When applying to schools for your undergraduate education one of the biggest things to consider is the financial aspect of studying at a university and exploring the resources available to help make your load a bit lighter. After you've applied to York University, you can start applying for awards right away. Don't delay it: find out how to get a head start.

1. Browse available awards

Start by searching for awards that you can apply for. Some awards will have a nomination or application deadline — but what's the difference? When awards are open for nominations, you can't apply for them yourself, but a third party, such as your high school, can nominate you if you are a good fit. A good example of a nomination-based scholarship is the Schulich Leader Scholarships, awarded to high school students pursuing undergraduate studies in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics). This scholarship is awarded to two successful applicants and is valued at $100-120,000+ ($20-30,000 yearly) each over four years. The deadline to apply for this scholarship is Wednesday, January 29, 2025.

While some scholarships are program-based, others recognize students for community involvement, leadership and resilience. A great example would be York's Tentanda Via Award, which is named after the University's motto, "The way must be tried." Awards are valued at up to $40,000 ($10,000 yearly). This award can be renewed for a maximum of three additional years if you meet the requirement. If you are a student who has faced significant personal barriers and have overcome them to pursue post-secondary education or are a changemaker who is dedicated to making a difference — you should check out this award. The deadline to apply for this scholarship is Saturday, February 15, 2025.

2. Check the application deadlines

Award descriptions and application pages will note their deadlines, and it is important to consider this before applying — not all dates will be the same. When searching for awards on the Scholarships, Awards, and Bursaries for Incoming Students webpage you will see several pieces of information such as: the award title, dollar amount, and how to send in your application. Keep these differences in mind by writing down the awards you'd like to apply for and their dates — this will help you stay on track.

3. Before the start of a new term, you can begin your application

Once you've browsed the available awards and found the ones you'd like to apply for, you should start your application for admission, in order to be eligible to apply for entrance scholarships. When you become a York student, you can apply for additional scholarships, awards and bursaries at the beginning of every term as a continuing student. This can help significantly when paying for tuition.

We can't wait to have you join us at York University, and we look forward to hearing about all the great accomplishments you've had in your life so far. Learn more about how scholarships have helped and inspired other York students by reading about Schulich Leader Scholarship recipient Luca Filippelli.