The cost of studying abroad can be overwhelming. You want a Canadian degree, but tuition, housing, and daily expenses add up fast. The good news? There are scholarships for international students in Canada that can cover tuition, living costs, and even travel expenses.
Take Aisha’s story. She dreamed of studying engineering in Canada but didn’t know how to afford it. Instead of giving up, she applied for three fully funded scholarships. A year later, she landed in Toronto, tuition-free, with a stipend for living expenses.
This guide breaks down the top scholarships, how to qualify, and the best strategies to win funding. If you’re serious about studying in Canada, start here.
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Fully Funded – PhD Students)
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship (Vanier CGS) is one of the most prestigious awards for international PhD students.
What It Covers:
✔️ $50,000 per year for three years
✔️ Full tuition and living expenses
✔️ Open to all fields of study
Who Can Apply?
✔️ Students pursuing a PhD at a Canadian university
✔️ Excellent academic record (GPA 3.7+/4.0 or equivalent)
✔️ Research that contributes to Canada’s development
🕒 Application Deadline: November (annually)
🚀 Pro Tip: Get a professor at a Canadian university to support your application. Strong references increase your chances.
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (Full Tuition – Undergraduate Students)
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship at the University of Toronto is one of the best fully funded undergraduate scholarships in Canada.
What It Covers:
✔️ Full tuition for four years
✔️ Books and accommodation
✔️ Additional cost-of-living support
Who Can Apply?
✔️ High school students outside Canada
✔️ Strong academic performance and leadership skills
✔️ Must be nominated by your high school
🕒 Application Deadline: December (annually)
🚀 Pro Tip: Only 37 students worldwide get selected each year. A powerful recommendation letter from your school principal can set you apart.
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
UBC offers multiple scholarships for international students in Canada through its International Scholars Program.
What It Covers:
✔️ Full or partial tuition (depends on financial need)
✔️ Renewable for up to four years
✔️ Access to exclusive leadership programs
Who Can Apply?
✔️ International students entering UBC undergraduate programs
✔️ Strong grades (A average or equivalent)
✔️ Demonstrated leadership and community involvement
🕒 Application Deadline: December
🚀 Pro Tip: Financial need is a key factor. Show proof of economic hardship to increase your chances.
4. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (Master’s & PhD – Up to $15,000)
If you’re pursuing a master’s or PhD in Ontario, this is a great funding option.
What It Covers:
✔️ $10,000–$15,000 per year
✔️ Available at multiple Ontario universities
Who Can Apply?
✔️ Master’s or PhD students at Ontario universities
✔️ Minimum 80% average in previous studies
✔️ Strong research proposal
🕒 Application Deadline: Varies by university
🚀 Pro Tip: Each university has limited spots—apply early to increase your chances.
5. Government of Canada Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
The Banting Fellowship is one of the top postdoctoral scholarships in Canada.
What It Covers:
✔️ $70,000 per year for two years
✔️ Funding for research projects
✔️ Open to all fields
Who Can Apply?
✔️ Postdoctoral researchers in Canadian universities
✔️ Strong publication record
✔️ Research that contributes to Canada’s economy or society
🕒 Application Deadline: September
🚀 Pro Tip: Your research proposal must align with Canada’s research priorities—choose a relevant topic.
6. Canada-ASEAN Scholarships & Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED) – Short-Term Study
If you’re from an ASEAN country, this scholarship lets you study in Canada for 4–8 months.
What It Covers:
✔️ Up to $10,200 for tuition, travel, and living costs
✔️ Open to students from ASEAN nations
✔️ For short-term exchange programs
🕒 Application Deadline: March
🚀 Pro Tip: This is ideal for students who want to study in Canada but don’t need a full degree program.
7. University-Specific Scholarships (Check Your School’s Offers!)
Many Canadian universities offer their own scholarships for international students.
Examples:
✔️ McGill University Entrance Scholarships (Up to $12,000)
✔️ University of Alberta International Student Scholarships ($5,000–$40,000)
✔️ York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Award ($80,000 over four years)
🕒 Deadlines: Varies by university
🚀 Pro Tip: Many universities offer automatic scholarships based on grades—apply early to qualify.
How to Win Scholarships in Canada: Pro Strategies
✅ 1. Apply Early → Deadlines sneak up fast. Don’t wait until the last minute.
✅ 2. Write a Killer Personal Statement → Focus on why you deserve funding and how you’ll contribute to Canada.
✅ 3. Get Strong Letters of Recommendation → Ask teachers, professors, or employers who know you well.
✅ 4. Apply for Multiple Scholarships → The more you apply for, the higher your chances of getting one.
✅ 5. Highlight Leadership & Community Work → Many scholarships favor students who give back to their communities.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Scholarship Search Now
Getting scholarships for international students in Canada is competitive, but not impossible. If you meet the requirements and put in the effort, you can land full or partial funding.
The key? Start early, apply to multiple programs, and write standout applications. Your dream of studying in Canada is closer than you think.
