Canada has become one of the most popular destinations for international students seeking quality education, cultural diversity, and post-graduation opportunities. With its world-renowned universities, welcoming immigration policies, and strong academic reputation, studying in Canada is a dream for many. However, tuition fees and living expenses can be a significant financial burden. Fortunately, a wide range of scholarships in Canada for international students are available—many of them fully funded or partially covering tuition, accommodation, and other expenses.
This comprehensive guide outlines the top scholarships offered by Canadian universities, government bodies, and private organizations for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students.
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Level: Doctoral (PhD)
Funding: $50,000 per year for 3 years
Eligibility: Exceptional academic performance, research potential, and leadership
Application: Through the university that nominated the candidate
Overview:
This is one of the most prestigious scholarships in Canada, aimed at world-class doctoral students. It is open to both Canadian and international students and supports studies in health research, engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship – University of Toronto
Level: Undergraduate
Funding: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years
Eligibility: Outstanding international students with demonstrated academic excellence and leadership
Application: By school nomination and university application
Overview:
This highly competitive scholarship is awarded annually to about 37 students from around the world. It covers all expenses and is offered only for undergraduate study at the University of Toronto.
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
Level: Undergraduate
Funding: Full or partial tuition and living expenses
Categories:
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International Leader of Tomorrow (ILOT) Award
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Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award
Eligibility: Strong academic record, financial need, and leadership potential
Overview:
UBC provides over $30 million annually in awards, scholarships, and other financial assistance to international undergraduate students. The International Scholars Program offers renewable funding for up to four years.
4. University of Alberta Scholarships
Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
Funding: Varies – full tuition, living allowance, and stipends for some awards
Examples:
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President’s International Distinction Scholarship (Undergraduate)
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Graduate Entrance Scholarship (Master’s/PhD)
Application: Automatic consideration for some awards; others require separate application
Overview:
The University of Alberta offers a wide range of scholarships for international students. Graduate students can also access assistantships and research funding opportunities.
5. University of Waterloo International Funding
Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
Funding: Up to $10,000 CAD (Undergraduate), full or partial funding for graduates
Examples:
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International Student Entrance Scholarships
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International Master’s Award of Excellence (IMAE) – $2,500 per term
Eligibility: Based on merit and program of study
Overview:
Waterloo is a leader in research and innovation. The university offers a variety of entrance and in-course scholarships to support high-performing international students.
6. McGill University Scholarships
Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, Doctoral
Funding: Partial to full tuition waivers and living stipends
Examples:
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McGill Entrance Scholarships (Undergraduate)
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McCall MacBain Scholarships (Fully funded graduate-level scholarships)
Eligibility: Academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement
Overview:
McGill provides generous support to both undergraduate and graduate international students. The McCall MacBain Scholarship is one of Canada’s most comprehensive graduate scholarship programs.
7. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)
Level: Master’s and PhD
Funding: $14,000/year (Master’s), $18,000/year (PhD)
Eligibility: Academic excellence (minimum GPA required)
Application: Through department/faculty
Overview:
UMGF is open to international students enrolled in full-time graduate programs. Additional bursaries and departmental awards are also available.
8. Carleton University Entrance Scholarships
Level: Undergraduate
Funding: $4,000 to $16,000 CAD (over four years)
Eligibility: High school GPA of 80% or higher
Application: Automatic consideration
Overview:
Carleton automatically considers international applicants for merit-based scholarships. More substantial awards are available for students with GPAs above 90%.
9. Simon Fraser University (SFU) Scholarships
Level: Undergraduate and Graduate
Funding: Varies
Examples:
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Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships
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Special Graduate Entrance Scholarship
Eligibility: Academic merit, extracurricular achievement
Overview:
SFU offers a range of competitive scholarships, including entrance awards for international students pursuing graduate research.
10. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
Level: Master’s and PhD
Funding: Full tuition, travel expenses, and living allowance
Eligibility: Citizens of Commonwealth countries
Application: Through national nominating agency
Overview:
Funded by Global Affairs Canada, this program provides scholarships to students from other Commonwealth countries pursuing graduate study or research in Canada.
11. York University International Student Scholarships
Level: Undergraduate
Funding: Up to $180,000 CAD ($45,000/year for four years)
Scholarships:
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Global Leader of Tomorrow Award
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International Entrance Scholarships of Distinction
Eligibility: Academic excellence, leadership, and financial need
Overview:
York University offers substantial scholarships for incoming undergraduate students who demonstrate academic strength and a commitment to making a difference.
12. Humber College International Entrance Scholarships
Level: Undergraduate (Diploma and Bachelor’s programs)
Funding: $2,000–$4,000 CAD
Eligibility: High academic performance
Application: Requires a statement of interest and reference letters
Overview:
Humber offers partial tuition scholarships for new international students based on academic performance and community involvement.
13. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
Level: Master’s and Doctoral
Funding: $10,000–$15,000 CAD per year
Eligibility: Full-time enrollment at an Ontario university
Application: Through the university’s scholarship portal
Overview:
OGS supports graduate students with strong academic records. International students can apply if they are studying in Ontario and meet eligibility criteria.