Simon Fraser University — Full Scholarship#

Let me tell you about one of Canada's most underrated universities. Simon Fraser University (SFU) is located in Burnaby, British Columbia — right next to Vancouver. And they have a full scholarship you need to know about.

It is called the Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship (USES).

What Does It Cover?#

The USES covers your full tuition. That alone is worth over $30,000 CAD per year for international students.

But here is the part most people miss — if you can demonstrate financial need, SFU can also add a living allowance on top of the tuition. That means your housing, food, and basic expenses could be covered too.

So yes, this can be a truly full ride. But you need to show both academic excellence AND financial need to get the full package.

Why SFU?#

SFU is consistently ranked as one of Canada's top comprehensive universities. It is not as famous internationally as U of T or UBC, but that actually works in your favor. Fewer international students apply for this scholarship, so your odds are better.

Here is what makes SFU special:

• Co-op programs — SFU has one of the largest co-op programs in Canada. This means you get paid work terms built right into your degree. You study, then you work at a real company, then you study again. By the time you graduate, you already have Canadian work experience on your resume.
• Location — Burnaby is right next to Vancouver. The job market here is strong, especially in tech, film, and business. Vancouver is beautiful, diverse, and full of opportunities.
• Smaller class sizes — Compared to massive schools like U of T, SFU gives you more personal attention from professors.

How to Apply#

This is important — SFU requires TWO separate applications. One for admission and one for the scholarship. Do not miss either one.

Step 1: Apply for Admission#

1. Go to sfu.ca/admission
2. Create an account on their online portal
3. Fill out the online application form — your personal details, education history, program choice
4. Upload your high school transcripts (translated to English if needed)
5. Submit your English proficiency scores (IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 88+)
6. Pay the application fee — approximately $75 CAD

Submit this as early as possible. Do not wait until the last day.

Step 2: Apply for the Scholarship#

This is a separate application through SFU's scholarship system. Many students apply for admission but forget this step. Do not be that person.

• Applications open: October 2026
• Deadline: December 2026

The scholarship application will ask you to demonstrate:

• Your academic achievements — grades, awards, competitions
• Your extracurricular activities — leadership, community service, talents
• Your financial situation — for the living allowance portion, you need to clearly document your family's income and expenses

Tips to Strengthen Your Application#

1. Apply early. Do not wait until the deadline. Early applications show you are serious and organized.
2. Document your financial situation clearly. Get bank statements, income letters, anything that shows your family's financial reality. Be honest and detailed.
3. Highlight your academic excellence. SFU wants top students. If you are in the top 5-10% of your class, make sure that is clear.
4. Show leadership and involvement. Scholarships go to well-rounded students, not just people with high grades. Talk about clubs, volunteering, work experience, anything that shows you are active in your community.
5. Research SFU specifically. In your essays, mention specific programs, professors, or opportunities at SFU that interest you. Show them you actually want to be there.
6. Get strong recommendation letters. Ask teachers who know you well, not just teachers who gave you high grades.

The Bottom Line#

SFU is a fantastic option. Full tuition covered, possible living allowance, world-class co-op programs, and a location near one of the best cities in the world. Do not sleep on this one.

Apply for both admission AND the scholarship. Two applications, one goal — getting your education funded.