Here's How Colleges and Universities Are Stepping Up to Support Ukrainian Students

The war in Ukraine is still going on, with new headlines detailing new tragedies every day. Millions of civilians have been displaced by ongoing fighting, and we can only hope to see a peaceful resolution soon.

In the meantime, though, colleges and universities in Canada and around the world aren't just sitting still. Many institutions are developing programs, scholarships, and bursaries to help Ukrainian students succeed, despite the odds.

To help, we've gathered some of the stories we've heard from schools supporting Ukrainian students. Check out these stories, and if you have info on something we're missing from our list, please reach out to info@schoolfinder.com.

University of Alberta | Tuition waiver

The University of Alberta is offering up to a million dollars in tuition support for Ukrainian international students. UAlberta is home to the Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies, so their connection to the community runs deep.

Western University | Investing in students

Western University is spending $600,000 to help Ukrainian students facing disruption and displacement. Most of the money will be allocated to direct support to current and future students. "Our approach is really to provide that tailored support based on their circumstances," Western said. Western International, the university's centre for international students, has been reaching out to Ukrainian students to offer support.

The Ivey Business School is also investing $1 million to help fund 10 Ukrainian MBA students. These scholars will have their tuition waived, alongside costs covered for housing and living expenses.

Niagara College | Anti-Imperial Stout

The Niagara College Teaching Winery has brewed up a batch of Resist, an Anti-Imperial Stout. The recipe was developed by displaced Ukrainian brewers, and proceeds will go to support those who've been forced to flee their homes.

Ontario Tech University | International emergency bursary

Ontario Tech University has developed a new emergency bursary for international students. 10 bursaries of $20,000 CAD each are open to undergraduate and grad students who transfer to Ontario Tech to escape war and environmental catastrophe. Each bursary is renewable for up to four years.

University of Toronto | Emergency Grants program

The University of Toronto is offering emergency grants and tuition supports to students affected by the war in Ukraine, along with mental health counselling for those who need it. UofT is also matching donations of up to $1 million as part of its Scholars-at-Risk program.

IE University | €1 million scholarship fund

IE University, with the IE Foundation, has committed €1 million to support bachelor's and master's level students in Ukraine affected by the war. Ukrainian students studying at a local university are able to transfer to IE and take advantage of this support as well.

Avalon University School of Medicine | $2 million in scholarships

Curacao's Avalon University School of Medicine is offering scholarships to students enrolled in medical school in Ukraine. Applicants can transfer to Avalon and receive up to $40,000 USD each to support their ongoing medical education.


You can learn more about the situation in Ukraine, and how you can help. If you have another story to share for this piece, please let us know.

We stand with 🇺🇦 Ukraine 🇺🇦.


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