Canadian Scholarships for International Students
Canada is home to world-class universities and colleges, and many of them offer partial scholarships to international students to help them finance their studies in Canada.
When applying to any of the partial scholarships in Canada, make sure you check the scholarship eligibility criteria carefully, and know all about the application process and closing date. You can also seek support from your IDP counsellor who will guide you through your journey.
What are the eligibility criteria to apply for partial scholarships in Canada?
A strong academic record is the primary requirement for most partial scholarships, while other considerations include your subject, level of study, and location of choice. Volunteering and extracurricular activities can also work to your advantage for some partial grants.
Remember that each partial scholarship has certain requirements for eligibility. Some may only need an application, while others may require you to meet additional requirements. For example, you could be required to submit written projects for programs that emphasise research.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact the university admission centre.
Scholarships value – how much money is available?
The amount of funding available and the type of award vary between institutions. Getting a scholarship is competitive, so it is important to apply well in advance. It is advised that you begin the process eight to twelve months prior to the start of the desired intake. IDP counsellors would be more than pleased to help you if you run across any problems.
Types of scholarships in Canada
Before diving into specific opportunities, it’s important to understand the main types of scholarships available:
Merit-based scholarships – awarded for academic excellence, leadership, or community involvement.
Need-based scholarships – offered to students who demonstrate financial need.
Government-funded scholarships – sponsored by the Canadian federal or provincial governments.
University-specific scholarships – awarded directly by Canadian universities to attract top performing international students.
Research and fellowship grants – designed for master and doctoral students working on impactful research.
Fully funded vs. partial scholarships
Not all scholarships are the same. Here’s the key difference:
Fully funded scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, and sometimes even travel costs. Examples include the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships and the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship.
Partial scholarships may cover only part of your tuition, housing, or books. For instance, the Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) and Humber College International Entrance Scholarships.
How to apply for scholarships in Canada?
Applying for a scholarship in Canada requires careful planning. Here are the key steps: Research available scholarships well ahead of application deadlines.
Check the eligibility requirements for each scholarship carefully.
Prepare all the required documents, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, research proposals, or financial statements., research proposals, or financial statements).
Write a strong statement of purpose or scholarship essay that highlights your achievements and goals.
Apply directly through the university or the official scholarship portal.
Meet all deadlines—late applications are rarely considered.
Stay in touch with the admissions or scholarship office for updates on your application status.
What are the documents required to apply for scholarships in Canada?
You must ensure that you submit all required documentation on the website of the awarding organisation when you apply for a scholarship. Nonetheless, the majority of scholarship organisations require some standard documentation from candidates, including:
A completed scholarship application form
Test score (such as SAT, ACT, GRE, GPA)
A copy of your diplomas and transcripts
Copy of your passport/ID
Some institutions may also require additional documents, such as an essay and a medical report.
Proof of your language proficiency, like an IELTS test
Statement of purpose or letter of motivation
Top scholarships in Canada to apply for
We’ve listed here some of the top scholarships offered by leading Canadian universities to international students.
University | Scholarship | Scholarship value | Eligibility |
University of Waterloo International Student Entrance Scholarship | Up to $10,000 | Scholarships are awarded annually to outstanding international students who are admitted into the first year of an undergraduate degree program. If an international applicant's entrance average is 90% or higher, they will be considered. Academic performance, together with any additional admission scholarship requirements unique to the faculty, will be the basis for selection. No application is necessary. | |
Payable over four years; variable starting at $7,300. | Given to study permit applicants who have excelled academically and are starting their first year of a University of Alberta undergraduate program. Academic status and proven leadership abilities based on participation in extracurricular and community activities were taken into consideration throughout the selection process. Documentation required for admission must be submitted for scholarship consideration by the scholarship deadline. Transcripts of all completed courses, current grades, and evidence of English language proficiency are included. | ||
| To be eligible for entry scholarships, all incoming students must complete an admission application, an application for financial necessity and an official transcript for applicants for bursaries. Cape Breton University will establish the average for overseas students coming straight out of high school. | ||
Undergraduate - 6 awards of $5,000 each. Graduate - 3 awards of $5,000 each. | Candidates must meet the following criteria: Have a minimum 80% admission average or equivalent Be an international student Entering first year of any program/school at the University of Winnipeg Demonstrate exceptional leadership qualities Submit a complete application for admission by the scholarship deadline | ||
Up to $80,000 | Undergraduate students applying directly from secondary school (or its equivalent) to a direct-entry undergraduate program with a valid study permit are automatically considered for the scholarship. To be eligible for the award, students must register for at least nine credit hours per semester and hold an early conditional admission average of 85% or higher. |
Tips to increase your chances of winning a scholarship
Start preparing at least 12 months before your intended program begins.
Maintain a high GPA and get strong letters of recommendation.
Highlight leadership roles, community involvement, or volunteer work.
Customise your personal statement to match the scholarship criteria.
Apply to multiple scholarships to maximise your chances.
Demonstrate language proficiency with IELTS or TOEFL if required.
Need help navigating your options? Speak with an IDP counsellor today to find the right scholarship and study program for you.