OAS Academic Scholarships Program 2025: A Gateway to Global Education

The Organization of American States (OAS) Academic Scholarships Program is now open for applications for studies commencing between January and December 2025. This program offers funding opportunities for Master’s and PhD-level students to pursue education or research at universities within OAS Member States, except Canada. Interested candidates must submit their applications online by March 13, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EDT.

About the OAS Academic Scholarships

The OAS Academic Scholarships Program is one of the key cooperation initiatives of the Organization of American States. It is designed to foster economic, social, scientific, and cultural development across member nations by providing advanced training opportunities to students. The program also aims to strengthen international ties and promote understanding among nations in the Americas.

Every year, at least one Canadian student is awarded an OAS scholarship for study or research at a recognized institution.

Types of Scholarships Available

OAS offers two types of scholarships:

1. Scholarships at OAS Consortium Universities: Candidates may apply to up to three programs within the OAS Consortium of Universities, located in different countries. Applicants must choose at least two different study destinations. The OAS reserves the right to assign selected candidates to a specific country.

2. Scholarships at Non-OAS Consortium Universities: Candidates must independently secure admission to their chosen university before applying for the OAS scholarship.

These scholarships are available for full-time academic or research programs, which may be pursued on-site, online, or through a hybrid model.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for an OAS Academic Scholarship, candidates must:

• Be Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada.

• Have completed the required undergraduate degree before applying.

• Maintain an overall GPA above the minimum requirement set by the host university.

• Be in good physical and mental health to successfully complete their studies.

• Possess the necessary language proficiency required for their academic program.

Note: Scholarships do not cover studies in Medical Sciences or language training, unless the course is a mandatory part of the approved program.

Scholarship Benefits

The OAS Academic Scholarship offers up to $10,000 USD per year for a minimum of one academic year. The scholarship can be renewed for a second year based on:

• Availability of funding

• Satisfactory academic performance

• Confirmation from the academic institution that an additional year is required

Eligible expenses may include:

✔ Round-trip airfare (most economical route from Canada to the host country)

✔ Tuition fees and mandatory academic expenses

✔ Monthly subsistence allowance (for on-site students only)

✔ Health insurance (for on-site students only)

✔ Fixed annual book allowance

Important: OAS scholarships do not cover dependent expenses or fully fund all study-related costs. Additionally, selected students must provide proof of additional financial resources to cover their living expenses.

Application Process

Candidates must follow a two-step application process:

Step 1: Submission of the OAS Online Application

Candidates must complete and submit the 2025 OAS Graduate Academic Scholarships Application along with the required supporting documents. It is recommended that applicants carefully review the OAS Academic Scholarship Application Guidelines before beginning the application process.

Required Supporting Documents

Applicants must provide the following documents as part of their application:

• Degree Certificate – A copy of the highest academic degree earned (Bachelor’s or Master’s).

• Official Transcripts – A record of all post-secondary education, including GPA details for each degree or certificate. Candidates currently enrolled in a program must also submit their latest transcript.

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) – A two-page resume without photographs or personal details (e.g., date of birth).

• Two Letters of Recommendation – Preferably from former or current professors (using the OAS Recommendation Statement Form) or past employers (using the Employer Recommendation Form). If the applicant has no employment history, a respected community member (e.g., a business leader) can vouch for their academic and professional abilities.

• Letter of Admission – If not currently enrolled in graduate studies, the letter must confirm that the candidate’s program will commence between January 2025 and December 2025.

Application Instructions

1. Create an Account – Visit the My EduCanada portal, click “Login or Register,” and select Individual as the account type.

2. Apply for the Scholarship – After logging in, select the Organization of American States Scholarship Program and click Apply.

3. Complete the Application Form – Enter all required information, ensuring accuracy.

4. Upload Documents – Submit all supporting materials in .jpg, .gif, .png, .pdf, .doc, .docx, .txt, or .xlsx format (file size must not exceed 5MB).

5. Review and Submit – Check all details for accuracy, accept the Declaration and Permission statement, and submit the form.

6. Confirmation – A reference number will be provided after submission. Candidates should print or download their application for their records.

For further assistance, visit Help with My EduCanada.

Step 2: Supporting Documents for the My EduCanada Application

Applicants must also submit the following documents through the My EduCanada portal:

• Proof of Canadian Citizenship – A valid birth certificate, passport, citizenship card, or permanent resident card (baptism certificates are not accepted).

• Letter of Admission from the Host Institution – Confirmation from the OAS host university specifying the study program, level, start and end dates, and an unconditional offer of admission.

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) – A two-page document without personal photos or sensitive details.

• Two Recommendation Letters – Can be from professors (using the OAS Recommendation Statement Form) or employers (using the Employer Recommendation Form). If the applicant has no employment experience, a well-known community figure may provide the reference.

• Proof of Current Enrollment (if applicable) – A document listing the courses the applicant is currently taking.

• Official Transcripts – Complete academic records, including colleges and CÉGEPs, with GPA details. Current students must submit their latest transcript.

• Degree Certificate – A copy of the highest degree obtained.

• OAS Online Application Form Copy – A duplicate of the completed OAS online application.

Application Review Process

All applications submitted before the deadline and meeting eligibility requirements will be assessed by the Canadian Scholarship Selection Committee.

Evaluation Criteria

Applications will be reviewed based on:

✔ Academic and Professional Achievements – Candidate’s qualifications and experience.
✔ Quality of Essays – Clarity in explaining the impact of their studies on their institution, community, and country, as well as their five-year career plan after returning to Canada.
✔ University GPA – Academic performance in previous studies.
✔ Application Quality – Completeness, clarity, and detail of the application.
✔ Strength of Recommendation Letters – How well referees attest to the candidate’s potential, ability to succeed, and expected contributions to their community.
✔ Commitment to Canada’s Development – The candidate’s potential to apply newly acquired knowledge and skills for Canada’s benefit.
✔ Alignment with OAS Strategic Plan – The applicant’s objectives must align with the OAS Strategic Plan (PDF, 44KB).

Both applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. EDT on March 13, 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

The OAS Academic Scholarships Program is an excellent opportunity for graduate students to pursue their studies in an OAS Member State. With funding for tuition, travel, and living expenses, this scholarship provides significant support for outstanding students seeking to make an impact through higher education. Apply today and take the next step in your academic journey!