Canada Scholarships for Indonesians

Canada, known for its safety and exceptional educational system, is a popular study destination for international students looking to study undergraduate and postgraduate programs. 

The country’s many prestigious universities boast excellent graduate employability rates and offer diverse fields of study. This good mix of quality education and working opportunities post-graduation that could lead to eventual immigration is a key reason why many students choose to study in Canada. 

While an education overseas can be costly, Canada eases financial worries for international students by offering many scholarships opportunities, including those for Indonesian students. Scholarship opportunities, like the Vanier CGS scholarship for postgraduate studies, often cover tuition fees and living expenses, significantly alleviating your financial burden. The diversity of scholarships also means finding suitable opportunities is a breeze regardless of study level. 

Start exploring Canadian scholarships today and learn how to apply so you can confidently take the next step towards studying overseas. 

Canada continues to attract students from Indonesia thanks to its welcoming environment and high-quality education. Here are a few reasons why Canada is a top study destination for Indonesian students: 

• Globally recognised qualifications – Canadian degrees are respected worldwide and give graduates a competitive edge in the global job market. 

• Work while you study – International students can work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time (up to 30 hours) during scheduled breaks. 

• Post-study work and permanent residency opportunities – After graduation, international students may be eligible to stay and work in Canada for up to three years, with a clear pathway to permanent residency through the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP). 

• Safe and inclusive environment – Canada is ranked 6th out of 163 countries in the Global Peace Index (2019), making it one of the safest places to live and study. 

• Multicultural society and language development – Studying in Canada allows students to improve their English (or even French) language skills while experiencing a rich, diverse culture that embraces people from all backgrounds. 

• Supportive Indonesian student communities – Many Canadian cities and institutions have active Indonesian student associations, making it easier to settle in and build a support network abroad. 

When looking for scholarships in Canada, international students can explore these three primary categories: 

• Federal scholarships: Offered by the Canadian government, these scholarships provide significant support to high-achieving students. For example, the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships support doctoral candidates who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and research potential. 

• Provincial scholarships: Each Canadian province may offer its own scholarships to attract international talent. For instance, the Ontario Graduate Scholarship is open to graduate students in various disciplines and rewards strong academic performance. 

• University-specific scholarships: These are often awarded automatically upon admission, streamlining the application process. For example, the International Leader of Tomorrow Award at the University of British Columbia recognises exceptional undergraduate students who have demonstrated leadership and community engagement alongside academic excellence. 

Learn more about studying in Canada, including scholarships, choosing the right university, and applying for a visa — all with guidance from IDP. Our expert counsellors are here to support you from the very beginning until your departure.

Below is a list of some of the scholarships offered by Canadian Universities.

Besides university-specific scholarships, the Canadian government also offers scholarships that Indonesian students can apply for based on merit.

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship enables high-performing international students with leadership skills to study in Canada for 3 years.

The scholarship awards CAD$50,000 per year for postgraduate studies in the social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and humanities.

While different scholarships in Canada have different requirements, they generally involve: 

• Demonstrating strong academic performance. 

• Providing proof of English proficiency through tests like IELTS. You can book your IELTS test with IDP and prepare using our trusted IELTS study resources. 

• Showcasing involvement in extracurricular or community activities to highlight your leadership and well-rounded character. 

To improve your chances of receiving a scholarship, here are some helpful tips for Indonesian students: 

• Apply as early as possible – This gives you enough time to gather documents, write essays, and meet all deadlines. 

• Write a compelling personal statement – Clearly explain your academic interests, goals, and why you’re a great fit for the scholarship. 

• Tailor your application to each scholarship – Don’t use the same generic application; personalise it to meet the specific criteria. 

• Get letters of recommendation – Strong references from teachers or mentors can greatly strengthen your application. 

• Proofread everything – Make sure your application is clear, error-free, and meets all requirements. 

• Attend scholarship info sessions – IDP frequently hosts seminars and events where students can learn more about scholarship opportunities and how to apply for them effectively. 

Studying in Canada – whether it is Ottawa, Montreal, or Vancouver, is a big step, and IDP is here to support you every step of the way. Our experienced education counsellors can help you choose the right course and university, guide you through the scholarship application process, and assist with your visa application. 

Book a free counselling session with IDP today and take the first step towards making your study abroad dream a reality.