Explore the Best Scholarships and Financial Support for International Students
Canada has become one of the most popular destinations for international students—offering high-quality education, multicultural campuses, and promising post-graduation pathways. But while tuition and living costs can be high, the good news is that there are plenty of funding opportunities to ease the financial burden. Whether you’re planning to pursue undergraduate, graduate, or research studies, here are the top funding options available for studying in Canada.
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
One of the most prestigious scholarships in Canada, the Vanier CGS supports doctoral students who demonstrate leadership skills and a high standard of scholarly achievement.
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Value: $50,000 per year for three years
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Eligibility: Open to Canadian and international PhD students
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Focus Areas: Health research, natural sciences, engineering, and social sciences
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How to Apply: Students must be nominated by a Canadian institution with a Vanier CGS quota.
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
This scholarship recognizes international students with exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential.
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Value: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence for four years
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Eligibility: International high school students applying for undergraduate programs
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How to Apply: Must be nominated by your high school and apply to the University of Toronto.
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
UBC offers four need-and-merit-based awards through this program for exceptional international students.
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Types of Scholarships: Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award, International Impact Award, Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award, and Vantage One Excellence Award
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Value: Covers full tuition and living expenses based on financial need
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Eligibility: International students entering UBC from secondary school
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How to Apply: Submit the UBC application and the separate awards application.
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
4. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
Funded by Global Affairs Canada, this program supports students from other Commonwealth countries pursuing master’s or doctoral studies in Canada.
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Value: Varies by program and country
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Eligibility: Citizens of eligible Commonwealth countries pursuing graduate studies
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How to Apply: Apply through your country’s national nominating agency or through participating Canadian universities.
5. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
Available to students in any discipline at participating Ontario universities.
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Value: $15,000 per year ($5,000 per term)
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Eligibility: Domestic and international students enrolled in a graduate program in Ontario
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How to Apply: Apply through the Ontario university where you wish to study.
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
6. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
These awards are given to outstanding doctoral candidates in the social sciences and humanities.
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Value: Up to $60,000 per year for three years
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Eligibility: Doctoral students conducting research related to the foundation’s themes
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How to Apply: Direct application to the Trudeau Foundation, typically in fall.
7. University-Specific Entrance Scholarships
Many Canadian universities offer automatic or application-based entrance scholarships to international students:
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McGill University: One-time and renewable entrance scholarships
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University of Alberta: International Admission Scholarship, Gold Standard Scholarship
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York University: Global Leader of Tomorrow and International Entrance Scholarships
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Dalhousie University: A variety of merit-based and need-based awards
Tip: Always check the financial aid or scholarship page of your chosen university for up-to-date offers and application deadlines.
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
