Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for the UCBeyond Scholarship Program?

Applicants of any age are welcome to apply if they are:

 

  • A legal and permanent resident of Canada
  • Diagnosed with a chronic inflammatory arthritic disease by a physician
  • Seeking an associate’s, undergraduate, or graduate degree from a Canadian university; seeking a diploma or certificate from a Canadian college; or enrolled in a Canadian trade school educational program
  • Enrolled in or awaiting acceptance from a Canadian-based institution of higher education for the fall/winter semester of 2026/2027
  • Demonstrating academic ambition and embracing a way of life that goes above and beyond the boundaries of living with inflammatory arthritis!

 

Students who have previously won, employees of UCB Canada Inc. and their immediate family members are not eligible for this scholarship.

How will winners be selected?

The following must be submitted with your application to be considered:

 

  1. A one-page essay, describing:
    • How you are living above and beyond the boundaries of chronic inflammatory arthritic disease and demonstrating academic ambition and personal achievement
    • How you would benefit from the scholarship
      TIP: Past essays have shown the applicant’s desire for academic achievement, their need for the financial support and how they will use the funds, described how they persevered while living with inflammatory arthritis, and demonstrated school and community involvement.
  2. Two (2) one-page letters of recommendation from a teacher, school official, professional colleague or employer describing your unique qualities and how you embrace a way of life that overcomes the boundaries of living with inflammatory arthritis.
  3. An official academic transcript from your most recent year of education.
  4. A confirmation of diagnosis from your treating physician.

 

The selection of recipients will be at the sole discretion of the independent judges chosen by UCB Canada Inc. A panel of medical professionals and patient representatives from across the country will select the scholarship recipients.

How will I know if I have won?

Winners receive a personal telephone call and a confirmation email in October-November 2026.

If I win, how do I receive my scholarship cheque?

Once a winner’s educational enrolment has been verified for the fall/winter semester of 2026/2027, the scholarship cheque will be made payable to and directly deposited to the recipient's account.

If I have won in the past, may I reapply this year?

No, the UCBeyond scholarship will be awarded only once per applicant.

What can I use the scholarship money for?

Scholarship winners are awarded up to $5,000 CDN. This money can be put towards covering tuition and/or educational materials and expenses.

Congratulations to…

Natasha Trehan

Natasha Trehan
2024 Recipient

I am a fourth-year student in the Translational and Molecular Medicine program at the University of Ottawa

My name is Natasha Trehan, and I am a fourth-year student in the Translational and Molecular Medicine program at the University of Ottawa. Diagnosed with Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis at thirteen, I have transformed this challenge into a drive for resilience and a passion for science. I host the Take a Pain Check Podcast and founded the Take a Pain Check Foundation to advocate for and empower youth with rheumatic diseases, aiming to improve their quality of life and increase awareness.

The UCBeyond Scholarship will be invaluable, providing crucial resources like ergonomic and academic assistance to help me manage my condition and excel academically. This support will allow me to focus on my studies and research, advancing my goal of becoming a physician and driving innovations in patient-centered care for rheumatic conditions.