Scholarships, Awards, & Bursaries at York University

York University is committed to supporting its students through a comprehensive array of financial aid opportunities, including scholarships, awards, and bursaries. These financial resources are designed to recognize academic excellence, support students in need, and encourage engagement in university life. This article provides an in-depth guide on how to navigate the various financial aid opportunities available at York University, including how to use the Financial Aid, Awards, and Scholarships (FAAS) application, details about renewable scholarships, and other external awards.

Understanding the Financial Aid, Awards, and Scholarships (FAAS) Application

York University has streamlined the process for applying for scholarships, awards, and bursaries through the Financial Aid, Awards, and Scholarships application (FAAS App). This online tool allows students to create a Student Profile, which serves as the foundation for their financial aid applications.

How to Use the FAAS App:

1. Create Your Student Profile: The first step in using the FAAS App is to fill out your Student Profile. This profile collects essential information about your academic history, extracurricular activities, and financial needs. It's crucial to provide accurate and comprehensive information to ensure you are matched with all relevant financial aid opportunities.
2. Award Search: Once your profile is complete, you can use the FAAS App to search for awards, scholarships, and bursaries that match your profile. The search tool allows you to filter opportunities by Faculty, award type, or activity level. If you have a specific award in mind, you can search by its name.
3. Application Process: For most awards, the FAAS App will guide you through the application process, including the submission of any required documents, such as reference letters. If you need to provide a reference letter, refer to York's Letter of Reference Guidelines for helpful tips on what should be included.
4. Award Notification: After applying, you will be notified through the FAAS App if you have been selected for an award. Funds from scholarships, awards, and bursaries are typically applied directly to your tuition and other student fees.

Key Features of the FAAS App:

• Streamlined Application: One application for multiple awards.
• Personalized Matching: Awards are matched to your profile.
• Direct Funding: Award funds are directly applied to your student account.
• Ongoing Updates: The FAAS App regularly updates with new opportunities, so it's essential to check it frequently.

York University Award Search Tool

The York University Award Search tool is a valuable resource for students to explore the wide range of financial aid opportunities available. This tool is accessible online and allows students to browse scholarships, awards, prizes, and bursaries offered across various faculties and departments.

How to Use the Award Search Tool:

1. Search by Faculty: You can narrow your search by selecting your specific Faculty or department, which will display awards tailored to your academic program.
2. Filter by Award Type: Awards can be filtered by type, such as scholarships, bursaries, or prizes. This helps you focus on the opportunities that best suit your needs.
3. Activity Level: Some awards are based on specific activities, such as leadership, community service, or research. You can use this filter to find awards that recognize your extracurricular involvement.
4. Keyword Search: If you are aware of a specific award, you can type its name into the search tool to find detailed information about it.
5. External Awards: In addition to York University-specific awards, the tool also lists external awards that are available to students. These may include provincial, national, or international scholarships and bursaries.

Award Search Process:

The award search process is designed to be straightforward, but it requires careful attention to detail. After finding an award you are eligible for, ensure you meet all the criteria before applying. Deadlines are crucial, and missing a deadline could mean missing out on financial support.

Renewable Scholarships at York University

York University offers several renewable scholarships, which provide ongoing financial support throughout a student's academic career, provided they meet certain renewal criteria.

Example of a Renewable Scholarship: Glendon International Excellence Scholarship

One of the standout renewable scholarships at York University is the Glendon International Excellence Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to international students who are admitted to the Glendon Campus with outstanding academic records.

Scholarship Details:

• Value: $10,000 per year.
• Number of Awards: 1 - 10 awards are available each year.
• Eligibility:
  • Students must have an overall average of 80% or higher in their previous academic studies.
  • The scholarship is automatically considered for students admitted to Glendon Campus who meet the criteria.
• Renewal Criteria:
  • To renew the scholarship, students must maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 8.0.
  • Students must complete a minimum of 24 credits during the academic year, including the preceding summer, fall, and winter semesters.
  • The scholarship is renewable for up to four years of full-time study.

Importance of Renewable Scholarships:

Renewable scholarships are particularly valuable as they provide financial stability throughout your time at university. Meeting the renewal criteria is crucial, so students should be mindful of the academic and credit requirements associated with these scholarships.

Other External Awards

In addition to the scholarships and awards offered directly by York University, students can also apply for a variety of external awards. These awards may come from private foundations, government programs, or other organizations that support higher education.

Finding External Awards:

• External Award Listings: York University's financial aid website provides a list of external awards. These are updated regularly, so students are encouraged to check frequently.
• Application Process: The application process for external awards varies depending on the organization offering the award. It typically involves submitting an application directly to the organization, often with supporting documents such as transcripts, reference letters, or personal statements.
• Award Disbursement: Like internal awards, external awards are usually applied to your tuition and other student fees. If you have a credit remaining after these fees are covered, you may request a refund.

Example of an External Award: Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) is an example of a prestigious external award available to graduate students in Ontario. This award supports students in their graduate studies based on academic excellence.

OGS Details:

• Value: Up to $15,000 per academic year.
• Eligibility:
  • Open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students studying in Ontario.
  • Students must have a strong academic record and be enrolled in a graduate program at a participating Ontario university.
• Application:
  • Students must apply through their university's graduate studies office.
  • The application typically includes a statement of interest, academic transcripts, and reference letters.

Additional Resources and Support

Navigating the world of scholarships, awards, and bursaries can be challenging, but York University offers several resources to help students along the way.

Student Support and Advising

If you are unsure how to apply for a specific award or have questions about your eligibility, York University’s Student Support and Advising team is available to assist. They can provide guidance on the application process, help you understand the requirements for different awards, and offer tips for maximizing your chances of success.

Reference Letters

Many scholarship applications require reference letters from professors, employers, or community leaders. York University provides guidelines on how to obtain and submit these letters. The Letter of Reference Guidelines page offers tips on what should be included in a reference letter, how to approach potential referees, and the best practices for submitting your letters as part of your application.

Award Changes and Cancellations

It's important to note that scholarships, awards, and bursaries are subject to changes and cancellations without notice. Therefore, students should regularly check the FAAS App and the York University Award Search tool for the most up-to-date information.

York University’s extensive range of scholarships, awards, and bursaries provides students with numerous opportunities to receive financial support throughout their academic journey. By leveraging tools like the FAAS App and the Award Search tool, students can easily find and apply for the financial aid that best suits their needs. Renewable scholarships, such as the Glendon International Excellence Scholarship, offer ongoing support, while external awards like the Ontario Graduate Scholarship provide additional funding options.

Whether you are an undergraduate or graduate student, York University is committed to helping you succeed by offering financial resources to reduce the burden of tuition and other expenses. Be proactive in searching for and applying to these opportunities, and don’t hesitate to reach out to Student Support and Advising if you need assistance. By taking advantage of these resources, you can focus on your studies and achieve your academic and personal goals.

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