Scholarships for International Students in Canada

Want to study in Canada after Plus Two or a degree but worried about the budget? Don’t let finances hold you back. 

Canada offers a wide range of scholarships for international students, helping make quality education more affordable and accessible.

In this blog, we’ll explain the top scholarships in Canada, eligibility criteria, and everything you need to know about applying successfully.

What Are the Top Scholarships for International Students in Canada?

As an international student, you will find various types of scholarships in Canada, offered either by the government or the university you are enrolled in. 

Let’s check out the different types of scholarships for international students in the country: 

Government funded scholarships :-

1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships –

• Aimed at top-tier doctoral students
• CAD $50,000 per year for 3 years

2. Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships –

• Aimed at postdoctoral researchers in the health, natural sciences, or social sciences. 
• CAD $70,000 per year for 2 years

3. Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGS-M) –

• master’s programs at Canadian institutions 
• CAD $17,500 for 12 months 

4. Canada-ASEAN Scholarships (SEED) –

• Opportunities for students from the Indo-Pacific region 
• CAD $10,200 for 4 months to one academic term. 

Non-Governmental Scholarships :-

1. Anne vallee ecological fund –

• Aimed at animal research at doctoral level
• Canadian university in Québec or British Columbia. 

2. Pierre Elliott Foundation Doctoral Scholarships –

• PhD students studying social sciences or humanities. 
• Up to $60,000 per year plus a $20,000 annual allowance for research and travel 

3. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship –

• Postgraduate students from developing nations 
• Issued as a 50% grant and 50% loan 

4. MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship – 

• International and DACA students enrolled in full-time degree programs
• Grand prize of $8,000, with runner-up prizes of $2,000 and $1,000

Universities specific scholarships

1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships (University of Toronto) –

• Fully funded and covering tuition fees, books and incidental fees
• Four years of residence support

2. UBC International Scholars Program (University of British Columbia) –

• Merit based awards that can cover tuition, housing and living costs
• CA $10,000 – $20,000 per year

3. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) – 

• master’s and doctoral programs at participating Ontario universities 
• CAD $10,000 to CAD $15,000 per year

4. McGill University –

• Provides entrance scholarships 
• CAD $3,000 to $12,000 

Eligibility criteria for scholarships

Although requirements vary, most scholarships for international students consider: 

• Academic Excellence : Typically 85% or higher in Class 12 for undergraduate, and a first-class bachelor’s degree for postgraduate programs 
• Language Proficiency : A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 (with no band less than 6.0) or a TOEFL iBT equivalent 
• Extracurricular & Leaderships : Demonstrated community service, sports, or leadership roles, which are heavily weighted by Canadian universities 

How Choice International helps you Study in Canada

At Choice International, we simplify your entire study abroad journey: 

• Free one-on-one counselling
• SOP & visa documentation support
• Pre-departure and post-arrival guidance
• Updates on scholarships, visa changes, and job pathways
• Personalized counselling to identify suitable scholarships

Final Thoughts

These scholarships offer a range of financial assistance, from covering the entire cost of study in Canada to only covering the cost of living in Canada. You can connect with Choice International and get expert guidance on studying in Canada and the various benefits you can take advantage of in the upcoming academic years.