Canada has become a leading destination for international students, known for its high-quality education, diverse communities, and post-graduation career opportunities. It offers more than just academic programs, it provides a supportive environment for personal and professional growth.
Students choose Canada for its strong academic reputation, safety, and inclusive culture. Its universities are consistently ranked among the top globally, making it a reliable choice for higher education.
In addition, Canada’s immigration policies allow international students to work during their studies and remain in the country after graduation. Many graduates use this pathway to gain work experience and apply for permanent residency.
Despite these advantages, the cost of studying in Canada can be challenging. Expenses such as tuition, housing, and daily living can be a barrier for many.
To make education more accessible, Canadian universities, government bodies, and organizations offer a wide range of scholarships. This article outlines some of the top scholarship opportunities available to international students in Canada for 2025.
Why Study in Canada?
Choosing Canada for your education is about much more than just earning a degree. Canadian institutions consistently rank among the best in the world, with strong academic programs in science, engineering, business, health, and social sciences. The country is known for its emphasis on research, innovation, and hands-on learning.
As an international student, you’ll find Canada’s education system welcoming and flexible. Beyond the classroom, you’re allowed to work part-time during your studies and full-time during breaks, which helps with living expenses and adds valuable work experience. After graduation, many students take advantage of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to work in Canada for up to three years. This pathway can often lead to permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class or the Provincial Nominee Program.
Studying in Canada also means living in a safe, tolerant, and inclusive society. From vibrant urban centers like Toronto and Vancouver to university towns like Halifax and Saskatoon, you’ll find communities that celebrate diversity and support international students every step of the way.
Top Canadian Universities Offering Scholarships in 2025
University of Toronto
The University of Toronto offers one of Canada’s most prestigious undergraduate awards for international students—the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship. This fully funded scholarship covers tuition, books, residence, and all incidental costs for four years of study. It is awarded to exceptional students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance, leadership qualities, and a strong commitment to community service. To be considered, students must first be nominated by their high school and then apply to an undergraduate program at the University of Toronto. The selection process is highly competitive, attracting brilliant minds from all over the world.
University of British Columbia (UBC)
UBC provides a range of generous scholarships through its International Scholars Program. Among the most notable are the International Leader of Tomorrow (ILOT) Award and the Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award. These scholarships are designed to support students with strong academic records who demonstrate financial need and show leadership potential. They can cover the full cost of tuition and living expenses for the entire duration of a degree program. UBC is known for its focus on sustainability, innovation, and inclusive education, making it a top choice for ambitious international applicants.
McGill University
McGill University in Montreal offers several scholarships for international students, including entrance scholarships for undergraduates and the PBEEE – Quebec Merit Scholarship for graduate-level studies. These scholarships recognize students with strong academic performance and a clear sense of direction in their chosen field. Graduate students, particularly those in research-intensive programs, can benefit from competitive funding packages that support tuition and research development. McGill’s bilingual environment and international research reputation make it a standout destination for students from around the globe.
University of Waterloo
At the University of Waterloo, international students applying for master’s and doctoral programs may be automatically considered for the International Master’s and Doctoral Awards. These awards provide consistent financial support across academic terms, with amounts ranging from CAD $2,045 per term for master’s students to CAD $4,090 per term for doctoral students. Waterloo is renowned for its focus on co-operative education (co-op), allowing students to alternate between academic terms and paid work placements, enhancing their skills and resumes before graduation.
University of Calgary
The University of Calgary offers the International Entrance Scholarship, which provides incoming international undergraduates with a renewable award of CAD $15,000 per year. This scholarship is granted based on academic excellence and leadership potential, and it can significantly ease the financial burden for students pursuing long-term programs. Calgary’s growing international student body and research opportunities across faculties make it a strong option for students seeking a vibrant campus in a progressive Canadian city.
University of Alberta
International students at the University of Alberta are eligible for both entrance and application-based scholarships, including the President’s International Distinction Scholarship, which is valued at up to CAD $120,000 over four years. These scholarships are designed to attract high-achieving students with a proven record of academic success and extracurricular involvement. Alberta also offers strong support for graduate students through research assistantships, fellowships, and departmental awards.
Government and Nationally Funded Scholarships
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships are among the most prestigious doctoral awards in the country. Funded by the Government of Canada, these scholarships are aimed at attracting and retaining top-tier international PhD students. Valued at CAD $50,000 per year for up to three years, the Vanier CGS supports students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, high research potential, and proven leadership ability. The scholarship is open to all fields, including health, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities. To apply, students must be nominated by a Canadian university with a Vanier quota and submit a compelling research proposal.
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship program provides financial support to international and domestic students pursuing graduate studies at eligible Ontario universities. This merit-based scholarship is available at both the master’s and doctoral levels and offers up to CAD $15,000 annually. OGS recipients are selected based on academic excellence, research ability, and communication skills. While the program is provincially funded, each university administers its own application process. This scholarship is an excellent option for students planning to study in Ontario, especially in institutions like the University of Toronto, Western University, and Queen’s University.
Mitacs Globalink Research Internship
The Mitacs Globalink Research Internship is a fully funded 12-week research program for undergraduate students from specific partner countries. Each year, Mitacs brings talented international students to Canadian universities to participate in research projects supervised by faculty across a variety of academic disciplines. The program covers airfare, visa support, accommodation, insurance, and a stipend for living expenses. Aside from gaining valuable research experience, participants also benefit from professional development workshops and exposure to Canada’s academic culture. Mitacs also offers graduate-level internships (Mitacs Accelerate) and postdoctoral fellowships (Mitacs Elevate), making it a long-term resource for research-focused students.
Study in Canada Scholarships (EduCanada)
Administered by Global Affairs Canada, the Study in Canada Scholarships program provides short-term exchange opportunities for students from developing countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. The scholarships enable international students to study or conduct research at Canadian post-secondary institutions for one academic term or two. While not always full-ride, they typically cover tuition, travel expenses, and monthly living allowances. The program is part of Canada’s efforts to strengthen international education ties and expand access to global learning opportunities.
Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP)
The Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP) offers scholarships for students from Latin America and the Caribbean to pursue short-term studies or research projects in Canada. Funded by the Canadian government, ELAP promotes people-to-people ties and regional cooperation through academic exchange. Recipients of ELAP scholarships engage in undergraduate or graduate-level research placements, fostering academic growth and leadership development. The program prioritizes students who are already enrolled in a recognized institution in their home country and have secured an agreement with a Canadian host university.
Other Organizations Offering Scholarships
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
The Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program is funded by Global Affairs Canada and is intended for students from Commonwealth countries pursuing graduate-level studies or research in Canada. This scholarship supports master’s and doctoral candidates who exhibit strong academic performance and leadership capacity. Typically, it includes coverage for tuition, travel costs, living expenses, and health insurance. The goal of the program is to contribute to capacity-building in recipient countries while fostering long-term collaboration between Canadian institutions and those in the Commonwealth.
Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship
The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation offers highly competitive scholarships to outstanding doctoral students pursuing research in the social sciences and humanities. This award is not just about financial support—it’s also a leadership development opportunity. Scholars receive up to CAD $60,000 annually for three years, which includes travel and research funding. In addition to financial aid, recipients take part in a three-year leadership program that includes mentorship, academic retreats, and policy engagement activities. This scholarship is ideal for students who are passionate about public service, global citizenship, and making a tangible impact through research.
Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
This program, funded by the Government of Canada, supports students from ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) member states who wish to pursue short-term studies or research in Canadian institutions. The scholarships cover travel, living expenses, and tuition fees for study terms ranging from four to eight months. SEED scholarships are designed to build the capacity of young leaders in developing ASEAN countries by giving them exposure to Canadian academic institutions and values. The program is particularly relevant for students in fields related to sustainable development, governance, health, and innovation.
Key Benefits of Canadian Scholarships
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Financial Support That Eases the Burden
Many Canadian scholarships cover full or partial tuition, living expenses, health insurance, books, and travel costs. This can significantly reduce the financial pressure on international students, allowing them to focus more on academics and personal growth rather than worrying about how to afford their education. -
Recognition of Academic and Leadership Excellence
Winning a scholarship from a top Canadian institution or government body is a major achievement. It reflects your academic success, leadership ability, and potential to create impact—qualities that are highly valued by future employers, graduate schools, and research organizations. -
Access to Elite Networks and Mentorship
Many scholarships come with additional perks such as access to mentorship programs, leadership workshops, academic retreats, and alumni networks. These connections can open doors to internships, research collaborations, and professional opportunities both during and after your studies. -
Enhanced Career Opportunities in Canada and Globally
Studying in Canada on a scholarship often includes hands-on learning, co-op programs, and research assistantships. These experiences are powerful assets in today’s job market and prepare you for competitive roles in your home country or internationally. Some scholarships even connect recipients directly to employers and innovation hubs. -
Pathway to Immigration and Permanent Residency
Many international students who study in Canada under scholarships are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to work for up to three years after graduation. Work experience gained through PGWP can later be used to apply for Permanent Residency through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP). -
Personal Growth in a Multicultural Environment
Studying in Canada offers more than just academic development—it’s an immersive cultural experience. You’ll meet students from across the globe, build friendships, learn new languages, and gain a broader worldview. Scholarships make this transformative journey accessible to students who might otherwise miss out.
Tips for Applying in 2025
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Start Early: Scholarship deadlines often fall between October and March. Begin preparing at least 6 months ahead.
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Read the Requirements Carefully: Each scholarship has its own criteria—make sure you meet them before applying.
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Write a Strong Personal Statement: Clearly explain your goals, achievements, and why you chose Canada. Make it personal and specific.
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Get Quality Recommendation Letters: Ask teachers or mentors who know you well and can speak about your strengths.
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Show Leadership and Involvement: Highlight extracurricular activities, community service, or leadership roles.
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Apply for Multiple Scholarships: Don’t put all your hopes on one—cast a wide net to improve your chances.
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Use Official Sources: Check university websites or EduCanada for accurate and up-to-date information.
Conclusion
Canada is more than a study destination—it’s a launchpad for global citizens, future leaders, and changemakers. With hundreds of scholarships available in 2025, international students have a real chance to access top-tier education without the burden of full costs.
From undergraduate programs to PhDs and research fellowships, there are scholarships suited to every stage and discipline. These opportunities not only support your academic growth but also prepare you for success in the global workforce, all while immersing you in one of the most inclusive and forward-thinking societies in the world.
If you’ve ever dreamed of studying abroad, now is the time to act. Canada welcomes bright, driven students from every corner of the world—and with the right scholarship, your dream can become a fully funded reality. Start planning, stay focused, and aim high. Your future in Canada may be just one application away.
