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A University of Waterloo student preparing for an |
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Details |
Information |
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Host Institution |
University of Waterloo |
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Scholarship Name |
David Johnston–Lebovic Foundation International Experience Awards |
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Study Level |
Undergraduate and Graduate |
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Eligible Students |
Canadian, Permanent Resident, and International Students |
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Funding Value |
Up to $10,000 |
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Location of Experience |
Israel |
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Application Deadlines |
March 15, July 15, November 15 |
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Application Method |
University of Waterloo Application Process |
Students often gain valuable skills and global perspectives through international study, work, and volunteer programs. However, the cost of participating in these experiences can be a major challenge. To help address this barrier, the University of Waterloo offers the David Johnston–Lebovic Foundation
International Experience Awards, a funding program designed to support eligible students who plan to undertake approved academic, work, or volunteer experiences in Israel.
Supported by the Joseph and Wolf Lebovic Foundation, the award recognizes the importance of international learning and reflects former University of Waterloo President David Johnston’s long-standing commitment to global education.
The funding helps students pursue meaningful international opportunities that complement their academic goals while reducing the financial burden associated with travel and participation.
Overview of the Award
The David Johnston–Lebovic Foundation International Experience Awards provide financial assistance to undergraduate and graduate students participating in approved international experiences connected to their studies.
The program supports a variety of activities, including academic exchanges, study terms abroad, co-op placements, and volunteer opportunities that contribute to a student’s educational development.
About the University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo is widely recognized for its strong focus on innovation, research, and experiential learning. Located in Ontario, Canada, the university is particularly known for its co-operative education programs, which allow students to combine academic study with practical work experience.
Through partnerships with organizations and institutions around the world, Waterloo encourages students to gain international exposure that enhances both their academic development and career readiness. Programs such as the David Johnston–Lebovic Foundation International Experience Awards reflect the university’s commitment to helping students engage with global learning opportunities that extend beyond the classroom.
Eligible Study Levels
The award is available to:
- Undergraduate students in any year of study
- Graduate students
Areas of Study
Students from all faculties and academic disciplines may apply. There are no subject-specific restrictions, provided the proposed international experience meets the program requirements.
Types of International Experiences Supported
Funding may be awarded for approved activities in Israel, including:
- Academic exchange programs
- International study terms
- Volunteer placements connected to academic requirements
- Minimally paid international co-op placements
- Work-integrated learning experiences related to a student's program
Applicants should ensure that their planned activity aligns with their academic objectives and receives the necessary university approval.Students considering future employment may also want to learn about Canadian provinces with strong opportunities for graduates.
Funding Available
Award amounts vary depending on the type and duration of the experience.
Students may receive:
- Up to $2,500 for a one-term study experience
- $2,500 to $5,000 for a one-term work or volunteer experience
- Up to $10,000 for a two-term work or volunteer experience
Funding decisions are based on factors such as:
- Length of the experience
- Nature of the activity
- Academic performance
- Overall eligibility requirements
Because funding is competitive, students are encouraged to prepare a strong application and apply promptly once their plans are confirmed.
While this award can significantly reduce expenses, understanding how much it costs to move and study abroad can help students build a realistic budget.
What Expenses Can the Award Help Cover?
International experiences often involve a range of costs beyond tuition or program fees. Depending on the nature of the placement and individual circumstances, funding from this award may help offset expenses such as:
- International travel costs
- Accommodation expenses
- Local transportation
- Program participation fees
- Health insurance requirements
- Academic materials related to the experience
- Other approved costs associated with the placement
Students are encouraged to prepare a realistic budget before departure and consult the university for guidance regarding eligible expenses.
Who Can Apply?
The award is open to:
- Canadian citizens
- Permanent residents of Canada
- International students with a valid Canadian study permit
Applicants must also be enrolled at the University of Waterloo and meet all academic and program requirements.
International students planning to study in Canada should also review the Canada student visa requirements and application process before making final travel arrangements.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for consideration, applicants must:
- Be enrolled full-time in an undergraduate or graduate program at the University of Waterloo
- Participate in an approved international experience in Israel
- Meet the university's minimum academic standing requirements
- Demonstrate strong academic achievement
- Show a commitment to international learning and global engagement
- Ensure the experience is connected to academic or co-op requirements
Minimum academic expectations are generally:
- Undergraduate students: at least a 70% average
- Graduate students: at least a 75% average
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee funding, as applications are reviewed competitively.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
Many qualified students miss out on funding opportunities simply because they overlook important details during the application process.
Before submitting your application, make sure you avoid these common mistakes:
- Waiting until the deadline to begin the application
- Providing incomplete information about the international experience
- Failing to clearly explain how the experience supports academic goals
- Submitting documents with errors or missing details
- Assuming that meeting minimum eligibility requirements guarantees funding
Taking time to prepare a thoughtful and complete application can significantly improve your chances of receiving support.
Official Program Information
The David Johnston–Lebovic Foundation International Experience Awards are administered through the University of Waterloo. Students should review the official program information carefully before applying, as eligibility requirements, deadlines, and funding details may be updated periodically.
Consulting the official scholarship page can help applicants access the most current information and avoid missing important requirements during the application process.
How to Apply
Students must submit the University of Waterloo International Experience Award application form to be considered for this funding opportunity.
One application is typically used to assess eligibility for multiple international experience funding programs administered by the university.
Students interested in gaining international work experience may benefit from understanding Canada's work permit system and related employment pathways.
Where to Submit Your Application
Students interested in applying for the David Johnston–Lebovic Foundation International Experience Award should submit their application through the University of Waterloo's official International Experience Awards application process.
Before beginning your application, take time to review the eligibility requirements, confirm details of your planned international experience, and gather any supporting information that may be required.
To access the most current application form, program guidelines, and submission instructions, visit the official University of Waterloo awards and financial aid website. Using the university's official application page ensures that you receive the latest information regarding deadlines, eligibility requirements, and funding availability.
Because scholarship policies and application procedures can change from one academic term to another, applicants should always rely on the official university source when preparing and submitting their application.
Important Reminder
Always verify application deadlines, funding amounts, and eligibility requirements through the official University of Waterloo website before submitting your application. The university remains the final authority on all award decisions and program requirements.
Application Tips
Before applying, students should:
- Confirm details of their international placement or study experience
- Review eligibility requirements carefully
- Gather supporting academic information
- Apply as early as possible once plans are finalized
- Consult their faculty advisor if clarification is needed
Graduate students should contact the Graduate Studies Office for additional guidance regarding the application process.
Important Application Deadlines
Applications are reviewed once each academic term.
Key submission deadlines are:
- March 15
- July 15
- November 15
Students should avoid waiting until the final days before submission and ensure all required information is complete.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Identify an approved international experience in Israel.
- Confirm that the activity meets University of Waterloo requirements.
- Obtain any required academic or faculty approvals.
- Complete the International Experience Award application.
- Submit all required information before the applicable deadline.
- Await review by the Student Awards & Financial Aid Office.
- Follow any additional instructions provided if funding is approved.
How Applications Are Evaluated
Selection is based primarily on:
- Academic achievement
- The nature of the proposed international experience
- Duration of the placement or program
Final funding decisions are made by the Student Awards & Financial Aid Office (SAFA).
Eligible Academic Terms
Funding is available for experiences taking place during:
- Winter Term
- Spring Term
- Fall Term
Many students also explore immigration pathways available after studying in Canada when planning their long-term academic and career goals.
Benefits of Participating in an International Experience
International learning opportunities can provide benefits that extend well beyond financial support.
Students who participate in academic exchanges, co-op placements, and volunteer experiences abroad often develop:
- Cross-cultural communication skills
- Greater independence and adaptability
- Professional networking opportunities
- Practical workplace experience
- Enhanced problem-solving abilities
- A broader global perspective
These experiences can strengthen future academic applications and help students stand out in an increasingly international job market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the David Johnston–Lebovic Foundation International Experience Award?
It is a University of Waterloo funding program that helps eligible students participate in approved academic, work, and volunteer experiences in Israel.
Who is eligible to apply?
Full-time undergraduate and graduate students at the University of Waterloo, including Canadian and international students who meet academic requirements, may apply.
How much funding is available?
Award amounts range from approximately $2,500 to $10,000 depending on the type and duration of the international experience.
Can international students apply for this award?
Yes. International students studying at the University of Waterloo may be eligible to apply if they hold a valid Canadian study permit and meet all program requirements.
Does receiving the award guarantee approval for travel or study abroad?
No. Students must still obtain all required academic approvals, travel documentation, and permissions associated with their international experience.
How competitive is the award?
Funding is limited and applications are reviewed competitively. Meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not automatically guarantee that funding will be awarded.
Can students receive funding for volunteer placements?
Yes. Approved volunteer experiences connected to academic objectives may qualify for funding, subject to program requirements and available resources.
If this program is not the right fit, you can also explore more scholarships in Canada that support international students.
Scholarship Information Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Scholarship values, eligibility requirements, application procedures, and deadlines may change without notice.
Applicants should always confirm the latest details through the official University of Waterloo scholarship page and consult the university directly if they have questions regarding their eligibility or application status.
Why This Award Stands Out
Many international experience programs require students to cover significant travel and participation costs on their own. The David Johnston–Lebovic Foundation International Experience Awards help reduce these financial barriers while encouraging students to gain valuable academic, professional, and cultural experiences abroad.
For students seeking to broaden their perspective, strengthen their resumes, and develop global skills, this award can provide meaningful support toward achieving those goals.
This final section often increases reader engagement and gives the article a more complete, expert-written feel
Final Thoughts
For University of Waterloo students planning an academic, co-op, or volunteer experience in Israel, this funding program can significantly reduce the costs associated with international participation.
The award supports meaningful global learning opportunities while encouraging students to broaden their academic and professional perspectives.
Before submitting an application, carefully review the eligibility requirements, confirm your program details, and prepare all necessary documentation.
Applying early and presenting a clear connection between your experience and academic goals can help strengthen your application.
Understanding work opportunities available to international graduates can help students make informed decisions about their studies and career plans.
Students who begin planning early, maintain strong academic standing, and clearly demonstrate how their international experience supports their educational goals are often in the strongest position to submit a competitive application.
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