Looking to study in Canada without the burden of high tuition fees? You’re in the right place.
Canada has become one of the top destinations for international students, and it’s easy to see why. From globally ranked universities and generous post-study work opportunities to multicultural campuses and fully funded scholarships in Canada, they offer everything you need to pursue a world-class education.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover the best scholarship opportunities available to international students across undergraduate, master’s, and PhD levels. Whether you’re from Africa, Asia, or anywhere else in the world, this resource is packed with step-by-step information to help you secure funding and begin your academic journey in Canada.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
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✅ Top scholarships offered by the Canadian government, universities, and private foundations
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✅ Eligibility requirements and application documents
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✅ Deadlines, funding amounts, and acceptance rates
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✅ Pro tips to increase your chances of success
Ready to find a fully funded opportunity in Canada? Let’s get started.
Why Study in Canada?
Canada consistently ranks among the top destinations for international students, offering a rare blend of academic excellence, post-study work opportunities, and generous funding programs.
Here’s why Canada remains a top pick for global scholars:
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Globally Ranked Universities—Institutions like the University of Toronto, UBC, McGill, and Waterloo are among the best worldwide.
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Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)—Up to 3 years of legal work stay after graduation.
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Affordable Living—Lower cost of living compared to the US or UK.
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Multicultural & Safe—Welcoming communities and inclusive policies.
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Fully Funded Scholarships—Available across undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels.
Top Scholarships in Canada for International Students
These scholarships go beyond 2025 and are awarded based on merit, need, leadership, or research excellence. Here’s a breakdown by type:
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (PhD)
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Value: $50,000/year for 3 years
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Eligibility: Academic excellence, leadership, and strong research potential
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Acceptance Rate: ~4%
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Deadline: November
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (Undergraduate—University of Toronto)
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Coverage: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence
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Eligibility: Exceptional academic achievement + leadership
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Deadline: January
3. UBC International Scholars Program
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Types:
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International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES)
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Outstanding International Student Award (OIS)
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Coverage: Partial to full tuition
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Deadline: January
4. University of Waterloo International Funding
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Master’s: $2,045/term
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PhD: $4,090/term
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Available for research-based programs
5. McGill University Scholarships
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Types:
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Entrance Scholarships
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PBEEE (Quebec Government)
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Coverage: Partial to full funding
6. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships (PhD—Humanities & Social Sciences)
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Funding:
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$40,000/year for tuition and living
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$20,000/year for travel and research
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7. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
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Open to: Citizens of Commonwealth nations
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Coverage: Tuition, travel, living expenses
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🔗 cbie.ca
8. Carleton University Entrance Awards
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For: International undergraduate students
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Value: $4,000–$16,000
9. York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Award
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Value: $20,000/year × 4 years
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Eligibility: Academic excellence + leadership
10. Concordia Presidential Scholarship
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Coverage: Full tuition, books, living allowance
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Eligibility: High academic and leadership profile
General Eligibility Criteria For Scholarships in Canada
Most Canadian scholarships have similar baseline requirements:
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Be an international student (non-Canadian citizen or PR)
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Apply to a full-time program at a recognized Canadian institution
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Hold strong academic records
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Provide English or French proficiency test results (IELTS, TOEFL, TEF, etc.)
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Submit a complete set of documents (see below)
Required Documents Checklist
Before applying, gather the following:
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✅ Academic transcripts
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✅ Valid passport
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✅ Proof of language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/TEF)
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✅ Letters of recommendation
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✅ Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Study Plan
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✅ Updated CV or resume
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✅ Research proposal (PhD applicants only)
Scholarship Timeline (Typical)
| Period | Action |
|---|---|
| Aug–Oct | Research universities and scholarships |
| Nov–Jan | Submit major scholarship applications |
| Feb–Apr | Apply for university-specific and external awards |
| May–July | Wait for offers and decision letters |
| Aug.–Sept. | Accept offers and apply for a Canadian study permit |
How to Win Canadian Scholarships
Apply Early—Don’t wait until deadlines; start 6–9 months in advance.
Tailor Every Application—Align your SOP with the scholarship’s mission.
Show Leadership—Community involvement, volunteerism, and leadership projects matter.
Apply for Multiple Awards—Don’t pin your hopes on just one.
Connect with admissions officers—ask relevant, specific questions.
Get Nominated When Required—Some top scholarships require nomination from your school or local body.
How Competitive Are These Scholarships?
| Scholarship | Success Rate/Availability |
|---|---|
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship | ~4% acceptance rate |
| Lester B. Pearson Scholarship | ~37 students selected globally/year |
| Trudeau Foundation PhD Scholarships | 20–25 scholars selected annually |
| UBC IMES/OIS | Highly competitive; top 5–10% |
| Concordia Presidential Scholarship | 1–2 students/year |
— Nadia, Vanier Scholar from Kenya
Related Resources
Final Thoughts
Canada continues to lead the way in providing accessible, high-quality education to international students. With dozens of fully funded scholarships, there’s no need to let tuition fees hold you back.
Be strategic.
Start early.
Believe in your story.
Your future in Canada could begin with just one well-prepared application.
