Canada has become one of the most popular destinations for international students, thanks to its world-class universities, multicultural society, and welcoming environment. However, pursuing higher education abroad often comes with significant financial challenges. Fortunately, Canada offers a wide range of scholarships for international students, many of which cover tuition fees, living costs, and other expenses. Whether you are pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral studies, there are opportunities designed to make education more accessible.
This guide provides a full list of scholarships in Canada for international students in 2025, covering government-funded, university-specific, and private scholarship programs.
1. Government-Funded Scholarships in Canada
The Canadian government sponsors several fully funded scholarships to attract global talent.
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
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Level: Doctoral (PhD)
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Coverage: $50,000 per year for three years.
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Eligibility: International students pursuing research in health sciences, engineering, humanities, or natural sciences.
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Why It Stands Out: One of the most prestigious Canadian scholarships for PhD candidates.
Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
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Level: Postdoctoral
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Coverage: $70,000 annually for two years.
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Eligibility: International researchers who want to conduct advanced research in Canadian universities.
Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
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Level: Undergraduate & Graduate short-term study
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Coverage: Up to $15,900 depending on the program length.
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Eligibility: Students from ASEAN countries seeking short-term study in Canada.
IDRC Research Awards
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Level: Master’s & PhD
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Coverage: Up to $15,000.
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Eligibility: Students from developing countries conducting research aligned with IDRC’s priorities.
2. University-Specific Scholarships in Canada
Most Canadian universities provide generous scholarships to attract bright international students.
University of Toronto – Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships
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Level: Undergraduate
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Coverage: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence for four years.
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Eligibility: International students with exceptional academic achievement and leadership qualities.
University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award
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Level: Undergraduate
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Coverage: Value is proportional to demonstrated financial need and includes tuition and living expenses.
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Eligibility: Students who show strong academic performance and leadership potential.
McGill University Scholarships and Aid
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Level: Undergraduate & Graduate
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Coverage: Ranges from $3,000 to full tuition plus living expenses.
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Eligibility: International students with strong academic standing.
University of Waterloo International Master’s and Doctoral Awards
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Level: Master’s & PhD
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Coverage: $2,045 per term (Master’s), $4,090 per term (PhD).
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Eligibility: Full-time international graduate students with good academic records.
University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)
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Level: Master’s & PhD
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Coverage: $14,000 annually for Master’s; $18,000 annually for PhD.
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Eligibility: International students with a GPA of at least 3.0.
York University International Student Scholarships
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Level: Undergraduate
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Coverage: $20,000 – $35,000 annually (renewable).
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Eligibility: Outstanding international applicants entering undergraduate programs.
University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarships
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Level: Undergraduate
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Coverage: $15,000 (renewable annually).
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Eligibility: High-achieving students beginning their undergraduate studies.
Carleton University Entrance Awards for International Students
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Level: Undergraduate
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Coverage: $4,000 to $16,000 depending on academic performance.
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Eligibility: Automatic consideration for students with high grades.
Dalhousie University Scholarships
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Level: Undergraduate & Graduate
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Coverage: $500 to $40,000.
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Eligibility: Based on merit and financial need.
University of Alberta International Student Scholarships
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Level: Undergraduate & Graduate
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Coverage: Up to $9,000.
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Eligibility: Based on strong academic achievement.
3. Private and Organization-Sponsored Scholarships
In addition to government and university awards, several organizations also fund international students in Canada.
Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
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Level: Doctoral
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Coverage: $40,000 annually for three years plus $20,000 per year for travel and research.
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Eligibility: Doctoral students researching topics related to social sciences and humanities.
Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
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Level: PhD
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Coverage: Full tuition and living expenses.
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Eligibility: Candidates who demonstrate leadership potential in research and community engagement.
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
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Level: Master’s & PhD
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Coverage: Tuition, travel, and living allowance.
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Eligibility: Students from Commonwealth countries pursuing graduate studies in Canada.
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
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Level: Master’s
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Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, travel, and health insurance.
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Eligibility: Students from developing countries interested in development-related studies.
4. Tips for Applying to Scholarships in Canada
Winning scholarships in Canada requires planning and effort. Here are some tips to maximize your chances:
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Start Early – Many scholarships open applications a year before the program starts.
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Prepare Strong Academic Records – Most awards require high GPAs and strong transcripts.
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Write a Compelling Personal Statement – Highlight your goals, leadership, and community impact.
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Secure Strong Recommendation Letters – Choose referees who can speak to both your academic and personal strengths.
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Apply to Multiple Scholarships – Don’t limit yourself; many awards can be combined.
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Check University Deadlines – Each university sets its own timeline for scholarship consideration.
Final Thoughts
Canada offers one of the widest ranges of scholarships for international students, making it an attractive destination for those who want to pursue higher education abroad without financial strain. From prestigious government programs like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships to university-specific awards like the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship at the University of Toronto, opportunities exist for students at all levels.