Canada is one of the top choices for international students looking to study abroad. With its world-class universities, friendly environment, and high quality of life, it’s no surprise that thousands of students apply every year. However, studying in Canada can be expensive. The good news? There are many fully funded and partially funded scholarships available for international students.
In this post, we’ll cover some of the best Canadian scholarships for international students in 2025, including how to apply and who can benefit. Whether you’re aiming for an undergraduate, master’s, or PhD degree, this list will help you get started on your journey.
Why Study in Canada?
Before diving into scholarships, here’s why Canada is such a popular destination:
- High-quality education and globally ranked universities
- Multicultural society and welcoming environment
- Post-graduation work opportunities
- Safer and more affordable than many other countries
Now let’s look at the top scholarships you should know about in 2025.
Top Canadian Scholarships for International Students (2025)
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
This is one of the most prestigious scholarships in Canada for PhD students.
Who can apply:
Doctoral students in health, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, or humanities.
Award amount:
$50,000 per year for 3 years
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
This fully funded scholarship is for exceptional international students applying for undergraduate programs.
Who can apply:
International high school students with strong academic and leadership skills.
What it covers:
Tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years.
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
UBC offers several scholarships for high-achieving students from around the world.
Types:
- International Leader of Tomorrow Award
- Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award
What it covers:
Full tuition, living expenses, and more based on financial need.
4. University of Alberta Scholarships
The University of Alberta offers various scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students.
Who can apply:
International students entering any level of study.
Award amount:
Varies; can be full or partial funding
5. University of Waterloo International Funding
Waterloo provides many scholarships and financial aid programs to international students.
Scholarships available:
President’s Scholarship, International Master’s Award of Excellence, and more.
Award amount:
$2,500 to $10,000+
6. McGill University Scholarships
McGill offers entrance scholarships and in-course awards for international students.
Who can apply:
Incoming undergraduate and graduate students
What it covers:
$3,000 to $12,000 (merit-based)
7. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)
This is a great scholarship for international students pursuing master’s or PhD programs.
Who can apply:
Graduate students in any field (full-time)
Award amount:
- Master’s: $14,000/year (up to 2 years)
- PhD: $18,000/year (up to 4 years)
8. York University International Student Scholarships
York offers several awards for international students, including full scholarships.
Top awards:
Global Leader of Tomorrow and International Entrance Scholarships of Distinction
What it covers:
Up to $140,000 over 4 years
9. Calgary International Entrance Scholarships
Awarded to outstanding students entering the University of Calgary.
Who can apply:
First-year undergraduate students
What it covers:
Up to $60,000 over 4 years
10. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
Offered to students from Commonwealth countries to pursue graduate studies in Canada.
Who can apply:
Graduate students from Commonwealth countries
What it covers:
Tuition, travel, and living allowance
How to Apply for Canadian Scholarships
- Start Early
Many deadlines are 6–12 months before classes start. Prepare in advance. - Check Eligibility
Each scholarship has its own rules. Carefully read the requirements before applying. - Prepare Documents
Typical documents include:
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume or CV
- Statement of purpose or essay
- Apply to Universities First
Most scholarships require you to first apply and get admitted to a Canadian university. - Stay Organized
Keep a checklist of deadlines, documents, and portals for each scholarship.
FAQs – Canadian Scholarships for International Students
1. Are there fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students?
Yes! Scholarships like Vanier, Lester B. Pearson, and UBC International Scholars offer full funding.
2. Can I apply for scholarships before being accepted into a university?
In most cases, you must apply to the university first. Scholarships are usually linked to your admission.
3. Do I need IELTS or TOEFL for these scholarships?
Yes, English proficiency tests are usually required for both admission and scholarship eligibility.
4. Are there scholarships for undergraduate students?
Absolutely. Many scholarships like Lester B. Pearson and York University awards are for undergraduates.
5. Do these scholarships cover living expenses too?
Some scholarships are fully funded and cover tuition, living expenses, and even books and travel.
Final Thoughts
Studying in Canada is a dream for many, and with the right scholarship, it can become a reality. Whether you’re aiming for a bachelor’s degree or a PhD, Canada offers great options for students from all around the world.
Take action now—start researching, prepare your documents, and apply before the deadlines. A scholarship could be your ticket to world-class education and a brighter future.
