Studying in Canada is becoming an increasingly popular option for international students, due to its world-renowned universities, diverse cultural environment, and high quality of life. Canada is home to prestigious institutions such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia, all offering high-quality education across various disciplines.
However, the cost of tuition and living expenses can be a challenge for many students. Fortunately, several fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students are available to support students financially. These scholarships help cover tuition fees, living costs, and other academic expenses. In this blog, I will explore the top fully funded scholarships available for international students who plan to study in Canada for the 2026 academic year.
Fully Funded Scholarship for International Students in Canada
A range of fully funded scholarships for International students in Canada is available to support international students wishing to study in Canada. Below are some of the most notable scholarships currently available:
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships aim to attract and retain world-class doctoral students and to establish Canada as a global center of excellence in research and higher learning.
| Feature | Details |
| Provider | Government of Canada |
| Level | Doctoral (PhD) |
| Eligibility | International students with strong academic records and research potential |
| Coverage | $50,000 per year for up to three years |
| Fields of Study | Health, Natural Sciences, Engineering, Social Sciences, and Humanities |
| Application Dates | Annually in September (check official website) |
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
This scholarship program is designed for students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries who would not otherwise be able to study in Canada.
| Feature | Details |
| Provider | Government of Canada |
| Level | Master’s and Doctoral |
| Eligibility | Students from Commonwealth countries with strong academic records |
| Coverage | Tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs |
| Fields of Study | Various fields offered by participating institutions |
| Application Dates | Varies by institution (check specific university websites) |
University of Toronto Scholarships
The University of Toronto offers various scholarships for international students, including the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, which recognizes outstanding students.
| Feature | Details |
| Provider | University of Toronto |
| Level | Undergraduate |
| Eligibility | International students with exceptional academic achievements and leadership skills |
| Coverage | Tuition, books, incidental fees, and living expenses |
| Fields of Study | All undergraduate programs |
| Application Dates | Annually in January |
McGill University Scholarships
McGill University offers a range of scholarships for international students, including the McGill Entrance Scholarships for undergraduate students.
| Feature | Details |
| Provider | McGill University |
| Level | Undergraduate |
| Eligibility | International students with strong academic records |
| Coverage | Varies (up to $8,000 per year) |
| Fields of Study | All undergraduate programs |
| Application Dates | Varies (check McGill’s website) |
University of British Columbia (UBC) Scholarships
UBC offers several scholarships for international students, including the International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES) for undergraduate students.
| Feature | Details |
| Provider | University of British Columbia |
| Level | Undergraduate |
| Eligibility | International students with outstanding academic achievements |
| Coverage | Up to $10,000 per year |
| Fields of Study | Various undergraduate programs |
| Application Dates | Annually in January (check UBC’s website) |
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship program is designed to encourage excellence in graduate studies at the master’s and doctoral levels.
| Feature | Details |
| Provider | Government of Ontario |
| Level | Master’s and Doctoral |
| Eligibility | Graduate international students with excellent academic records |
| Coverage | Up to $15,000 per year |
| Fields of Study | Various graduate programs |
| Application Dates | Varies by university; typically two sessions per year |
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
This prestigious scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students demonstrating academic excellence and leadership skills.
| Feature | Details |
| Provider | University of Toronto |
| Level | Undergraduate |
| Eligibility | Exceptional academic performance and leadership |
| Coverage | Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and living expenses |
| Fields of Study | All undergraduate programs |
| Application Dates | January annually (via school nomination) |
Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation provides doctoral scholarships for international students who demonstrate leadership and commitment to public engagement.
| Feature | Details |
| Provider | Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation |
| Level | Doctoral |
| Eligibility | Outstanding academic achievement and leadership qualities |
| Coverage | Up to $60,000 per year for up to four years |
| Fields of Study | Social sciences and humanities |
| Application Dates | Annually; check foundation’s website |
Canadian Francophonie Scholarship Program
This program is designed for students from developing countries to pursue graduate studies in Canadian Francophone universities.
| Feature | Details |
| Provider | Government of Canada |
| Level | Master’s and Doctoral |
| Eligibility | Citizens of eligible developing countries with strong academic records |
| Coverage | Full tuition, living allowance, travel costs |
| Fields of Study | Various graduate programs |
| Application Dates | Varies; refer to Canadian government announcements |
Alberta Innovates Graduate Student Scholarships
Alberta Innovates provides scholarships to attract research-oriented graduate students.
| Feature | Details |
| Provider | Alberta Innovates |
| Level | Graduate (Master’s and PhD) |
| Eligibility | Graduate students engaged in innovation and research projects |
| Coverage | $21,000 per year |
| Fields of Study | Research-intensive programs in Alberta universities |
| Application Dates | Varies; check Alberta Innovates website |
How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada
Applying for fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students involves several important steps:
- Research and Shortlist Scholarships: Explore scholarships that match your academic interests and eligibility.
- Check Eligibility Criteria: Carefully read scholarship requirements including academic qualifications, nationality restrictions, and language proficiency.
- Prepare Required Documents: Typical documents include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, CV, and proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).
- Submit Applications: Apply both to the scholarship program and the associated university program before deadlines.
- Prepare for Interviews or Tests: Some scholarships require interviews or additional assessments.
- Await Results and Follow Up: Monitor application status and respond promptly to any requests from scholarship committees.
Essential Documents for Scholarship Applications
Before applying, ensure you have these documents ready:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL)
- Valid passport copy
- Letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
- Statement of purpose or personal statement
- CV or resume
- Financial information (if applicable)
Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application
To increase your chances of securing a scholarship in Canada, consider the following strategies:
- Your statement of purpose is to highlight your goals and how studying in Canada aligns with them. Demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and unique skills.
- Maintain strong academic records.
- Follow all application instructions carefully.
- Apply early and keep track of deadlines.
- Seek guidance from education consultants or university advisors if needed.
Pursuing higher education in Canada can be life-changing, but funding it can be challenging for many students. That’s where we come in. Our best oversea education consultants in Europe help secure fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students by providing expert advice, preparing essential documents, guiding through applications, and offering ongoing support to maximize success in studying abroad.
FAQs
1. Can I apply for multiple scholarships in Canada at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for each.
2. Are Canadian scholarships available for all nationalities?
Most fully funded scholarships are open to all international students, but some are limited to specific countries or regions.
3. Do I need to have a university admission before applying for a scholarship?
Some scholarships require admission first, while others allow simultaneous application to both the scholarship and the university.
- Is French language proficiency required for scholarships in Canada?
It is usually not required unless applying to Francophone institutions or specific French-language programs.
5. Are there scholarships for diploma or certificate courses in Canada?
Fully funded scholarships are typically reserved for undergraduate and graduate programs, not short-term diploma or certificate courses.
6. What GPA is considered competitive for scholarship applications?
A GPA of 3.5 or higher (on a 4.0 scale) is generally considered competitive, though requirements vary by program.
7. Do I need to return to my home country after completing a scholarship in Canada?
It depends on the scholarship terms—some require return as part of conditions, while others do not.
8. Are scholarships renewable each year?
Many are renewable annually, contingent on maintaining a strong academic performance.
9. Can I work while studying on a fully funded scholarship?
Yes, most student visas allow part-time work, but some scholarships may have restrictions, so check terms carefully.
10. When is the best time to start preparing for scholarship applications?
Start preparing at least 12 months in advance to gather documents, improve academic scores, and meet deadlines.
