McGill University Entrance Scholarships for International Students
McGill University's Entrance Scholarships are merit-based awards offered to first-time university students entering full-time undergraduate degree programs. There are two main types: one-year scholarships valued at $3,000 (non-renewable), awarded automatically based on academic achievement to applicants meeting minimum requirements, and Major Entrance Scholarships valued at $3,000 to $12,000 per year (up to $48,000 total), renewable for 3-4 years if criteria are met. Major scholarships emphasize academic excellence and demonstrated leadership in school or community activities, with $12,000 awards restricted to Canadian citizens or permanent residents. International students are eligible except for the top tier, and recipients receive benefits like priority residence placement and registration. Changes effective Fall 2026 exclude certain CEGEP students in Law, Dentistry, or Medicine from centralized awards, though faculty-specific options remain.
One-year scholarships require no separate application; applicants are auto-considered via their admission application with all grades submitted. Major scholarships require a separate application via the Undergraduate Admissions Applicant Portal, opening October 1, including activity lists, essays, self-written reference letters, two reference letters (academic and activity), and optional school rank statement. Applications are reviewed by committees, with possible interviews for finalists. Non-recipients of Major awards are auto-considered for one-year scholarships. Awards are tenable only for the entry term unless deferred with admission.
Eligibility Requirements
- First-time university students entering full-time undergraduate degree programs at McGill.
- High academic achievement meeting minimum requirements (specifics in Undergraduate Scholarships and Awards Calendar).
- For Major: Outstanding leadership beyond mere participation.
- Exclusions: Transfer, Mature, Diploma, Exchange, Special, Part-time, Visiting students.
- Effective Fall 2026: Quebec CEGEP students admitted to BCL/JD (Law), Dent-P (Dentistry), or Med-P (Medicine) ineligible for centralized awards (faculty awards possible).
- Open to international students; $12,000 Major limited to Canadian citizens/permanent residents.
- Supporting docs for admission app: All grades up to deadline + subsequent updates.
- For Major app (international/outside Canada): Two reference letters (academic, activity on letterhead/PDF via portal), signed school statement if available (class rank/size).
For thorough eligibility and selection information, visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.