Simon Fraser University (SFU) Canada Graduate and Undergraduate Entrance Scholarship

Simon Fraser University (SFU) in Canada offers several prestigious entrance scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students.

These financial awards recognise academic excellence and provide substantial support to help talented students pursue their educational goals in Canada.

This blog post outlines the key scholarships available, eligibility requirements, application processes, and important deadlines.

Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships at SFU

Major Entrance Scholarships

SFU’s Major Entrance Scholarships are the university’s most prestigious undergraduate awards, recognising exceptional academic achievement and leadership qualities.

Value: $10,000 to $50,000 CAD (distributed over 8 semesters)

Eligibility Requirements:

• Minimum 90% admission average (or equivalent)
• Demonstrated leadership and community involvement
• Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or international student
• Entering first year of undergraduate studies
• Planning to enroll in a full course load

Application Deadline: January 31, 2026 for Fall 2026 entry

SFU International Entrance Scholarships

These scholarships are specifically designed for international students demonstrating outstanding academic achievement.

Value: $5,000 to $20,000 CAD per year (renewable)

Eligibility Requirements:

• International student status (not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident)
• Exceptional academic record (typically equivalent to 90%+ average)
• English language proficiency meeting SFU standards
• Applying for first undergraduate degree

Application Deadline: Application for admission serves as a scholarship application (automatic consideration)

Undergraduate Open Entrance Scholarships

These awards are automatically considered for all incoming students based on academic performance.

Value: $3,000 to $10,000 CAD

Eligibility Requirements:

• Minimum 80% admission average
• Entering first year of undergraduate studies
• All citizenship types eligible

Application Deadline: No separate application required (automatic consideration)

Graduate Entrance Scholarships at SFU

SFU Graduate Fellowships

SFU Graduate Fellowships are merit-based awards available to graduate students across all disciplines.

Value: Up to $7,000 CAD per term for Master’s students; up to $7,500 CAD per term for Doctoral students

Eligibility Requirements:

• Minimum 3.5 CGPA (on 4.33 scale) or equivalent
• Full-time enrollment in a graduate program
• Open to domestic and international students

Application Deadline: Determined by individual departments (typically February-March for Fall entry)

Graduate International Prestige Scholarships

These scholarships target exceptional international graduate students joining SFU.

Value: Up to $10,000 CAD annually (renewable)

Eligibility Requirements:

• International student status
• Academic excellence (typically first-class standing)
• Admission to a graduate program at SFU
• Letters of recommendation highlighting research potential

Application Deadline: Department-specific, typically aligned with admission deadlines

Special Focus Graduate Entrance Awards

SFU offers numerous field-specific entrance scholarships for graduate students in particular disciplines.

Value: Varies by award ($5,000 to $25,000 CAD)

Eligibility Requirements:

• Field-specific criteria
• Academic excellence
• Research potential in specified area
• Full-time enrollment

Application Deadline: Varies by department and award

Application Process

For Undergraduate Scholarships:

• Submit your application for admission to SFU by the appropriate deadline
• Complete the SFU entrance scholarship application (required for Major Entrance Scholarships)
• Submit supporting documents including:
  • Academic transcripts
  • Personal statement
  • Resume of extracurricular activities
  • Reference letters (typically two)
  • Proof of language proficiency (for international students)

For Graduate Scholarships:

• Apply for admission to your chosen graduate program
• Check department-specific requirements for scholarship consideration
• Complete scholarship application forms when applicable
• Submit supporting documents including:
  • Academic transcripts
  • Research proposal (for research-based programs)
  • CV/Resume
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of research interests

Selection Criteria

Scholarship decisions are based on multiple factors:

• Academic excellence (grades, academic honors)
• Leadership abilities
• Community involvement
• Research potential (for graduate scholarships)
• Quality of application materials
• Strength of reference letters

Tips for Successful Applications

• Start early – Begin preparing your application several months before deadlines
• Focus on quality – Submit polished, error-free application materials
• Highlight achievements – Clearly articulate your accomplishments and potential
• Secure strong references – Choose recommenders who know you well academically
• Demonstrate fit – Show how your goals align with SFU’s programs and values
• Follow instructions – Adhere strictly to application guidelines and word limits

Important Resources

For the most current and detailed information about SFU scholarships, refer to the official websites:

• Undergraduate scholarships: https://www.sfu.ca/students/financialaid/entrance.html
• Graduate scholarships: https://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/awards.html
• International student information: https://www.sfu.ca/students/financialaid/international.html

Conclusion

SFU’s entrance scholarships represent significant financial support opportunities for academically talented students.

Whether you’re pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies, SFU’s commitment to supporting academic excellence through these scholarships makes it an attractive destination for students worldwide.

Begin your application process early and take advantage of these valuable opportunities to fund your education at one of Canada’s leading research universities.

Frequently Asked Questions