Canada to London - Help Tiffany Afford Grad School

Tiffany Tan Start Date: Jul 4, 2025 - End Date: Apr 3, 2026
  • Professional Development
  • Study/Degree Abroad
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • London, United Kingdom

My Travel Story

by: Tiffany Tan Start Date: Jul 4, 2025 - End Date: Apr 3, 2026
  • Professional Development
  • Study/Degree Abroad
  • Educational/Research Trip
Dear Reader,

Hello! My name is Tiffany, and I have been incredibly blessed with the opportunity to pursue the MSc Space Syntax: Architecture and Cities program at University College London (aka UCL). For those unfamiliar with the architecture industry, UCL is ranked as the #1 architecture school in the world.

UCL has been my dream school for as long as I can remember, and I never would've imagined that I would be lucky enough to attend it.

My Background/Story
I am a first-generation university student from a low-income background, born and raised in Toronto by immigrant parents from China. Growing up, I learned the value of hard work and resilience from my family, who have sacrificed so much to give me opportunities they never had.

With the help of grants from OSAP, as well as the generosity of scholarships such as the Horatio Alger Scholarship, the C. David Naylor Scholarship, the Arbor Scholarship, and my undertaking of part-time jobs, I was able to graduate with high distinction from the University of Toronto, entirely debt-free. This journey has been shaped by moments of struggle and triumph, and it has taught me the power of perseverance and never giving up.

Those who know me can attest to my passion for architecture and urban design, and my dedication to this field is unwavering. Throughout my university career, I have been heavily involved in extracurriculars, design-build initiatives, and volunteering with architecture and urban planning societies in Toronto.

Now, I stand at the threshold of my next great adventure: pursuing my passion for architecture and urban design at the best architecture school in the world.

The Challenge Ahead
Pursuing a master’s degree at UCL is a huge leap for me. It means relocating to London for a year, and the costs are significantly higher than what I experienced as an undergraduate. While I am determined to make this happen, I know I will need help to bridge the gap.

Break-Down of Logistics and Costs:
  • Tuition: £36,500 (approx. $67,400–$67,800 CAD at current exchange rates)
  • *UCL Tuition is paid in three installments (about £12,166.67 each, or $22,500–$22,630 CAD per installment)
  • Deposit: £3,650 (approx. $6,700–$6,800 CAD) UK Student Visa Fee: £524 (approx. $970 CAD)
  • Accommodation: Estimated at £250–£300 per week (approx. $460–$555 CAD per week) (Note: I have not yet been assigned a dorm, so this is a price range for now.)

My Plan:
I am actively researching and applying for scholarships, grants, and bursaries to help cover these costs. I will update this page with any progress or awards I receive.

To further support myself, I also plan on working during the summer months before I leave for London to raise funds for my tuition and relocation. Once I am in London, I also plan to work part-time to help support my education and living expenses.

Why Your Support Matters
This journey is not just about me, it’s about breaking barriers and proving that with hard work, determination, and a little help, dreams are achievable. It is about honouring my family’s sacrifices and breaking our generational cycle.

Any support you can offer would mean the world to me. Your generosity will help make my dream a reality and allow me to focus on my studies and future contributions to the field of architecture.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much for considering or sharing my story and for any support you can provide.

With my deepest gratitude,
Tiffany
  • London, United Kingdom