Canada has become one of the top study destinations for international students thanks to its high-quality education system, diverse culture, and globally recognized universities. While studying abroad can be expensive, Canada offers a wide range of scholarships for international students at undergraduate, postgraduate, and research levels. Many of these scholarships are fully funded, while others cover partial tuition or provide additional allowances to ease the financial burden.
This guide presents a comprehensive list of scholarships in Canada for international students along with their benefits, eligibility requirements, and application tips.
1. Government-Funded Scholarships in Canada
The Canadian government funds several prestigious scholarship programs to attract talented students from around the world.
1.1 Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
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Level: PhD
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Value: CAD $50,000 per year for three years.
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Benefits: Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and research costs.
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Eligibility: High academic achievement, leadership qualities, and research potential.
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Deadline: Usually November.
1.2 Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
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Level: Undergraduate and graduate short-term studies.
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Value: CAD $10,200 for college or undergraduate; CAD $12,700 for graduate level.
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Eligibility: Students from ASEAN member states.
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Benefits: Tuition, living allowance, travel costs.
1.3 Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP)
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Level: Undergraduate and graduate exchanges.
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Value: CAD $7,200 to $9,700 depending on study duration.
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Eligibility: Students from Latin America and the Caribbean.
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Benefits: Tuition fees, living costs, and travel.
2. University-Specific Scholarships in Canada
Many Canadian universities offer their own fully or partially funded scholarships for international students.
2.1 Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship – University of Toronto
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Level: Undergraduate.
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Value: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence for four years.
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Eligibility: Outstanding academic achievement, creativity, and leadership potential.
2.2 University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
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Level: Undergraduate.
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Value: Fully funded – covers tuition and living expenses.
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Eligibility: Academic excellence, leadership, community involvement.
2.3 York University International Student Scholarships
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Level: Undergraduate.
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Value: CAD $80,000–$180,000 over four years.
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Eligibility: Strong academic records and leadership skills.
2.4 University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)
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Level: Master’s and PhD.
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Value: CAD $14,000/year for Master’s, CAD $18,000/year for PhD.
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Eligibility: Academic merit.
2.5 University of Alberta International Student Scholarships
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Level: Undergraduate and graduate.
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Value: CAD $17,000/year for graduates, CAD $9,000/year for undergraduates.
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Eligibility: Academic performance and extracurricular involvement.
2.6 McGill University Scholarships
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Level: Undergraduate and postgraduate.
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Value: CAD $3,000 to $12,000 per year; additional funding for research.
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Eligibility: Merit-based, financial need may be considered.
2.7 University of Waterloo International Master’s Award of Excellence
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Level: Master’s.
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Value: CAD $2,500 per term for up to five terms.
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Eligibility: Strong academic performance.
3. Organization and Private-Funded Scholarships in Canada
Several organizations and foundations provide scholarships to international students in Canada.
3.1 Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
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Level: PhD.
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Value: CAD $40,000 per year plus CAD $20,000 for research/travel.
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Eligibility: Research in humanities and social sciences with leadership potential.
3.2 Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
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Level: Master’s and PhD.
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Value: Tuition, living allowance, travel, and health insurance.
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Eligibility: Students from Commonwealth countries.
3.3 Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
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Level: Doctoral.
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Value: CAD $60,000 per year for up to three years.
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Eligibility: Leadership qualities and academic excellence.
4. How to Apply for Canadian Scholarships
While requirements vary depending on the scholarship, most applications follow these steps:
Step 1 – Research Thoroughly:
Start by visiting official university websites and government scholarship portals.
Step 2 – Prepare Documents:
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Academic transcripts.
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Proof of English or French language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or exemptions).
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Letters of recommendation.
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Statement of purpose or research proposal.
Step 3 – Submit Before Deadlines:
Canadian scholarships have strict deadlines, often 8–12 months before the academic year begins.
Step 4 – Prepare for Interviews (If Required):
Some prestigious scholarships require an interview to assess leadership and academic goals.
5. Tips to Increase Your Chances
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Maintain high academic performance.
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Highlight leadership roles in your application.
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Show community engagement and volunteer work.
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Tailor your motivation letter for each scholarship.
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Apply to multiple scholarships to improve your odds.
6. Why Choose Canada for Higher Education?
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World-class education – Canadian universities rank among the top globally.
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Cultural diversity – Welcoming environment for international students.
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Post-graduation opportunities – Canada offers work permits after graduation.
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High quality of life – Safe cities, excellent healthcare, and vibrant communities.
Final Thoughts
Scholarships in Canada for international students open doors to world-class education without the heavy financial burden. From fully funded government awards like the Vanier CGS to university-specific programs such as the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship, there is something for every academic level and field.
If you are planning to study in Canada in 2025, start researching now, prepare your documents early, and apply to as many relevant opportunities as possible. A well-prepared application can make the difference between paying tuition and enjoying a fully funded education in one of the world’s most student-friendly countries.