Posted: January 21, 2026
Application Deadline
Rolling / Anytime: No fixed deadline—automatic consideration during admission to eligible programs. Apply to your chosen Master’s program as early as possible (program-specific deadlines vary, often Dec–Feb for Fall entry, or rolling for other terms like Winter/Spring 2027).
Eligible Applicants
International students only (those assessed international tuition fees and holding/requiring a Canadian study permit).
Study Level
Master’s (primarily research-based programs, e.g., thesis or major research paper)
Fields of Study
Any research-oriented Master’s program at the University of Waterloo—no restrictions on discipline (strong in engineering, computer science, math, sciences, arts, health, environment, etc.).
Scholarship Benefits
- Value: $2,500 CAD per term (paid for up to 5 full-time terms, within program time limits of typically 6 terms)
- Maximum total: Up to $12,500 CAD over the program duration
This merit-based award supports high-achieving international students in focusing on their graduate research without additional financial stress.
Program Overview
Launched effective May 2019, the International Master’s Award of Excellence (IMAE) at the University of Waterloo recognizes exceptional international talent entering research-focused Master’s programs. Waterloo, a top Canadian public research university founded in 1957, excels in co-op education, innovation, and fields like tech, engineering, and interdisciplinary studies. Faculties nominate top candidates based on admission applications, emphasizing academic strength to help build a diverse, global graduate community.
Eligibility Requirements
Key criteria include:
- Registered full-time in a research-based Master’s program and charged international tuition fees
- Typically awarded to students in their first term (term 1.0) of the program
- Demonstrate outstanding academic excellence (as evaluated by the admitting Faculty/Department)
- Meet program academic progress standards and have no unresolved probationary admission conditions
- Normally not receiving concurrent sponsorship from foreign governments or agencies
- Not grandparented under the prior IMSA program (though prior IMSA recipients from a completed different Master’s may qualify)
- Faculties may add stricter rules as needed
How to Apply
No separate scholarship application—automatic review upon program admission.
- Apply directly to your desired research-based Master’s program at Waterloo (submit transcripts, CV, statements, references, etc., per program requirements)
- Departments/Faculties assess applications for admission and automatically nominate eligible high-achievers for IMAE based on internal allocation and merit
- Award decisions are made by the Faculty; successful recipients are notified with or after admission offers
Official Details & Database Link: University of Waterloo – IMAE Award Description
For graduate admissions and program deadlines: Visit Waterloo Graduate Studies.
This automatic merit award (up to $12,500 total) is a fantastic opportunity for research-oriented international Master’s students—especially appealing for those from Benin or West Africa aiming for top Canadian programs in tech, sciences, or beyond. Strengthen your admission application to boost nomination chances—no extra paperwork needed!
Questions on Waterloo programs or eligibility? Comment below or check the official links for the most current guidance.