University of Waterloo Level: Master’s (research-based/thesis or major research paper programs)
Field of Study: Any (open across faculties, but prioritizes research-focused programs)
Eligible Applicants: International students (study permit holders paying international tuition)
Location: Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
Key Info: Automatic consideration—no separate application; faculties nominate based on admission strength
Award Value: $2,500 CAD per term (up to 5 full-time terms max, within program time limits—typically totaling $12,500 over ~2 years)
Availability: Ongoing for eligible intakes (e.g., Fall 2026, Winter 2027, Spring 2027—apply to programs with rolling or term-specific deadlines)
Quick Overview Waterloo is a top Canadian research powerhouse (especially in engineering, CS, math, and innovation), famous for its co-op programs that blend study with paid work experience. The IMAE is a nice merit-based boost for international master’s students in research programs—it helps offset international tuition fees and lets you focus on your thesis or project without as much financial worry. It’s been running since 2019 and remains a solid option for high-achieving admits.
Description The International Master’s Award of Excellence (IMAE) provides $2,500 per term for up to five terms to outstanding international students entering research-based master’s programs. Faculties allocate and nominate candidates based on academic excellence shown in their admission application (transcripts, research statement, references, etc.). It’s designed to attract global talent and support them through their degree. Note: This replaced the older IMSA program and is separate from PhD-level awards like IDSA.
Eligibility To be considered, you must:
- Be an international student registered full-time and assessed international tuition fees.
- Be entering the first term (term 1.0) of a research-based master’s program (thesis or major research paper focus).
- Demonstrate strong academic excellence (per faculty criteria—usually high GPA, strong undergrad record, research potential).
- Meet program academic progress requirements and have no outstanding probationary conditions.
- Not be receiving concurrent foreign government/agency sponsorship that covers similar costs (some exceptions apply).
- Not be grandparented under the old IMSA if it overlaps; prior IMSA from a completed master’s doesn’t disqualify you.
Faculties can set stricter rules (e.g., higher GPA thresholds or program priorities), and allocations vary by faculty—so competition depends on your department.
How It Works & Tips
- No separate form — you’re automatically considered when you apply for admission. Departments/faculties review files and nominate top candidates based on their allocation.
- If selected, it’s usually confirmed after admission offer acceptance.
- Great for research master’s in engineering, computer science, math, sciences, environment, arts, health—Waterloo’s strengths.
- Often stacks with other funding (e.g., departmental TA/RA positions, external awards), but check for overlaps.
- Program deadlines vary: Many fall intakes close Dec–Feb; winter/spring have later ones—apply early for best shot at nomination.
For the latest confirmation (values stable but always good to double-check), full eligibility, faculty-specific notes, or program applications:
- Official IMAE page: https://uwaterloo.ca/current-graduate-students/catalogs/graduate-funding-and-awards-database/international-masters-award-excellence-imae
- International grad funding overview: https://uwaterloo.ca/current-graduate-students/awards-and-funding/international-student-funding
- Future students admissions: https://uwaterloo.ca/graduate-studies-postdoctoral-affairs/future-students