Supporting your future student through their post-secondary journey is an exciting milestone, especially when it comes to tackling finances. You’ve likely heard that York University offers a range of scholarships, awards and bursaries, but you might not be entirely sure how to assist your student in the application process. With the February 15, 2025 deadline approaching, here’s how you can help them take advantage of these financial opportunities.
Scholarships and awards overview
Note that York provides two main types of financial awards for incoming students:
- Automatic Entrance Awards: No application required; awarded based on admission performance.
- Application-based scholarships and awards: Require an application (via our applicant portal, MyFile, or separately), along with supporting documents.
Encourage your future student to act quickly— many application-based scholarships close as soon as February 15, 2025!
Here are key scholarships and awards with a February 15 deadline:
Tentanda Via Award
This renewable award, valued at $10,000 per year for domestic students and $30,000 per year for international students, recognizes students who demonstrate resilience in overcoming challenges or leadership in tackling global issues, like the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Eligibility:
- Resilience in overcoming personal barriers.
- Leadership in progressive, sustainable development initiatives.
- Domestic and international applicants.
Application Requirements:
- A 500-word personal statement.
- One supporting document (e.g., reference letters or awards).
How to Apply:
- Domestic applicants apply via MyFile and email supporting documents to bursary@yorku.ca.
- International applicants submit the International Scholarship Application.
President’s International Scholarship of Excellence
This renewable scholarship is valued at $45,000 per year for four years and recognizes international high school applicants for their academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to volunteer work and extracurricular activities.
Eligibility:
- Minimum "A" average.
- Leadership and community involvement.
- One recommendation letter or supporting document.
- International applicants
How to Apply:
Governors’ Awards of Distinction
This prestigious award offers $8,000 annually for four years, plus first-year residence accommodation, for students with exceptional academic and leadership achievements. Apply via MyFile.
Harry Arthurs Alumni Families Entrance Scholarship
For families with alumni ties to York University, this scholarship provides $6,000 annually for four years. Apply via MyFile.
Remember: Students do not need an offer of admission to apply for York entrance awards and scholarships!
Detailed descriptions of all awards are available on the Scholarships, Awards and Bursaries for Incoming Students page.
Tips for you as a parent and supporter
- Encourage early preparation
Applications often require essays, reference letters and supporting documents, so encourage your student to begin well before the deadline. - Help craft personal statements
Help your child reflect on their achievements, challenges and leadership experiences. Be sure they address the specific criteria of each scholarship. - Stay organized
Track deadlines and make sure applications are complete and submitted on time. Missing items can result in disqualification. - Leverage references
Encourage your child to reach out to teachers, coaches or community leaders for reference letters early. Strong endorsements can make a significant difference. - Monitor MyFile
York’s MyFile system is where applications and supporting documents are submitted. Ensure all documents show as "received" before the deadline.
Final thoughts
These financial opportunities can reduce the cost of post-secondary education while recognizing your student’s hard work, resilience and leadership. By staying organized and submitting applications early, they can maximize their chances of success. Together, you can help your future student achieve their academic dreams!