There are numerous scholarships available for international students in Canada, offered by a wide range of organizations including the federal government, provincial governments, universities, and private organizations. These scholarships can provide financial assistance to help cover all or a portion of the costs associated with studying in Canada, such as tuition fees, living expenses, and other expenses such as books, mandatory student fees, and health insurance. The cost of these items can add up quickly, and scholarships can make studying in Canada a more affordable option for international students from all over the world.
According to Statistics Canada, international students in Canada spend an average of $30,000 per year on tuition fees alone. On top of that, there are living costs such as housing, food, transportation, and entertainment to consider. Scholarships can help offset these costs and make studying in Canada a more realistic possibility for many international students.
In addition to the financial benefit, scholarships can also be a great way to recognize academic achievement and potential. Receiving a scholarship can be a confidence boost for international students and can help them feel welcome and valued at their chosen Canadian university. Here are some of the most well-known options:
International Student Scholarships in Canada Requirements
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) program is a prestigious scholarship program funded by the Government of Canada that aims to attract and retain doctoral students who demonstrate both leadership skills and a high standard of scholarly achievement. The program is open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents of Canada, and international students.
To be eligible for a Vanier CGS, you must demonstrate both outstanding academic achievement in your master’s program (or previous doctoral studies) and a strong leadership capacity. Leadership can be demonstrated in a variety of ways, such as through research experience, community involvement, or volunteer work.
The Vanier CGS program is a valuable source of financial assistance for doctoral students, providing a stipend of $50,000 per year for up to three years. In addition to the financial award, Vanier Scholars also benefit from opportunities to participate in professional development activities and to network with other leading scholars.
2. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFCP)
The Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFCP) is a program funded by the Government of Canada that provides scholarships and fellowships to citizens of Commonwealth countries for postgraduate study and training in Canada. The program is administered by the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) on behalf of the Government of Canada. Awards are given for master’s and doctoral studies in a wide range of fields, including social sciences and humanities, engineering, natural sciences and health sciences, and management and business.
The CSFCP is a great opportunity for international students from Commonwealth countries to gain valuable academic and professional experience in Canada. Scholarship recipients receive a full tuition waiver, a living allowance, a return travel allowance, and health insurance coverage. The program also offers opportunities for professional development and networking.
To be eligible for a CSFCP scholarship or fellowship, you must be a citizen of a Commonwealth country and be applying to study at a Canadian university that is eligible to participate in the program. You must also meet the academic requirements of the university you are applying to. Applications for CSFCP scholarships and fellowships are typically submitted through the national nominating agency in your home country. Deadlines vary by country, so it is important to start your research early.
3. Lester B. Pearson Scholarship Program
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship Program is a prestigious scholarship program that offers full tuition and living expenses for up to four years of undergraduate study at a Canadian university. The program is open to high-achieving international students from around the world who demonstrate academic excellence and exceptional potential.
To be eligible for a Lester B. Pearson Scholarship, you must be a citizen of a developing country and be applying to begin your first undergraduate degree program at a Canadian university. You must also meet the academic requirements of the university you are applying to.
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship Program is a life-changing opportunity for international students. In addition to providing financial support, the program also offers several benefits to scholarship recipients, such as mentorship opportunities, academic advising, and access to professional development resources. Scholarship recipients are also automatically considered for in-course awards and scholarships offered by their host university.
4. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
Awarded to doctoral students in the humanities and social sciences who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and a strong potential to make a significant contribution to society.
The scholarship provides a generous stipend of $60,000 per year for up to four years, allowing doctoral students to focus on their studies and research without financial worry.
The program seeks individuals with a keen interest in and understanding of contemporary challenges and who are dedicated to finding innovative solutions. Ideal candidates will also possess strong communication and leadership skills, as the program fosters a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment.
5. Provincial Scholarships
In addition to the national scholarships listed above, many Canadian provinces offer their own scholarship programs for international students. These scholarships can be a great way to help cover the costs of tuition and living expenses. Here are some examples of provincial scholarship programs:
- Alberta Student Aid
- British Columbia Student Assistance Program
- Manitoba Scholarship and Bursary Program
- New Brunswick Student Loans and Grants
- Newfoundland and Labrador Student Financial Services
- Northwest Territories Student Financial Assistance
- Nova Scotia Student Assistance
- Nunavut Student Financial Assistance
- Ontario Student Assistance Program
- Prince Edward Island Student Financial Assistance
- Quebec Scholarships and Financial Aid
- Saskatchewan Student Loans
To find out more about provincial scholarship programs, you can visit the website of the Ministry of Education for the province you are interested in studying in.
How Do I Apply For A Canada Scholarship?
To apply for a Canada Scholarship, follow these steps:
- Research Scholarship Opportunities:
- Explore available scholarships to find programs that match your qualifications and interests.
- Review Eligibility Criteria:
- Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for the specific scholarship you’re interested in.
- Prepare Necessary Documents:
- Gather all required documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
- Complete Scholarship Applications:
- Apply through the appropriate channels. Here are the options:
- My EduCanada: This online portal allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to apply directly for scholarships offered by Global Affairs Canada. You can explore opportunities, save applications, and submit them online.
- Canadian Host Institutions: If you’re an international student, researcher, or faculty member, Canadian institutions must apply on your behalf for certain scholarships. Check the program guidelines to see if you can submit your own application or if the institution needs to apply for you.
- Apply through the appropriate channels. Here are the options:
- Submit Applications on Time:
- Pay attention to deadlines and submit your applications before the due date.
- Follow Up and Stay Informed:
- Keep track of your application status and any updates from the scholarship providers.
- Prepare for Possible Interviews:
- Some scholarships may require interviews. Be ready to discuss your qualifications and goals.
Remember that the process may vary depending on the specific scholarship program.
Applying for scholarships requires effort and planning. Start your research early, identify scholarships that match your profile, meticulously prepare your application materials, and meet all deadlines. By following these steps and effectively showcasing your strengths, you can increase your chances of winning a scholarship to pursue your studies in Canada.
