Canada has long been a top destination for international students. Known for its world-class educational institutions, multicultural environment, and a society that values inclusivity, Canada offers a wealth of opportunities for students from all over the world. However, funding an education abroad can be a significant challenge, especially for international students who often face higher tuition fees. Fortunately, Canada provides various scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to help international students achieve their academic dreams.
This post highlights 10 scholarships and funding opportunities available to international students who wish to study in Canada. You will also find detailed information on eligibility requirements, application processes, targeted groups, and the amounts awarded.
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships program is one of the most prestigious scholarship programs in Canada. It aims to attract and retain world-class doctoral students by offering generous funding to support their research.
- Amount: CAD 50,000 per year for three years
- Eligibility: Open to international students pursuing a doctoral degree at a Canadian institution. Candidates must demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership skills.
- Targeted Groups: Students from all disciplines, including health research, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities.
- Application Deadline: Usually in November each year
- Apply Here: Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Key Takeaway: This is an excellent opportunity for high-achieving doctoral students to receive substantial funding while studying at a leading Canadian institution.
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is offered by the University of Toronto and is aimed at outstanding international students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to their community.
- Amount: Covers full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence support for four years
- Eligibility: Open to international students entering their first year of an undergraduate program at the University of Toronto. Students must be nominated by their school and apply for undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto.
- Targeted Groups: High-achieving students with a focus on leadership and community involvement
- Application Deadline: School nominations typically close in November, and student applications close in December.
- Apply Here: Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
Key Takeaway: This is a comprehensive scholarship covering not only tuition but also living expenses, making it ideal for top students aiming to study in Canada without financial worries.
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award
The University of British Columbia’s International Leader of Tomorrow Award is designed to support international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership skills, and involvement in student affairs or community service.
- Amount: Covers the full range of a student’s financial needs, including tuition and living expenses.
- Eligibility: Open to international students entering an undergraduate program at UBC. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and exceptional academic standing.
- Targeted Groups: Academically talented students with leadership potential
- Application Deadline: December each year
- Apply Here: UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award
Key Takeaway: This award is a great opportunity for students who not only excel academically but also demonstrate a strong commitment to leadership and community involvement.
4. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) program is aimed at international graduate students who wish to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree at a participating university in Ontario. The scholarship is awarded based on academic merit and is intended to support students as they focus on their studies.
- Amount: CAD 10,000 for two terms or CAD 15,000 for three terms
- Eligibility: Open to international students enrolled in or applying to a master’s or doctoral program at a participating Ontario university. Candidates must demonstrate high academic achievement.
- Targeted Groups: Graduate students in all fields of study
- Application Deadline: Varies by institution, but typically falls in October
- Apply Here: Ontario Graduate Scholarship
Key Takeaway: The OGS is a highly competitive scholarship that offers substantial financial support for international graduate students in Ontario.
5. Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
The Trudeau Foundation Scholarships support outstanding doctoral candidates pursuing research in the social sciences and humanities. The foundation seeks to support research that aligns with its core themes: human rights and dignity, responsible citizenship, Canada and the world, and people and their natural environment.
- Amount: Up to CAD 40,000 per year for three years, plus an additional research and travel allowance of CAD 20,000 per year
- Eligibility: Open to international doctoral students enrolled at a Canadian institution whose research aligns with the foundation’s themes.
- Targeted Groups: Doctoral students in the social sciences and humanities
- Application Deadline: Varies each year, typically in December
- Apply Here: Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
Key Takeaway: This scholarship provides not only financial support but also access to a unique network of scholars, mentors, and leadership training.
6. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)
The University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships are merit-based awards open to international students pursuing graduate studies at the university. These scholarships support students who demonstrate academic excellence in their field of study.
- Amount: CAD 14,000 per year for master’s students and CAD 18,000 per year for Ph.D. students
- Eligibility: Open to international students enrolled in a master’s or doctoral program at the University of Manitoba.
- Targeted Groups: Graduate students in all academic disciplines
- Application Deadline: Varies by department, typically in December
- Apply Here: University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships
Key Takeaway: The UMGF is a great opportunity for international graduate students to receive significant financial support while studying in Manitoba.
7. McGill University Scholarships and Student Aid
McGill University offers various scholarships and financial aid programs for international students. Scholarships are merit-based and cover both undergraduate and graduate levels of study. The university also provides need-based financial aid to help students cover tuition and living costs.
- Amount: Varies depending on the program, up to full tuition coverage
- Eligibility: Open to international students entering undergraduate or graduate programs at McGill University. Selection is based on academic merit and financial need.
- Targeted Groups: Undergraduate and graduate students from all disciplines
- Application Deadline: Varies by program and degree level
- Apply Here: McGill University Scholarships
Key Takeaway: McGill offers both merit-based and need-based financial aid options, making it accessible to a wide range of international students.
8. Carleton University Entrance Scholarships for International Students
Carleton University offers entrance scholarships to high-achieving international students entering undergraduate programs. These scholarships are renewable and are awarded based on academic performance.
- Amount: Ranges from CAD 4,000 to CAD 16,000 over four years
- Eligibility: Open to international students entering their first year of an undergraduate program at Carleton University. Applicants must demonstrate high academic achievement.
- Targeted Groups: Undergraduate students from all fields of study
- Application Deadline: No separate application required, students are automatically considered upon admission.
- Apply Here: Carleton University Scholarships
Key Takeaway: Carleton University’s entrance scholarships are a great option for academically talented students who want financial support throughout their undergraduate studies.
9. University of Alberta International Scholarships
The University of Alberta offers a range of scholarships to international students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. These scholarships are merit-based and awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement.
- Amount: Varies depending on the scholarship, up to full tuition coverage
- Eligibility: Open to international students applying to undergraduate or graduate programs at the University of Alberta.
- Targeted Groups: High-achieving undergraduate and graduate students
- Application Deadline: Varies by program
- Apply Here: University of Alberta Scholarships
Key Takeaway: With a range of scholarships available, the University of Alberta provides significant opportunities for international students to fund their studies.
10. Concordia University International Excellence Scholarships
Concordia University offers a variety of scholarships for international students, including entrance scholarships for new undergraduate students. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence and are renewable throughout the course of study.
- Amount: Covers full tuition and living expenses
- Eligibility: Open to international students entering their first year of undergraduate studies at Concordia University.
- Targeted Groups: High-achieving students with strong academic records
- Application Deadline: Typically in February
- Apply Here: Concordia University Scholarships
Key Takeaway: Concordia’s scholarships offer a generous financial package, making it easier for top-performing international students to study in Canada.
Key Takeaways
- Canada offers numerous scholarships and funding opportunities for international students, covering tuition, living expenses, and research funding.
- Scholarships are available at all levels of study, from undergraduate to doctoral programs, across various disciplines.
- Many scholarships are merit-based, while others also consider financial need or leadership potential.
- Opportunities are open to students from all regions, including Africa and Asia, making Canadian education more accessible for international students.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to apply for a study permit before applying for scholarships in Canada?
A: In most cases, you can apply for scholarships first, but you will need to obtain a study permit once you are accepted to a Canadian institution.
Q: Are scholarships for international students in Canada fully funded?
A: Some scholarships, such as the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, cover full tuition and living expenses, while others may cover only tuition or partial costs.
Q: Can I apply for multiple scholarships in Canada?
A: Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships, but each scholarship may have its own eligibility criteria and application process.
Q: Is there a limit to how many times I can apply for scholarships in Canada?
A: While there is no general limit, each scholarship may have its own rules regarding reapplication or renewal.
Canada’s diverse scholarship landscape offers a wealth of opportunities for international students to pursue their academic goals without being burdened by financial constraints. Whether you’re interested in an undergraduate degree or a doctoral program, there are scholarships and funding options to help you make the most of your education in Canada. Take the next step toward your academic journey by exploring these scholarship opportunities today!
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