Canada has become a top choice for overseas students seeking a Bachelor’s degree. Thanks to its top universities, inexpensive tuition, and post-study employment possibilities, Canada provides an excellent intellectual and career development setting.
Canada has some world-class universities, a welcoming environment, and a high standard of living. However, the cost of studying in Canada can be a significant concern, and finding scholarships for masters in Canada, scholarships for MBA in Canada can be a challenge. Thankfully, there are a lot of scholarships available that reduce the financial strain on international students.
Table of Contents:
- Top 10 Scholarships in Canada for International/Indian Students
- Overview Table of Top 10 Scholarships in Canada
- Detailed Breakdown of the Top 10 Canada Scholarships
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
Top 10 Scholarships in Canada for International/Indian Students
Dreaming of studying in Canada? But the financial burden is stopping you from fulfilling your dreams. Great news! There are scholarships specifically for international and Indian students to help make it happen. This section highlights 10 great scholarship options that could make your Canadian education more affordable. Let’s explore how you can get financial support for your studies in Canada!
Overview Table of Top 10 Scholarships in Canada
Indian students who study abroad frequently select Canada because of its high-quality education system and post-study work and immigration opportunities. However, due to its high cost of living and tuition fees, students often tend to seek overseas education scholarships. Some of the top Phd, Bachelor’s, and Masters scholarships in Canada are:
| Scholarship Name | Offered by | Level of Study | Amount/Benefits |
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships | Government of Canada | PhD | $50,000 per year |
| Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships | Government of Canada | Postdoctoral Researchers | $70,000 per year |
| Trudeau Scholarships and Fellowships | Trudeau Foundation | PhD | $40,000 per year (plus research allowance) |
| Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships | University of Toronto | Undergraduate | Covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years. |
| York University International Student Scholarship | York University | Undergraduate, Postgraduate | $2,500 to $37,500 |
| UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award | University of British Columbia | Undergraduate | Varies based on financial need. |
| University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship | University of Calgary. | Undergraduate | $20,000 per year |
| Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) | Ontario Government | PhD, Postgraduate | $5,000 per term |
| Ontario Trillium Scholarship | Ontario Government | PhD | $40,000 per year |
| IDRC Research Awards | IDRC | PhD, Postgraduate | Varies |
Detailed Breakdown of the Top 10 Canada Scholarships
Here’s a closer look at some of the scholarships mentioned above:
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Doctoral candidates who display outstanding academic success, research potential, and leadership abilities are eligible to apply for the coveted Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships.
Eligibility
- Doctoral students pursuing studies in health research, natural sciences, and/or engineering, and social sciences and humanities.
- Must be nominated by a Canadian institution.
- Must have completed no more than 20 months of full-time doctoral studies.
Deadline
Deadlines vary depending on the nominating institution.
Amount/Benefits
$50,000 per year for up to three years.
Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships program provides funding to outstanding postdoctoral scholars to both Canadian citizens and international students, who will advance Canada’s social, economic, and research-based development.
Eligibility
- Postdoctoral researchers in health research, natural sciences, and/or engineering, and social sciences and humanities.
- Must be pursuing research at a Canadian institution.
Deadline
Usually in September.
Amount/Benefits
$70,000 per year for two years.
Trudeau Scholarships and Fellowships
The Trudeau Foundation offers scholarships and fellowships to doctoral candidates in the humanities and social sciences who are addressing important issues related to human rights, responsible citizenship, Canada’s role in the world, and people and their natural environment.
Eligibility
- Doctoral students in the humanities and social sciences.
- Must be accepted into a full-time doctoral program at a Canadian university.
Deadline
- Usually in the Fall.
- 25 November, 2024 (Closed)
Amount/Benefits
$40,000 per year for up to three years, plus a research and travel allowance.
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships
The University of Toronto’s Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships recognize international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, creativity, and leadership.
Eligibility
- International students applying to begin their undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto.
- Demonstrate outstanding academic results
- Show impact on their school and community
- Are creative thinkers
- They are recognized as leaders
- Must be enrolled in final year of senior secondary school
Deadline
October
Amount/Benefits
- The scholarship covers four years of tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support.
York University International Student Scholarship
York University provides overseas students with a variety of scholarship options. The award value and the requirements for these scholarships are different. The amount and requirements for eligibility of these scholarships differ. Some are automatically considered when you apply for admission, while others require a separate application.
Eligibility:
- Strong academic record (minimum 85%+ or equivalent)
Deadline:
- 28th February, 2025
Amount/Benefits:
- Year 1 = $15,000
- Years 2,3,4 = $7,500
- Total Maximum = $37,500
UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award
The University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award honors international undergraduates who excel in the classroom, show leadership, and get involved in the community.
Eligibility:
- International students applying to begin their undergraduate studies at UBC.
- Demonstrate outstanding academic results.
- Show impact on their school and community.
- They are creative thinkers.
- They are recognized as leaders.
Deadline:
- 1st December
Amount/Benefits:
- Full tuition & living expenses (needs-based)
University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
International students starting undergraduate studies at the University of Calgary are eligible to apply for the University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship.
Eligibility:
- International students entering undergraduate programs at the University of Calgary.
Deadline:
- 1st December, 2025
Amount/Benefits:
- $20,000 per year.
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) is for graduate students studying at the master’s or doctoral level in Ontario.
Eligibility:
- Graduate students at the master’s or doctoral level in Ontario.
Deadline:
31st December, 2024
Amount/Benefits:
- $5,000 per term.
Ontario Trillium Scholarship
The Ontario Trillium Scholarship is for international doctoral students studying at universities in Ontario.
Eligibility:
- International doctoral students studying at universities in Ontario.
Deadline:
14th May, 2025
Amount/Benefits:
- $40,000 per year.
IDRC Research Awards
The IDRC Research Awards are for students from developing countries pursuing master’s or doctoral studies in fields related to international development.
Eligibility:
- Students from developing countries pursuing master’s or doctoral studies in fields related to international development.
Deadline:
February
Amount/Benefits:
- Varies.
Conclusion
International students have access to a variety of opportunities in Canada, as well as a large number of scholarships to help fund their studies. Students can significantly lower the cost of studying in Canada and concentrate on reaching their academic and professional objectives by learning about and applying for these scholarships.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find scholarships in Canada?
You can find scholarships through the following resources:
- The official websites of Canadian universities.
- The Government of Canada’s scholarship portal.
- Scholarship databases and search engines.
- Your home country’s education ministry.
What are the general eligibility requirements for scholarships?
General eligibility requirements may include:
- Academic excellence.
- Language proficiency.
- Financial need.
- Field of study.
- Nationality.
When should I apply for scholarships?
Applying for scholarships as early as possible is recommended, as deadlines vary and competition can be high. Check the specific scholarship’s website for deadline information.
Can I work while studying in Canada?
Yes, international students with a valid study permit may be eligible to work part-time on campus or off campus and full-time during scheduled breaks.
How do I apply for a study permit in Canada?
You can apply for a study permit online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. You will need a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada and proof of funds, among other documents.
How can I apply for undergraduate scholarships in Canada?
You can apply directly to universities’ scholarship programs in Canada while submitting your application and necessary documents. Several universities also offer financial aid to international students for their undergraduate studies.
