Canada is one of the top study destinations for international students due to its world-class education system, excellent job opportunities, and scholarship programs that help reduce tuition costs. Many students believe studying in Canada is expensive, but with the right scholarships, it is possible to pursue higher education at little to no cost.
If you're looking for scholarships to study in Canada, this guide covers fully funded and partially funded scholarships, eligibility criteria, application processes, and top universities offering financial aid.
Why Apply for Scholarships in Canada?
✔ Reduce Tuition Costs: Many Canadian universities offer fully funded scholarships, tuition waivers, and financial aid.
✔ High-Quality Education: Canada has top-ranked universities, recognized globally for academic excellence.
✔ Work While Studying: Students can work part-time while studying and full-time during breaks to manage expenses.
✔ Diverse Scholarship Options: Scholarships are available for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students in all fields.
✔ Post-Study Work Visa (PSW): International students can stay and work in Canada for up to 3 years after graduation.
💡 Pro Tip: Apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances of receiving funding!
Types of Scholarships Available in Canada
There are three main types of scholarships for international students in Canada:
1. Government-Funded Scholarships
✔ These scholarships are funded by the Canadian government to attract talented international students.
📌 Top Canadian Government Scholarships:
| Scholarship Name | Degree Level | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) | PhD | Fully Funded ($50,000 per year) |
| Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges | UG, PG | Tuition & living expenses |
| Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships | Postdoctoral | Fully Funded ($70,000 per year) |
| Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships | Undergraduate | Full tuition, books, and living expenses |
💡 Government scholarships are highly competitive and require strong academic records.
2. University-Specific Scholarships
✔ Canadian universities offer scholarships based on merit, financial need, and extracurricular achievements.
📌 Best Scholarships Offered by Canadian Universities:
| University | Scholarship Name | Degree Level | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto | Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship | UG | Full tuition, books, residence |
| University of British Columbia (UBC) | International Leader of Tomorrow Award | UG | Partial to full tuition |
| McGill University | McGill Entrance Scholarships | UG, PG | Partial funding |
| University of Alberta | Alberta Graduate Excellence Scholarship | PG | $17,500 - $25,000 |
| University of Waterloo | International Master’s & PhD Awards | PG | $10,000 - $30,000 |
💡 Each university has its own eligibility criteria and deadlines, so check early!
3. External & Private Scholarships
✔ Many organizations and foundations offer scholarships for international students studying in Canada.
📌 Top External Scholarships for Canada:
| Scholarship Name | Provider | Degree Level | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trudeau Foundation Scholarships | Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation | PhD | Fully Funded |
| Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship | Government of Canada | Master’s, PhD | Tuition & living expenses |
| MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program | Various Canadian Universities | UG, PG | Full tuition, books, and living costs |
💡 External scholarships often require community involvement and leadership experience.
Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships in Canada
📌 General Requirements for Most Scholarships:
✔ Academic Excellence: A high GPA (80% or above) increases scholarship chances.
✔ English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS (6.5-7.5+), TOEFL (90+), PTE (58+)
✔ Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP): Clearly explain why you deserve the scholarship.
✔ Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Required from teachers or professors.
✔ Extracurricular Achievements: Leadership roles, volunteer work, and research experience help.
💡 Each scholarship has specific requirements, so always check the eligibility criteria before applying!
How to Apply for Scholarships in Canada?
✔ Step 1: Research and shortlist scholarships that match your profile.
✔ Step 2: Check eligibility criteria and required documents.
✔ Step 3: Prepare a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) and gather LORs.
✔ Step 4: Submit applications before the deadline through the university portal or scholarship website.
✔ Step 5: If selected, you may be required to attend an interview.
💡 Apply to multiple scholarships to maximize your chances of getting financial aid!
Cost of Studying in Canada Without a Scholarship
📌 Average Tuition Fees in Canada for International Students:
| Degree Level | Annual Tuition Fees (CAD) | Annual Tuition Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $15,000 - $35,000 | ₹9-21 Lakhs |
| Master’s (PG) | $18,000 - $40,000 | ₹10-25 Lakhs |
| MBA (Top Business Schools) | $40,000 - $80,000 | ₹25-50 Lakhs |
📌 Living Expenses in Canada:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (CAD) | Monthly Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $600 - $1,500 | ₹36,000 - ₹90,000 |
| Food & Groceries | $200 - $400 | ₹12,000 - ₹24,000 |
| Transport | $50 - $150 | ₹3,000 - ₹9,000 |
💡 Total Cost (Including Tuition & Living): ₹12-30 Lakhs per year.
Work & Job Opportunities for International Students in Canada
✔ Part-Time Work: Students can work 20 hours per week during studies and full-time during breaks.
✔ Post-Study Work Permit (PSWP): Allows graduates to stay and work in Canada for up to 3 years.
✔ High Demand for Skilled Graduates: IT, Healthcare, Finance, and Engineering professionals are highly employable.
📌 Average Salaries in Canada After Graduation:
| Job Role | Salary (CAD/year) | Salary (INR/year) |
|---|---|---|
| Software Engineer | $70,000 - $120,000 | ₹42-72 Lakhs |
| Data Scientist | $75,000 - $130,000 | ₹45-78 Lakhs |
| Finance Manager | $80,000 - $150,000 | ₹48-90 Lakhs |
| Healthcare Professional | $60,000 - $120,000 | ₹36-72 Lakhs |
💡 Many students transition to PR after securing a job in Canada.
FAQs About Scholarships to Study in Canada
1. Can I get a fully funded scholarship in Canada?
✔ Yes! Scholarships like Vanier CGS, Trudeau Foundation, and Lester B. Pearson cover full tuition and living expenses.
2. What is the total cost of studying in Canada without a scholarship?
✔ ₹12-30 Lakhs per year, including tuition & living costs.
3. Can I get PR in Canada after studying?
✔ Yes! Canada offers PR pathways through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Conclusion
Studying in Canada with a scholarship makes education affordable and accessible. By applying for the right scholarships, students can reduce tuition costs and secure financial aid.
