The International Master’s Award of Excellence (IMAE) at the University of Waterloo supports outstanding international students pursuing research-based master’s programs. Valued at $2,500 per term for a maximum of five terms, this award helps students excel in their academic journey.

To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must be international students who are registered full-time and assessed international tuition fees. The award is primarily for students entering the first term of a research-based master’s program (thesis or major research paper). Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence through their admission application and meet the academic progress requirements of their program.

Located in Ontario, Canada, the University of Waterloo is renowned for its innovative approach to education and research. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, the university is home to the world’s largest co-op education program, allowing students to gain practical work experience alongside their studies. It offers a wide range of programs across six faculties, including Arts, Engineering, Health, Mathematics, Science, and Environment.

Application Deadline: June 1, 2025

Brief Description

• University or Organization: University of Waterloo
• Department: Open to all Faculties
• Course Level: Master’s (Research-based programs)
• Award: $2,500 per term, up to a maximum of five terms
• Access Mode: Online
• Number of Awards: Varies based on Faculty allocation
• Nationality: International students
• The award can be taken in: Canada

Eligibility

• Eligible Countries: All international students
• Acceptable Course or Subjects: Any subject offered in a research-based graduate program at the University of Waterloo
• Admissible Criteria:
  • Must be an international student registered full-time and assessed international tuition fees.
  • Normally awarded to students entering the first term of a research-based program (thesis or major research paper).
  • Demonstrated academic excellence through the admission application.
  • Must meet the academic progress requirements of their program and not have outstanding probationary admission conditions.
  • Concurrent funding from foreign government or agency sponsorships (e.g., China Scholarship Council, Libyan sponsorship) may disqualify the applicant.
  • Not applicable to students under the existing IMSA program; however, previous IMSA recipients may be nominated if applying for a new master’s program.

How to Apply

Students do not need to apply separately for the IMAE. Eligible candidates will be automatically considered based on their application for admission to a research-based master’s program. Departments and Faculties will evaluate applications internally and select recipients based on the set criteria.

Benefits

The International Master’s Award of Excellence provides:

• $2,500 per term for up to five full-time terms, totaling $12,500.
• Recognition of academic excellence and financial support to enhance the learning experience.

Apply Now