Studying in Canada has become increasingly popular among international students. However, the cost of international education can be a significant barrier for many students. Fortunately, there are fully funded Canadian scholarships for international students.
Recognizing the importance of attracting outstanding students from around the world, the Canadian government, universities, and private organizations offer a wide array of scholarships for international students, providing them with the financial support needed to pursue their academic dreams.
Let us take a look at some of the fully funded scholarships in Canada available for international students and guide you through the application process.
Types of Canadian Scholarships
Scholarships in Canada can be broadly classified into three categories:
- Government-Funded Scholarships: Offered by Canadian federal or provincial governments
- University-Specific Scholarships: Provided by individual institutions
- Privately-Funded Scholarships: Established by organizations or individuals outside the government or universities.
10 Fully Funded Canadian Scholarships for International Students
Many prestigious Canadian scholarships stand out for international students. These scholarships provide full funding for tuition fees, living expenses, and other associated costs.
Here are 10 of them to consider:
1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships program is available at the University of Toronto and is awarded to exceptional international students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, creativity, and leadership potential. The scholarship offers a wide range of support for a four-year undergraduate study from tuition, books, and incidental fees, to full residence.
Click here for more information about this scholarship.
2. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships program aims to attract and retain world-class doctoral students by offering them substantial financial support. The scholarships are open to both domestic and international students pursuing a Ph.D. or combined MA/Ph.D. or MD/Ph.D. degrees at Canadian universities.
Click here for more information about this scholarship.
3. Quebec Merit Scholarships Program for Foreign Students
The Quebec Merit Scholarships Program for Foreign Students, offered by the Quebec government, is aimed at attracting the best international students to study in Quebec. The program provides scholarships for undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies and covers tuition fees and living expenses.
Click here for more information about this scholarship.
4. Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program (OGS)
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program is funded by the provincial government and supports master’s and doctoral students in all disciplines. The OGS provides merit-based scholarships to students studying at publicly-funded universities in Ontario, covering tuition and living expenses.
Click here for more information about this scholarship.
5. University of British Columbia International Leader of Tomorrow Award
The University of British Columbia offers the International Leader of Tomorrow Award, which recognizes exceptional international students with academic excellence, leadership skills, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. The scholarship offers financial support covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other associated costs.
Click here for more information about this scholarship.
6. York University International Student Scholarships
York University offers a variety of scholarships for international students at the undergraduate and graduate levels. These scholarships recognize academic achievement and provide financial support for tuition and living expenses.
Click here for more information about this scholarship.
7. University of Calgary Graduate Awards
The University of Calgary offers a range of scholarships for international graduate students, including the Graduate Award Competition, which provides funding to outstanding students based on academic merit. The scholarships cover tuition and provide a stipend for living expenses.
Click here for more information about this scholarship.
8. University of Waterloo International Master’s and Doctoral Awards
The University of Waterloo provides International master’s and doctoral Awards for outstanding international students pursuing master’s or doctoral studies. These scholarships cover full tuition and provide a living allowance for successful candidates.
Click here for more information about this scholarship.
9. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships
The University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships are awarded to international students entering a Master’s or doctoral program. The fellowships provide full tuition coverage and a stipend to support living expenses.
Click here for more information about this scholarship.
10. Humber College International Entrance Scholarships
Humber College offers International Entrance Scholarships to incoming international students with a show of academic excellence. These scholarships are available for undergraduate programs and provide partial tuition coverage.
Click here for more information about this scholarship.
Benefits of Canadian Scholarships to International Students
Fully funded Canadian scholarships for international students provide a range of benefits.
1. They offer financial assistance by covering tuition fees, allowing students to focus on their studies rather than worrying about the financial burden.
2. Many scholarships include coverage for living expenses, ensuring a comfortable and conducive learning environment.
3. Being a scholarship recipient can open doors to valuable networking opportunities, connecting students with professionals, mentors, and fellow scholars from around the world.
How to Successfully Apply for Fully Funded Canadian Scholarships for International Students
To increase your chances of securing a fully funded Canadian scholarship, consider the following tips:
Start Early
The application process for Canadian scholarships can be competitive and time-consuming. To maximize your chances of success, it is crucial to start early and plan. Researching available scholarships is the first step, and numerous online resources and scholarship databases can help you identify suitable opportunities. Begin your scholarship search and application process well in advance to ensure ample time for preparation and submission.
Prepare All Necessary Documents
Once you have shortlisted the scholarships you wish to apply for, gather all the required documents, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a well-crafted personal statement.
Tailor Application Materials
Customize your application materials, such as personal statements and letters of recommendation, to highlight your strengths and align with the scholarship’s objectives.
Pay Attention to Application Deadlines
Pay close attention to application deadlines and submit your applications well before the closing dates. Missing deadlines can result in the disqualification of your application, so carefully note the application timelines and submit your materials on time.
Seek Guidance and Support
Reach out to mentors, professors, or educational consultants who can provide guidance and feedback on your application materials. Their insights can greatly enhance the quality of your submission.
FAQs
- Are Canadian scholarships open to students from all countries?
Yes, Canadian scholarships are open to students from around the world, regardless of their nationality.
- Can I apply for multiple scholarships?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships provided you meet the requirements for each scholarship.
- Do I need to have an acceptance letter before applying for scholarships?
Not necessarily. While some scholarships may require an acceptance letter, many scholarships allow you to apply before receiving an offer of admission.
- How competitive are Canadian scholarships?
Canadian scholarships can be highly competitive due to the large number of applicants. It is essential to present a strong academic record, demonstrate leadership potential, and showcase your unique qualities and experiences.
- Can I work while studying on a Canadian scholarship?
Yes, many Canadian scholarships allow international students to work part-time on or off-campus while studying, providing an opportunity to gain valuable work experience and supplement their finances.