Perspective Scholarship Programs in Quebec: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Quebec offers a number of scholarship programs designed to attract international students and support them in their education journey. These programs aim to enhance diversity in the province’s colleges and universities while also equipping graduates with global competencies that can benefit Quebec’s economy and society. 

Overview of the Perspective Scholarship

The Perspective Scholarship is Quebec’s principal scholarship program for international students pursuing undergraduate or master’s level studies in the province. It is administered by the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) on behalf of the government. Below are some key facts about it:

• Eligible Programs: Students can apply for most CEGEP (pre-university and technical college) diploma programs or undergraduate and master’s degrees offered by a government-recognized Quebec institution. Vocational or continuing education programs are excluded.
• Eligible Applicants: Candidates must be citizens or permanent residents of a country other than Canada and plan to pursue full-time studies at a designated Quebec institution. Applicants should have sufficient proficiency in French or be committed to learning it.
• Funding Amounts: Scholarship amounts vary depending on the level of study – annual awards can range from around CAD $12,000 for CEGEP diplomas to $16,000-$21,000 for bachelor’s and $18,000-$23,000 for master’s degrees. Partial funding may also be awarded in some cases.
• Renewability: Scholarships are renewable for the normal program duration as long as beneficiaries maintain satisfactory academic performance. Continued commitment to learning French is also required.
• Application deadlines: There are typically two annual application deadlines – March 1 for fall/winter admission and October 1 for winter/summer admission. Institutions may have their own internal deadlines.

So in summary, the Perspective Scholarship aims to promote access to affordable, quality education for international students from around the world at Quebec institutions while also supporting language training and integration goals. Let’s explore the eligibility and application process in more depth.

Eligibility for the Perspective Scholarship

To be eligible for the Perspective Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following basic criteria:

• Citizenship: You must be a citizen or permanent resident of a country other than Canada. Dual citizens are generally not eligible if one of the citizenships is Canadian.
• Academic Level: You must be accepted into a full-time CEGEP pre-university/technical diploma program or undergraduate/master’s degree program offered by a government-recognized Quebec institution.
• French Language Proficiency: Your level of French must meet the admission requirements of your chosen program. If required, you must commit to completing a French improvement program concurrently.
• Previous Education: You should have successfully completed the equivalent of Quebec secondary school studies (high school diploma) in your home country.
• Valid Study Permit: You need a valid Canadian temporary resident visa/study permit to pursue full-time studies in Quebec. The scholarship does not cover this cost.
• Only One Scholarship Allowed: You cannot hold more than one scholarship from the Québec government for your studies.

Additionally, applicants are assessed based on merit-based selection criteria, including academic excellence, extracurricular achievements, career interests aligned with Quebec’s economic and social priorities, and French language commitment. Strong motivation and integration potential also count in your favor.

Applying for the Perspective Scholarship

Now that we understand the eligibility framework better let’s dive into the Perspective Scholarship application process step-by-step:

1. Choose an Academic Program and Institution: Review program listings at CEGEPs and universities to pick one that matches your qualifications and interests. Apply directly to the institution within their own deadline.
2. Complete the Online Application Form: This includes questions about your background, studies, language level, interests, and study/settlement plan in Quebec.
3. Submit Required Documents: These generally include proof of citizenship, academic transcripts, language test scores (if required), letter of acceptance from chosen institution and a resume.
4. Obtain Reference Letters: Two letters of reference are required – one academic and one professional. References should comment on your suitability.
5. Meet Application Deadlines: Most deadlines are March 1 for fall/winter programs or October 1 for winter/summer. Ensure your completed form and all documents reach MIFI on time.
6. Attend the Counseling Session (if shortlisted): Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for an interview/information session to assess their profile and fit further.
7. Receive the Result: Admission decisions are generally released between mid-April to mid-June for fall/winter applicants and end of November-January for winter/summer cycle.

It is important to note that applications are assessed on a competitive basis, and not all eligible candidates are guaranteed an award. Starting the process early and providing complete, high-quality documentation can improve your odds. Scholarship recipients may also need to complete additional administrative steps for disbursements.

Funding Amounts and Duration

As mentioned earlier, Perspective Scholarship amounts vary based on the level of your studies in Quebec. Here are some more details:

For CEGEP (Pre-University/Technical College) Programs

• Diploma in a Science, Technologies, Engineering or Math (STEM) field: $12,000/year
• Diploma in other fields like Health/Social Sciences: $11,000/year

For Undergraduate University Degree Programs

• Bachelor’s in a STEM field: $16,000/year for a 3-year program, $21,000/year for 4-5 year programs
• Bachelor’s in other fields: $15,000/year for a 3-year program, $20,000/year for 4-5-year programs

For Master’s Degree Programs

• Course-based Master’s in most fields: $18,000/year
• Research-based Master’s in STEM fields: $23,000/year
• Research-based Master’s in other fields: $21,000/year

The scholarship is paid directly to recipients in two installments each year based on their registration status. The normal award duration matches the length of the academic program, so renewal criteria must be met to receive funding for the entire program duration. Partial awards are also possible under certain conditions.

Scholarship Renewal Process

One of the major benefits of the Perspective Scholarship is its renewable nature. To continue receiving your award each year, certain academic performance and other conditions must be satisfied. Here is a summary:

• Maintain Full-time Registration: You need to be registered full-time (at least 12 credits per semester for undergrads) throughout the renewal period.
• Meet GPA/Grades Requirements: A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5/4.3 or 70%/B- average each year is expected.
• Satisfy Credit/Course Load Rules: You should successfully complete a minimum number of credits each academic year as per your institution’s norms.
• Demonstrate French Progress: Scholarship recipients must actively improve their French proficiency during the program through coursework and activities.
• Abide by Code of Conduct: You are expected not to have been subjected to any major disciplinary actions by your institution.

Renewal usually involves filling out an online form and providing transcripts/proof to MIFI by the specified deadlines. If conditions are not maintained in any given year, the scholarship could be withdrawn for future terms. Prompt communication regarding any issues is important.

Other Scholarship Options in Quebec

While the Perspective Scholarship is the flagship program, international students pursuing eligible studies in Quebec may also explore these alternative awards that provide partial or full funding support:

• Field of Study Scholarships: Targeting students specializing in specific careers like engineering, business, healthcare that align with Quebec’s manpower needs.
• Merit-Based University Scholarships: Many Quebec institutions offer academic merit-based entrance scholarships worth $1,000-$5,000 per year for exceptional international applicants.
• Research Scholarships: Available for master’s and PhD students via university research assistantships, NSERC, FRQ and other grants supporting innovation and discovery.
• Private Awards: Rotary, Khwarizmi, YIC, and other community organizations provide international student bursaries to promote diversity and achievement.
• College Start-Up Grants: Select Quebec CEGEPs offer one-time $500-1000 grants and support to help international diploma students on arrival.

While competition is intense, researching all potential funding avenues can maximize your financial support package for the entire length of studies in Quebec. Reaching out to institution advisors early is recommended.