Best Canadian Scholarships to Study for Free

Discover top Canadian scholarships for international students, covering tuition, living expenses, and more.

Canada offers a world-class education system, excellent universities, and a high quality of life.

For international students, one of the most attractive aspects of studying in Canada is the availability of scholarships that can significantly reduce the cost of education.

Whether you’re looking to pursue undergraduate, graduate, or post-graduate studies, Canada has numerous scholarship programs for international students.

Bellow, we’ll explore the best Canadian scholarships available, how to apply for them, and the benefits of studying in Canada.

Types of Canadian Scholarships

Canada provides a wide range of scholarships for international students, depending on the level of study, field of interest, and eligibility criteria.

These scholarships can be government-funded, university-specific, or offered by external organizations.

Below are the main types of scholarships available in Canada:

Government Scholarships

The Canadian government offers several scholarships for international students, primarily through Global Affairs Canada.

These scholarships are often aimed at building international relationships and promoting the exchange of knowledge between Canada and other countries.

Some well-known government scholarships include:

• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS): One of the most prestigious scholarships available to international PhD students, providing up to CAD 50,000 per year for three years.
• Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program: For students from Commonwealth countries, providing full tuition and living allowances for studying in Canada.
• Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship: A full-ride scholarship at the University of Toronto for undergraduate international students who show exceptional academic performance and leadership abilities.

University-Specific Scholarships

Many Canadian universities offer their own scholarships, often aimed at attracting top talent from around the world.

These scholarships can vary from partial to full tuition coverage and may also include additional allowances for living expenses.

Examples of university-specific scholarships include:

• University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award: Full tuition coverage for international students who demonstrate outstanding leadership skills.
• McGill University Scholarships: McGill offers several merit-based scholarships for international students, both for undergraduate and graduate programs.

External Scholarships and Programs

Several non-governmental organizations, businesses, and foundations also offer scholarships to international students wishing to study in Canada.

These scholarships often focus on specific fields of study or cater to students from particular countries. Some examples include:

• Trudeau Foundation Scholarships: For doctoral students pursuing studies in the social sciences and humanities, this scholarship offers up to CAD 40,000 per year in funding.
• Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS): For graduate students in Ontario, offering up to CAD 15,000 annually to fund research-based graduate studies.

Top Canadian Scholarships for International Students

Canada offers some of the most prestigious scholarships for international students.

Whether you are pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or post-graduate studies, there are numerous opportunities to receive financial support to study in this beautiful and welcoming country.

Below are some of the top scholarships available for international students in Canada.

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) is one of the most competitive and prestigious scholarships available to international doctoral students.

The program is designed to attract and retain world-class doctoral students and build Canada’s research capacity.

• Amount: Up to CAD 50,000 per year for up to three years.
• Eligibility: Open to both Canadian and international students pursuing a PhD at a Canadian institution.
• Fields of Study: Available to students studying in health, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, or humanities.
• Application Process: Students must be nominated by their Canadian university. Applications are usually submitted through the university’s graduate studies office.

Why Vanier CGS is Great:

• Recognized globally as one of the top research scholarships.
• Supports students who have demonstrated excellence in academics, research potential, and leadership abilities.
• Provides a significant amount of funding, allowing students to focus on their research without the burden of financial concerns.

Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program

The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program, offered by the University of Toronto, is a highly competitive scholarship that fully covers the costs of studying at this prestigious university.

It is one of the most notable international scholarships in Canada.

• Amount: Full tuition coverage, books, incidental fees, and residence support for up to four years.
• Eligibility: Open to international students who are nominated by their high school and demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and creativity.
• Application Process: Students must be nominated by their high school and complete an application form. The selection process also includes a personal statement and an interview.

Why Lester B. Pearson is Great:

• Covers all costs associated with studying at one of Canada’s leading institutions.
• Provides ample opportunities for leadership development.
• Ideal for students interested in global citizenship and leadership.

Trudeau Foundation Scholarships

The Trudeau Foundation Scholarships are aimed at doctoral students in the social sciences and humanities.

This prestigious scholarship is awarded to students who show potential for leadership in their respective fields and contribute to public policy and social issues.

• Amount: Up to CAD 40,000 per year, plus additional funding for research and travel.
• Eligibility: Open to doctoral students who are studying in the social sciences, humanities, or public policy fields.
• Application Process: Applicants must submit a research proposal, academic transcript, and letters of recommendation. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview.

Why Trudeau Foundation is Great:

• Offers substantial funding for students committed to social change and public policy.
• Ideal for students pursuing research that contributes to societal betterment.
• Provides additional opportunities for networking and collaboration with other scholars and policy leaders.

Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) is a merit-based scholarship program that supports graduate students studying in Ontario.

The OGS provides funding to students enrolled in research-based master’s and doctoral programs at eligible institutions in Ontario.

• Amount: CAD 15,000 per year for a full-time graduate student (or CAD 5,000 for part-time students).
• Eligibility: Open to graduate students who have demonstrated academic excellence and are pursuing a research-based graduate program in Ontario.
• Application Process: Students must apply through their university’s graduate studies office. Applications require an academic transcript, letters of reference, and a description of the student’s research.

Why OGS is Great:

• Ideal for students pursuing research-focused graduate degrees in Ontario.
• Provides significant funding to support the research work of graduate students.
• Widely recognized as an essential scholarship for students studying in Ontario.

University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award

The University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award offers full tuition coverage to international undergraduate students who demonstrate leadership and academic excellence.

• Amount: Full tuition coverage and living expenses for the duration of the undergraduate program.
• Eligibility: Open to international students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
• Application Process: Students must apply to UBC and submit their application for the award. Nominations and applications are reviewed by UBC’s scholarship committee.

Why UBC International Leader of Tomorrow is Great:

• Offers full funding for undergraduate students.
• Supports students who have demonstrated leadership abilities and are active in their communities.
• Provides an opportunity to study at one of the top universities in Canada.

McGill University Scholarships for International Students

The university offers several scholarships to international students, including undergraduate and graduate scholarships.

McGill is renowned for its academic excellence and offers both merit-based and need-based scholarships.

• Amount: Varies depending on the scholarship, ranging from partial to full tuition coverage.
• Eligibility: Open to international students at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
• Application Process: Students must apply through the McGill scholarship portal and provide the necessary documents, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of financial need.

Why McGill Scholarships are Great:

• McGill is one of Canada’s top universities, offering a wide range of scholarships for international students.
• Ideal for students who want to study at a prestigious institution in Canada.
• McGill scholarships are designed to support students who show exceptional academic achievement and financial need.

York University International Scholarships

York University in Ontario offers several scholarships for international students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and leadership potential.

• Amount: Varies, with some scholarships covering full tuition and others providing partial funding.
• Eligibility: Open to international undergraduate students who show academic achievement and leadership qualities.
• Application Process: Students must apply through the York University website and provide academic transcripts, proof of leadership, and letters of recommendation.

Why York University Scholarships are Great:

• York University is known for offering comprehensive financial aid to international students.
• Scholarships support students who are committed to academic excellence and leadership.
• Offers both full and partial scholarships, making it accessible to a wider range of students.

University of Calgary Graduate Scholarships

The University of Calgary offers scholarships for graduate students, including funding for international students pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees.

• Amount: Varies by scholarship, with some offering full tuition and living expenses, and others providing partial funding.
• Eligibility: Open to graduate students who are enrolled in a research-based program at the University of Calgary.
• Application Process: Students must apply through the University of Calgary’s graduate studies portal, which includes submitting academic transcripts, a research proposal, and letters of recommendation.

Why University of Calgary Scholarships are Great:

• Provides funding for graduate students in various research fields.
• Ideal for international students pursuing research-based graduate programs.
• Offers both full and partial scholarships, making it an accessible option for a range of students.

The Trudeau Foundation Scholarships

The Trudeau Foundation Scholarships are awarded to exceptional doctoral students who are working on projects related to public policy and governance.

This scholarship supports students who demonstrate leadership and commitment to social change.

• Amount: Up to CAD 40,000 per year for doctoral students, in addition to funding for research and travel.
• Eligibility: Open to doctoral students in social sciences and humanities who are committed to public policy and governance.
• Application Process: Students must submit a research proposal and letters of recommendation. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview.

Why Trudeau Foundation Scholarships are Great:

• Offers substantial funding to students pursuing social science and public policy degrees.
• Provides a platform for students to engage with thought leaders and policymakers.
• Ideal for students who are passionate about social change and governance.

These Canadian Scholarships offer substantial support for international students wishing to study in Canada.

Whether you’re looking for full tuition coverage, living allowances, or specialized funding for research, there is a scholarship to match your needs.

Always ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, prepare a complete application, and adhere to deadlines.

By doing so, you can take full advantage of the opportunities to study in Canada, gaining a world-class education and experiencing the diverse and vibrant culture this country has to offer.

Final Consideration

Studying in Canada can be an amazing opportunity for international students, and with the wide range of scholarships available, it is more accessible than ever.

Whether you are pursuing an undergraduate, graduate, or post-graduate degree, there are numerous scholarships to help cover tuition and living expenses.

From government-funded scholarships to university-specific awards and external funding programs, the options are vast.

To maximize your chances of securing a scholarship, it is important to research your options, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements, and submit a well-prepared application.

By doing so, you can achieve your dream of studying in Canada and advancing your education at one of the world’s top institutions.