Canada offers a wealth of scholarship opportunities for international students pursuing undergraduate and master’s degrees. These scholarships aim to attract talented individuals from around the world, providing financial support to help them achieve their academic goals. Below is an overview of some of the top scholarships available for the 2025 academic year, along with guidance on how to apply online.
1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is one of Canada’s most prestigious awards for undergraduate students. It recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, creativity, and leadership qualities. The scholarship covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years.
Eligibility:
International students nominated by their high school.
Applicants must be applying to the University of Toronto for undergraduate studies.
Application Process:
Students must be nominated by their school and apply to the University of Toronto.
A separate scholarship application is required.
2. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
For master’s students planning to pursue a doctoral degree, the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships offer substantial financial support. Valued at CAD 50,000 per year for three years, these scholarships aim to attract and retain world-class doctoral students.
Eligibility:
Applicants must be nominated by a Canadian institution with a Vanier CGS quota.
Candidates should demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership abilities.
Application Process:
Applicants must seek nomination from a Canadian institution and submit an application through the ResearchNet system.
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award
UBC’s International Leader of Tomorrow Award recognizes international undergraduate students who demonstrate superior academic achievement, leadership skills, and involvement in student affairs and community service. The award covers tuition, fees, and living costs, proportional to the student’s financial need.
Eligibility:
International students entering UBC from a recognized secondary school.
Applicants must demonstrate financial need and meet UBC’s admission requirements.
Application Process:
Submit an award application and a nomination from the school.
Apply for admission to UBC.
4. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship program supports excellence in graduate studies at the master’s and doctoral levels. The scholarship provides CAD 5,000 per term for up to three terms.
Eligibility:
Applicants must be enrolled in a graduate program at a participating Ontario university.
Candidates should have an A- average or equivalent in the last two years of study.
Application Process:
Applications are submitted through the university’s graduate studies office.
Each institution has its own application process and deadlines.
5. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
The University of Calgary offers the International Entrance Scholarship to undergraduate international students entering the first year of any undergraduate degree. The scholarship is valued at CAD 15,000 and is renewable in the second, third, and fourth years at the University of Calgary, provided recipients achieve a GPA of 2.60 or more over a minimum of 24.00 units in the previous fall and winter terms.
Eligibility:
International students entering the first year of an undergraduate degree.
Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.20.
Application Process:
Apply for admission to the University of Calgary.
Complete the scholarship application through the university’s student portal.
6. University of Waterloo International Master’s and Doctoral Student Awards
The University of Waterloo offers various awards to international students enrolled in master’s and doctoral programs. These awards are valued at CAD 2,045 per term for master’s students and CAD 4,090 per term for doctoral students.
Eligibility:
International students enrolled full-time in a research-based graduate program.
Students must meet the academic progress requirements of their program.
Application Process:
No separate application is required; students are automatically considered upon admission.
7. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)
The University of Manitoba offers the UMGF to full-time master’s and doctoral students. The fellowship provides CAD 14,000 per year for master’s students and CAD 18,000 per year for doctoral students.
Eligibility:
Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Applicants must be enrolled in a full-time graduate program at the University of Manitoba.
Application Process:
Applications are submitted through the department or unit offering the graduate program.
8. University of Saskatchewan International Excellence Awards
The University of Saskatchewan offers International Excellence Awards to new international students. These awards are valued at CAD 10,000 and are based on academic achievement.
Eligibility:
International students entering undergraduate programs.
Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence.
Application Process:
Students are automatically considered upon application for admission.
9. York University International Student Scholarships
York University offers several scholarships for international students, including the Global Leader of Tomorrow Award and the International Entrance Scholarship of Distinction. These scholarships range from CAD 20,000 to CAD 35,000 per year.
Eligibility:
International students applying for undergraduate programs.
Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and leadership qualities.
Application Process:
Submit a separate scholarship application along with the admission application.
10. University of Ottawa Scholarships
The University of Ottawa offers a variety of scholarships to international students at the undergraduate and graduate levels. These include the President’s Scholarship and the Chancellor’s Scholarship, valued at up to CAD 30,000.
Eligibility:
International students with excellent academic records.
Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the University of Ottawa.
Application Process:
Apply for admission and complete the scholarship application through the university’s portal.
Application Tips:
Start Early: Begin researching and preparing your applications well in advance of deadlines.
Understand Requirements: Carefully review the eligibility criteria and application procedures for each scholarship.
Prepare Documents: Gather necessary documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
Highlight Achievements: Emphasize academic accomplishments, leadership experiences, and community involvement.
Proofread Applications: Ensure all application materials are free of errors and clearly present your qualifications.
Canada’s commitment to supporting international students through generous scholarship programs makes it an attractive destination for higher education. By taking advantage of these opportunities, students can pursue their academic goals while experiencing the diverse and inclusive environment that Canadian institutions offer.