Scholarships in Canada for International Students

You are dreaming of studying in Canada but finances seem insurmountable. That’s the story of every other international student. But, did you also know that Canada offers numerous scholarship opportunities for students like you and almost 55% of international students in Canada receive some form of financial aid. 

In this article, we’ll guide you through the various scholarship opportunities available in Canada- whether you’re pursuing an undergraduate degree or furthering your studies. Let’s dive in and find the right funding for your Canadian education!

Open Scholarships in Canada

ScholarshipsApplication linkDeadline
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships for Doctoral studiesApply hereOct 30th, 2025
Trudeau Foundation Scholarships Apply here Nov 25th, 2025
Carleton University Entrance ScholarshipsNo separate applications required but are available for fall admitted candidatesNo specific deadline

Types of Scholarships in Canada

In Canada, there are various types of scholarships available for international students, as well as domestic students. Here are the main types:

  1. Universities Scholarships
  2. Government Funded Scholarships
  3. Private Scholarships

However, these scholarship types can be further classified as fully funded scholarships in Canada, merit based scholarships and need based scholarships.

Top Canadian University Scholarships

Suggestion: Top MBA Universities in Canada

Government- Funded Scholarships in Canada

  • Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships – Named after Major General Georges P. Vanier, the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship is offered to attract Doctoral students to study in Canadian universities. The amount of $50,000 per year for three years is awarded to students who are pursuing their first doctoral degree and have achieved a first class in their postgraduate studies/ last two years of any equivalent degree. Applications are prepared and submitted through ResearchNet. Deadline- Oct 30th, 2025
  • Ontario Graduate Scholarships – The Govt. of Ontario offers this merit based Ontario Graduate Scholarships for students admitted at the master’s and doctoral level programs at participating schools for all disciplines. OGS awards are determined by the number of consecutive terms you study within an academic year ranging from $ 10,000 for 2 consecutive terms and $15,000 for 3 consecutive terms for 2- 6 years. The application is assessed and ranked using criteria determined by the university you’re planning to attend and the deadlines vary accordingly.
  • Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development – The Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development program offers scholarships to international students and  aims to reduce poverty in the developing countries of ASEAN. To be eligible, you must be a citizen of an ASEAN member state including- Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos (Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR)), Malaysia, Myanmar, The Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, or Vietnam and enrolled for a full- time course in a Canadian University. The scholarship ranges from $10,200- $15,900 for undergraduate and $10,200- $12,700 for graduate courses. Your university will apply for this scholarship on your behalf. Applications are now closed for the current academic year.

Private/ Non- Profit Organization Scholarships in Canada:

  • Trudeau Foundation Scholarships – The Trudeau Foundation Scholarships provide up to $50,000 per year for three years to outstanding Master and doctoral candidates in the humanities and social sciences. It also considers other scholarships received, as well as a research and travel allowance. The scholarships support research addressing pressing societal issues and promote academic excellence, leadership, and innovative problem-solving. Eligible candidates can submit the application by Nov 25th, 2025 on the official website of the Trudeau Foundation.
  • Queen Elizabeth 2 Diamond Jubilee Scholarships – The Queen Elizabeth 2 Diamond Jubilee Scholarships  a project-based scholarship that offers financial support for your tuition, travel, and living expenses. Besides, you’ll get leadership training and networking opportunities! You should have a strong academic record and meet any additional requirements set by the host institution or the specific project.The Deadlines and application requirements vary by university and you have to ask your university for applications. 

Other Scholarships:

  • MPOWER Women in STEM Scholarships– For international women candidates who are accepted at, or enrolled in, a full-time degree program at an MPOWER-eligible school in Canada. The award category ranges between $1,000- $3,000. The scholarship does not demand for many prerequisites given that you have a valid study permit or are protected under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). Selections will be made on the basis of the quality of your scholarship essay and your academic records throughout. You can start your applications here.

How To Apply For Scholarships In canada?

  • Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, which generally include being academically talented, economically disadvantaged, and committed to leadership and community service
  • Choose Partner Institution (if needed): Select a partner institution from the list where you wish to study, noting that each has its own application procedures and deadlines.
  • Visit the Official Scholarships Portal: Some scholarships require a separate application made through the official website of the scholarship providing authority. 
  • Submit Application: Follow the application steps for your chosen institution, usually involving the submission of academic records, recommendation letters, and personal statements.
  • Interviews: Shortlisted applicants may be invited for interviews as part of the selection process, if needed. 

Also Checkout Low Cost MBA Universities in Canada (or) MBA Universities without GMAT Scores in Canada

Frequently Asked Questions

Some scholarships are renewable for multiple years, while others are one-time awards. Always check the specific terms of each scholarship before applying.

Common documents for scholarship application include academic transcripts, proof of enrollment, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and, in some cases, a resume or CV.

Scholarships are often awarded at the start of the academic year or semester. Besides, there are scholarships which can be achieved in between your semesters as well.