The Western University Canada National Scholarship Program (often referred to as the National Scholarships) is a prestigious initiative for the 2026 entry year. It welcomes applications from both domestic (Canadian citizens/permanent residents) and international students for various awards recognizing all-round excellence. These scholarships support outstanding undergraduate students entering Western University’s main campus in London, Ontario, Canada.
The program emphasizes holistic achievement, awarding scholarships based on outstanding academic performance, creative and innovative thinking, a passion for learning, exceptional extracurricular involvement (such as arts or athletics), and a strong commitment to community service through ongoing contributions to school and community life.
This comprehensive funding can total up to $100,000 (or more in some categories) over four years, helping cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs while pursuing a full-time undergraduate degree.
Canada National Scholarship Program Summary
- Host Country: Canada
- Study Abroad: Study in Canada
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Reward: $100,000 Grant
- Category: Undergraduate Scholarships
- No IELTS Required
- Deadline: February, 14, 2026
Eligibility Requirements for 2026
To be considered, applicants must meet these key criteria:
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or international student (note: most categories require Canadian citizenship or permanent residency, with exceptions for specific international and Black student awards).
- Achieve a minimum overall academic average of 90% in all Grade 12U/M courses (or equivalent for International Baccalaureate (IB), CEGEP, or other international curricula).
- Submit an application for admission to Western University’s main campus through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC).
- Register as a full-time student upon acceptance.
- Obtain a school nomination (schools determine their own nomination process; contact your guidance office early).
- Scholarships are for first-year undergraduate entry only at the main campus (Faculty-specific awards are tied to the relevant faculty).
Important notes:
- Recipients of these National Scholarships or Schulich Leader Scholarships are ineligible for other Western admission scholarships (e.g., Western Scholarship of Excellence or Distinction).
- The Beryl Ivey Continuing Entrance Scholarship includes a financial need component.
Scholarship Categories and Benefits
The program offers several tiers and named awards, with values disbursed over four years (renewable based on maintaining good academic standing):
- Neen Hodgins National Entrance Scholarship — 1 award at $80,000 ($20,000 per year for 4 years).
- President’s Entrance Scholarships:
- 1 at $70,000 ($25,000 in year 1, $15,000 annually for years 2–4).
- 4 at $65,000 ($20,000 in year 1, $15,000 annually for years 2–4).
- Up to 15 at $50,000 ($20,000 in year 1, $10,000 annually for years 2–4).
- James Jenkins President’s Entrance Scholarship for Black Students — 5 awards at $50,000 ($20,000 in year 1, $10,000 annually for years 2–4).
- Beryl Ivey Continuing Entrance Scholarship — 1 award at $96,000 ($24,000 per year for 4 years; includes financial need assessment).
- Neen Hodgins President’s International Entrance Scholarship — 1 award at up to $80,000 ($20,000 per year for 4 years).
- International President’s Entrance Scholarships — 3 awards at $100,000 (payment structure varies but typically spread over 4 years).
- Faculty Entrance Scholarships — Up to 15 at $30,000 ($12,000 in year 1, $6,000 annually for years 2–4).
- National Scholarship Study Abroad Awards — Up to 46 awards at $2,500 (for one term) or $5,000 (for more than one term) to support international study experiences.
These awards provide significant financial relief, often covering a large portion of tuition and fees while allowing focus on academics, leadership, and personal growth at one of Canada’s top research-intensive universities.
Required Documents and Application Checklist
A complete application includes:
- Online National Scholarship Application (accessed via your OUAC reference number).
- School Nomination (required; your school selects and nominates candidates).
- Essay (original piece on an issue important to you or of public concern).
- Transcript (provided by your school).
- Reference Letter (from your school).
- Supplemental Application (required only if applying for the Beryl Ivey Continuing Entrance Scholarship and/or Neen Hodgins National Entrance Scholarship; this includes financial need details for Beryl Ivey).
All materials must be submitted online or received by the deadline (mailed items must arrive, not just postmarked).
Step-by-Step Application Procedure
- Apply for Admission: Submit your OUAC application for Western University’s main campus (include it as a choice). You’ll receive an OUAC reference number.
- Seek School Nomination: Contact your high school guidance counselor early—schools handle nominations internally.
- Access the Scholarship Application: Use your OUAC number to log in to the online portal.
- Complete the Application: Fill out the form, write/submit your essay, and upload/request supporting documents.
- Submit Supplemental (if applicable): For Beryl Ivey/Neen Hodgins.
- Submit by Deadline: Ensure everything (including school-submitted items) is in by the deadline.
- Await Review: Top candidates may be interviewed; final offers are typically made in spring.
Deadline for 2026: February 14, 2026 (11:59 pm EST) for the online application and all supporting documentation.
READ ALSO: 2025 Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarships: Programs, Requirements & Application Link
FAQs
Who can apply for the National Scholarships?
Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students (with exceptions noted for most categories requiring Canadian status). You must meet the 90% average and other criteria.
Is there a separate application for international students?
No, the same application covers all, but specific awards like International President’s Entrance Scholarships are designated for international applicants.
What if my school doesn’t nominate me?
Nomination is required. Work closely with your school; they decide based on their process.
How competitive is this program?
Very competitive, awards go to students with exceptional academics, leadership, extracurriculars, and community impact. Only a limited number are given each year.
Can I apply if I’m in IB or CEGEP?
Yes, equivalents to 90% Grade 12U/M are accepted.
Does the scholarship renew automatically?
Yes, typically renewable for four years if you maintain full-time status and good academic standing (check specific terms upon award).
What about financial need?
Only the Beryl Ivey requires demonstrating need via the supplemental form. Most others are merit-based.
Can I combine this with other scholarships?
No—National Scholarship recipients are ineligible for most other Western admission awards.
When will I hear back?
Offers are usually made between March and June, often after interviews for top candidates.
Where do I find the official application?
Visit the official Western University National Scholarship Program page through the Office of the Registrar (registrar.uwo.ca) for the latest links and forms.
Can international students apply, and are there dedicated awards?
Yes—eligible for all, with specific ones like International President’s Entrance Scholarships (3 at $100,000) and Neen Hodgins President’s International (1 at up to $80,000). Schools can nominate one extra international candidate.
