BolajiPursuing graduate education abroad can be a life-changing experience, especially when it comes with financial support and academic prestige. For international students, the opportunity to study in Canada – one of the world’s most respected education hubs – represents more than just earning a degree; it’s a ticket to high-quality research, a multicultural academic environment and access to some of the globe’s most innovative minds. The UBC Rio Tinto Graduate Scholarship Program 2024–2025 in Vancouver is one of those golden chances that combine both funding and elite academic exposure.
Hosted by the University of British Columbia (UBC) – a globally ranked institution – the scholarship seeks to empower future researchers and industry leaders in critical fields that align with sustainable innovation and technological advancement.
This scholarship is designed to support exceptional students enrolled in Master’s and Doctoral programs in areas directly connected to Rio Tinto’s global operations and sustainability goals. From data science and applied science to environmental technology and metallurgy, the UBC Rio Tinto Graduate Scholarship specifically encourages graduate-level research that has real-world industrial applications.
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For students, this means their research doesn’t just stay on paper – it could have a tangible impact on how industries operate, how environmental challenges are addressed and how future technologies are developed. The scholarship not only rewards academic excellence but also aims to foster solutions for the planet’s most pressing issues.
What sets this program apart is its strong industry-academic collaboration. Rio Tinto, a leading global mining and metals company, sponsors this initiative to nurture talents who can contribute to breakthroughs in mineral processing, environmental science and industrial innovation. This kind of partnership gives students a rare edge, allowing them to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and industrial application.
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It’s not just a scholarship – it’s a stepping stone into research careers that matter, careers that could lead into the heart of global industry or prestigious academic research institutions. Students become part of a network that connects them with top-tier researchers, scientists and possibly even future employers.
The location of the scholarship – Vancouver, British Columbia – adds another layer of value. UBC is nestled in one of the most scenic cities in the world, surrounded by ocean and mountains, offering not only a strong academic foundation but also a vibrant student life. International students in particular benefit from UBC’s extensive support systems, which include language programs, cultural events, housing support and career services.
Studying in such an environment provides a balanced lifestyle, where academic pursuits are harmonized with personal growth and cultural exploration. For students coming from abroad, this scholarship not only funds their education but also offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
In summary, the UBC Rio Tinto Graduate Scholarship Program 2024–2025 is more than financial aid – it’s an invitation to excellence. It’s tailored for students who want to push boundaries, solve problems and make a measurable difference in fields that matter. Whether you’re deeply interested in hydrometallurgy, passionate about data science or looking to shape the future of environmental science, this scholarship can launch your ambitions into action.
As we delve deeper into the specifics of eligibility, benefits, application process and deadlines, it becomes clear that this program is not just another scholarship – it’s a career-defining opportunity.
Degree Levels Covered
The UBC Rio Tinto Graduate Scholarship supports graduate education at both the Master’s and Doctoral (PhD) levels. Whether you’re embarking on your first year of a master’s degree or progressing through your doctoral studies, this scholarship offers you the resources and support you need to excel.
Applicants must either:
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Be currently enrolled in a graduate program at UBC,
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Or have received an official offer of admission into an eligible graduate degree program.
It is important to note that this is a non-renewable scholarship, so only those who have not previously been awarded the Rio Tinto Graduate Scholarship are eligible to apply
Available Fields of Study
The UBC Rio Tinto Graduate Scholarship Program is not open to all programs. Instead, it targets specific, high-priority disciplines that contribute to scientific and technological innovation in industry. Students applying must be conducting research in one or more of the following areas:
Primary Areas of Focus:
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Data Science
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Applied Science
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Modeling and Control Systems
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Analytical Technologies
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Science of the Environment
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Hydrometallurgy
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Electrolysis of Molten Salts
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Aluminum Metallurgy
Each of these fields is crucial to Rio Tinto’s industrial operations, especially in metals and mining innovation, sustainability and operational excellence.
Scholarship Value and Funding Details
The financial assistance provided through the UBC Rio Tinto Graduate Scholarship is partial funding, but substantial enough to make a difference. Successful applicants will receive up to $18,000 CAD for the academic year.
This amount is meant to support recipients by:
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Offsetting tuition costs,
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Assisting with living expenses,
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Supporting academic materials or research needs.
Though it does not cover all expenses, this scholarship helps relieve a significant portion of financial pressure that students might face in a high-cost city like Vancouver.
Who Can Apply? Eligible Nationalities
One of the standout features of this graduate scholarship is its broad eligibility. The UBC Rio Tinto Graduate Scholarship Program is open to:
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International Students
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Canadian Citizens
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Permanent Residents of Canada
This inclusivity reflects UBC’s and Rio Tinto’s commitment to fostering diversity, inclusion and global collaboration in research and innovation.
About the Host Institution: The University of British Columbia (UBC)
Founded over a century ago, the University of British Columbia (UBC) has consistently ranked among the world’s top universities. Known for its commitment to innovation, excellence in research and international inclusiveness, UBC is the perfect destination for scholars with big ambitions.
Located in Vancouver, British Columbia, UBC offers:
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A vibrant campus environment with students from over 160 countries,
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Cutting-edge research facilities and laboratories,
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Access to some of the world’s top academic minds,
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A stunning natural setting surrounded by mountains and ocean,
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Numerous student support services including housing assistance, language training, career development programs and multicultural events.
Studying at UBC is more than just an education – it’s a transformative life experience.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
Before applying, it’s essential to ensure that you meet all eligibility requirements set by the program. To qualify for the UBC Rio Tinto Graduate Scholarship 2024–2025:
Academic Enrollment
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You must be enrolled in or accepted to a full-time graduate degree program (either Master’s or PhD) at UBC.
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You should be in the first year of a Master’s program or the first or second year of a PhD program.
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The scholarship is non-renewable – previous recipients cannot reapply.
Area of Research
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Your research must fall under the scholarship’s designated fields:
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Aluminum metallurgy,
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Electrolysis of molten salts,
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Hydrometallurgy,
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Environmental science,
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Analytical technologies,
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Modeling and control systems,
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Data science.
These fields align with Rio Tinto’s mission to innovate sustainable practices in natural resource extraction and management.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
The application process requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Here’s how to apply successfully for the UBC Rio Tinto Graduate Scholarship Program:
Step 1: Verify Internal Deadlines
Each graduate department at UBC may have different internal deadlines. You must first contact your department to know the submission timeline, as missing this could disqualify your application.
Step 2: Submit Your Application Package
All documents must be submitted directly to your graduate program office, not to the university or scholarship committee directly. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
Here’s a breakdown of what your application package should include:
Cover Letter
Include:
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Your full name,
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UBC student number,
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Graduate program name,
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Name of your UBC supervisor,
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Names of referees writing your recommendation letters.
Note: Avoid including any other information. Extra, unsolicited content will be ignored.
Proof of Enrollment/Acceptance
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Current students can download official proof from their Student Service Centre (SSC) portal under the “Grades and Records” tab.
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New students should submit their admission letter as proof of acceptance.
Research Proposal
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Maximum of 4 pages, double-spaced.
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Include clear timelines outlining the progression of your research.
Academic Transcripts
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UBC transcripts: A copy of your “Academic History” issued by your department is acceptable.
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Other institutions: Must submit official transcripts.
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Must include the grading key/legend.
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For non-English or non-French transcripts, official translations must be included.
Letters of Recommendation
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Submit two letters of recommendation.
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One must be written by your research supervisor.
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Letters should come from professors or researchers familiar with your academic work.
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
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Submit an up-to-date CV. No page limit.
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Include all relevant academic, research and professional experience.
Formatting Standards
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All free-form documents (like the research proposal and CV) must use a minimum 10-point font.
It is entirely the applicant’s responsibility to ensure the application is complete and accurate. Missing documentation can result in disqualification, regardless of eligibility.
Application Deadline
Although UBC has not released an official closing date yet, the application deadline for the 2024–2025 Rio Tinto Graduate Scholarship is expected to fall around June 2024.
We recommend checking directly with your UBC department and the official scholarship page for precise dates and updates.
Additional Tips for a Successful Application
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Start early to collect transcripts and recommendation letters.
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Tailor your research proposal to match Rio Tinto’s priority areas.
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Be clear and concise in your documentation – avoid fluff.
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Use headers and bullet points to organize long-form documents for readability.
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Double-check your grammar and formatting – presentation matters.
Application Link
All the details and latest updates about the UBC Rio Tinto Graduate Scholarship Program can be found on the official UBC website.
You May Also Like (Similar Opportunities)
Looking for more scholarship opportunities? Here are a few other prestigious graduate scholarships worth exploring:
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LSE Master’s Awards 2024–2025 (UK)
Offers support for international graduate students studying at the London School of Economics. -
Griffith University Scholarships 2024 (Australia)
Open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students, covering tuition, living expenses and research funding. -
Poland Government NAWA Scholarships 2024/2025
Funded by the Polish government to promote academic exchange and cultural enrichmentFinal Thoughts
The UBC Rio Tinto Graduate Scholarship Program 2024–2025 presents an exciting opportunity for talented graduate students to receive significant funding while conducting cutting-edge research in a world-class environment. If your academic interests align with the strategic areas supported by Rio Tinto, don’t miss out on this chance to study in one of the most breathtaking cities – Vancouver, Canada.
With up to $18,000 CAD in financial support, academic excellence and access to top-tier faculty and facilities, this scholarship can be the stepping stone to your career in science, research or industry.
So, gather your application materials, follow the instructions carefully and make your dream of studying at UBC a reality.
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