Best Canada Scholarships For International Students in 2025

Looking for top scholarships to study in Canada in 2025? Explore fully funded and partially funded Canada scholarships for international students, including eligibility, how to apply, and deadlines.

Canada remains one of the most attractive destinations for international students thanks to its world-class education, multicultural environment, and generous scholarship opportunities. Whether you’re planning to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies, numerous scholarships are available to help reduce your financial burden in 2025.

From government-funded initiatives to university-specific awards, Canada offers a variety of scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, travel, and even healthcare. This comprehensive guide explores the best Canada scholarships for international students in 2025 — including eligibility criteria, benefits, and how to apply successfully.

Why Study in Canada?

Here are some compelling reasons international students are choosing Canada:

• Top-ranked universities with global recognition

• Diverse and inclusive environment

• High quality of life and safety

• Post-graduation work opportunities

• Pathway to permanent residency

• Affordable tuition compared to the US and UK

• Generous scholarships and grants

Scholarships Summary Table

🎓 Top Canada Scholarships for International Students in 2025

Canada is home to some of the most prestigious and generous scholarship programs globally. In 2025, international students have access to fully funded and partially funded scholarships at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership potential, community involvement, and financial need.

Here’s a curated list of the most sought-after Canada scholarships for international students in 2025:

🏅 1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)

The Vanier CGS is one of the most prestigious PhD scholarships in Canada. It is funded by the Canadian government and aims to attract world-class doctoral students.

• Study Level: Doctorate (PhD)

• Scholarship Value: $50,000 per year for up to 3 years

• Eligibility:

  • Exceptional academic performance

  • Proven leadership qualities

  • Strong research potential

• Fields: Health, Natural Sciences, Engineering, Social Sciences, and Humanities

• Application Deadline: November 2025

• How to Apply: Through a Canadian institution that nominates the student

🎓 2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship – University of Toronto

This highly competitive scholarship covers everything from tuition to accommodation and is awarded to outstanding international students entering undergraduate studies.

• Study Level: Undergraduate

• Scholarship Coverage: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence support for four years

• Eligibility:

  • International student

  • Final year of secondary school

  • Exceptional academic achievement and leadership

• Deadline: January 2025

• Application Method: Nominated by high school + separate scholarship application

🌍 3. UBC International Scholars Program – University of British Columbia

UBC offers fully funded scholarships to outstanding international undergraduates through two major programs: the International Leader of Tomorrow Award and the Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award.

• Study Level: Undergraduate

• Type of Scholarships:

  • Need-based and merit-based

  • Renewable for up to 4 years

• Eligibility:

  • High academic achievement

  • Demonstrated leadership and financial need

• Deadline: November 2024

• Note: Must apply for admission to UBC and complete a separate scholarship application

📘 4. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)

UMGF supports international students in graduate programs across a variety of disciplines.

• Study Level: Master’s and PhD

• Scholarship Value:

  • Master’s: $14,000 per year (up to 2 years)

  • PhD: $18,000 per year (up to 4 years)

• Eligibility:

  • Minimum GPA of 3.0

  • Enrolled in full-time graduate study at UManitoba

• Deadline: Varies by department

🧑‍🎓 5. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

Jointly funded by the Government of Ontario and participating schools, the OGS program helps graduate students achieve academic success.

• Study Level: Master’s and PhD

• Value: $15,000 per year

• Eligibility:

  • Enrolled in a participating Ontario university

  • Excellent academic record

• Deadline: Depends on the institution

🎓 6. McGill University Scholarships and Financial Aid

McGill offers entrance scholarships for undergraduates and fellowships for graduate students, including both merit-based and need-based awards.

• Study Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD

• Coverage: Partial to full tuition; varies by scholarship

• Eligibility:

  • High academic achievement

  • Some require financial need

• Deadline: Institution-specific

💼 7. York University International Student Scholarships

York University in Toronto provides major entrance scholarships for international undergraduate students with strong academic and extracurricular backgrounds.

• Study Level: Undergraduate

• Value: $80,000 to $180,000 over 4 years

• Eligibility:

  • International student

  • Minimum 80% admission average

  • Leadership and community service

• Deadline: February 2025

📚 8. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship

This scholarship supports new international students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership.

• Study Level: Undergraduate

• Award Amount: $20,000 (renewable for 4 years)

• Eligibility:

  • First-year international student

  • Minimum GPA of 3.2

• Deadline: December 2024

🏛️ 9. Carleton Prestige Scholarships

For high-achieving undergraduate students, Carleton University offers prestigious awards that may cover full tuition.

• Study Level: Undergraduate

• Award: Up to full tuition

• Eligibility:

  • Admission average of 90% or higher

  • Leadership and extracurriculars

• Deadline: March 2025

How to Apply for Best Canada Scholarships For International Students

Follow these steps to improve your chances:

1. Research Early

Start your scholarship search at least 6–12 months before your desired intake.

2. Choose Your Program & Institution

Make sure the university offers scholarships to international students for your chosen programme.

3. Prepare Your Documents

Typical requirements include:

• Academic transcripts

• CV/Resume

• Personal statement or essay

• Reference letters

• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)

4. Apply for Admission

Many scholarships require you to apply to the institution first.

5. Submit Scholarship Applications

Some scholarships require separate applications; others consider you automatically.

Tips for Winning a Canadian Scholarship

• Maintain a strong GPA and academic record

• Highlight leadership skills and extracurriculars

• Tailor your personal statements for each scholarship

• Apply for multiple scholarships

• Check deadlines carefully and submit early

Conclusion

Studying in Canada in 2025 is more achievable than ever with a wide range of scholarships for international students. From fully funded PhD programs to undergraduate entrance awards, Canada continues to invest in attracting the brightest minds from around the world.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your academic journey, start preparing now — explore your options, understand the eligibility criteria, and submit strong, well-prepared applications. With the right information and planning, you could be on your way to studying in one of the most welcoming countries in the world — without breaking the bank.

FAQs About Best Canada Scholarships For International Students

Can international students get full scholarships in Canada?
Yes, many universities and government programs offer fully funded scholarships to cover tuition, living expenses, and more.

When should I start applying for scholarships in Canada?
Begin researching and preparing your applications at least 6 to 12 months before your intended intake.

Do I need IELTS to get a scholarship in Canada?
Most universities require proof of English proficiency (like IELTS or TOEFL), unless you’re from an English-speaking country.

Can I apply for more than one scholarship in Canada?
Absolutely. In fact, applying for multiple scholarships increases your chances of receiving funding.

Are scholarships in Canada competitive?
Yes, especially the fully funded ones. However, strong academic records, leadership, and compelling personal statements can significantly boost your chances.