Canada is a popular destination for international students seeking quality education. However, studying abroad can come with a hefty price tag. To assist international students in pursuing their academic dreams, Canada offers a range of scholarships. These scholarships are designed to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other related costs.
They cater to various academic levels and disciplines, ensuring that students from all backgrounds can find support. In this article, we will explore a list of scholarships including government scholarships, non-government scholarships, and university scholarships specifically available for international students in Canada.
Whether you are a graduate student aiming to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree or an undergraduate student seeking financial assistance, there are options available to help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with studying abroad in Canada. So, without wasting much of your time let’s get started!
Types Of Scholarships In Canada For International Students
Here are the different types of scholarships available in Canada for international students:
Government Scholarships
These scholarships are funded by the Canadian government. Government scholarships are typically merit-based and offered to students from specific countries or regions.
Examples include:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: Awarded to doctoral and master’s students demonstrating outstanding academic achievement and research potential.
- Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships: Supports postdoctoral fellows conducting research in the natural sciences and engineering in Canada.
- IDRC Research Awards: Provides funding for research projects that contribute to the development of developing countries.
- Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan: Offers scholarships and fellowships to citizens of Commonwealth countries for postgraduate and professional development studies in Canada.
University Scholarships
These scholarships are offered directly by Canadian universities to international students based on academic merit, research potential, or other criteria. The amount and type of scholarships vary depending on the university and program.
Examples include:
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships: Offered by the University of Toronto to exceptional international students.
- University of British Columbia International Major Entrance Scholarships: Awarded to outstanding international students entering any undergraduate program at UBC.
- McGill University Scholarships for International Students: A variety of scholarships are available for international students at McGill University, based on academic merit and financial need.
Non-Government Scholarships
These scholarships are funded by organizations, foundations, and other non-government entities. Eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the scholarship provider.
Examples include:
- Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships: Supports doctoral students who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to public service.
- The Loran Scholars Foundation: Awards scholarships to high-achieving Canadian and international students who demonstrate leadership potential.
- The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program: Provides scholarships to academically talented students from Africa who are economically disadvantaged.
Government Scholarships in Canada
| Government of Canada international scholarship programs | Eligibility and Benefits |
| Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships | – Given to national and international post-graduates to attract top-tier intelligent minds.
– Students are given CAD 70,000, or INR 4,343,760, annually for 2 years. |
| IDRC Research Awards | – Students from developing countries can apply for this scholarship.
– A sum is transferred throughout your course tenure. |
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships Program | – The government of Canada offers scholarships to students pursuing Masters in the field of Science, Engineering, humanities, etc.
– The scholarship presents CAD 50,000 or INR 3,102,690 annually to students for three years. |
| Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute | – Fellowships to various graduate and postgraduate Indian students studying at a reputed university.
– Eligible students can sign up for courses or take a part of their coaching from any Canadian university that falls under SICI online. |
| Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan | – Students hailing from the Commonwealth nations can avail of several grants every year.
– This scholarship changes every year to provide different privileges. |
| Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program | – The Ontario Scholarship provides grants to students who enroll in Ontario public universities.
– You can get from CAD 5000 (INR 310,270) – CAD 15,000 (INR 930,810). |
| Ontario Trillium Scholarship | – International PhD students are awarded this scholarship.
– Up to CAD 40,000 or INR 2,482,150 is given across 4 years. |
| Canada-ASEAN SEED | – Global Affairs Canada gives out scholarships to students pursuing their higher studies.
– Cost of Visa and/or study/work permit fees, airfare, health insurance, living expenses, ground transportation expenses, books, and supplies are included. |
| Quebec Provincial Government Scholarship | – Financial assistance to students studying in Quebec is covered. (The scholarship has currently been paused.)
– Scholarships of up to CAD 40,000, or INR 2,482,150, are granted. |
| National Research Council of Canada (NRCC) | – Research grants are given to research students who are pursuing their Masters or Ph.D.
– The price and duration depend on your study level. |
Non-Government Scholarships in Canada
| Non-Government Scholarships In Canada | Eligibility and Benefits |
| Anne Vallee Ecological Fund | – The Anne Vallée Ecological Fund (AVEF) offers two CAD 1,500 or INR 93,080 scholarships to support students registered in animal research at the master’s or doctoral level at a Québec or British Columbia University. |
| Surf Shark Privacy and Security Scholarship | – A CAD 2,000 or INR 124,110 prize is available to undergraduate or graduate students enrolled in Canada.
– You will need to submit an essay to apply for this scholarship. |
| Trudeau Scholarships and Fellowships | – 15 international scholarships for students studying at the doctoral level.
– CAD 20,000 (INR 1,241,070) – CAD 40,000 (INR 2,482,150) for three years, including travel allowance. |
Scholarships Offered by Universities in Canada
| Name of University | Eligibility and Benefits |
| University of Toronto Ontario Graduate Scholarship | – CAD 10,000 (INR 620,540) – CAD 15,000 (INR 930,810) awarded to students at the doctoral, and Masters level of study at the University of Toronto. |
| University of Waterloo International Funding | – International students are awarded several scholarships to study at the University of Waterloo, ranging from CAD 2500 (INR 155,130) to CAD 50,000 (INR 3,102,690)/year. |
| University of Calgary International Scholarships | – International students are awarded several scholarships to study at the University of Waterloo, ranging from CAD 2500 (INR 155,130) to CAD 50,000 (INR 3,102,690)/year. |
| University of Alberta International Scholarships | – Scholarships for international students to study in Canada at the University of Calgary. Awards range from CAD 500 (INR 31,020) to CAD 60,000 (INR 3,723,230). |
| UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award | – Several scholarship opportunities are offered to international students aspiring to study at the graduate/post-graduate level at the University of Alberta. |
| Queen’s University International Scholarships | – International students are offered several scholarships ranging from CAD 1,500 (INR 93,080) – CAD 50,000 (INR 3,102,690) to study at the University of British Columbia. |
| McGill University Scholarships and Student Aid | – Queens provides financial aid such as bank loans etc to international students studying at the university. |
| Dalhousie University Scholarships | – Merit-based scholarships are given to students of Dalhousie. |
| Western University Scholarship | – Scholarships are awarded based on your excellence. |
How to Apply for Scholarships to Study in Canada?
Studying in Canada can be an enriching experience, and scholarships can help make it more affordable. Here’s a general guide on how to apply for scholarships to study in Canada:
1. Research and Identify Scholarships:
- Begin researching scholarships well in advance of application deadlines. This will give you ample time to gather the required documents and prepare strong applications.
- Consider scholarships based on your academic merit, program of study, nationality, financial need, and other relevant criteria.
- Utilize resources like EduCanada, ScholarshipsCanada.com, and Leverage Edu to find scholarships tailored to your needs.
2. Understand Eligibility Requirements
- Carefully read and comprehend the eligibility criteria for each scholarship you’re interested in.
- Ensure you meet all requirements before applying. Incomplete or ineligible applications will be disqualified.
3. Gather Required Documents
- Typical requirements include academic transcripts, standardized test scores (if applicable), proof of English language proficiency, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
- Prepare all documents in the specified format and submit them within the deadline.
4. Craft a Compelling Application
- Your statement of purpose should be well-written, and highlight your academic achievements, relevant skills and experiences, and your motivation for studying in Canada.
- Proofread your application thoroughly before submitting it to ensure accuracy and clarity.
5. Submit Your Application
- Meet all submission deadlines to be considered for the scholarship.
- Submit your application through the designated platform, be it online, email, or mail.
Additional Tips
- Network with alumni and current students from your home country who have studied in Canada. They can provide valuable insights and guidance on the scholarship application process.
- Seek assistance from your university’s financial aid office or international student advisor. They can offer personalized advice and support.
- Don’t be discouraged if you don’t receive a scholarship right away. Keep applying to different scholarships and highlight your achievements in subsequent applications.
Wrap Up
The availability of scholarships for international students in Canada plays a crucial role in promoting diversity, inclusion, and excellence in education. These scholarships not only help alleviate financial burdens but also foster a supportive environment for international students to thrive academically.
By recognizing and providing support for the talents and potential of international students, Canada continues to solidify its reputation as a welcoming and globally-minded country. As students from around the world pursue their academic aspirations in Canada, they contribute to the rich cultural heritage and academic excellence that the country has to offer.”