The University of Guelph rarely appears on the first list Nigerian students consider when researching Canadian scholarships. Most focus on Toronto, Waterloo, or McGill. But Guelph offers something unique: world-leading programs in agriculture, food security, and veterinary medicine with scholarships specifically designed for these fields. The Arrell Food Institute Scholarship alone provides $50,000 annually for masters students researching food systems, and its deadline is still open.
According to the University of Guelph’s official financial aid page, the university awarded $14.1 million to international students in 2023-24. This substantial investment demonstrates Guelph’s commitment to supporting international students through scholarships, bursaries, and work-study programs.
Urgent deadline alert: If you submitted your Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino President’s Scholarship application by January 23, 2026, ensure your reference letters are submitted by 4:00 PM EST today (January 30, 2026). This is a firm deadline that cannot be extended.
Important deadline update: The application deadline for the Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino President’s Scholarship ($42,500) was January 23, 2026 and has now passed. However, significant opportunities remain open, including automatic entrance scholarships, the Ontario Graduate Scholarship (deadline February 6, 2026), and the fully funded Arrell Food Institute Scholarships with an April 15, 2026 deadline.
A Nigerian student I advised in 2024 who was passionate about food security applied to the Arrell Food Institute program. Her research proposal on sustainable farming practices in West Africa, combined with her undergraduate thesis on crop yield optimization, secured her the $50,000 scholarship. The key was demonstrating clear alignment between her research goals and the Institute’s mission.
This guide covers all available University of Guelph scholarships for international students, including those still accepting applications and how to prepare for Fall 2027 if you missed the 2026 deadlines.
University of Guelph Scholarships for International Students 2026: Current Status
Understanding which scholarships are still available helps you focus your efforts effectively.
Scholarships With Passed Deadlines (For Reference)
According to the University of Guelph’s official scholarship information, the following prestigious entrance scholarship had a January 23, 2026 deadline:
| Scholarship | Value | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino President’s Scholarship | $42,500 | Application CLOSED |
| Reference Letters for Vaccarino Scholarship | Required | Due TODAY 4:00 PM EST |
The Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino President’s Scholarship is the University of Guelph’s most prestigious undergraduate entrance award for international students. It was established in honour of the University’s eighth president. This scholarship includes a summer research assistantship position, mentorship by one of the University’s leading professors, and guaranteed first-choice preference residence for the first year of study.
Important clarification: The regular President’s Scholarship ($42,500) is not available to international students. According to the official University of Guelph scholarships page, “International students are not eligible for these scholarships; please apply for the Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino President’s Scholarship.” Only the Vaccarino President’s Scholarship is open to international applicants.
For Fall 2027 applicants: Note these January deadlines and begin preparing your applications by October 2026.
Scholarships Still Available
The following scholarships remain open for Fall 2026:
Automatic Entrance Scholarships (No Application Required)
- University International Scholarship: $20,000 over 4 years
- Dean’s International Scholarship: $10,000 over 4 years
- International Transfer Scholarship: $10,000 one-time
Application-Based Scholarships
- Ontario Graduate Scholarship: $15,000 (Deadline: February 6, 2026)
- Arrell Food Institute Scholarships: $50,000/year (Deadline: April 15, 2026)
- FRAN Professional Masters International Tuition Scholarship: $5,000-$10,000
Types of University of Guelph Entrance Scholarships for International Students
The University of Guelph offers both automatic and application-based scholarships. Understanding the distinction is critical for maximizing your funding.
Automatic Entrance Scholarships (No Application Required)
According to the University of Guelph’s scholarships and bursaries page, renewable international scholarships ranging in total value from $32,000 to $37,500 CDN over four years are available to students who have not attended post-secondary studies and are entering the University of Guelph in September.
Students do not need to apply to be considered. Offers are made on the basis of the student’s admission file. Students must have a complete admission file by the final document deadline of March 1, 2026 to be considered. Eligible students will be notified through their offer of admission.
University International Scholarship
| Year 1 Value | Annual Renewal (Years 2, 3, 4) | 4-Year Total |
|---|---|---|
| $5,000 | $5,000 | $20,000 |
Students admitted to the University of Guelph are eligible to receive $5,000 in years 2, 3, and 4 if all renewal criteria are met each year.
Dean’s International Scholarship
| Year 1 Value | Annual Renewal (Years 2, 3, 4) | 4-Year Total |
|---|---|---|
| $2,500 | $2,500 | $10,000 |
Students admitted are eligible to receive $2,500 in years 2, 3, and 4 if renewal criteria are met.
Renewal Criteria for Both Scholarships:
- Recipients must remain registered in full-time studies
- Achieve a minimum 80.0% average in their previous academic year of full-time study (typically fall/winter)
- Continue to pay international student tuition and fees
Students who fail to qualify for a continuing payment may re-qualify by subsequently obtaining an 80.0% or better average. However, payments lost cannot be added to the end of the award period.
International Transfer Scholarship
International fee-paying transfer students admitted to a University of Guelph undergraduate degree program for Winter 2026 or Fall 2026 are eligible to receive a one-time $10,000 scholarship. This is for students transferring from another post-secondary institution.
Application-Based Entrance Scholarship
Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino President’s Scholarship
This is the University of Guelph’s top scholarship for entering international students:
- Value: $42,500
- Additional benefits: Summer research assistantship position, mentorship by a leading professor, guaranteed first-choice residence
- Deadline: January 23 annually (2026 deadline has passed)
- Reference Letters Deadline: January 30 annually
Eligibility Requirements:
- Entering first semester of any undergraduate degree program
- International (VISA) student
- Have not previously attended a post-secondary institution
- Hold an admission average equivalent to at least 90.0% in a Canadian curriculum
- Demonstrate significant leadership contributions to school and community
Selection Criteria:
- Academic excellence
- Leadership contributions to school and community
- Innovative and unique approaches to implementing change or improving life
- Demonstrated potential for future leadership
For Fall 2027 applicants, begin preparing your application materials by October 2026 to meet the January deadline.
Fully Funded Graduate Scholarships at University of Guelph
Graduate students have access to substantial funding opportunities, including some that approach full coverage.
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) — Deadline February 6, 2026
This is a still-open opportunity for graduate students:
- Value: $15,000 ($5,000 per semester for up to 3 semesters)
- Level: Masters and PhD
- Deadline: February 6, 2026
- Eligibility: Current and incoming graduate students, including international students
According to the University of Guelph graduate studies information, students not currently registered at Guelph must submit a complete admission application prior to the OGS deadline. This is a merit-based scholarship jointly funded by the Province of Ontario and Ontario universities.
Arrell Food Institute Scholarships ($50,000/year)
This is the premier fully funded graduate opportunity at the University of Guelph:
- Value: $50,000 per year (CAD)
- Level: Masters (up to 2 years) and PhD (up to 4 years)
- Deadline: April 15, 2026
- Focus: Research in agriculture, food security, and sustainable development
According to the scholarship information, this scholarship is paid in three equal installments annually, with funds disbursed at the beginning of each semester.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Applied for admission to a thesis-based masters or PhD program, including submission of two referee assessments and all transcripts by the application deadline
- Research focus must align with the Arrell Food Institute’s mission, particularly in areas like food policy, agriculture, environmental science, or sustainable development
- Strong academic history with competitive grades
- Prior research experience is a plus
Application Requirements: According to the scholarship criteria, successful applicants should prepare:
- A motivation letter clearly outlining research goals, academic journey, and vision for contributing to food sustainability
- CV/resume highlighting leadership, non-academic experiences, and relevant community engagement
- Two referee assessments submitted by the deadline
- All official academic transcripts
Selection Process: Final candidates will be interviewed by the scholarship selection committee. Your CV should demonstrate not only academic achievement but also leadership and community impact.
For Nigerian students interested in food security, agricultural development, or sustainable farming systems, this scholarship represents an exceptional opportunity to study at a world-leading institution in these fields.
International Masters Scholarship
The University of Guelph offers a competitive International Masters Scholarship for thesis-based students:
- Covers the difference between international and domestic tuition
- Value approximately $20,000
- Available for students beginning studies in 2026
- Thesis-based programs only
FRAN Professional Masters International Tuition Scholarship
- Value: $5,000 to $10,000
- Created to assist incoming international students entering professional masters programs at the University of Guelph
Companion Animal Welfare Scholarship
- Value: $18,000
- Level: Masters, PhD, Postdoctoral Fellowships
- Focus: Research in human/animal bond, companion animal welfare, or diseases affecting companion animals
- Eligibility: Must be registered full-time in the Faculty of Graduate Studies and in a department in the Ontario Veterinary College
Charlotte Yates Family Scholarship
- Value: $2,000
- Purpose: Celebrates diversity and excellence by supporting Black graduate students
- Level: Masters
University of Guelph-Humber Scholarships for International Students
The University of Guelph-Humber campus offers separate scholarship opportunities with different deadlines.
International Student Entrance Scholarship
According to the University of Guelph-Humber website:
- Value: Up to $20,500 CAD over 4 years
- Year 1 Award: $4,500 to $8,500 CAD
- Renewable: $4,000 CAD for up to 3 years
- Minimum Average: 70%
- Application Deadline: August 1, 2026
- Automatic consideration: No separate application required
This scholarship is available to students entering post-secondary studies for the first time at the Guelph-Humber campus.
Important Guelph-Humber Deadlines
| Entry Point | Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| September 2026 entry (All programs) | May 1, 2026 |
| Tuition deposit (September 2026) | June 15, 2026 |
University of Guelph Scholarship Requirements
Understanding the requirements helps you assess your competitiveness and strengthen your application.
Academic Requirements by Scholarship Tier
| Scholarship | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Automatic entrance scholarships | Competitive admission average |
| Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino President’s Scholarship | 90%+ admission average |
| Dean’s International Scholarship | Strong admission average |
| Guelph-Humber International Scholarship | 70%+ admission average |
| Graduate scholarships | Typically 75%+ at graduate level |
Can I Get Into Guelph With a 70 Average?
A 70% admission average meets the minimum threshold for Guelph-Humber admission and its International Student Entrance Scholarship. However, for prestigious scholarships at the main campus like the Vaccarino President’s Scholarship, you need at least a 90% admission average.
For competitive programs at the main Guelph campus, higher averages are typically required for both admission and scholarship consideration.
Requirements for Nigerian Students
Nigerian students applying with WAEC results should note:
- Grades will be converted to the Canadian percentage system
- Strong results (A1s/As) typically convert favorably for scholarship consideration
- The University of Guelph accepts credentials from various educational systems worldwide
For students with A-Levels:
- Minimum of 2 Advanced Level passes and 3 (I)GCSE (Ordinary Level) passes required
- Expected to present minimum A/B or 6/7 grades on (I)GCSE, AS, and predicted Advanced Level examinations
- Minimum of 5 unique subject areas required
English Language Requirements
According to the University of Guelph English proficiency requirements:
| Test | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 6.5 overall, no band less than 6 |
| TOEFL | 89 overall |
| PTE Academic | 60 overall, no score less than 60 in individual components |
Note: If your most recent schooling was conducted in English, you may not need to submit English proficiency test scores. Check the official requirements for exemption criteria.
Integrated Admission Pathway (IAP): If you are an academically qualified international student who meets undergraduate admission requirements but has not yet achieved English language proficiency, you may be eligible for IAP. This pathway allows you to complete degree-credit courses while studying English.
For help choosing between English tests, our guide on IELTS vs TOEFL provides detailed comparisons.
Document Requirements
- Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions
- English proficiency test scores
- Referee assessments (for application-based scholarships and graduate programs)
- Research proposal (for thesis-based graduate programs)
- Statement of purpose
Our guide on documents needed for studying abroad provides a comprehensive checklist.
University of Guelph Scholarship Deadlines 2026
| Scholarship | Deadline | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino President’s Scholarship Application | January 23, 2026 | CLOSED |
| Reference Letters (for Vaccarino) | January 30, 2026 4:00 PM EST | TODAY |
| Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) | February 6, 2026 | Open |
| Admission File Completion (for automatic scholarships) | March 1, 2026 | Open |
| Entrance Financial Need Assessment Form | April 15, 2026 | Open |
| Arrell Food Institute Scholarships | April 15, 2026 | Open |
| Guelph-Humber Application (September entry) | May 1, 2026 | Open |
| Guelph-Humber Tuition Deposit | June 15, 2026 | Open |
| Guelph-Humber Scholarship Consideration | August 1, 2026 | Open |
| University/Dean’s International Scholarships | Rolling (with admission) | Open |
International Bursary Deadlines (After First Year)
Students must complete a minimum of one year of study before applying for University of Guelph International Bursaries:
| Semester | Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall semester bursary | November 1 |
| Winter semester bursary | March 1 |
| Summer semester bursary | July 2 |
How to Apply for University of Guelph Scholarships
Step 1: Apply for Admission
International students apply through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC):
- Use OUAC 105 for international applicants
- Application fee: $90 CAD non-refundable
- Provide complete personal information
- Select your program of choice
You can also apply directly to the University of Guelph through their application portal.
Step 2: Upload Required Documents
After processing your application, you will receive login information and instructions to upload documents to your Admission Portal:
- Submit appropriate transcripts and required documentation as listed in your portal checklist
- Submit English proficiency test scores as required
- Monitor your email and Admission Portal for updates
- Complete your admission file by March 1, 2026 to be considered for automatic scholarships
Step 3: Automatic Scholarship Consideration
For University International Scholarship and Dean’s International Scholarship:
- No separate application required
- Automatically considered based on your admission average
- Offers made based on your admission file
- Eligible students will be notified through their offer of admission
Step 4: Apply for Need-Based Scholarships
If you wish to be considered for need-based scholarships:
- Complete the Entrance Financial Need Assessment Form by April 15, 2026
- You can submit this form even if you do not yet have an offer of admission
- The awards office will send an email confirming all entrance awards before the end of May
Step 5: Apply for Specific Scholarships
For scholarships requiring applications (Arrell Food Institute, OGS, etc.):
- Check specific requirements on the scholarship page
- Submit referee assessments before the deadline
- Upload all required documents
- Prepare for potential interview (for Arrell Food Institute)
Step 6: Pay Tuition Deposit After Acceptance
According to the University of Guelph:
- International tuition deposit: $2,000 CAD
- Required after accepting your offer of admission
- Applied to your first semester tuition balance
- Not an additional fee beyond tuition
Step 7: Apply for Study Permit
International students need a Study Permit and Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) to study at the University of Guelph.
- University of Guelph DLI#: O19305391192
- Contact gpsadvisor@uoguelph.ca for additional support
For Nigerian students, our guide on Canada student visa for Nigerians covers the study permit process in detail.
Cost of Studying at University of Guelph for International Students
Understanding the full cost helps you assess how much scholarship support you need.
Tuition Fees (2026-2027)
According to University of Guelph-Humber tuition information:
| Program | Annual Tuition (International) |
|---|---|
| Arts & Sciences (Guelph-Humber) | $34,061 CAD |
| Business (Guelph-Humber) | $39,142 CAD |
Note: Main campus tuition varies by program. A 5% increase has been approved for continuing international students in 2026-2027. Verify current rates at uoguelph.ca.
Additional Costs
| Expense | Estimated Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| UHIP (Health Insurance) | $792/year (Fall start) |
| Residence | $8,000-$12,000 |
| Meal plan | $4,000-$6,000 |
| Books and supplies | $1,500-$2,500 |
| Personal expenses | $3,000-$5,000 |
How Scholarships Reduce Your Costs
Undergraduate Example:
| Scenario | Annual Reduction |
|---|---|
| University International Scholarship only | -$5,000 |
| Dean’s International Scholarship only | -$2,500 |
| Both scholarships combined | -$7,500 |
Graduate Example:
| Scenario | Annual Reduction |
|---|---|
| Ontario Graduate Scholarship | -$15,000 |
| International Masters Scholarship | -$20,000 |
| Arrell Food Institute Scholarship | -$50,000 |
The Arrell Food Institute Scholarship at $50,000 per year can cover most or all of your graduate study costs depending on your program and living situation.
University of Guelph Bursaries and Financial Aid for International Students
Beyond scholarships, the University of Guelph offers additional financial support.
Bursaries
According to the University of Guelph’s international student support page:
- Need-based financial assistance available
- Bursaries available to international students after completing one year of study
- Application required to demonstrate financial need
Work Study
- Part-time employment opportunities on campus
- Helps offset living expenses
- Available to international students
- Must demonstrate financial need to qualify
- Work Study application deadline for Fall 2025 and Winter 2026 was January 19, 2026
What Makes University of Guelph Unique
Understanding Guelph’s strengths helps you determine if it is the right fit and craft stronger application responses.
Academic Strengths
University of Guelph is known for:
Agriculture and Food Science Guelph’s agriculture and food science programs are consistently ranked among the best globally. The Arrell Food Institute drives research into sustainable food systems, food security, and agricultural innovation.
Veterinary Medicine The Ontario Veterinary College is one of the most prestigious veterinary schools in North America. Programs affiliated with OVC attract students worldwide.
Environmental Sciences Strong sustainability focus across programs, with research addressing climate change, conservation, and environmental management.
Biological Sciences Research-intensive programs with excellent laboratory facilities and faculty mentorship opportunities.
Why Guelph Is Good for International Students
- Dedicated international student support services
- Scholarships specifically designed for international students
- Strong research opportunities in food, agriculture, and environment
- Medium-sized campus with supportive community
- Located in safe, student-friendly city approximately one hour from Toronto
- High study permit approval rates
Location
Guelph is located in southwestern Ontario, approximately 100 kilometers west of Toronto. The city offers:
- Lower cost of living compared to Toronto
- Safe, student-friendly environment
- Access to Toronto for internships and career opportunities
- Strong agricultural and food industry connections in the region
Application Timeline for International Students
For Fall 2026 (Remaining Opportunities)
| Timeline | Action |
|---|---|
| Today (January 30, 2026) | Ensure reference letters for Vaccarino scholarship are submitted by 4:00 PM EST |
| February 6, 2026 | Ontario Graduate Scholarship deadline |
| March 1, 2026 | Complete admission file for automatic scholarship consideration |
| April 15, 2026 | Entrance Financial Need Assessment Form deadline |
| April 15, 2026 | Arrell Food Institute Scholarships deadline |
| May 1, 2026 | Guelph-Humber application deadline |
| After acceptance | Pay $2,000 tuition deposit |
| June 15, 2026 | Guelph-Humber tuition deposit deadline |
| August 1, 2026 | Guelph-Humber scholarship consideration deadline |
For Fall 2027 (Full Opportunity)
| Timeline | Action |
|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | Research programs, begin gathering documents |
| October-November 2026 | Submit OUAC application |
| December 2026 | Prepare Vaccarino President’s Scholarship application materials |
| January 2027 | Vaccarino President’s Scholarship deadline (expect similar January dates) |
| January 2027 | Reference letters deadline (typically one week after application) |
| April 2027 | Arrell Food Institute deadline |
For guidance on preparing scholarship applications, our guide on how to apply for scholarships provides strategies that apply across institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions About University of Guelph Scholarships
Does the University of Guelph offer scholarships?
Yes. The University of Guelph offers multiple scholarships for international students ranging from $2,500 to $50,000. Automatic entrance scholarships include the University International Scholarship ($20,000 over 4 years) and Dean’s International Scholarship ($10,000 over 4 years). The Arrell Food Institute Scholarships provide $50,000 annually for masters and PhD students in agriculture and food research.
Can I get a 100% scholarship to study in Canada?
True 100% coverage is rare at the undergraduate level. The Arrell Food Institute Scholarship ($50,000/year) for graduate students comes closest to full funding for studies in agriculture and food research. Combining multiple undergraduate scholarships can significantly reduce costs but rarely covers 100% of tuition plus living expenses.
How much is the tuition deposit for international students at University of Guelph?
International students must pay a $2,000 CAD tuition deposit after accepting their offer of admission. This deposit is applied to your first semester tuition balance and is not an additional fee.
What GPA do you need to get into Guelph?
Admission requirements vary by program. For the Guelph-Humber International Student Entrance Scholarship, a minimum 70% admission average is required. For the Vaccarino President’s Scholarship, you need at least a 90% admission average equivalent.
Can I get into Guelph with a 70 average?
A 70% average meets the minimum threshold for Guelph-Humber admission and its International Student Entrance Scholarship. For competitive programs at the main campus, higher averages are typically required for both admission and scholarship consideration.
Can I get financial aid if I’m an international student?
Yes. The University of Guelph offers scholarships, bursaries, and work-study opportunities for international students. In 2023-24, the university awarded $14.1 million to international students through these programs. Complete the Entrance Financial Need Assessment Form by April 15 to be considered for need-based awards.
Is it hard to get into the University of Guelph?
Admission competitiveness varies by program. Agriculture, veterinary, and biological science programs are highly competitive. Overall, Guelph maintains selective admissions while being accessible to strong international applicants.
Is Guelph good for international students?
Yes. Guelph offers dedicated international student support, specific scholarships for international students, a welcoming campus community, and strong programs in high-demand fields like agriculture, food science, and veterinary medicine.
What major is Guelph known for?
Guelph is best known for agriculture, food science, veterinary medicine, environmental sciences, and biological sciences. The Ontario Veterinary College and programs affiliated with the Arrell Food Institute are particularly prestigious globally.
How much is the tuition fee at the University of Guelph per year?
International tuition varies by program, ranging from approximately $34,000 to $40,000+ CAD annually at Guelph-Humber. Main campus tuition varies by faculty. Always verify current rates on the official website as fees change annually.
About This Guide
My name is Babatunde Oladepo, and I started NG Career after experiencing firsthand how difficult it is to find accurate, timely scholarship information as a Nigerian. The University of Guelph’s prestigious Vaccarino President’s Scholarship deadlines (January 23 for applications, January 30 for reference letters) are easy to miss if you are not tracking Canadian university cycles closely.
The Arrell Food Institute Scholarship remains one of the most generous graduate funding opportunities in Canada for students interested in food security and agricultural research. At $50,000 per year with an April 15 deadline, it deserves serious consideration from any Nigerian student passionate about these fields. The Ontario Graduate Scholarship, with its February 6, 2026 deadline, offers another immediate opportunity for graduate students.
Every deadline and requirement in this guide has been verified against official University of Guelph sources. For the most current information, always confirm details directly on the University of Guelph scholarships page.
For those exploring other Canadian scholarship opportunities, our guides on Canada scholarships for Nigerians in 2026 and the Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 provide additional pathways to study abroad.
