Canada is one of the most popular study destinations, hosting over a million international students in 2023 alone. The great news is that you can be one of them without breaking the bank if you secure the right scholarships. Many Canadian universities and organizations offer fully funded or full-tuition scholarships that cover tuition and even living expenses, enabling students to study in Canada essentially for free. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step plan to achieve this, from finding scholarships to submitting winning applications, illustrated with real stories of scholarship recipients who made their Canadian education dream come true on full scholarships.
How to Study in Canada for Free
Here’s a step-by-step guide on studying for free in Canada
1. Identify Scholarship Opportunities in Canada
The first step is to identify and thoroughly research all available scholarships that can fund your education in Canada. Cast a wide net. Look at government-funded programs, university-specific scholarships, and external awards. For example, Canada’s federal Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships provide CA$50,000 per year for PhD students and are among the most prestigious awards for doctoral research, recognizing top-tier academic excellence and leadership. At the undergraduate level, universities offer full-ride scholarships like the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship at the University of Toronto, which covers four years of tuition, housing, and meals. There are also institution-specific and provincial programs (for instance, the Québec government’s FRQNT scholarship for researchers) and major external awards for international students. Be sure to include university-funded scholarships (entrance awards, merit scholarships, graduate fellowships) and Canadian government scholarships in your search, as well as opportunities from foundations or global programs.
As you research, take note of each scholarship’s eligibility criteria, coverage, and deadlines. Many scholarships target specific levels or fields, so find those that fit your profile. It helps to learn from past winners’ experiences. For example, Alina Zholaman from Kazakhstan spent time researching Canada’s top undergraduate scholarships and ultimately secured the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship at U of T (as well as an International Scholars Award from UBC) – both full-ride offers that she discovered by exploring what top Canadian universities offer to international students. Likewise, Mary Motunrayo Ogunleye from Nigeria cast a wide net by applying to multiple programs: she applied simultaneously to an Erasmus Mundus program in Europe and the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at UBC, received both offers, and then chose the option that best fit her goals. These stories show that thorough research and openness to various scholarship opportunities can dramatically increase your chances of studying for free in Canada.
2. Meet Academic and Language Requirements
Almost all full scholarships in Canada are merit-based, so a strong academic profile is crucial. Focus on excelling in your current studies and standardized tests. Many scholarship recipients had outstanding grades or honors. For instance, Mary graduated with First Class honors (GPA 4.57/5.0) in her bachelor’s program, and Alina earned a perfect 5.0/5.0 GPA in high school, and these academic excellence that made them competitive for top awards. Similarly, scholarship committees look for evidence of intellectual merit such as high test scores or research experience. If you’re aiming for graduate scholarships, prepare for any required exams (GRE, GMAT, etc.) and build a strong foundation in your field.
English or French language proficiency is another key requirement for international students in Canada. Be prepared to take exams like IELTS or TOEFL (unless you’re exempt) and score well. Many winners credit their language scores for strengthening their applications. For example, Alina scored a 7.5 on IELTS, and Yeganeh Habibi from Iran worked to achieve competitive TOEFL and even GRE subject test scores as part of her PhD applications. Meeting the minimum language requirement is essential, but exceeding it can make you stand out.
Beyond academics, bolster your resume with relevant extracurriculars and achievements. Scholarships, especially prestigious ones, often look for well-rounded individuals with leadership potential or research prowess. Yeganeh, for example, conducted multidisciplinary research at three institutes and took on leadership roles in student organizations during her undergrad years, and these experiences helped demonstrate the leadership and community engagement that scholarships like Vanier value. Whether it’s research projects, internships, volunteering, or competitions, these activities can showcase your passion and initiative. Build up a portfolio of experiences that align with your field of study and the qualities scholarships seek (such as leadership, innovation, or community service).
3. Identify Target Universities and Programs
Next, narrow down the Canadian universities and programs that fit your academic interests and offer generous funding to international students. Different schools have different scholarship opportunities, so it pays to be strategic about where you apply. Create a list of target universities and check what scholarships or financial aid they provide to students like you. For graduate students, it’s wise to identify professors or research groups you’d like to work with and see if funding is available through assistantships or fellowships. Yeganeh approached this systematically: she created a spreadsheet to score potential research groups and universities in Canada based on alignment with her interests, then prioritized the highest-ranked ones for her PhD applications. This helped her focus on institutions like McGill University, which ultimately nominated her for major scholarships.
For undergraduate studies, consider applying to multiple programs or faculties at your chosen university to increase your scholarship chances. Some Canadian universities automatically consider international applicants for entrance scholarships in each program. Nadya Heryanto from Indonesia did exactly this at the University of Toronto. She applied to three different programs (in sciences and business) and was admitted to all three, each with a substantial scholarship offer. She didn’t even have to submit separate scholarship applications; the university awarded her merit-based scholarships with each admission. Her strategy of targeting multiple programs within a top university paid off, resulting in over $100,000 in total scholarship funding and several options to choose from. The takeaway: identify institutions known for funding international students and be smart in your applications – sometimes applying to more than one program or campus can open multiple scholarship opportunities.
4. Prepare a Strong Application Package
Once you know your target schools and scholarships, it’s time to prepare your applications. This means gathering and polishing all required documents for both university admissions and scholarship applications. Typically, you will need academic transcripts, diplomas, standardized test score reports, a resume/CV, and proof of language proficiency. You’ll also likely write a personal statement or statement of purpose, and obtain recommendation letters. Approach each of these elements with care. Mary Ogunleye recounts that for her graduate applications she had to submit a motivation statement, proof of residency, her bachelor’s transcript, English test results, recommendation letters, and more, and she “carefully prepared and submitted all the necessary documents to meet the admission requirements.” Start early so you can revise your essays multiple times and give your recommenders ample time to write strong letters.
Tailor your application essays to highlight why you’re a great candidate for both the program and the scholarship. Emphasize your achievements, goals, and motivation for studying in Canada. Many scholarship recipients say their clear sense of purpose helped them stand out. For example, Mary believes her well-articulated statement of motivation and relevant experience in sustainability were key to her scholarship success. Similarly, ensure your CV is up to date and showcases relevant accolades. If you have research experience or projects, detail them. If you’ve overcome challenges or shown leadership, weave that into your narrative to demonstrate resilience and impact.
Don’t hesitate to seek feedback on your application materials. Getting an external perspective can significantly strengthen your application. For instance, Otuto Amarauche Chukwu, a Nigerian PhD student, benefited from a mentorship program at the University of Toronto that paired him with faculty and past awardees to review his scholarship essays. Their feedback helped him refine his research proposals and personal statements, contributing to his winning a Vanier Scholarship and other awards. If your university offers application coaching or if you know past scholarship winners, ask them to critique your essays and CV. Even friends or teachers can catch errors and suggest improvements. A polished, error-free application that tells a compelling story will leave a strong impression on admissions and scholarship committees.
5. Apply to Canadian Universities and Scholarships (Follow Instructions & Deadlines)
With your materials ready, you’re set to submit your applications. Pay close attention to each university’s and scholarship’s application procedures; following the proper channels is critical. For university admissions, most Canadian universities have online application portals. Some scholarships (especially university-based ones) don’t require a separate form. You are automatically considered when you apply for admission. For example, when Nadya applied to U of T, she didn’t fill out any extra scholarship forms; her scholarship offers were awarded based on her admissions application. Other scholarships, however, do require separate applications or essays. The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship at U of T, for instance, requires a nomination from your high school and a separate scholarship application in addition to the university application. Similarly, the Vanier Scholarship requires you to be nominated by your Canadian university – you typically need to first be accepted (or at least have a professor’s support) and then work with the university’s graduate studies office to submit a Vanier application on your behalf. Always review the official instructions for each scholarship carefully: some must be applied to after you receive admission, while others (like many entrance scholarships) are considered during the admission process or even before (in the case of nominations).
Keep track of deadlines and submit all applications on time (or early). Canadian scholarship deadlines can be many months before the academic term begins. Government scholarships like Vanier often have deadlines almost a year in advance, and university scholarships may coincide with application deadlines or have their own dates. Create a calendar or spreadsheet to manage these. Many successful students apply to multiple opportunities to improve their odds. We saw that Mary applied to two major scholarships concurrently and got both, and Kugbeme Isumonah in his PhD journey at the University of Calgary secured a combination of a university fellowship and graduate assistantships by applying to all available funding sources. Casting a wide net (so long as you can handle the application workload) maximizes your chance that at least one will succeed. Just be sure to tailor each application and avoid generic copy-pastes.
Finally, if an interview or additional step is part of the selection process, prepare for it diligently. Some competitive scholarships may require interviews or video essays (for example, semi-finalists for certain leadership awards might be interviewed). If you are invited to an interview, research common questions, practice your answers, and show enthusiasm for the program. And if you get multiple offers, congratulations. Compare what each covers and the opportunities at each institution, then make an informed choice. No matter what, always formally accept the scholarship and admission offer by following the given instructions and by the deadline, or you risk losing the offer.
Scholarships for Bachelor’s Studies in Canada
You’re in safe hands if you plan to pursue your bachelor’s degree in Canada. There are numerous universities in Canada offering tuition-free options for international students. One of the sought-after scholarships is the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship at the University of Toronto. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years. Another option is the International Scholars Program at the University of British Columbia, which is also a fully funded scholarship.
Here are some of the students who were able to study a bachelor’s degree in Canada for free!
- Karolina from Poland earned the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship at University of Toronto, covering full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence to study an Honours Bachelor of Science (Chemistry Specialist).
- Nadya Heryanto from Indonesia was offered the International Scholars Award and the University of Toronto Scholar Scholarship at University of Toronto, totaling up to $110,000 to study a Bachelor’s degree in Co-op Statistics.
- Satvik Khurana from India received a UBC scholarship package, the International Major Entrance Scholarship, Bachelor of Commerce Scholarship, and Outstanding International Student Award, at University of British Columbia, totaling CAD 180,000 toward his studies and covering tuition via these awards to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce (Finance major, Economics minor).
Here is what Bachelor’s Scholarship Recipients in Canada Say:
“The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is U of T’s flagship award for global students. It covers full tuition, books, incidental fees, and four years of on-campus housing, about CAD$350,000 in total.”
Haris Malik
“I would make sure to carefully read the description for each scholarship to have an idea of what they are looking for. During the application, I strongly encourage you to start your essays early and give time for refining. Use the essays as an opportunity for people to know who you are, so be genuine. Moreover, reach out to people who have received the scholarship for more in-depth and specific advice, as many of them are more than happy to help you and provide feedback.”
Karen
“I’d recommend that any prospective applicants should be reaching out to previous scholars too; they can offer you a lot of meaningful advice, and usually will respond to you via email or LinkedIn!”
Seemal Sheikh
Tuition-free Options for Master’s Studies in Canada
Almost 43,000 international students study in Canada for their master’s studies. You can also be part of that with the right tuition-free option and scholarships to ease your financial burden. The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) program targets both master’s and doctoral students, providing merit-based financial assistance to help offset tuition costs. Also, the McCall MacBain Scholarship at McGill University gives a fully funded scholarship for Master’s students.
Here are some of the students who were able to study a master’s degree in Canada for free!
- Mary Motunrayo Ogunleye from Nigeria earned the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at University of British Columbia, covering full tuition, living expenses, and other costs to study for a Master’s degree.
- Samuel Osaretin Buraimoh from Nigeria earned the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at the University of British Columbia, covering full tuition, living expenses, and associated costs to study a Master’s in Food Science.
- Beatrice Somuah from Ghana earned the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at the University of British Columbia, covering full tuition, living expenses, travel, and academic support to study a Master of Geomatics for Environmental Management.
Here is what Master’s Scholarship Recipients in Canada Say:
“I am honored to have received the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at UBC, which provides full tuition, living expenses, travel, and academic support.”
Beatrice Somuah
“For those looking to apply for a similar scholarship, I would advise starting early and being thorough in your preparation. Research the program and its requirements carefully and ensure that your application clearly demonstrates how your academic achievements, personal experiences, and career goals align with the scholarship’s mission.”
Samuel Osaretin Buraimoh
Tuition-free Options for Ph.D. Studies in Canada
Lastly, pursuing a Ph.D. in Canada is expensive, and cutting the expense short is every international student’s dream. So for that, you have The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships that cover full tuition and stipend. However, if you choose environmental science as your major, you will have an exclusive David Suzuki Fellowship. This scholarship supports international Ph.D. students committed to finding solutions to environmental challenges.
Here are some of the students who were able to study a Ph.D. degree in Canada for free!
Here is what Ph.D Scholarship Recipients in Canada Say:
“The Vanier Scholarship is worth $150,000 over three years.”
Seunnla Adelusi
“I started my scholarship search on my own in 2022. I joined a Facebook group called “Scholarship Network,” where current scholarship holders share opportunities, guidance sessions, and tips for prospective students. I also spent a lot of time exploring the internet and, most importantly, using LinkedIn. After adding my IELTS results, I started receiving interview calls and eventually, some final offers too.”
Areeba Iqbal
“My advice for prospective applicants is to be strategic and intentional throughout the process. They should be as specific as possible and ensure that their career path, whether professional or academic, is consistent and coherent. Applicants should tailor every part of their application, from their CV to their personal statement, so it clearly aligns with their specific goals and the values of the scholarship. Most importantly, I recommend using concrete examples to demonstrate achievements and potential, employing methods like the STAR approach (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to tell compelling and authentic stories.”
Shamsuddeen Yusuf Ma’aruf
“Then came the hard part, cold emailing. I drafted personalized emails, introduced myself, described my research interests, and asked if they were accepting PhD students or had any open positions. Honestly, it was one of the toughest parts of my journey. I sent hundreds of emails, some were ignored, some declined, and a few responded positively. But it was through this process that I finally secured my Graduate Research Assistantship Fellowship, which I am now using to pursue my PhD at the University of Alberta”
Felix Ayiera
We hope that this article on studying in Canada for free was helpful. There is so much more to learn about Canada on the Study in Canada including various Open Courses for International Students to explore your study options.
