McGill University offers generous scholarships for international students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. For new undergraduate students, there are two main types of entrance scholarships: a one-year award of CAD 3,000 and major scholarships that range from CAD 12,000 to 48,000 and can be renewed for up to four years. To qualify, students generally need strong academic results—like an A average of about 97% or an International Baccalaureate score of 41 points—and must meet leadership criteria for the major scholarships. No separate application is needed for the one-year scholarship, but McGill University major scholarships require an additional application.
Current undergraduate students can also receive in-course scholarships based on their academic performance during their studies. These awards are decided by individual faculties and are automatically considered for eligible students. Graduate students may qualify for financial aid if they show financial need after their first year, but certain programs and new international students typically aren’t eligible right away. Overall, McGill’s scholarship programs are designed to support international students who excel academically and help them afford their education.
Also Read: McGill University Reviews and Ratings
McGill University Undergraduate Scholarships for International Students
McGill offers entrance scholarships for new, full-time undergraduate students. These are merit-based and not available to transfer, mature, diploma, exchange, part-time, or visiting students.
There are two types:
- One-year scholarships worth 3,000 CAD (non-renewable)
- Major entrance scholarships ranging from 12,000 to 48,000 CAD (renewable annually for up to 4 years if you meet the criteria)
McGill University One-year Entrance Scholarships
All McGill undergraduate applicants are automatically considered for a one-year entrance scholarship if they meet the minimum academic requirements—though meeting them doesn’t guarantee an award.
No separate application is needed, but make sure your admission file includes:
- All grades (including interim) available by the application deadline
- Any new interim or final grades submitted as soon as they're issued
Award Details: 3,000 CAD
Eligibility Criteria:
- Overseas high-school: Minimum A average (approximately 97% or equivalent) over last two years of full-time study and/or rank in top 1% of class.
- International Baccalaureate: 41 subject points (not including bonus points) on predicted or final grades.
McGill University Major Entrance Scholarships
McGill University’s major entrance scholarships are competitive awards based on top academic performance and exceptional leadership in school or community life. These are renewable for up to 3 or 4 years, as long as you meet renewal criteria.
A separate application is required shortly after you apply for admission, so be sure to check the deadlines.
Award Details: 3,000 CAD, 5,000 CAD, 10,000 CAD or 12,000 CAD renewable
Eligibility Criteria:
- Overseas high-school: Minimum A average (approximately 97% or equivalent) over last two years of full-time study and/or rank in top 1% of class.
- International Baccalaureate: 41 subject points (not including bonus points) on predicted or final grades.
Documents Required:
- Two letters of reference
- Signed statement from your school (if available)
Application Deadline:
Also Read: McGill University Undergraduate Courses and Fees
McGill University Merit Scholarships for Current Undergraduate Students
McGill University in-course scholarships, awards, and prizes are for current full-time undergraduates who excelled academically and are continuing their studies. These are awarded by faculty-specific scholarship committees, with funds disbursed by Scholarships and Student Aid directly to your fee account and recorded on your transcript. These awards are based on academic excellence, with GPA as the key factor. Faculty committees determine award cut-offs based on their budgets at the end of the academic year.
To be eligible, students must:
- Complete at least 27 graded credits at McGill during Fall and Winter (excluding S/U and Summer courses)
- Be in a McGill degree program
Note: Exceptions apply for students with documented disabilities deemed full-time. Students who meet the eligibility criteria are automatically considered for in-course awards—no application needed, unless stated otherwise.
Also Read: Scholarships for International Students in Canada
McGill University Scholarships for Graduate Students
International graduate students who accept admissions, whether based on an offer of graduate funding from McGill or not, including differential fee waivers and/or home country educational authorities, etc… will have provided proof of financial capacity to immigration authorities in order to receive their study permit. As such, they are expected to have a concrete financial plan in place for their first 12 months of study and beyond.
To be eligible for in-course McGill University graduate scholarships, students must:
- Be enrolled full-time in a degree program (exceptions apply for students with documented disabilities or young dependents)
- Apply for and accept all available government aid
- Be in good academic standing
- Show genuine financial need after using all other resources
Note:
- Special, Visiting, Qualifying, Certificate, Diploma, Continuing Education, Medical Residents, and most Private Program students are not eligible (e.g., MBA, Master of Management).
- Master of Public Policy students can apply anytime during the year for interest-free loans based on need.
- International students are generally not eligible in their first year, as they’ve already shown financial capacity for their study permit.
Also Read: McGill University Graduate Courses and Fees
McGill University’s scholarship programs offer significant financial support to international students, with entrance awards ranging from CAD 3,000 to 48,000 and renewable major scholarships lasting up to four years.
FAQs
Ques: Is McGill University expensive for international students?
Ans: McGill offers several scholarships for international students, including entrance awards up to CAD 48,000, renewable over four years, which can significantly reduce the cost. However, international students are required to show proof of financial capacity to obtain a study permit, so having a solid financial plan is essential. While tuition and living costs can be high, these scholarships help make McGill more affordable for top students.
Ques: What is the average GPA to get into McGill?
Ans: To be considered for scholarships and admission, McGill generally looks for a minimum A average, which is approximately 97% or equivalent. This high academic standard reflects the competitive nature of admissions, especially for international students.
Ques: Does McGill have full scholarships?
Ans: McGill does not typically offer fully-funded scholarships that cover 100% of tuition and living expenses. However, it does offer major entrance scholarships valued up to CAD 48,000 (renewable over four years), which can cover a significant portion of tuition costs. Additional in-course awards and need-based aid may further help, but a full-ride scholarship covering all costs is rare.
Ques: Is McGill hard to get into?
Ans: Yes, McGill is considered a competitive institution, especially for international students. For scholarship eligibility, students typically require a minimum grade of A (~97%) or an IB score of 41. While the university is highly respected and attracts strong applicants globally, your chances depend on your academic performance, program choice, and overall application strength.
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