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International Master’s Award of Excellence 2026 in Canada

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International Master’s Award of Excellence Summary
Country
Canada
Study Level
Master’s
Deadline
Ongoing

The International Master’s Award of Excellence (IMAE) is a scholarship for international master’s students entering a research-based graduate program at the University of Waterloo. Valued at $2,500 per term for a maximum of five terms, it is awarded based on academic excellence demonstrated through the admission application.

The University of Waterloo is a leading public research university in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. It is known for its co-operative education programs and strong emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship. The IMAE supports international students in pursuing master’s degrees across various faculties.

International Master’s Award of Excellence Benefits

  • Valued at $2,500 per term for a maximum of five terms
  • Awarded to eligible international master’s students entering a research-based graduate program

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International Master’s Award of Excellence Eligibility Criteria

  • International students who are registered full time and assessed international tuition fees.
  • Normally given to students in research-based programs (thesis or major research paper).
  • Will normally only be given to students entering the first term of their program (term 1.0).
  • Students must demonstrate academic excellence through criteria established by the Faculty.
  • Students must meet the academic progress requirements of their program and not have outstanding probationary admission requirements.
  • This award could be in addition to other internal or external scholarships (e.g., UW Graduate Scholarship, OGS, etc). Note: scholarships are different than sponsorships – see next bullet.
  • Normally, students should not be concurrently receiving foreign government or agency sponsorship (e.g., China Scholarship Council, Libyan sponsorship, etc) or be fully or partially self-funded in excess of the Faculty minimum levels of support.
  • Students grandparented under the existing IMSA program cannot be nominated for an IMAE; however, a student previously awarded an IMSA for a previously completed master’s degree can be nominated for an IMAE.
  • Students will be automatically considered for this award based on their application for admission. Departments and/or Faculty will define their own internal process by which they select recipients based on the eligibility criteria and allocation.
  • Faculties may impose stricter eligibility criteria as appropriate.

How to Apply for International Master’s Award of Excellence?

  1. Students will be automatically considered for this award based on their application for admission.
  2. For further information about this award please contact the applicable Department Graduate Co-ordinator.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the most frequently asked questions about the International Master’s Award of Excellence. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.

What is the International Master’s Award of Excellence?

The International Master’s Award of Excellence (IMAE) is a scholarship valued at $2,500 per term for a maximum of five terms, awarded to eligible international master’s students entering a research-based graduate program at the University of Waterloo.

Who is eligible for the IMAE?

International students with a valid Canadian study permit who are registered full time and assessed international tuition fees. Normally given to students in research-based programs entering the first term of their program.

How much is the IMAE worth?

The award is valued at $2,500 per term for a maximum of five full-time terms within the allowable program time limits (6 terms).

How are recipients selected for the IMAE?

Faculties nominate eligible students based on the Faculty’s award allocation. Students are selected based on academic excellence as demonstrated through their application for admission to the graduate program.

Can I receive the IMAE along with other scholarships?

Yes, this award could be in addition to other internal or external scholarships (e.g., UW Graduate Scholarship, OGS, etc). However, students should not be concurrently receiving foreign government or agency sponsorship.

Do I need to apply separately for the IMAE?

No, students are automatically considered for this award based on their application for admission. Departments and/or Faculty define their own internal selection process.

What programs are eligible for the IMAE?

The award is open to any program, but normally given to students in research-based programs (thesis or major research paper).

When is the deadline to apply for the IMAE?

The application deadline is ongoing. Students are automatically considered upon applying for admission to a graduate program at the University of Waterloo.

Can I be nominated for IMAE if I previously received an IMSA?

Students grandparented under the existing IMSA program cannot be nominated for an IMAE. However, a student previously awarded an IMSA for a previously completed master’s degree can be nominated.

Who can I contact for more information about the IMAE?

For further information about this award, please contact the applicable Department Graduate Co-ordinator at the University of Waterloo.


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Joined Feb 3, 2026
Published
Updated May 6, 2026
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