Why Study in the Canada?
Canada is renowned for its high-quality education system, diverse culture, and stunning natural landscapes. It is a popular destination for international students due to its welcoming environment, multicultural society, and excellent academic programs. Canadian universities are known for their innovative research, academic excellence, and supportive student services. To help ease the financial burden of studying abroad, Canada offers a range of scholarships for international students, making higher education more accessible.
Types of Scholarships Available
- Government-Funded Scholarships
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships support doctoral students with tuition and a stipend. Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program aid master’s students. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarships provide funding for Commonwealth students’ graduate studies in Canada. - University-Specific Scholarships
University of Toronto International Scholars Program offers scholarships based on academic excellence and leadership. UBC International Entrance Scholarships cover tuition for undergraduates. McGill University International Scholarships are for international students based on merit and need. - Subject-Specific Scholarships
STEM Scholarships support students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Business and Management Scholarships are available for MBA students. Arts and Humanities Scholarships support students in creative fields. - Research Scholarships
Canada Research Chairs Program funds PhD and postdoctoral research. NSERC Postgraduate Scholarships assist STEM research students. SSHRC Doctoral Fellowships support social sciences and humanities research. - Private and Organizational Scholarships
Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships support doctoral students with tuition and living costs. Loran Scholars Foundation offers scholarships and mentorship. Canadian Merit Scholarship Foundation awards students with outstanding academics and leadership.
Eligibility Criteria
- Academic Excellence: Most scholarships require a strong academic record, often with a minimum GPA or equivalent.
- English/French Language Proficiency: Proof of language proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or French equivalents may be required.
- Specific Nationality: Some scholarships are only available to students from certain countries or regions.
- Field of Study: Certain scholarships are specific to particular fields of study, such as STEM, business, or arts.
- Financial Need: Some scholarships consider the financial background of the applicant.
Tips for Securing a Scholarship
- Start Early: Begin your scholarship search and application process as early as possible to meet all deadlines.
- Tailor Applications: Customize your personal statement and application to fit the specific scholarship requirements and objectives.
- Seek Strong Recommendations: Obtain letters of recommendation from professors or employers who can attest to your academic and professional potential.
- Apply to Multiple Scholarships: Increase your chances of success by applying to several scholarships for which you are eligible.
How to Apply for Scholarships
- Research: Investigate available scholarships for your field of study and nationality. University websites and scholarship databases are useful resources.
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather necessary documents, including academic transcripts, proof of language proficiency, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
- Meet Deadlines: Be aware of scholarship deadlines, which are often several months before the academic year begins. Ensure timely submission of your application.
- Write a Personal Statement: Craft a compelling personal statement or essay that highlights your academic achievements, career goals, and reasons for applying for the scholarship.
- Submit Applications: Follow application instructions carefully and submit all required documents before the deadline.
- Follow Up: After submitting your application, check for any follow-up requirements such as interviews or additional documentation.
Government-Funded Scholarships for International Students
Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Coverage | Application Deadline |
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships | International doctoral students | Tuition fees, living expenses, travel expenses | Varies; typically November |
Canada Graduate Scholarships (CGS) | International graduate students | Tuition fees, living expenses | Varies; typically April |
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program | Commonwealth students pursuing postgraduate studies | Tuition fees, living costs | Varies by country; typically May |
International Scholarships by Canadian Government | International students for undergraduate and postgraduate studies | Tuition fees, living expenses | Varies; typically June-July |
Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Scholarships | International students in various fields | Tuition fees, living expenses | Varies; typically March-April |
Undergraduate Scholarships to Study in Canada
Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Coverage | Application Deadline |
University of Toronto International Scholars Program | International undergraduate students | Full or partial tuition fees | Varies; typically December |
University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award | International undergraduate students | Full tuition fees, living expenses | Varies; typically January |
McGill University Entrance Scholarships | International undergraduate students | Partial tuition fees | Varies; typically March-April |
York University International Scholarships | International undergraduate students | Full or partial tuition fees | Varies; typically May |
University of Alberta International Scholarships | International undergraduate students | Full or partial tuition fees | Varies; typically December |
Master Scholarships to Study in Canada
Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Coverage | Application Deadline |
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships | International doctoral students | Tuition fees, living expenses, travel expenses | Varies; typically November |
Canada Graduate Scholarships (CGS) | International graduate students | Tuition fees, living expenses | Varies; typically April |
Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Scholarships | International students in various fields | Tuition fees, living expenses | Varies; typically March-April |
University of Waterloo International Master’s Scholarships | International master’s students | Tuition fees, living expenses | Varies; typically February-March |
University of Ottawa International Scholarships | International master’s students | Full or partial tuition fees | Varies; typically April |