If you’re an international student looking to pursue a research-based master’s program in Canada, the IMAE Scholarship at the University of Waterloo is an exceptional opportunity. Launched in spring 2019, this scholarship recognizes high-achieving students who demonstrate strong academic potential. Moreover, you don’t need to submit a separate application — your faculty nominates you automatically.
The University of Waterloo, located in Ontario, is globally renowned for innovation and co-op education. In addition, it has a strong reputation in engineering, computer science, mathematics, and technology-driven research, and provides students with excellent industry connections. Furthermore, the university focuses on connecting students directly with leading industries, startups, and research institutions.
Degree Level
Master’s Degree (Research-Based Programs Only)
Eligible Programs and Faculties
This scholarship is available for students pursuing a thesis-based program or a major research paper (MRP). It applies across multiple faculties:
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Faculty of Arts
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Faculty of Engineering
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Faculty of Mathematics
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Faculty of Science
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Faculty of Health
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Faculty of Environment
Additionally, students at affiliated colleges are also eligible:
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Conrad Grebel University College
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Renison University College
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St. Jerome’s University
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United College
Scholarship Benefits
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Value per Term: CAD $2,500
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Maximum Duration: Up to 5 full-time terms
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Total Maximum Value: CAD $12,500
Overall, the IMAE Scholarship helps reduce tuition and research costs. In addition, it can be combined with other awards, including the UW Graduate Scholarship and Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS). As a result, students gain financial stability while focusing on their research-based master’s studies.
Eligible Nationalities
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International students only
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Applicants must hold a valid Canadian study permit and pay international tuition fees
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
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Be enrolled full-time as an international student
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Be starting a research-based master’s program
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Normally awarded in the first term
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Demonstrate academic excellence in their admission application
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Maintain satisfactory academic progress
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Fulfill all admission requirements
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Not be funded fully by a foreign government sponsorship (e.g., CSC, Libyan sponsorship)
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Not have been previously funded under the IMSA program
Furthermore, individual faculties may impose additional internal requirements.
Application Process
No separate application is required.
When you apply for admission, you are automatically considered. Selection is based on:
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Academic merit
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Faculty or department recommendation
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Available scholarship funding
Therefore, award decisions are usually finalized shortly after admission offers are sent.
Submit your application through the official University of Waterloo website
Selection Process
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Automatic consideration upon admission
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Final selection by Faculty or Department Graduate Committees
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Based on academic excellence and research potential
Eligible Terms
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Winter
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Spring
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Fall
Location
Canada
University of Waterloo, Ontario
Scholarship Type
Partial Funding
Program Level
Master’s (Research-Based Programs Only)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need to submit a separate application for the IMAE Scholarship?
No. If you’re eligible, they review you automatically while they are assessing your admission file.
2. Who is eligible for the IMAE Scholarship?
The scholarship is for international students starting a research-focused master’s program at the University of Waterloo who demonstrate strong academic performance.
3. How much financial support does the scholarship provide?
The IMAE Scholarship provides CAD $2,500 per term for up to five terms, totaling CAD $12,500. Consequently, students can focus on research without financial stress.
4. Can I receive this scholarship along with other awards?
Yes. The IMAE Scholarship can be combined with other internal or external awards, such as the OGS.
5. Is this scholarship available for coursework-based programs?
No. It is only available for thesis-based or research-heavy master’s programs.
6. Does the scholarship automatically renew each term?
Yes. However, renewal is automatic as long as the student remains full-time and maintains good academic standing.
7. Are domestic students eligible?
No. This scholarship is designed exclusively for international students paying international tuition fees.
8. When are scholarship decisions announced?
Typically, decisions are finalized shortly after admission offers are issued.
