University of Waterloo International Master’s Award of Excellence (IMAE) Scholarship 2027 – Canada
About the Scholarship
The International Master’s Award of Excellence (IMAE) is a prestigious merit-based scholarship offered by the University of Waterloo, Canada, to outstanding international students entering research-based master’s programs. Established in Spring 2019, the scholarship provides financial support to attract high-achieving international students. Award recipients are selected automatically based on academic excellence and faculty nomination, making this one of the most competitive scholarships for international master’s students in Canada.
About the University
The University of Waterloo is a leading public research university in Ontario, Canada, renowned for its co-operative education (co-op) program that integrates academic study with paid work experience. Founded in 1957, Waterloo excels in engineering, computer science, mathematics, and technology-driven research, while offering diverse programs in science, arts, health, and environment. The university is innovation-focused, connected with industry and startups, and consistently ranks among Canada’s top universities for research and employability.
Degree Level
Master’s Degree (Research-Based Programs)
Eligible Subjects
Open to all research-based master’s programs
Thesis-based or Major Research Paper (MRP) programs
Available across multiple faculties, including:
Faculty of Arts
Faculty of Engineering
Faculty of Mathematics
Faculty of Science
Faculty of Health
Faculty of Environment
Conrad Grebel University College
Renison University College
St. Jerome’s University
United College
Scholarship Value & Benefits
CAD $2,500 per term
Up to five full-time academic terms
Maximum total value: CAD $12,500
Can be held alongside other scholarships such as UW Graduate Scholarship or Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
Helps reduce tuition costs and supports research-related expenses
Eligibility Criteria
International students only, holding a valid study permit and assessed international tuition fees
Must be enrolled full-time in a research-based master’s program
Typically awarded in the first term of enrollment
Demonstrated academic excellence through admission application
Must maintain satisfactory academic progress
No outstanding probationary requirements
Not concurrently funded by foreign government sponsorships
Previous IMSA program participants are not eligible
Faculties may apply stricter internal criteria
Application Procedure
No separate application required
Automatic consideration during the admission process
Selection made by Faculty/Department based on academic merit
Award decisions finalized after admission offers are issued
Students should demonstrate academic records and research potential clearly in their application
Selection Process
Automatic consideration upon admission
Final selection by Faculty/Department Graduate Committees
Based on academic excellence and faculty-defined criteria
Eligible Terms
Winter
Spring