Top 10 Scholarships to Study in Canada for International Students

Canada offers some of the top scholarships for international students, including the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship, Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, and Ontario Trillium Scholarship, helping students reduce tuition fees and living expenses. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and research capabilities, making higher education in Canada more accessible and affordable.

With over 1 million international students currently studying in Canada and access to 16,000+ university programs, choosing the right scholarship can significantly lower your financial burden while enhancing your overall study experience and career prospects.

Scholarship	Funding
EduCanada Study in Canada Scholarships	CAD 10,200 – 12,700
York University International Entrance Scholarships	CAD 2,500 – 37,500
Humber College Degree Entrance Scholarships	CAD 1,500 – 4,000
University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship	CAD 20,000
University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF)	CAD 20,000 – 25,000 per year
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)	CAD 10,000 – 15,000 per academic year
UBC International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES)	CAD 10,000 – 20,000 per year
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship	100% funded
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship	CAD 50,000 per year
Trudeau Foundation Scholarship	CAD 60,000 per year

 

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Best Universities Offering Scholarships in Canada

Several top universities in Canada provide generous scholarship opportunities for international students to support academic excellence and reduce financial burden. These institutions offer merit-based and need-based scholarships across undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

University of Toronto: Offers prestigious merit-based and fully funded scholarships for high-achieving international students across multiple disciplines.

University of British Columbia (UBC): Provides generous financial aid through programs like IMES and International Scholars Program for academically excellent students.

McGill University: Known for competitive entrance scholarships and strong research funding for international students.

University of Alberta: Offers a wide range of scholarships supporting academic excellence in undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

University of Waterloo: Recognised for scholarships in engineering, technology, and research-focused disciplines.

University of Calgary: Provides international entrance scholarships based on academic performance and leadership potential.
 

Types of Scholarships in Canada for International Students

 

Canada offers a wide range of scholarships for international students to support different study levels and reduce tuition and living costs, making it easier to study in Canada on scholarship and access globally recognised education.

• Undergraduate Scholarships: Financial support for international students pursuing bachelor’s degrees primarily based on academic merit and overall student profile.
• Master’s Scholarships: Funding for postgraduate students to support tuition and living expenses based on academic excellence and research potential.
• PhD Scholarships: Highly competitive funding for doctoral students, often fully funded, supporting advanced research and innovation.
• Government-Funded Scholarships: Nationally sponsored scholarships awarded to attract high-performing international students to Canada.
• University-Specific Scholarships: Institution-based funding offered by Canadian universities based on merit or financial need.

 

Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships in Canada for International Students
 

International students must meet specific academic and institutional requirements to qualify for scholarships in Canada. While eligibility varies by scholarship, most funding options are awarded based on academic performance, confirmed admission, and overall merit.

Key eligibility requirements include:

• Academic performance: Strong grades or consistent academic records are essential, as most scholarships in Canada are merit-based.
• Admission to a Canadian institution: Applicants must hold an offer letter or proof of admission to a full-time program at a recognised Canadian university or college.
• Language proficiency: Recognised English or French test scores such as IELTS or TOEFL may be required unless exempted.
• Documents and visa compliance: Students must submit complete documentation, including a valid passport, and meet Canadian study permit requirements.
• Additional merit factors: Leadership roles, extracurricular achievements, or research potential can strengthen scholarship applications.

 

How to Apply for Scholarships in Canada for International Students?

 

Securing scholarships in Canada requires careful planning, accurate documentation, and meeting strict deadlines. Following the correct process helps international students improve their chances of receiving financial support for their studies.

Step 1: Research and shortlist scholarships that match your study level and eligibility criteria.

Step 2: Apply for admission to your chosen Canadian university or college.

Step 3: Prepare required documents such as academic transcripts, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and resume.

Step 4: Submit your scholarship application before the specified deadline.

Step 5: Track your application status and respond to any additional requirements or interview requests.

 

*Planning to study in Canada? Let Y-Axis guide you through every step of the process.

Popular Courses to Study in Canada Offering Scholarships for International Students

International students can increase their chances of receiving scholarships by choosing high-demand, research-focused courses supported by strong university and government funding. These programs attract more merit-based and departmental scholarships due to industry demand.

Courses offering higher scholarship opportunities include:

• Computer Science & Information Technology
• Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Software)
• Business Administration & Management
• Data Science & Artificial Intelligence
• Healthcare & Nursing
• Finance & Accounting
• Environmental Science & Sustainability
• Biotechnology & Life Sciences
• Cybersecurity & Cloud Computing
• Hospitality & Tourism Management

 

Can International Students Get Scholarships in Canada?
 

Yes, international students can get scholarships in Canada across undergraduate, masters, and PhD levels. Canadian universities, government bodies, and private organisations offer a wide range of merit-based, need-based and entrance scholarships specifically for international applicants. These scholarships help reduce tuition fees and living expenses, making studying in Canada more affordable and accessible.

International students with strong academic records, leadership qualities, and complete documentation are eligible to apply for both partial and fully funded scholarships, depending on the program and institution.
 

How Much Scholarship Can International Students Get in Canada?

International students can receive scholarships in Canada ranging from CAD 1,500 for basic entrance awards to fully funded scholarships covering 100% tuition, living costs, and academic expenses. Most merit-based and university-funded scholarships typically offer between CAD 5,000 and CAD 25,000 per year, depending on academic performance and level of study.

Prestigious programs such as the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship provide up to CAD 50,000 per year, while select university scholarships may fully cover the total cost of study.
 

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Scholarship in Canada?

 

Getting a scholarship in Canada requires strong academic records, a clear application, and meeting all eligibility requirements. Students who prepare early, submit complete documents, and apply to the right scholarships have a much higher chance of success.

• Maintain high academic scores and consistent performance
• Highlight leadership roles and extracurricular achievements
• Write a clear and compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Choose scholarships that match your profile and course
• Apply early and ensure all documents are complete
   

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with Canadian immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No.1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end support!

 

FAQs

 

What are the top 10 scholarships to study in Canada for international students?

The top 10 scholarships to study in Canada for international students include popular programs such as the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship, Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS), Trudeau Foundation Scholarship, UBC International Major Entrance Scholarship, York University Entrance Scholarships, EduCanada Study in Canada Scholarships, University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship, University of Calgary International Scholarships, and Humber College Entrance Scholarships. These scholarships in Canada for international students offer financial support based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and research performance, helping students significantly reduce tuition fees and living costs.

 

Can international students get fully funded scholarships in Canada?

Yes, international students can get fully funded scholarships in Canada that cover 100% tuition fees, living expenses, accommodation, and sometimes travel costs. Prestigious scholarships such as the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship and Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship are fully funded options designed for high-achieving students. These scholarships to study in Canada are highly competitive and focus on academic merit, leadership, and research excellence. While fully funded scholarships are limited, many students successfully secure them every year by maintaining strong academic performance and submitting well-prepared applications.

 

How can I apply for scholarships to study in Canada?

To apply for scholarships to study in Canada, students must first research and shortlist relevant scholarship programs based on their chosen course and study level. The next step is applying for admission to a recognised Canadian university. Most scholarships in Canada for international students require documents such as academic transcripts, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and proof of language proficiency. Submitting applications before deadlines and meeting eligibility requirements significantly improves your chances of securing a scholarship in Canada for international students.

 

What are the eligibility criteria for scholarships in Canada for international students?

Eligibility for scholarships in Canada for international students typically includes strong academic performance, confirmed admission to a recognised Canadian institution, and proof of language proficiency such as IELTS or TOEFL. Many scholarships to study in Canada also consider leadership experience, extracurricular involvement, and research potential. Some funding programs may require students to demonstrate financial need. Meeting all documentation and visa requirements is essential to qualify for both partial and fully funded scholarships in Canada.

 

How much scholarship can international students get in Canada?

International students can receive scholarships in Canada ranging from CAD 1,500 for basic entrance awards to fully funded packages covering complete tuition and living expenses. Most merit-based scholarships offer between CAD 5,000 and CAD 25,000 per year. High-profile awards like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship provide up to CAD 50,000 annually. The amount of scholarship depends on academic performance, level of study, and the specific scholarship in Canada for international students.

 

Which universities offer the best scholarships in Canada?

Top universities offering the best scholarships in Canada include the University of Toronto, University of British Columbia (UBC), McGill University, University of Alberta, University of Waterloo, and University of Calgary. These institutions provide scholarships in Canada for international students based on merit, financial need, and academic excellence. Their funding programs help reduce tuition costs and provide access to world-class education, research facilities, and strong career opportunities after graduation.

 

Are there scholarships in Canada for undergraduate international students?

Yes, there are multiple scholarships in Canada for undergraduate international students offered by leading universities and government bodies. Programs such as the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, UBC IMES, and York University Entrance Scholarships support students at the bachelor’s level. These scholarships to study in Canada help cover tuition fees and encourage academically outstanding students to pursue undergraduate education in Canada with reduced financial burden.

 

Is it possible to study in Canada on scholarship without IELTS?

In some cases, it is possible to study in Canada on scholarship without IELTS if the student meets alternative language requirements. Certain universities accept other English proficiency tests or grant exemptions if previous education was completed in English. However, most scholarships in Canada for international students still prefer standardised test scores to assess language proficiency. Students should check individual scholarship guidelines carefully.

 

What documents are required to apply for scholarships in Canada?

Documents required for scholarships in Canada typically include academic transcripts, passport copy, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), proof of language proficiency, and a confirmed admission offer. Some scholarships to study in Canada may also require a research proposal or financial documents. Submitting complete and accurate documentation plays a crucial role in securing scholarships in Canada for international students.

 

When should I apply for scholarships to study in Canada?

Students should apply for scholarships to study in Canada at least 6–12 months before their intended intake. Early applications increase the chances of securing scholarships in Canada for international students due to limited funding availability and high competition. Deadlines vary by university and scholarship type, so planning ahead and tracking application timelines is essen