Scholarships in Canada for International Students

Many international students dream of studying in Canada—but tuition and living expenses can be a challenge. Thankfully, Canada offers a wide range of scholarships to help foreign students manage their education costs.
These scholarships are funded by universities, the Canadian government, and private organizations to support students at all levels bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD.
If you’re planning to study in Canada, this guide covers top scholarship opportunities, requirements, and why Canada is a popular study destination.

Why Study in Canada on a Scholarship?

1. Top-Quality Education
Canada has some of the best universities in the world. Institutions like the University of Toronto, McGill, and the University of British Columbia are highly ranked and well-respected globally.

2. English and French Language Options
Canada is bilingual, making it easier for students from English-speaking and French-speaking countries to adjust.

3. Friendly Environment
Canadians are known for being welcoming. As a student, you’ll find a peaceful place to study and live.

4. Wide Range of Programs
Canadian universities offer many different courses from business and tech to medicine, agriculture, and media studies.

5. Free Health Coverage (in Some Provinces)
Some scholarships come with free health insurance. That means you won’t have to worry about paying for medical care while studying.

6. Affordable Compared to Other Countries
While studying abroad is never cheap, Canada is more budget-friendly than places like the US or UK—especially with the help of scholarships.

What You Need to Apply for Scholarships in Canada

Before applying, you’ll need the following:

Academic transcripts (from your previous school)
Proof of English or French language skills (like IELTS/TOEFL)
Financial statements (to show you need support)
Health records (some universities ask for this)

Popular Scholarships in Canada for International Students

Here’s a list of well-known scholarships you can apply for:

1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

For PhD students
Worth $50,000 per year for 3 years
Open to students with strong leadership skills and top academic records in fields like health, social sciences, humanities, and engineering.

2. University of Alberta International Scholarships

Offers up to CAD $22 million annually
For undergraduate and graduate students
Must have received an offer of admission to apply

3. Canada Visa Study Hub $500 Scholarship

Monthly draw for international students in Canada
Offers $500 to support ongoing studies
Selection is random and only for students already in Canada

4. Ontario Graduate Scholarships (OGS)

For students pursuing master's or PhD programs in Ontario
Awards range from $10,000 to $15,000
Open to all disciplines

5. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships

For master’s and PhD students
Available across multiple faculties
Excludes business programs

6. Canadian Francophonie Scholarship Program

For students from French-speaking developing countries
Covers tuition and other fees for master's and doctorate degrees

7. University of British Columbia Doctoral Awards

For PhD students
Requires at least 2 years of study at UBC
Very competitive and research-focused

8. Humber College International Entrance Scholarships

Available for bachelor’s degree students
Based on academic achievement
Deadlines: February, May, October

9. MasterCard Foundation Scholarships (McGill University)

For undergraduate African students
Covers full tuition and living expenses
Focus on students who show leadership and need

10. University of Calgary International Scholarships

Value: up to $27,799
Open for programs like medicine, veterinary science, engineering, and others

11. ACI Foundation Scholarship

Focused on fields like civil engineering, construction, and materials
For international students studying in design-related programs
Deadline: October

12. Queen’s University Scholarships

Open to students from the U.S., Pakistan, India, and other countries
Offers financial aid and government support options

13. Fairleigh Dickinson University Scholarships

Located in Vancouver
Scholarships based on academic merit
Semester deadlines: July 1 (Fall), Dec 1 (Spring), May 1 (Summer)

14. Frank J. Richter Scholarship

For undergraduate or master's degree students
Partial funding for students from any country
Wide range of courses available

15. Dalhousie University Scholarships

Awards more than $5 million yearly
Open to high school grads, current students, and graduate students

16. Katona Scholarship

Available for bachelor's, master’s, and PhD students
Covers tuition support up to DKK 10,000

17. Eni Sub-Saharan Scholarships

For students from sub-Saharan Africa (e.g., Nigeria, Ghana, Mozambique)
Covers tuition, travel, accommodation, and more
Based on academic performance

18. International Leader of Tomorrow (UBC)

For undergraduates with outstanding academic and leadership skills
Deadline: December each year
Recognizes achievements in academics, sports, writing, and community work

19. Global Sustainable Electricity Partnership

For master’s students in energy or sustainability
Open to students from developing countries
Partial funding available

FINALLY, Try to apply as early as you can don’t wait till the deadline is almost here. A lot of people miss out just because they were slow.

Read the instructions well. Every scholarship is different, so don’t just guess or assume.

Always check the deadline. Some close earlier than others, so don’t be caught off guard.

And don’t just apply for one. The more you try, the better your chances.

Also, make sure you’re checking our WhatsApp for updates. That’s where we drop new scholarships fast. You can even apply through our team—we’ll help you sort everything out the right way

Scholarships in Canada for International Students – Full List & How to Apply