31 Best Scholarships in Canada for International Students

Obtaining a degree in higher education, especially in an industrialized nation like Canada, is one of the highly prioritized educational goals among international students. According to the most recent surveys, more than 500,000 overseas learners are in this nation, making it the third-most-popular educational destination after the U.S. and the UK. Luckily, Canada, regarded as one of the best countries in which to study higher education, invests heavily in its teaching methods and techniques.

Given the country’s schooling system, the high demand for its education is unsurprising. It’s also home to many top-notch schools, some of which are in the top 100 categories of the QS World University Rankings. However, one dilemma that hinders most students is how costly it can be. While it’s not the most expensive country to pursue a degree in, enrolling in one of its universities is pricey. Canada’s cost of studying and living can be expensive, especially if you plan to study in Toronto or Vancouver.

Most degree-seeking students who want to further their studies abroad must prepare adequate funds to sustain their living expenses and pay for their tuition and other academic fees. That’s why students must be aware that many external and government-sponsored scholarships are available. Most of these scholarships have a higher value and cover their tuition, living expenses, travel, and research costs. Fortunately, prospective students, including international students, can choose among external, government, and university scholarships.

Numerous Canadian universities and institutions also offer institutional scholarships and programs aimed at international students. This type of financial aid is the first thing aspiring scholars check out. Studying abroad is an excellent opportunity for every student, and getting a scholarship grant is even better. Since there is a wide array of open scholarships to choose from, it is advisable for student scholars to carefully check and select each program and grant to get an idea of what is best suitable for them.

As it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, international students can grab the chance if they have been offered or if there’s an opening nomination for a scholarship, as this will help them attain their educational and personal goals. If you want to make your educational dream come true, this article will show you some Canadian scholarships you can apply for as an international student.

Top Scholarships in Canada

1. Pierre Elliot Trudeau Foundation Scholarship

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: Up to annual CA$40,000 tuition and living expenses (for three years)
• Eligible Degree/s: Ph.D.

Pierre Elliot Trudeau Foundation Scholarship is one of the best external scholarships in Canada. This prestigious scholarship aims explicitly at doctoral students with outstanding student portfolios and leadership skills. While the foundation recognizes many Ph.D. social sciences and humanities students, students from various academic fields are also welcome to apply if their research projects involve the foundation’s founding themes.

These themes include Canada and the World, Responsible Citizenship, Human Rights and Dignity, and People and their Natural Environment. All Pierre Elliot Trudeau scholars will be awarded up to CA$ 40,000 yearly, covering their tuition and living expenses. Moreover, they can get an extra 20,000 annually to cover three years of doctoral-related research, networking, and travel costs.

2. Study in Canada Scholarships

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: CA$10,200 – $12,700
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.

Study in Canada Scholarships program is aimed at international students who want to participate in short-term exchange programs at a Canadian university or institute. The program is open for undergraduate and graduate students who wish to spend one academic term to a maximum of six months in Canada. Recipients of the program will have the opportunity to experience first-hand how Canadian institutions operate.

It will also allow students to deepen their knowledge, engage in research projects, and form relevant network connections. Awarded students can use their funds for student permits, visas, health insurance, living expenses, supplies, and more.

3. Canadian Japanese Mennonite Scholarship

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: CA$3,000
• Eligible Degree/s: Master’s, Ph.D.

Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) is a non-profit organization/ministry that works towards peace and is committed to serving people. MCC offers scholarship awards to several deserving Canadian and international students. One of the scholarships offered is the Canadian Japanese Mennonite Scholarship, also co-sponsored by the National Association of Japanese Canadians (NAJC).

It is open for international graduate students with research projects involving protecting cultural minorities and human rights in Canada. Scholars will be given CA$3,000 to fund their chosen research proposals.

4. Hellenic Scholarship

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: Vary per degree level
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s

The Hellenic Scholarship Foundation offers scholarship programs specifically designed for students of Hellenic origin. Prospective students must be enrolled full-time in a higher education school in Quebec with an outstanding academic profile. The foundation will provide financial aid and educational support to all its recipients.

Aside from covering their tuition fees, it will support students in becoming future leaders and professionals who will lead ideal lives and contribute to the Hellenic community.

5. P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship Fund

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: CA$12,500 for one year
• Eligible Degree/s: Master’s, Ph.D.

P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship, or IPS is for female students enrolled in full-time graduate study in an accredited Canadian institution. The foundation, launched in 1949, has been giving prestigious scholarships and awards to talented students who have the potential to become leaders and experts in various industry sectors.

Upon completing the program, scholars are expected to return to their home country to promote peace and become agents of change in society.
The scholarship will not fund the full-time tuition of the recipient, but the scholarship amount of $12,500 will help cover most of the students’ academic fees and living expenses.

6. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: CA$50,000 a year (for three years)
• Eligible Degree/s: Ph.D.

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship, or Vanier CGS, is a government-sponsored scholarship program to attract elite doctoral students from across the globe. The program was initiated to make Canada a leading provider of world-class research and higher education excellence. It supports scholars whose future contributions will lead to the following industry fields: social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, engineering, and health sciences.

The foundation attracts countless international students. It receives massive amounts of nominations yearly, so competition is steep. Students vying for the award or scholarship must undergo a rigorous nomination process, as most schools participating are among the best in the country. Only a handful of students will be granted the scholarship.

7. Ontario Trillium Scholarship

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: CA$40,000 a year (renewable up to four years)
• Eligible Degree/s: Ph.D.

Doctoral students of Ontario-based universities and institutions seeking a government-sponsored scholarship may consider applying for the Ontario Trillium Scholarship program. It annually awards 75 scholarships to the best students pursuing their doctoral studies. It is based on merit, and to be awarded the scholarship, students must meet the academic criteria required by their preferred institution.

Admitted scholars must maintain a high satisfactory GPA to receive renewable benefits for four years continuously. This scholarship will support doctoral students with their academic finances throughout the completion of their program.

8. Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: Vary per degree level
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.

Launched in 2017, the Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development, or SEED program, is a joint partnership of the Government of Canada and ASEAN member states. The program will allow students from any constituent country to participate in short-term study or research at one of the Canadian universities. Its primary goal is to end poverty and improve the lives of people of all kinds as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development initiative.

With this, several ASEAN and Canadian post-secondary institutions have partnered to provide student exchange programs. Recipients of the programs will be awarded scholarship funds from CA$10,200 to $15,900, depending on the level of study. For instance, undergraduate and graduate students for one academic term will receive $10,200, while master’s and Ph.D. studying for five to six months will have $12,700 in financial assistance.

 9. Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: CA$70,000 a year (for two years)
• Eligible Degree/s: Ph.D.

Postdoctorate degree-seeking students with exceptional student portfolios may consider applying for the Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships. This government-sponsored program allocates scholarship funding to worthy individuals who have the potential to become future leaders and professionals who will significantly contribute to Canada’s socioeconomic development.

This fellowship program only grants 70 scholars yearly, equally distributed to the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), and Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR). The host institution must nominate applicants and meet all the requirements for prospective students.

All applicants will undergo a rigorous process. However, once a student is selected as one of their scholars, countless opportunities, academic resources, and sufficient funding will all be provided to ensure that they will complete their choice of study program.

10. Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: Vary per degree level
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.

Another collaboration between the Government of Canada and leading Latin America and Caribbean institutions is the Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP). It aims to deepen and establish strong network linkages among all participating Canadian institutions and post-secondary institutions in Latin America and the Caribbean.

This scholarship will allow prospective students to partake in short-term exchange programs. Furthermore, higher education students of all levels can apply for the scholarship. Undergraduate and graduate students taking one academic term will receive CA$8,200, while those taking their master’s and Ph.D. degrees for only four to six months will be handed CA$11,100.

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that is rarely given to students. Citizens of the Caribbean and Latin American countries should grab this chance as it will be advantageous, especially for students who want to become future leaders of their respective nations.

11. Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: Vary per degree level
• Eligible Degree/s: Master’s, Ph.D.

The Government of Ontario and several Ontario-based institutions have collaborated to provide a prestigious scholarship for international students seeking graduate degrees in Canada. The Ontario Graduate Scholarship, or OGS Program, is merit-based, and participating institutions have different eligibility requirements and criteria.

Interested applicants can apply for this award in any field of study at participating Ontario institutions. Those awarded will get a scholarship value ranging from CA$ 10,000 for two consecutive study terms to $15,000 for three successive study terms.

12. Lester B. Pearson International Student Scholarship

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: Full tuition, including other fees for four years
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s

Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is intended for international students seeking an undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto, one of the world’s most remarkable and world-class institutions. This higher education provider awards this prestigious scholarship to students with proven academic excellence and leadership skills within their secondary school and the local community.

U of T recognizes students who have the potential to become global leaders. There are only 37 awards to be given yearly. Lester B. Pearson scholars will have all the support they need, and the university will cover their full tuition, including academic resources such as books and other academic fees.

13. Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award Scholarship

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: Financial assistance proportionate to financial need
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s

The University of British Columbia offers four institutional scholarship awards, one of which includes the Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award. UBC offers about 50 scholarships annually for students enrolling as first-timers in any undergraduate program. Aspiring scholars must have the following qualities to have a high chance of getting the award.

First, a student must possess a high, satisfactory GPA. Afterward, a student must be substantially involved with their community. Lastly, a student must be recognized for their leadership qualities. Since there are four scholarship awards, students need help to select which program they want. Instead, the academic team of UBC will carefully deliberate and decide which scholarship award is most suitable for each student.

14. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: CA$20,000 (renewable)
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s

Every year, the University of Calgary attracts numerous international students. With the ever-increasing number of students enrolling here, the institution offers several scholarships and awards to deserving students. For undergraduate studies, it provides scholarship programs intended for international students.

One of these is the University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship. It’s only given to two international students with outstanding academic profiles and leadership skills. In addition to academic merit, a student must demonstrate an exceptional level of English proficiency and maintain a GPA of 2.60 or more to be eligible for the scholarship award.

15. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: Vary per degree level
• Eligible Degree/s: Master’s, Ph.D.

University of Manitoba’s Graduate Fellowship (UMGF) is a scholarship award for full-time graduate students. Aspiring applicants enrolled in their master’s or doctoral programs will be considered if the student can achieve an overall academic standing of a 3.0 GPA or higher, depending on their department. It offers an annual CA$14,000 assistance for those taking master’s programs and CA$18,000 per year for doctoral students.

Students must be nominated by their respective departments. Scholars who have previously been awarded a two-year scholarship program and intend to continue their doctoral program at the university can renew the fellowship award for another three years. With this, the scholarship value may cover up to five years.

16. York International Undergraduate Leadership Scholarships

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: CA$10,000 a year (renewable for four years)
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s

International Undergraduate Leadership Scholarships is one of the numerous scholarship programs offered at York University. This program aims explicitly at international students taking undergraduate programs at the Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies. Annually, it awards 50 scholars with an amount of CA$10,000 a year, and the scholarship is renewable yearly for up to four years.

Furthermore, students can fully enjoy the scholarship amount of CA$40,000, as long as they can maintain high academic standing each year. The university prefers students who are closely involved in community service or those talented students who excel in sports and the arts.

17. University of British Columbia Public Scholars Award

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: Up to CA$10,000 a year (for two years)
• Eligible Degree/s: Ph.D.

The University of British Columbia Public Scholars Award is a doctoral scholarship targeting elite international students. Managed by the institution’s Public Scholars Initiative, the scholarship program aims to cultivate future global leaders who will become agents of change in society. UBC only grants 30 to 35 awards yearly to worthy students who have submitted good research proposals.

Awarded scholars will be given a scholarship fund valued at CA$ 20,000 in two years, which can be used for their research allowance and the student’s stipend. They must also complete a report upon completing the first and second (if applicable) year of funds and do a work presentation at a Network event, PhDs Go Public. 

18. York International Scholarships and Awards

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: Vary per scholarship program
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s

York University admits numerous talented international students and ensures that students get all the support they need throughout their studies. For one, YorkU offers various scholarship awards and programs to its undergraduates. There are two categories in which students can apply for a scholarship at the university: “with no application required” or “with an application.” Scholarships requiring no application have less value than scholarship awards with the application.

Aspiring scholars who opt to apply for scholarships with an application are those with outstanding student portfolios and who possess leadership skills or excel in sports or arts. Here are some scholarship programs and awards currently offered at the university: President’s International Scholarship of Excellence, Tentanda Via Award, International Circle of Scholar’s Scholarship, and York University Academic Excellence Scholarships for International Students.

19. Carleton Prestige Scholarships

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: CA$5,000 to full tuition a year (renewable for four years)
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s

Carleton University is an internationally recognized higher education school in Ottawa, Canada. The institution is famous among international students and offers scholarships and awards to academically competent students enrolling here from a post-secondary school or CEGEP. The highest scholarship awards presented here are the Carleton Prestige Scholarships.

It consists of several scholarships, amounting to CA$5,000 per year to full tuition, depending on the scholarship program granted. Students vying for the program must have an admission score of 90%, exemplary extracurricular activities, and are incoming students who will be directly admitted to the university from high school.

20. President’s Scholarship for World Leaders

• Scholarship Link
• Scholarship Amount: CA$5,000
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.

The University of Winnipeg offers one of Canada’s best graduate scholarship programs. One is the President’s Scholarship for World Leaders, which is aimed at international students. As the name states, degree-seeking international students pursuing graduate study who intend to contribute to resolving the global challenges of the community can apply for this scholarship program.

International students applying for the first time in any undergraduate program with an admission average of 80% and with leadership qualities have a high chance of getting the scholarship award. Once admitted, the university will aid student scholars with adequate funds to help pay for their academic fees.

21. Humber Bachelor’s Degree Scholarships

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: CA$1,500 – $4,000
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s

Humber College is an established public institution in Toronto, Canada. It is among the best in the region because it is entirely focused on providing education using a polytechnic learning approach. The university allocates scholarship funds to international students and offers Bachelor’s Degree Scholarships to incoming international students.

This financial aid will be automatically awarded to first-time undergraduate students who have entered directly from high school with an outstanding academic profile and have passed the minimum admission score of 75%. Moreover, the scholarship is renewable as long as the student can maintain a GPA of 80% and above. Students will also be granted the same scholarship value initially awarded during their first year.

22. University of Waterloo Undergraduate Entrance Awards

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: CA$1,000 – $15,000
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s

The University of Waterloo has offered numerous undergraduate scholarships since it became an established institution in Ontario. The school’s database is a helpful tool that provides plenty of information about each scholarship program. Moreover, international students will have many options to choose from. With more than 100 scholarship awards, bursaries, and programs, students worldwide will be highly likely to be granted.

You’ll automatically be considered for most undergraduate entrance awards when you apply. However, please note that some scholarships and awards require applications. They also can be changed whenever necessary to reflect changes in available funds, updated eligibility requirements, or new award options.

23. University of Montreal Exemption Scholarship for International Students

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: Vary per degree level
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.

Université de Montréal is one of the elite francophone institutions in the world. It aids students in becoming global citizens who will significantly contribute to society. As part of the school’s promotion of internationalization within its campus, it is offering the UdeM Exemption Scholarship program to international students.

UdeM Students who hold a study permit (non-Canadians), are currently enrolled in full-time studies, and do not benefit from any tuition exemptions are eligible to apply for the program. The awarded amount varies per degree level and will be deducted from the student’s tuition fees. It supports international learners in every possible way. With this kind of program, the financial aid provided by the university is one way to help ease students’ economic woes.

24. Douglas College International Student Scholarships

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: Vary per scholarship program
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s

Douglas College is a well-established institution that provides higher education at the undergraduate level. The institute also offers several professional diplomas and certificates. For bachelor’s studies, the institute has two available scholarship programs, one of which is the Douglas International Education Regional Entrance Award.

This financial aid is CA$1,000 to $2,000, eligible for students whose nationality belongs to the following countries: CIS countries, Europe, Latin America, Middle East, Africa, East Asia, Southeast Asia, and several South Asian countries. Students must also have an above-satisfactory GPA average score of B or higher and strong English proficiency of IELTS 7.0 or above or equivalent.

Another scholarship program available is the Dr. Guangwei Ouyang International Education Entrance Scholarship, with a value of CA$2,500. Students worldwide are eligible to apply for this type of scholarship. Students will be deliberated based on academic performance, school achievements, involvement with their local community, and personal accomplishments.

25. Nova Scotia Graduate Scholarship

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: CA$10,000 a year (for two years)
• Eligible Degree/s: Master’s

Dalhousie University is considered one of Canada’s oldest higher education institutions. Since its founding in 1818, it has produced competent professionals, innovators, and experts. With thousands of students admitted yearly, the institute ensures that talented students receive financial aid. Nova Scotia Graduate Scholarship – Master’s is open for Canadian and international students admitted to thesis-based master’s programs.

The scholarship is for master’s degree-seeking students enrolled at Dalhousie University. Student research projects must involve innovation studies and discoveries of specific research areas that will benefit the socio-economic development of Nova Scotia. It may include areas in healthcare, ocean science, Information technology, life sciences, etc.

26. McGill’s Entrance Scholarship Program

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: CA$3,000 – $12,000
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s

McGill University, known for being generous in granting numerous scholarships and awards to talented students, has a list of the best financial support for international students. At the undergraduate level, the institution offers merit-based scholarship programs for first-time students. It has categorized its entrance scholarships into two: One-Year Scholarships amounting to CA$3,000 (one-time, non-renewable) and Major Entrance Scholarships with a value starting from CA$3,000 to $12,000 renewable up to three to four years.

Since it is a merit-based scholarship, prospective students will be considered if they possess a unique student profile and are majorly involved in their local community.

27. University of Alberta International Undergraduate Scholarships

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: Up to CA$5,000, depending on admission average
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s

The University of Alberta is a world-class institution known for providing high standards of teaching and research. Every year, the institution attracts countless students worldwide. Aside from top-quality education, it offers financial aid and support to eligible students, including foreign nationals. Students here can choose from admission-based scholarships and application-based scholarships.

All first-time, incoming undergraduate students will be considered for the award for admission-based scholarships, but only students who have met the desired qualifications will be granted. As for application-based scholarships, the awards under this type of financial aid have higher allotted funds. However, only the cream-of-top students are usually given these awards.

28. Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: Full tuition
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s

Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award is one of the four prestigious scholarships offered under the University of British Columbia International Scholars Program. The selection process for the other three awards is the same. While candidates cannot select among the four scholarship awards, the deciding body will consider all the student’s achievements and financial needs to grant the best scholarship for them.

This award, in particular, is for outstanding international students who will enroll at the undergraduate level. Most scholars who were granted this award came from war-torn and disadvantaged societies.

29. Global Leader Award

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: CA$6,000 and a residence support
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s

Brescia University College is an exclusive and only Canadian higher education school for women. Aligned with its Catholic roots, the institute cultivates God-centered, competent individuals and professionals who will lead various industry sectors. Women play an essential role in society, and the institute recognizes female students who have the potential to become global leaders and experts.

The Global Leader Award, for example, is aimed at international paying students who are high achievers and have demonstrated leadership skills. Brescia scholars will be granted a scholarship of CA$6,000 and a shared residence room in Clare Hall.

30. Trent International Scholarships and Awards

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: Vary per scholarship program
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s

International Scholarships and Awards at Trent University offer some of the best scholarships in Canada. High achievers and leader students are encouraged to apply for the numerous awards available for foreign nationals. Currently, the institute offers the following financial aid: Trent International Global Citizen Scholarships and Awards, Trent International Program Tuition Levy Scholarship, Moore Family International Scholarship, Justin Chui International Scholarships, and more.

The scholarship value of these awards ranges from CA$2,000 to $48,000 a year, and most are renewable as long as students maintain an above-average overall grade.

31. University of Canada West Scholarships

• Scholarship Page
• Scholarship Amount: Vary per scholarship program
• Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.

The University of Canada West is a private institution offering future-oriented study programs at all levels. This school, situated in Vancouver, attracts countless international students every year. It has several international scholarships to award as many talented, intellectual, and worthy international students as possible. Moreover, foreign nationals prefer to obtain a degree here because of the financial aid and support it provides.

An international student’s scholarship value can vary depending on your chosen program, department, and degree level. However, the sponsor, whether the government, the university, or an external backer, will ensure that they will also provide countless opportunities so that students will develop into their fullest potential aside from tuition fees, whichever has been granted. If you’re interested in pursuing a program in Canada with lower expenses, consider the abovementioned scholarships and check whether you’re eligible for one!

We hope this article on the best Canada scholarships for international students was helpful. Also, make sure to check out the Canada Page and Open Courses for more information about studying in the country!