Scholarships in Canada
University-Specific Scholarships
Many Canadian universities have their own scholarships and financial aid programs for international students. These can vary widely in terms of eligibility criteria, coverage, and application deadlines. Here are some examples of University-Specific Scholarships for international students in Canada, along with their amounts and general eligibility criteria:
University of Toronto – Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship:
Amount: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence support for four years.
Eligibility: Exceptional international students applying to an undergraduate program at the University of Toronto. Students must demonstrate leadership skills, creativity, and strong academic achievements.
University of British Columbia (UBC) – International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES):
Amount: Varies; up to $40,000 CAD per year.
Eligibility: Outstanding international students entering a UBC undergraduate program. Recipients are chosen based on academic merit, extracurricular involvement, and leadership potential.
University of Waterloo – International Master’s and Doctoral Awards:
Amount: Varies; up to $2,045 per term for Master’s students and up to $4,090 per term for Doctoral students.
Eligibility: International students admitted to a research-based Master’s or Ph.D. program at the University of Waterloo. Selection is based on academic excellence and research potential.
McGill University – McGill Entrance Scholarship Program:
Amount: Varies; up to $10,000 CAD for undergraduate programs.
Eligibility: Outstanding international students applying to an undergraduate program at McGill University. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and other exceptional accomplishments.
Simon Fraser University (SFU) – International Student Scholarships:
Amount: Varies; up to $10,000 CAD per year for undergraduate students.
Eligibility: International students applying to an undergraduate program at SFU. Recipients are selected based on academic excellence and contributions to their community.
University of Alberta – International Student Scholarship:
Amount: Varies; up to $9,000 CAD for undergraduate programs.
Eligibility: International students admitted to a first-year undergraduate program at the University of Alberta. Selection is based on academic merit.
Queen’s University – Queen’s University International Scholarships:
Amount: Varies; up to $80,000 CAD over four years for undergraduate students.
Eligibility: International students entering the first year of a direct-entry undergraduate program at Queen’s University. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, leadership, and extracurricular involvement.
Ontario Trillium Scholarships (OTS)
Ontario Trillium Scholarships (OTS) is a prestigious scholarship program offered by the government of Ontario, Canada, to attract top international students to pursue their Ph.D. studies in the province. The scholarship is aimed at supporting research excellence and enhancing Ontario’s research capacity.
Amount of the Scholarship:
The Ontario Trillium Scholarship provides financial support to recipients to cover various expenses during their Ph.D. studies in Ontario. The scholarship typically includes the following benefits:
- Tuition: The OTS covers full tuition fees for the recipient’s Ph.D. program.
- Stipend: Recipients receive a generous annual stipend to support their living expenses in Ontario.
Eligibility Criteria:
The Ontario Trillium Scholarships have specific eligibility criteria that applicants must meet. The criteria include:
- Citizenship: Applicants must be international students, not Canadian citizens, or permanent residents.
- Academic Excellence: Applicants must have outstanding academic records, research achievements, and potential for research excellence.
- Field of Study: The scholarship is available for Ph.D. programs in various disciplines, including natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and health sciences.
- Admission to Ontario Universities: Applicants must be admitted to a Ph.D. program at one of the participating Ontario universities. Each university may have its specific admission requirements and deadlines.
Application Process and Deadlines:
The application process for the Ontario Trillium Scholarships is generally managed by the participating Ontario universities. Interested applicants should apply for admission to their desired Ph.D. program at one of the participating universities and indicate their interest in being considered for the OTS. The universities will then assess the applicants based on academic merit, research potential, and other criteria.
The application deadlines for the Ontario Trillium Scholarships can vary depending on the university and the specific Ph.D. program. Therefore, applicants should check the websites of their chosen Ontario universities for the most up-to-date information on application deadlines.
Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
These scholarships are designed for students from ASEAN member states to pursue short-term studies or research in Canada. the Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED) is a scholarship program that aims to promote educational cooperation and development between Canada and ASEAN member states. SEED provides opportunities for students from ASEAN countries to pursue short-term studies or research in Canada.
Amount of the Scholarship:
The Canada-ASEAN SEED scholarship provides financial support to recipients to cover various expenses during their stay in Canada. The scholarship typically includes the following benefits:
- Travel Expenses: The scholarship covers the cost of round-trip airfare from the recipient’s home country to Canada.
- Living Allowance: Recipients receive a monthly living allowance to cover accommodation, meals, and other living expenses.
- Health Insurance: The scholarship includes health insurance coverage for the duration of the recipient’s stay in Canada.
Eligibility Criteria:
The Canada-ASEAN SEED scholarship has specific eligibility criteria that applicants must meet. The criteria may vary depending on the specific scholarship category and the terms set by Global Affairs Canada. However, the general eligibility requirements include:
- Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of one of the ASEAN member states. Canadian citizens and permanent residents are ineligible.
- Academic Achievement: Applicants must have excellent academic records and meet the specific academic requirements for the program or research they wish to undertake in Canada.
- English Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English or French (depending on the language of instruction at the Canadian institution) is usually required. Applicants may need to submit language proficiency test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) as part of their application.
- Field of Study: The scholarship may be available for various fields of study, and applicants are often required to apply for programs or research relevant to their academic and professional goals.
- Length of Study: The scholarship is typically awarded for short-term study or research programs in Canada. The duration of the scholarship can vary, but it is generally for a few months to one academic term.
- Nomination: In some cases, applicants may need to be nominated by their home country’s nominating agency or relevant government department.
Application Process:
The application process for the Canada-ASEAN SEED scholarship is usually managed through the ASEAN member states’ governments or relevant educational authorities. Interested applicants should check with their home country’s authorities for specific application guidelines and deadlines.
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
the Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program (CCSP) is a scholarship initiative that aims to provide opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to pursue advanced studies in Canada. The program is funded by the Canadian government and is administered through Global Affairs Canada. It is designed to foster academic excellence and promote international cooperation and understanding among Commonwealth nations.
Amount of the Scholarship:
The Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program provides financial support to recipients to cover various expenses during their studies in Canada. The scholarship typically includes the following benefits:
- Tuition Fees: The scholarship covers full or partial tuition fees for the duration of the recipient’s study program in Canada.
- Living Allowance: Recipients receive a monthly living allowance to cover accommodation, meals, and other living expenses.
- Health Insurance: The scholarship includes health insurance coverage for the duration of the recipient’s stay in Canada.
- Travel Allowance: A one-time travel allowance is provided to cover the cost of travel from the recipient’s home country to Canada.
Eligibility Criteria:
The Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program has specific eligibility criteria that applicants must meet. While the eligibility requirements can vary depending on the level of study and the specific scholarship category, the general criteria include:
- Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of a Commonwealth country other than Canada. Dual citizens, where one of the citizenships is Canadian, are ineligible.
- Academic Achievement: Applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic records and achievements in their previous studies.
- Admission to Canadian Institution: Applicants must have applied for admission to a Canadian university or institution for a full-time academic program at the Master’s or Ph.D. level.
- English Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English or French (depending on the language of instruction at the chosen institution) is usually required. Applicants may need to submit language proficiency test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) as part of their application.
- Field of Study: The scholarship may be available for various fields of study, and applicants are often required to apply for programs relevant to their academic and professional goals.
- Nomination: Some scholarships under the CCSP require applicants to be nominated by their home country’s nominating agency, such as the Ministry of Education.
Canadian Government Scholarships
The Canadian government offers several scholarship programs through Global Affairs Canada, such as the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships for doctoral students, the Canada Graduate Scholarships for Master’s level studies, and the Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP) for students from Latin American and Caribbean countries.
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships:
Eligibility: Open to Ph.D. students (Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students) who demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership skills. Applicants must be nominated by a Canadian university.
Amount: $50,000 per year for three years (Ph.D. level)
Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program (CGS-M):
Eligibility: Available to students (Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students) pursuing a Master’s degree in a Canadian institution. Applicants are evaluated based on academic achievements, research potential, and leadership abilities.
Amount: $17,500 for one year (Master’s level)
Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP):
Eligibility: ELAP supports students from Latin American and Caribbean countries for short-term exchange opportunities in Canada. Applicants must be enrolled in a post-secondary institution in one of the eligible countries.
Amount: Varies depending on the duration and level of study, including a monthly stipend, travel expenses, and health insurance.
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program:
Eligibility: Open to students from Commonwealth countries pursuing doctoral or postdoctoral studies in Canada. Applicants must be nominated by their home country’s nominating agency.
Amount: Varies depending on the level of study and program.
Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED):
Eligibility: SEED offers scholarships for students from ASEAN member states to pursue short-term studies or research at the college, undergraduate, or graduate level in Canada.
Amount: Varies depending on the level of study and program.
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Doctoral Research Awards:
Eligibility: Open to international students pursuing health-related doctoral research programs in Canada. Applicants must be nominated by their host institution.
Amount: $35,000 per year for three years (Doctoral level)
Organization of American States (OAS) Academic Scholarships Program:
Eligibility: Scholarships offered through the OAS for students from OAS member states to pursue undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral studies at Canadian institutions.
Amount: Varies depending on the scholarship program, level of study, and duration.
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP):
Eligibility: Although not directly offered by Canada, this program allows students from World Bank member countries, including many international students in Canada, to pursue graduate studies in specific development-related fields.
Amount: Varies depending on the level of study and program.
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Doctoral Research Awards
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Doctoral Research Awards are prestigious scholarships offered to both Canadian and international students pursuing health-related doctoral research programs in Canada. The CIHR is the major federal funding agency responsible for supporting health research in Canada.
Amount of the Award:
The CIHR Doctoral Research Awards provide financial support to recipients to cover various expenses during their doctoral studies. The award typically includes the following benefits:
- Stipend: Recipients receive a generous annual stipend to support their living expenses while pursuing their doctoral research.
- Research Allowance: The award may also include a research allowance to cover research-related expenses, such as travel, materials, and equipment.
Eligibility Criteria:
The CIHR Doctoral Research Awards have specific eligibility criteria that applicants must meet. The criteria include:
- Citizenship: The awards are open to both Canadian citizens and permanent residents, as well as international students.
- Academic Excellence: Applicants must have a strong academic record and demonstrate research potential in health-related fields.
- Field of Study: The awards are available for doctoral research in various health-related disciplines, including biomedical sciences, clinical research, health systems and services, and more.
- Enrollment in a Doctoral Program: Applicants must be enrolled in or have applied for admission to a doctoral program at a Canadian university at the time of application.
Application Process and Deadlines:
The application process for the CIHR Doctoral Research Awards typically involves several steps:
- Identify a Research Supervisor: Applicants should identify a research supervisor or mentor at a Canadian university who will support and guide their doctoral research.
- Complete the Application: Applicants must complete the CIHR Doctoral Research Award application form and submit it through the CIHR’s online portal.
- Provide Supporting Documents: Along with the application form, applicants are required to submit supporting documents, such as academic transcripts, letters of reference, and a research proposal.
- Review and Selection: The applications are reviewed by a panel of experts, and recipients are selected based on their academic excellence, research potential, and the quality of their research proposal.
Application deadlines for the CIHR Doctoral Research Awards can vary each year. Interested applicants should visit the CIHR website or contact the CIHR directly to find the most up-to-date information on application deadlines and guidelines.
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
Although not directly offered by Canada, The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) is a scholarship initiative that provides opportunities for students from World Bank member countries, including international students, to pursue graduate studies in specific development-related fields at universities in Japan and other partner countries.
Amount of the Scholarship:
The JJ/WBGSP provides financial support to recipients to cover various expenses during their graduate studies. The scholarship typically includes the following benefits:
- Tuition and Fees: The scholarship covers the cost of tuition and other academic fees at the host university.
- Monthly Stipend: Recipients receive a monthly stipend to cover living expenses, including accommodation, meals, and other necessities.
- Travel Allowance: The scholarship provides a one-time travel allowance to cover the cost of travel from the recipient’s home country to the host university.
- Health Insurance: Health insurance coverage is typically included for the duration of the recipient’s study program.
Eligibility Criteria:
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program has specific eligibility criteria that applicants must meet. The criteria include:
- Citizenship: Applicants must be nationals of a World Bank member country. Dual citizens, where one of the citizenships is Japanese, are ineligible.
- Relevant Professional Experience: Some scholarships under JJ/WBGSP require applicants to have relevant professional experience in development-related fields.
- Admission to Partner Universities: Applicants must have received an offer of admission to one of the partner universities offering programs covered by the scholarship.
- Field of Study: The scholarship is available for graduate-level study in specific development-related fields such as economics, public policy, health, education, agriculture, and environment, among others.
Application Process and Deadlines:
The application process for the JJ/WBGSP is typically conducted online through the World Bank’s Scholarship Application System. Interested applicants should visit the official JJ/WBGSP website to access the application form and review the specific requirements and deadlines.
The application deadlines for the JJ/WBGSP can vary depending on the scholarship category and the academic year. It is essential for applicants to check the scholarship website regularly for the most up-to-date information on application deadlines and guidelines.