The Dean’s Excellence in Diversity Award is a prestigious merit-based scholarship offered by the UBC Sauder School of Business in Canada for outstanding applicants entering the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. The award recognizes candidates from underrepresented and equity-deserving communities who demonstrate a strong commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Moreover, the scholarship supports individuals who actively work to create more inclusive organizations, strengthen communities, and advance responsible business leadership.

Background and Purpose

UBC Sauder established the Dean’s Excellence in Diversity Award to support talented individuals who champion inclusion and equitable opportunities. Therefore, the scholarship focuses on applicants who have demonstrated leadership in promoting diversity, removing barriers to participation, supporting underrepresented groups, and fostering welcoming environments.

In addition, the award reflects UBC Sauder’s commitment to building a diverse MBA cohort that benefits from a broad range of experiences, perspectives, and ideas. The program recognizes that inclusive leadership drives innovation, collaboration, and positive social change. As a result, the scholarship encourages future business leaders to continue advancing equity and belonging throughout their careers.

Dean’s Excellence in Diversity Award Benefits

The scholarship provides substantial financial support ranging from CAD $25,000 up to full tuition coverage. Consequently, recipients can significantly reduce the financial burden of pursuing an MBA at one of Canada’s leading business schools.

UBC Sauder awards up to six scholarships each year. These awards include up to one full-tuition scholarship for a domestic student and up to one full-tuition scholarship for an international student. In addition, recipients gain access to world-class faculty, leadership development programs, industry partnerships, career services, and an extensive alumni network. Furthermore, scholars become part of a diverse and collaborative MBA community that values inclusion and social impact.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must apply for admission to the UBC MBA program and belong to an underrepresented or equity-deserving community. In addition, candidates should demonstrate strong academic achievement, professional accomplishments, leadership experience, and meaningful contributions to diversity and inclusion initiatives.

The admissions committee evaluates applicants through a holistic review process. Therefore, academic performance, career progression, community engagement, leadership activities, and commitment to equity all contribute to the final scholarship decision.

Dean’s Excellence in Diversity Award Application Process

Applicants do not need to submit a separate scholarship application. Instead, UBC Sauder automatically considers eligible candidates during the MBA admissions review process.

The admissions committee assesses each application as part of the overall admission and scholarship evaluation. Successful candidates receive scholarship decisions alongside their MBA admission results.

Opportunities for Scholars

The Dean’s Excellence in Diversity Award provides exceptional opportunities for academic, professional, and leadership development. Recipients contribute to the MBA community by sharing diverse perspectives and experiences that enrich classroom discussions and collaborative learning.

In addition, scholars strengthen their leadership capabilities, expand their professional networks, and engage with a community committed to equity and responsible business practices. Consequently, graduates are well prepared to lead inclusive organizations, influence positive change, and advance diversity initiatives across industries and sectors. Through this award, UBC Sauder continues to invest in future leaders who will help build a more equitable and inclusive business world.