In this article, we have put together some of the best fully-funded scholarships in Canada for students all over the world to enable them to get the financial aid they sought.
Canada is one of the choicest places in the world for international students to study at the moment. Little wonder its international student population has consistently increased in the last decade.
In Canada, there are now 388,782 international students enrolled in higher education.
39.4% (153,360) of the total 388,782 international students in Canada are enrolled in colleges, while 60.5% (235,419) are enrolled in universities making Canada the world’s third-leading destination for international students to get a higher education degree.
The number of overseas students has increased by 69.8% in the last five years, from 228,924 to 388,782.
India has the most overseas students in Canada, with 180,275 students.
There are numerous reasons why overseas students choose Canada for tertiary education, but the multicultural environment is the most compelling.
Canada’s educational system is undeniably appealing; it provides international students with a plethora of options, ranging from public to private institutions. Not to mention the degree programs that offer unparalleled academic expertise.
If you choose to study in Canada, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the vibrant student life, engage in several summer camps, and enter the labour market as soon as you finish.
Over 90 higher education institutions exist in Canada, each of which plays a significant role in providing students with all of the resources they require to acquire a high-quality education.
The student population grows year after year, indicating that international students value the quality of Canadian higher education institutions.
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Is a Fully-funded scholarship in Canada worth it?
Of course, a fully-funded scholarship in Canada is totally worth it.
Some of the benefits of getting a fully financed scholarship in Canada are:
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Quality Educational System:
If you’re opportune to get a fully-funded scholarship, you’d want to get the best education money can buy, Canada is just the country to get such an education.
Many Canadian institutions are on the front edge of innovative discoveries and technological advances. In reality, Canadian colleges typically hold the highest international rankings. According to the QS World University Rankings, more than 20 universities are at the top and have maintained their places due to academic quality.
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An Opportunity to Work while Studying:
There are many job opportunities for international students, which is quite satisfying because students can financially meet their living expenses.
Students with a study pass can readily work on and off-campus. They are not, however, limited to this type of environment and can find other suitable jobs.
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A Thriving Multicultural Environment:
Canada has become a multicultural and post-national society.
Its borders include the whole globe, and Canadians have learned that their two international languages, as well as their diversity, provide a competitive advantage as well as a source of ongoing creativity and invention.
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Free Health Care:
When a man or woman is unwell, he or she cannot learn well or with full concentration. International students are entitled to free health insurance. This suggests that they cover the costs of medications, injections, and other medical treatments.
In certain nations, health insurance is not free; there are some requirements that must be met even when it is subsidized.
I’m sure at this point you’re eager to know what schools are the best for you to study in Canada, check out our guide on the best colleges in Canada for international students.
Requirements For a Fully-Funded scholarship in Canada
The requirements for a fully-funded scholarship in Canada may vary depending on the particular scholarship you’re going for.
- Language proficiency
- Educational transcripts
- Financial accounts
- Medical records, etc.
What are the best Fully-funded Scholarships Available for students in Canada?
Below is a list of the best fully-funded scholarships in Canada:
- Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
- Trudeau Scholarships
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- SFU Canada Graduate and Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships
- Loran Scholars Foundation
- UdeM Exemption Scholarship
- International Major Entrance Scholarship
- Schulich Leader Scholarships
- McCall McBain Scholarships
- Citizens of the World Excellence scholarship
- Leadership Scholarships
- Concordia International Tuition Award of Excellence
- Western’s Admission Scholarship Program
- Medicine & Dentistry Schulich Scholarships
- Chancellor Thirsk Chancellor’s Scholarship
- University of Ottawa President’s Scholarship
- President’s International Distinction Scholarship
- International Major Entrance Scholarship
- Concordia University Entrance Scholarship
- Alvin & Lydia Grunert Entrance Scholarship
- MasterCard Foundation Scholarships
- International Leader of Tomorrow Undergraduate Scholarships
- University of Alberta Undergraduate Scholarships
- ArtUniverse Full Scholarship
- University of British Columbia Doctoral Scholarship
- Queen’s University International Scholarships
- Ontario Graduate Scholarships
- University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship
- Excellence Scholarship for African Students at the University of Ottawa, Canada
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program at the University of Toronto.
30 best Fully-funded Scholarships in Canada
#1. Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
- Sponsored by: The Canadian Government
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study:Â Ph.D.
The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships program funds the brightest postdoctoral applicants, both nationally and globally, who will positively contribute to Canada’s economic, social, and research-based growth.
These are fully financed scholarships for international students to study in Canada.
#2. Trudeau Scholarships
- Sponsored by: Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation.
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study:Â Ph.D.
A three-year fully funded scholarship program in Canada aims to create engaged leaders by providing excellent Ph.D. candidates with the tools to transform their ideas into action for the benefit of their communities, Canada, and the world.
Each year, up to 16 Ph.D. national and international academics are chosen and given considerable financing for their studies as well as leadership training in the context of Brave Spaces.
Trudeau doctoral scholars are awarded up to $60,000 each year for three years to cover tuition, living expenses, networking, travel allowance, and language-learning activities.
#3. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Sponsored by: The Canadian Government
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study:Â Ph.D.
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship (Vanier CGS) program, named after Major-General Georges P. Vanier, Canada’s first francophone Governor-General, assists Canadian schools in attracting highly qualified Ph.D. students.
This award is worth $50,000 per year for three years while pursuing a doctorate.
#4. SFU Canada Graduate and Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships
- Sponsored by: Simon Fraser University
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate/Masters/Ph.D.
The SFU (Simon Fraser University) Entrance Scholarship Program is intended to attract and retain outstanding students who have demonstrated the ability to improve the university community through continued academic and community achievements.
The SFU is a scholarship program that is completely sponsored.
#5. Loran Scholars Foundation
- Sponsored by: Loran Scholars Foundation.
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate.
The Loran Grant is Canada’s most complete undergraduate fully funded scholarship, valued at $100,000 ($10,000 annual stipend, tuition waiver, summer internships, mentorship program, etc.).
It enables committed young leaders to hone their skills and make a difference in the world.
#6. UdeM Exemption Scholarship
- Sponsored by: University of Montreal
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate/Masters/Ph.D.
The purpose of this fully-funded scholarship is to assist the brightest talent from around the world in attending one of the world’s premier francophone research universities.
In exchange, by expanding the cultural richness of the Université de Montréal community, these international students will help us fulfill our educational purpose.
#7. International Major Entrance Scholarship
- Sponsored by: University of British-Columbia
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate.
International Major Entrance Scholarships (IMES) are given to outstanding international students entering UBC’s undergraduate programs.
Students get their IMES when they begin their first year at UBC, and the scholarships are renewable for up to three years.
Each year, the quantity and level of these scholarships offered change based on available resources.
#8. Schulich Leader Scholarships
- Sponsored by: University of British-Columbia
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate.
The Schulich Leader Scholarships program acknowledges students from throughout Canada who have excelled in academics, leadership, charisma, and originality and who intend to pursue an undergraduate degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) field at one of UBC’s campuses.
#9. McCall McBain Scholarships
- Sponsored by: McGill University
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Masters/Ph.D.
The McCall McBain Scholarship is a fully-funded graduate scholarship that will provide students with mentorship, interdisciplinary study, and a worldwide network to help them accelerate their global impact.
#10. Citizens of the World Excellence scholarship
- Sponsored by: Laval University
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate/Masters/Ph.D.
This fully-funded scholarship intends to attract the best talent from around the world, as well as support Laval University students with mobility scholarships to help them become tomorrow’s leaders.
#11. Leadership Scholarships
- Sponsored by: Laval University
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate/Masters/Ph.D.
The program’s goal is to recognize and develop leadership, creativity, and civic engagement among university students who stand out for their remarkable involvement, competency, and outreach, and who serve as inspiring role models for other members of the university community.
#12. Concordia International Tuition Award of Excellence
- Sponsored by: Concordia University
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Ph.D.
A Concordia International Tuition Award of Excellence will be given to all international Ph.D. candidates admitted to a doctoral program at Concordia University.
This scholarship lowers tuition fees from the international rate to the Quebec rate.
#13. Western’s Admission Scholarship Program
- Sponsored by: Western University
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate.
Western offers 250 fully-funded scholarships valued at $8000 each to honor and reward their incoming high school students’ outstanding academic achievements ($6,000 in the first year, plus $2,000 for an optional study abroad program).
#14. Medicine & Dentistry Schulich Scholarships
- Sponsored by: Western University
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate/Ph.D.
Schulich Scholarships are awarded to students entering the first year of the Doctor of Medicine (MD) program and Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program based on academic achievement and demonstrated financial need.
These scholarships will continue for up to four years, provided that recipients progress satisfactorily and continue to demonstrate financial need each year.
If you’re interested in studying Medicine in Canada, check out our article on how to study Medicine in Canada for free.
#15. Chancellor Thirsk Chancellor’s Scholarship
- Sponsored by: University of Calgary
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate.
Awarded to a high school student entering their first year of undergraduate study in any faculty.
Renewable in the second, third, and fourth years at the University of Calgary, as long as the recipient maintains a 3.60 GPA over a minimum of 30.00 units in the prior fall and winter terms.
#16. University of Ottawa President’s Scholarship
- Sponsored by: University of Ottawa
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate.
The President’s Scholarship is one of the University of Ottawa’s most renowned scholarships.
This fellowship is intended to reward a newly admitted international student whose effort and commitment best reflect the goals of the University of Ottawa.
#17. President’s International Distinction Scholarship
- Sponsored by: University of Alberta
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate.
Students starting their first year of an undergraduate degree on a Student Visa Permit with a superior entrance average and established leadership characteristics could receive up to $120,000 CAD (renewable over 4 years).
#18. International Major Entrance Scholarship
- Sponsored by: University of British Columbia
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate.
International Major Entrance Scholarships (IMES) are given to outstanding international candidates who are applying to UBC’s undergraduate programs.
IMES scholarships are awarded to students when they begin their first year at UBC, and they are renewable for up to three further years of study.
Depending on available resources, the number and value of these scholarships provided each year varies.
#19. Concordia University Entrance Scholarship
- Sponsored by: Concordia University
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate.
High school students with a minimum award average of 75% are eligible for the University Entrance Scholarship program, which offers guaranteed renewal scholarships.
The value of scholarships varies depending on the applicant’s award average.
#20. Alvin & Lydia Grunert Entrance Scholarship
- Sponsored by: Thompson Rivers University
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate.
This scholarship is valued at $30,0000, it is a renewable scholarship. The scholarship covers tuition and living expenses.
The award honours students who have shown excellent leadership and community involvement, as well as strong academic achievement.
#21. MasterCard Foundation Scholarships
- Sponsored by: McGill University
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate.
This scholarship is a collaboration between McGill University and MasterCard for African students.
It is just for African undergraduate students seeking a bachelor’s degree in any undergraduate subject.
This fully-funded scholarship has been in place for almost 10 years, and many students have benefited greatly from it. The application deadline is normally in December/January of each year.
#22. International Leader of Tomorrow Undergraduate Scholarships
- Sponsored by: University of British Columbia
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate.
The goal of this award is to recognize students who have excelled in their academics, skills, and community service.
These students are valued because of their ability to excel in their areas of specialization.
Sports, creative writing, and examinations are a few examples of these fields. This scholarship’s annual deadline is usually in December.
#23. University of Alberta Undergraduate Scholarships
- Sponsored by: University of Alberta
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate.
The University of Alberta in Canada offers this grant to international students.
University of Alberta undergraduate scholarships are awarded once a foreign student has been admitted to the university. This scholarship deadline is normally in March and December.
#24. ArtUniverse Full Scholarship
- Sponsored by: ArtUniverse
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Masters.
Since 2006, ArtUniverse, a non-profit organization, has provided full and partial scholarships in the performing arts.
Before we go on, you can check out our guide on the best-performing art high schools in the world and our guide on the best art schools in the world.
The primary purpose of this scholarship program is to provide financial assistance to existing and prospective students, as well as to encourage ambitious and outstanding individuals to pursue performing arts studies at NIPAI.
#25. University of British Columbia Doctoral Scholarship
- Sponsored by: University of British Columbia
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Ph.D.
This is a well-known scholarship is awarded to students pursuing their Ph.D. This scholarship contains requirements and conditions that must be met in order for an overseas student to apply for it.
Any student interested in this Ph.D. scholarship must be a student at the school for at least two years.
#26. Queen’s University International Scholarships
- Sponsored by: Queen’s University
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate.
This institution provides grants to foreign students from the United States, Pakistan, and India.
They provide a variety of financial aid to international students, including the Queen’s Financial Aid, Government Student Aid, and others.
#27. Ontario Graduate Scholarships
- Sponsored by: University Of Toronto
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Masters.
Ontario graduate scholarships make it possible for international students to pursue their master’s degrees with ease. Scholarship costs between $10,000 and $15,000.
This sum is sufficient for any overseas student who is not financially secure.
If you’re interested in doing a Master’s Program in Canada, we have a comprehensive article on the requirements for a Master’s degree in Canada for international students.
#28. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship
- Sponsored by: University of Manitoba
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study:Â Masters/Ph.D.
The University of Manitoba provides qualified international students with a fully-funded postgraduate scholarship.
Apart from the business faculty, they have a number of faculties where international students can study.
Students with a first degree from any country are welcome to apply for this scholarship.
#29. Excellence Scholarship for African Students at the University of Ottawa, Canada
- Sponsored by: University of Ottawa
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate.
The University of Ottawa offers a fully financed scholarship to African students who enroll in one of the university’s faculties:
- Engineering: Civil engineering and chemical engineering are two examples of engineering.
- Social Sciences: Sociology, Anthropology, International Development and Globalization, Conflict Studies, Public Administration
- Sciences: All programs excluding the joint honours BSc in Biochemistry/BSc in Chemical Engineering (Biotechnology) and the joint honours BSc in Ophthalmic Medical Technology.
#30. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program at the University of Toronto
- Sponsored by: University of Toronto
- Study in:Â Canada
- Level of Study: Undergraduate.
The distinguished foreign scholarship program at the University of Toronto is aimed to recognize international students who excel academically and creatively, as well as those who are leaders in their institutions.
Students’ impact on the lives of others in their school and community, as well as their future ability to positively contribute to the global community, are all considered.
For four years, the scholarship will cover tuition, books, incidental fees, and all living expenses.
FAQs on Fully-funded Scholarships in Canada
Why Should I choose Canada for Higher Studies
Without a doubt, it is the ideal location for professional development. The universities there offer high-quality education and have low or no application costs for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Meanwhile, to alleviate financial strain, internationally recognized Canadian colleges with international standards offer fully-funded scholarship programs to help eligible candidates share the financial burden. Furthermore, obtaining a degree from Canada ensures a bright and prosperous future by providing highly paid internships and employment prospects, networking opportunities, tuition price exemptions, scholarship awards, monthly allowances, IELTS exemption, and other benefits.
Do Canadian Universities accept Only IELTS?
Indeed, IELTS is the most widely recognised English Competency exam used by Canadian universities to assess applicants' English language proficiency. However, it is not the only test that Canadian universities have accepted. Other language exams can be submitted instead of IELTS by applicants from all over the world who have no ties to English-speaking areas. Applicants who are unable to provide other language test results, on the other hand, can use English Language Certificates from previous educational institutions to establish their language competency.
What other English Language Proficiency Tests other than IELTS is accepted at the Canadian universities?
To meet the Language competence requirements, international candidates can submit the results of the following language test, which is accepted by Canadian universities as an alternative to IELTS. The following tests are much less expensive and less difficult than the IELTS: TOEFL, PTE, DET, CAEL, CAE, CPE, CELPIP, CanTest.
Can I get a fully- funded scholarship in Canada without IELTS?
Obtaining the necessary IELTS bands for admission and scholarship is no easy task. Many intelligent and academically gifted students struggle to achieve the required IELTS bands. As a result of these concerns, Canadian universities have published a list of acceptable English Language examinations that can be used instead of the IETS. Applicants from English-speaking nations have also been granted IETS exemption. Candidates who have completed four years of preceding education at an English-medium institution or institute are also exempt from this category. Aside from these, an English Language certificate from one of the aforementioned institutes will suffice as proof of language proficiency.
Is it possible to get a fully-funded scholarship in Canada?
Of course, it very possible to get a fully-funded scholarship to study in Canada, a comprehensive list of 30 fully-funded scholarship has been provided in this article.
How much CGPA is required for scholarship in Canada?
In terms of academic requirements, you need to have a minimum GPA of 3 on a scale of 4. So, roughly, that will be 65 – 70% or CGPA 7.0 – 7.5 in Indian standards.
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Conclusion
There you have it, this is all the information you need to successfully apply for a fully-funded scholarship in Canada. Carefully read through the websites of each of the scholarships provided above before applying.
We understand that sometimes getting a fully-funded scholarship can be very competitive which is why we have prepared an article on 50 easy and unclaimed scholarships in Canada.
All the best as you apply for these scholarships!