Canada has firmly established itself as one of the most desirable destinations for international students. From globally ranked universities to a multicultural environment and strong post-study work opportunities, the country offers a complete academic experience. However, one undeniable challenge remains—the cost of studying in Canada.
That’s where scholarships come in.
This comprehensive guide explores the 25 most coveted scholarships in Canada for international students, covering government-funded, university-specific, and privately sponsored opportunities. Whether you’re aiming for undergraduate, master’s, or PhD studies, this guide will help you discover the best funding options available in 2026.
Why Study in Canada?
Before diving into the scholarships, it’s worth understanding why thousands of students choose Canada every year.
Top institutions like the University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, and McGill University consistently rank among the best in the world. Beyond academics, Canada offers:
- High-quality education
- Affordable tuition compared to the US and UK
- Friendly immigration policies
- Work opportunities during and after studies
- Safe and multicultural environment
Still, without financial support, studying in Canada can be expensive—which is why these scholarships are so important.
Government-Sponsored Scholarships in Canada
Government-funded scholarships are among the most competitive and rewarding because they often cover full tuition, living expenses, and research costs.
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Value: $50,000 per year
- Duration: 3 years
- Level: PhD
One of the most prestigious scholarships in Canada, the Vanier CGS targets exceptional doctoral students worldwide. Candidates must be nominated by a Canadian institution.
👉 Related: You can also explore our detailed breakdown of this program in our Vanier scholarship guide.
2. Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
- Value: $70,000 per year
- Duration: 2 years
- Level: Postdoctoral
This fellowship supports top-tier postdoctoral researchers with leadership potential and research excellence.
3. Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGS-M)
- Value: $17,500
- Duration: 12 months
- Level: Master’s
Supports up to 3,000 students annually, making it one of the most accessible government scholarships.
University-Specific Scholarships in Canada
Canadian universities offer generous funding to attract international talent.
4. Université de Montréal International Student Scholarship
- Value: Up to $19,339/year
- Level: Undergraduate, Masters, PhD
Designed to reduce tuition fees for international students at one of Canada’s top francophone universities.
5. Carleton University Entrance Awards
- Value: Up to $8,000
- Duration: Renewable
Open to both undergraduate and graduate international students.
6. Western University International President’s Entrance Scholarship
- Value: $50,000
Awarded to students with exceptional academic and extracurricular achievements.
7. University of Waterloo Hira & Kamal Ahuja Scholarship
- Value: $20,000
Automatically awarded to high-achieving international students.
8. University of British Columbia MasterCard Foundation Scholarship
- Value: Fully Funded
Highly competitive scholarship for students from Sub-Saharan Africa.
Read Also: UBC Killam Doctoral Scholarship guide
9. York University International Entrance Scholarship
- Value: Up to $35,000/year
Renewable for up to four years.
10. University of Toronto Need-Based Grants
- Value: Based on financial need
Helps students cover gaps in funding after exploring other options.
11. University of Toronto International Scholar Award
- Value: $80,000 – $180,000
Designed for top-performing international undergraduate students.
12. University of British Columbia International Tuition Award
- Value: Up to $3,200/year
Supports graduate students in research-based programs.
13. University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
- Value: Fully Funded
Covers tuition, books, accommodation, and living expenses.
👉 Related: Check our full guide on the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship.
14. Université de Montréal Tuition Exemption Program
- Value: Up to $19,339/year
Reduces tuition costs significantly for international students.
Additional Top Scholarships in Canada
15. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship
- Value: Up to $50,000/year + $20,000 allowance
Ideal for doctoral students in social sciences and humanities.
16. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
- Value: Up to $15,000/year
Available for master’s and PhD students in Ontario.
17. Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Scholarships
- Value: $9,000 – $21,000
For students in engineering and science fields.
18. Killam Trust Scholarships
- Value: Up to $80,000/year
Available at top universities, including UBC and the University of Alberta.
19. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
- Value: $15,000
Renewable based on performance.
20. Dalhousie University Scholarships
- Value: Varies
Includes multiple funding options for international students.
21. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships
- Value: Up to $18,000/year
Supports master’s and doctoral students.
22. McMaster University Scholarships
- Value: Varies
Offers both merit-based and need-based funding.
23. Queen’s University International Scholarships
- Value: Varies
Available across multiple programs.
24. University of Alberta Entrance Scholarships
- Value: Up to $40,000
Highly competitive and merit-based.
25. Simon Fraser University Scholarships
- Value: Varies
Offers multiple funding options for international students.
General Eligibility Requirements for Canada Scholarships
While requirements vary, most scholarships expect applicants to:
- Be an international student or eligible candidate
- Apply for or secure admission into a Canadian institution
- Demonstrate academic excellence
- Meet language requirements (IELTS/TOEFL where applicable)
- Submit required documents before deadlines
How to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship
Securing a Canadian scholarship is competitive, but these strategies can help:
1. Apply Early
Deadlines come quickly, and early applications stand out.
2. Build a Strong Academic Profile
High grades and achievements increase your chances.
3. Focus on Leadership & Impact
Many scholarships prioritize leadership potential.
4. Prepare a Winning Personal Statement
Clearly explain your goals and how the scholarship fits your plans.
5. Apply to Multiple Scholarships
Don’t rely on just one opportunity.
Final Thoughts
Canada remains one of the best destinations for international students, but funding is key to making that dream a reality. The scholarships listed above represent some of the most sought-after opportunities in Canada, offering everything from partial tuition coverage to fully funded education.
Combining the right scholarship with a strong application can open doors to world-class education at institutions like the University of Toronto or the University of British Columbia.