Introduction
The Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino President’s Scholarship is one of the most respected entrance scholarships in Canada. It is offered by the University of Guelph to outstanding international students who want to start their undergraduate study in Canada. This scholarship is not only about money. It is also about leadership, community service, research experience, and personal growth. Every year, only one international student is selected. This makes the scholarship very competitive and very special. If you are a high-achieving student with strong leadership skills and a clear vision for the future, this scholarship can change your life.
About the Scholarship
The Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino President’s Scholarship was created to honor Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino, the eighth president of the University of Guelph. During his time as president, he made a strong impact on education, research, and student success. This scholarship reflects his values. It supports students who are excellent in academics and active in their communities. The scholarship is designed to help future leaders start their education with strong support from the university.
Host Country
Canada
Host University
University of Guelph
Scholarship Type
Fully funded entrance scholarship for international students
Degree
Undergraduate degree only
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for this scholarship, you must meet all the conditions below:
- Apply for admission to the University of Guelph
- Have a valid University of Guelph student ID
- Be an international student with a study visa
- Enter the first semester of an undergraduate degree
- Not have studied at any post-secondary institution before
- Have an academic average equal to at least 90 percent in the Canadian system
- Show strong leadership in school and community activities
Note: Canadian citizens and permanent residents are not eligible for this scholarship.
Fields of Study
The scholarship is open to all undergraduate programs at the University of Guelph, including:
- Science
- Business
- Arts
- Engineering
- Agriculture
- Other undergraduate programs
Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship offers the following benefits:
- Total value of 42,500 Canadian dollars
- Financial support spread over four years of study
- Paid summer research assistantship position
- Personal mentorship from a top university professor
- First-choice residence guarantee for first year
- Strong academic and professional support
Required Documents
To apply, you must submit:
- Completed scholarship application form
- University of Guelph student ID number
- Academic transcripts from high school
- Personal statement or leadership statement
- Details of community and leadership activities
- Reference letters from teachers or mentors
Application Process
Steps to apply:
- Apply for undergraduate admission to the University of Guelph
- Receive your student ID number
- Check your eligibility for the scholarship
- Complete the entrance scholarship application
- Submit all required documents
- Ask your referees to send reference letters
Registration Deadlines
| Event | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Scholarship application opens | Fall 2026 intake | – |
| Student application deadline | January 23, 2026 | 4:00 p.m. EST |
| Reference letters deadline | January 30, 2026 | 4:00 p.m. EST |
Selection Process
The selection process includes:
- Academic excellence evaluation
- Review of leadership and community impact
- Assessment of innovation and problem-solving skills
- Consideration of future leadership potential
- Final decision by the scholarship committee
Tips to Succeed
Tips to improve your chance:
- Start preparing early
- Show real leadership, not only titles
- Explain how you helped your community
- Use simple and honest language
- Choose referees who know you well
- Check all deadlines carefully
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is this scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers a large part of tuition and includes research and mentorship support. - Can I apply without applying for admission?
No, you must apply for admission first. - Is IELTS required?
Language requirements depend on the university admission rules, not the scholarship itself.
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