The University of Alberta Graduate Entrance Scholarship (MS) 2026 supports outstanding new graduate students who begin Master’s programs at the University of Alberta. The Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies (GPS) awards this scholarship to highly ranked incoming students to help them manage tuition costs and living expenses while they focus on academic excellence and research progress in Canada.

About the Graduate Entrance Scholarship (MS)

The University of Alberta awards the Graduate Entrance Scholarship to newly admitted graduate students whose admission files demonstrate strong academic performance and departmental ranking. The university automatically considers eligible students through departmental nomination, and departments submit selected candidates to the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies for final approval.

The scholarship supports Master’s students, including thesis-based and course-based programs. The university allocates funding to strengthen graduate research and academic development across disciplines.

The selection process prioritizes academic excellence and departmental evaluation rather than a separate open application.

Why Choose The Graduate Entrance Scholarship (MS)?

This scholarship allows graduate students to pursue advanced studies at one of Canada’s leading research universities while receiving strong financial support.

At the University of Alberta, scholars benefit from:

  • Access to world-class research facilities and faculty mentorship
  • Strong funding support during the early stages of graduate study
  • Opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research projects
  • Academic development across interdisciplinary fields
  • Integration into a globally recognized research environment

Graduate Entrance Scholarship (MS) Summary

  • Host Country: Canada
  • Host University: University of Alberta
  • Scholarship Name: Graduate Entrance Scholarship
  • Study Levels: Master’s
  • Coverage Includes: Stipend + tuition support (varies by domestic/international status)
  • Stipend Value: Approximately CAD 17,500
  • Additional Support: Tuition assistance (up to CAD 10,000 for international students)
  • Application Requirement: Departmental nomination only (no direct student application)
  • Application Deadline: April 14, 2026
  • Eligible Applicants: Newly admitted full-time graduate students (domestic and international)
  • Selection Basis: Academic merit and departmental ranking

Scholarship Benefits

The University of Alberta Graduate Entrance Scholarship provides:

  • Annual financial stipend for Master’s students
  • Tuition and fee support, including additional funding for international students
  • Reduced financial pressure during early graduate study
  • Recognition of academic excellence at the admission stage
  • Strong support for research-focused academic careers

The university applies funds directly to student tuition accounts or disburses stipends based on eligibility.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Graduate Entrance Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Master’s Applicants:

  • Hold admission into a Master’s program at the University of Alberta
  • Maintain a strong admission GPA (typically 3.7 or higher)
  • Enroll as a full-time student during the award period

General Requirements:

  • Be newly admitted in eligible intake terms (as defined by GPS)
  • Meet departmental ranking and nomination requirements
  • Remain enrolled full-time during the award tenure
  • Accept external awards if applicable, which may adjust scholarship value

Required Documents

Students do not apply directly, but departments may require:

  • Academic transcripts and degree records
  • Admission application documents
  • Departmental evaluation or ranking reports
  • Proof of full-time enrollment
  • Supporting research or program documentation (for PhD students)

Departments submit nominations through the Graduate Student Management System (GSMS).

Application Process & Timeline

Follow these steps to be considered:

  1. Apply for admission to a Master’s program at the University of Alberta.
  2. Receive departmental review and academic ranking.
  3. Department nominates eligible candidates to the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies.
  4. GPS reviews nominations and forwards them to the Graduate Scholarship Committee.
  5. The committee evaluates and selects final recipients.
  6. The university notifies selected students directly.