Carleton University Prestige Scholarships 2027–2028 in Canada: Merit Awards Worth Up to CAD 32,000
If you’re planning to study in Canada and have an outstanding academic record, the Carleton University Prestige Scholarships 2027–2028 could help lower the cost of your undergraduate education. Designed for high-achieving students, these prestigious entrance scholarships reward academic excellence, leadership, and active participation in school or community activities.
Open to both Canadian and international applicants, the scholarships provide financial support of up to CAD 32,000 over four years. Although they are among Carleton University’s most competitive awards, most are not fully funded for international students. Only one scholarship—the Riordon Scholarship—covers full tuition at the Canadian domestic rate, meaning international students must still pay the difference between domestic and international tuition, along with living expenses.
Here’s everything you need to know before applying.
Scholarship Overview
- Host Country: Canada
- University: Carleton University
- Study Level: Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Degree)
- Scholarship Type: Merit-Based Entrance Scholarship
- Eligible Applicants: Canadian and international students
- Funding: Up to CAD 32,000 over four years or full domestic tuition (Riordon Scholarship)
- Application Method: Online
- Admission Required: Yes
- Application Deadline: March 1, 2027
Who Can Apply?
The Carleton University Prestige Scholarships are available to students who are entering university for the first time.
Applicants must be enrolling in a bachelor’s degree program directly after completing high school or CEGEP and must not have previously attended a college or university.
The scholarships are open to:
- Canadian citizens
- Permanent residents
- International students from any country
Eligible Programs
Students can apply for virtually any eligible undergraduate program offered by Carleton University.
Popular study areas include:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Cybersecurity
- Information Technology
- Architecture
- Business
- Accounting
- Commerce
- International Business
- Journalism
- Health Sciences
- Mathematics
- Environmental Studies
- Arts
- Social Sciences
- Public Affairs
- Science
- Other eligible bachelor’s programs
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants can receive valuable financial support throughout their undergraduate studies.
Benefits may include:
- Scholarships valued between CAD 20,000 and CAD 32,000
- Renewable funding for up to four academic years
- Recognition for academic excellence and leadership
- Reduced tuition expenses
- Access to a world-class Canadian university
- Excellent learning and research facilities
The Riordon Scholarship is the most valuable award and covers full tuition at the domestic student rate.
However, international students should note that these scholarships generally do not cover:
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Books and study materials
- Health insurance
- Airfare
- Visa costs
- The difference between domestic and international tuition fees
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for one of Carleton University’s Prestige Scholarships, applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Apply for admission to an eligible undergraduate program.
- Be entering university for the first time.
- Apply directly from high school or CEGEP.
- Have an admission average of at least 90%.
- Demonstrate leadership abilities.
- Participate actively in extracurricular or community activities.
- Meet all admission requirements for the selected program.
- Satisfy the university’s English language requirements.
Because these are highly competitive awards, strong grades alone may not be enough. Leadership experience, volunteer work, school clubs, and community involvement can strengthen an application significantly.
English Language Requirements
International applicants who are not exempt must demonstrate English language proficiency through one of Carleton University’s accepted qualifications.
Accepted options include:
- IELTS Academic
- Duolingo English Test
- PTE Academic
- CAEL
- Cambridge English Qualifications
- IB English
- AP English
- GCSE, IGCSE, or GCE English qualifications
- Other approved pathways accepted by the university
Some students may qualify for an English language exemption depending on where they completed their education.
Documents You’ll Need
Before starting your application, prepare the following documents:
- Undergraduate admission application
- Prestige Scholarship application form
- Academic transcripts
- Reference letter
- Personal information
- Evidence of leadership and extracurricular activities
- Passport (for international students)
- English language test results, if required
Having these documents ready early can help you avoid delays before the application deadline.
How to Apply
Applying for the scholarship involves a separate process from applying for admission.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Apply for Admission
Submit your undergraduate application to Carleton University.
Step 2: Obtain Your Student Number
Once your admission application is processed, you’ll receive your Carleton student number.
Step 3: Download the Scholarship Form
Download the official Prestige Scholarship application form from the university website.
Step 4: Complete the Application
Fill out the form using Adobe Acrobat and ensure all sections are completed accurately.
Step 5: Secure a Reference Letter
Ask a teacher, school administrator, or another suitable referee to complete and sign your reference letter.
Step 6: Submit Your Application
Email the completed scholarship application together with your reference letter, ensuring your Carleton student number is included before the deadline.
Keep in mind that applying for admission does not automatically enter you into the scholarship competition. You must submit a separate Prestige Scholarship application.
Scholarship Renewal Requirements
Students who receive a Prestige Scholarship can continue receiving funding for up to four years if they meet the university’s renewal conditions.
Recipients must:
- Complete at least 4.0 academic credits during each Fall/Winter academic session.
- Maintain an annual GPA of 10.0 or higher (approximately an A− average).
- Avoid receiving grades of F, UNS, or NR.
- Continue meeting all scholarship renewal requirements established by Carleton University.
Maintaining strong academic performance throughout your degree is essential for keeping the scholarship.
Why Study at Carleton University?
Carleton University has earned a strong reputation for academic excellence and graduate employability.
Students benefit from:
- Internationally recognized degrees
- Modern research and innovation facilities
- Strong industry partnerships
- Excellent internship and career opportunities
- A welcoming multicultural campus
- A wide selection of undergraduate programs
- Generous merit-based scholarships for outstanding students
Located in Ottawa, Canada’s capital city, the university also offers students access to government organizations, technology companies, and research institutions that can support future career growth.
Application Deadline
The deadline to submit applications for the Carleton University Prestige Scholarships 2027–2028 is:
March 1, 2027
Because the scholarship application requires additional documents beyond your admission application, it’s wise to begin preparing several weeks in advance.
Click Here to Visit the official Scholarship Webpage
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