The Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino President’s Scholarship is the University of Guelph’s most prestigious undergraduate entrance award for international students. The University of Guelph President’s Scholarships are prestigious awards for outstanding international students entering undergraduate programs. Each year, the university awards a scholarship worth $42,500 to one top international student. The University of Guelph Presidents Scholarships offers a summer research assistantship, provides mentorship from a leading professor, and guarantees first-choice residence for the first year, provided the residence deposit is paid by the deadline. The university will renew the scholarship each year as long as the recipient stays enrolled in full-time studies, maintains a minimum 80.0% average, and continues to demonstrate the leadership qualities that earned the award.
Established in 2020 to honor and recognize the leadership and contributions made by the University of Guelph’s outgoing president, Dr. Franco Vaccarino. Selection will focus on your demonstrated leadership ability and potential, as shown through the positions you have held, your participation in extracurricular activities, and your involvement in high school and community organizations. Strong reference support will also play a key role in the selection process. The University of Guelph Presidents Scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and community involvement. The University of Guelph is ranked in the 456th position globally in the 2025 QS World University Rankings. The application deadline is 25 January 2025
University/Institution Details
Name: University of Guelph
Place: Guelph, Ontario, Canada
Ranking: Ranked among the top universities globally, particularly noted for research and student satisfaction.
Programs: Undergraduate degrees in diverse fields
Duration: Typically 4 years, depending on the program
Study Areas
The University of Guelph offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across several disciplines. Some of the major study areas include:
- Agriculture and Environmental Sciences
- Agricultural Science
- Environmental Management
- Food, Agriculture, and Resource Economics
- Science and Engineering
- Biological Science
- Computer Science
- Environmental Engineering
- Molecular Biology
- Arts and Humanities
- English and History
- Fine Arts
- Philosophy and Sociology
- Political Science
- Business and Economics
- Management
- Marketing
- Accounting
- Economics
- Social Sciences
- Psychology
- Sociology
- International Development Studies
- Geography
Each program has specific entry requirements, so it’s advisable to check the exact prerequisites for your field of interest on the university’s website.
University of Guelph Presidents Scholarships Benefits
- It is valued at $42,500 in
- The award provides $42,500 in total:
- $8,250 per year for 4 years of study
- Plus a $9,500 stipend for a summer research assistantship.
- The university will renew the scholarship each year as long as the recipient stays enrolled in full-time studies, maintains a minimum 80.0% average
- Prestigious Recognition
- Opportunities for mentorship and leadership development.
Benefits not included:
- Housing and accommodation costs
- Personal expenses (e.g., travel, leisure, or textbooks)
Eligibilities of University of Guelph Presidents Scholarships
To qualify, applicants must:
- Are entering the first semester of any undergraduate degree program at the University of Guelph;
- Have not previously attended a post-secondary institution;
- Have at least an admission average equivalent to a 90.0% Canadian curriculum; and
- Have made significant leadership contributions to your school and community.
- Have submitted an application for admission and have a valid U of G student ID number;
- Are an International (VISA) student
- Selection will be made on superior leadership ability and potential as demonstrated through positions held, extra-curricular activities, involvement in high school and communities, and reference support. Students apply by January 25 by completing the online application.
Required Documents
- Completed scholarship application form
- High school transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
- Personal statement or essay highlighting achievements, leadership, and goals
- Two recommendation letters
- Portfolio or additional documents (if required by the chosen program)
Application Process of University of Guelph Presidents Scholarships
- Research Eligibility: Confirm you meet the academic and personal requirements.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all required materials, ensuring they meet the submission standards.
- Submit Application: Apply online through the University of Guelph’s official portal.
- Track Progress: Regularly check your application status and respond to any updates.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Highlight leadership roles and community involvement in your essay.
- Tailor your application to emphasize how you align with the university’s values.
- Seek strong recommendation letters from teachers or mentors.
- Proofread your application multiple times for clarity and correctness.
- Submit early to avoid last-minute issues.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
Living expenses for international students at the University of Guelph vary depending on personal choices, lifestyle, and housing arrangements. Here’s an estimated breakdown of monthly costs:
- Housing:
On-campus accommodation costs range from CAD 800 to CAD 1,200 per month. Off-campus options may vary but tend to be similar. - Food:
Expect to spend around CAD 300 to CAD 500 monthly, depending on whether you cook or eat out frequently. - Transportation:
For public transport or local travel, students typically spend CAD 100 to CAD 200 per month. Guelph offers student discounts for transit. - Miscellaneous Expenses:
These can include entertainment, personal items, and academic materials, estimated at CAD 150 to CAD 250.
Total estimated monthly living expenses:
CAD 1,350 to CAD 2,150 per month.
Why Choose The University of Guelph Presidents Scholarship?
The University of Guelph President’s Scholarship offers full financial support and recognizes your achievements. The university provides a vibrant campus life, excellent academic resources, and a welcoming international community. This scholarship not only reduces your financial burden but also opens doors to future global opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I apply if I am a transfer student?
No, the scholarship is only for first-year undergraduate students. - What is the selection process?
Applications are reviewed based on academic excellence, leadership, and extracurricular involvement. - Do I need a separate application for admission and the scholarship?
Yes, you must apply for both the university program and the scholarship. - What happens if my GPA drops during the program?
Continued scholarship eligibility depends on maintaining a certain academic standard. - Can I work while studying?
Yes, international students in Canada can work part-time, typically up to 20 hours a week.