers in science, engineering, and technology.

Eligibility criteria: 

• Be a junior ranked within the top 10% of their class
• Demonstrate potential success in a challenging academic setting
• Excel in advanced math and science courses
• Exhibit significant involvement in extracurricular activities

10) Hult Scholar Grant

Hult Scholar Grant is awarded to dynamic thinkers and high achievers with an entrepreneurial and open-minded spirit. 

Eligibility criteria: 

• Must have exceptional academic accomplishments
• Require significant financial support to aid their education

How can my school nominate me for a scholarship?

To begin the nomination process for a university’s scholarship programme, your school counsellor or principal must first reach out to the university to obtain or register for a nomination form. This may involve applying to join the university’s scholarship programme, as some institutions require schools to be officially recognised or affiliated with their scholarship offerings. After this step is completed, the school representative can proceed with nominating you by filling out and submitting the nomination form provided by the university.

What documents do my school need to submit?

Each university may have its own specific requirements for scholarship applications, but generally, your school counsellor or principal will need to submit several key documents. These typically include:

• A Letter of Recommendation: This letter should highlight your suitability for the scholarship, emphasising your academic achievements, character, community service, and leadership potential. It serves as an endorsement from your school, reflecting your qualifications and alignment with the scholarship’s values and criteria.
• Your transcripts: These are official records of your academic performance, detailing your grades and courses completed. Transcripts provide the university with a comprehensive view of your academic history and achievements.
• Your resume: This document should outline your extracurricular activities, work experience, community involvement, and any other relevant experiences that demonstrate your skills and qualifications beyond academics.

Do I need to provide any additional documents?

The scholarship application process can differ significantly between universities. Some institutions may shortlist candidates and invite them to attend a campus selection weekend, while others might require the submission of specific essays or responses to short questions. Typically, some common components that students might need to prepare include:

• A special application form: This form is often unique to the scholarship and requires detailed information beyond the standard university application.
• Additional essays or short answer questions: These essays or questions gauge your suitability for the scholarship by exploring your experiences, aspirations, and alignment with the scholarship’s values.
• An interview: Some scholarships require an interview as part of the selection process. This can be an opportunity to further demonstrate your suitability and discuss your experiences and goals in more depth.
• An additional Letter of Recommendation: In some cases, another recommendation letter may be required to provide a broader perspective on your qualifications and character.

What is the deadline for scholarship nominations?

Each university has its own specific deadline for scholarship applications, which often aligns closely with the deadline for undergraduate admissions. It is crucial to ensure that your school counsellor is aware of these deadlines to avoid missing any important dates.

In the US, you may need to indicate on your Common App form that you are being nominated for a scholarship, as well as provide any additional details required by the specific scholarship programme.

For universities in Canada, scholarship application deadlines typically fall between November and February, although the exact date can vary by institution. Most Canadian universities announce their scholarship decisions by March or April, allowing students to plan accordingly for the upcoming academic year.

Being mindful of these timelines and preparing all necessary materials in advance will help ensure that your scholarship applications are submitted on time and are as competitive as possible.

How many students can my school nominate?

Typically, schools are allowed to nominate only one student per year for each scholarship. If you want to be considered for a school-nominated scholarship, it is important to communicate with your counsellor well in advance. Let them know of your interest early on so they can include you in the nomination process. Have detailed discussions with them to understand all the necessary steps, deadlines, and documentation required. By doing so, you can ensure that both you and your school are fully prepared to meet all the scholarship’s requirements.

If you need any guidance with your undergraduate or scholarship applications, please contact us. Meanwhile, read our blogs on US Undergraduate Scholarships: What International Students Should Know and Introducing the New ACT: What We Know So Far With Expert Opinions on the Shifting Undergraduate Landscape