Top Schools in Canada Offering Scholarships for International Students and How to Apply (2025)

Canada has become one of the most popular destinations for international students, thanks to its world-class education, multicultural society, and inclusive policies. One major attraction for international students is the availability of scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid offered by Canadian institutions.

This comprehensive article highlights top schools in Canada that provide scholarships for international students, types of scholarships available, eligibility requirements, and a complete step-by-step application guide.

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1. Why Study in Canada?

Canada is home to some of the top-ranked universities and colleges globally. Here’s why students choose Canada:

• Quality Education: Canadian degrees are globally recognized.

• Affordable Tuition: Compared to the US and UK, Canada offers competitive tuition fees.

• Multicultural Society: A welcoming environment for international students.

• Post-Graduation Work Opportunities: Pathways to work permits and permanent residence.

• Scholarships & Financial Aid: Many opportunities to study at reduced or no cost.

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2. Types of Scholarships in Canada

There are various types of scholarships available for international students in Canada:

a. Government-Funded Scholarships

• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

• Canada-ASEAN Scholarships

• IDRC Research Awards

b. University-Specific Scholarships

Offered directly by universities to outstanding international students.

c. External Organization Scholarships

Funded by non-governmental organizations, foundations, and corporations.

d. Entrance Scholarships

Automatically awarded upon admission based on academic excellence.

e. Merit-Based Scholarships

Awarded based on high academic achievement and extracurricular involvement.

f. Need-Based Scholarships

Granted to students with demonstrated financial need.

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3. Eligibility Criteria for Canadian Scholarships

Each scholarship may have unique eligibility requirements, but common criteria include:

• Academic Excellence

• English or French Language Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/TEF)

• Admission into a Full-Time Program

• Extracurricular Involvement

• Financial Need (in some cases)

• Leadership and Community Service

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4. Top Canadian Universities Offering Scholarships

1. University of Toronto

Scholarship Programs:

• Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship

• President’s Scholars of Excellence Program

• U of T International Scholar Award

Application Tips:

• Apply to U of T through OUAC.

• Secure a nomination from your school (for Lester B. Pearson).

• Meet early application deadlines (usually November–January).

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2. University of British Columbia (UBC)

Scholarship Programs:

• International Scholars Program (includes Karen McKellin, Donald A. Wehrung Awards)

• Outstanding International Student Award (OIS)

• International Major Entrance Scholarships (IMES)

Eligibility:

• Strong academic record

• Leadership potential

• Community involvement

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3. McGill University

Scholarship Programs:

• McGill Entrance Scholarships

• One-Year Entrance Scholarships

• Major Entrance Scholarships (up to CAD 12,000 annually)

Requirements:

• Exceptional academic performance

• Essay and references for major scholarships

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4. University of Alberta

Scholarship Programs:

• International Admission Scholarship

• Regional Excellence Scholarship

• Gold Standard Scholarship

• University of Alberta Global Citizen Scholarship

Key Tip: Many scholarships are automatic based on admission application.

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5. University of Ottawa

Scholarship Programs:

• President’s Scholarship for International Students (CAD 30,000+)

• Chancellor’s Scholarship

• Faculty-Specific Scholarships

Eligibility:

• 92%+ admission average for top scholarships

• Leadership, volunteer work

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6. University of Calgary

Scholarship Programs:

• International Entrance Scholarship

• International Baccalaureate Diploma Scholarships

• High School Prestige Awards

Value: Up to CAD 60,000 over four years.

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7. Simon Fraser University

Scholarship Programs:

• Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship

• Community Engagement Award

• International Excellence Entrance Scholarship

Application Notes: Separate application needed for most awards.

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8. Western University

Scholarship Programs:

• Western International Admission Scholarships

• President’s Entrance Scholarships

• International President’s Entrance Scholarships

Eligibility:

• Based on grades and community involvement.

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9. Queen’s University

Scholarship Programs:

• Principal’s International Scholarship

• Queen’s University International Admission Award

Note: Some awards are automatically considered; others require a separate application.

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10. Dalhousie University

Scholarship Programs:

• Dalhousie Entrance Awards

• Richard and Melda Murray International Scholarships

How to Apply:

• Fill out the General Entrance Award Application via Dal Online.

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5. Community Colleges Offering Scholarships

Many Canadian community colleges offer scholarships too, such as:

• Humber College – International Entrance Scholarships

• Seneca College – Merit-based Scholarships

• George Brown College – Financial Need Bursaries

• Centennial College – International Education Scholarships

• Fanshawe College – President’s Scholarships for International Students

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6. How to Apply for Canadian Scholarships – Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Choose Your School and Program

• Visit the school’s website.

• Check available programs and application requirements.

Step 2: Check for Available Scholarships

• Look under “Financial Aid” or “International Students” sections.

• Note scholarship types, deadlines, and criteria.

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

• Academic transcripts

• English language test scores (IELTS/TOEFL)

• Letters of recommendation

• Statement of purpose/essay

• Proof of financial status (if required)

Step 4: Submit Admission Application

• Apply through the school’s portal or a centralized system (e.g., OUAC for Ontario).

Step 5: Submit Scholarship Application

• Some scholarships are automatic; others need a separate form.

• Attach all necessary documents.

Step 6: Attend Interviews (If Required)

• Some competitive scholarships require interviews.

Step 7: Wait for Results

• Decision timelines vary; some are announced with admission offers.

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7. Required Documents

1. Academic Transcripts

2. Passport Copy

3. Proof of Language Proficiency

4. Statement of Purpose or Personal Essay

5. CV/Resume

6. Letters of Recommendation

7. Financial Documents (for need-based aid)

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8. Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application

• Start Early – Some deadlines are as early as December.

• Tailor Your Essay – Align your goals with the scholarship’s mission.

• Get Strong References – Choose academic or professional mentors.

• Highlight Achievements – Awards, leadership, volunteering count.

• Proofread Carefully – Avoid errors in spelling, grammar, or content.

• Apply Widely – Don’t limit yourself to one scholarship.

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9. Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Scholarships

• Missing Deadlines

• Incomplete Applications

• Generic Essays

• Ignoring Instructions

• Not Meeting Eligibility Criteria

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10. Scholarship Application Deadlines

Note: Always confirm exact dates on official websites.

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11. Other Financial Aid Options

• Bursaries – Based on financial need.

• Work-Study Programs – Part-time jobs on campus.

• Grants – Non-repayable funds from organizations.

• Assistantships (Graduate students) – Paid research or teaching roles.

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12. FAQs About Canadian Scholarships

Q: Are scholarships in Canada fully funded?

Some are, like the Lester B. Pearson and Vanier scholarships, while others cover partial tuition.

Q: Can I get a scholarship without IELTS?

Few schools accept alternatives or waive the requirement if English is your first language.

Q: Do I need admission before applying for scholarships?

Yes, for most programs you must first apply for admission.

Q: Can I combine multiple scholarships?

Sometimes, yes. But check each award’s terms.

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13. Conclusion

Securing a scholarship to study in Canada is a life-changing opportunity that requires careful planning, dedication, and persistence. Whether you aim for prestigious institutions like the University of Toronto or affordable colleges like Humber, the path to success begins with the right information and timely action.

By understanding eligibility requirements, preparing strong applications, and avoiding common mistakes, you increase your chances of receiving a scholarship and fulfilling your dream of studying in Canada.