Canada is one of the top destinations for international students, offering world-class education, a welcoming multicultural environment, and excellent post-graduation opportunities. However, studying abroad can be expensive. Fortunately, numerous scholarships help ease the financial burden for international students.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best Canadian scholarships available, eligibility criteria, and tips to improve your chances of winning an award.
Why Study in Canada?
Before diving into scholarships, let’s quickly look at why Canada is a great choice:
- High-quality education – Canadian universities like U of T, UBC, and McGill rank among the best globally.
- Affordable tuition – Compared to the US and UK, Canada offers competitive tuition fees.
- Work opportunities – Students can work part-time during studies and apply for a post-graduation work permit.
- Permanent residency pathways – Many international students transition to permanent residency after graduation.
Now, let’s explore the top scholarships available.
Top Canadian Scholarships for International Students
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Amount: $50,000 per year (for 3 years)
- Eligibility: PhD students in health, engineering, social sciences, or humanities.
- Application: Must be nominated by a Canadian university.
This prestigious scholarship attracts top-tier doctoral students worldwide. Strong research proposals and academic excellence are key to winning.
2. University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
- Amount: Covers tuition, books, and living expenses for four years.
- Eligibility: Exceptional international students applying for undergraduate programs.
- Deadline: Typically November-January.
This is one of the most generous undergraduate scholarships in Canada, recognizing leadership and academic achievement.
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award
- Amount: Varies (can cover full tuition and living costs).
- Eligibility: Undergraduate students with outstanding academic records and leadership skills.
- Deadline: December 1.
UBC rewards students who demonstrate not only academic excellence but also community involvement.
4. Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program (CGS-M)
- Amount: $17,500 for one year.
- Eligibility: Master’s students in eligible Canadian universities.
- Deadline: Usually December 1.
A great option for those pursuing research-based master’s degrees.
5. Humber College International Entrance Scholarships
- Amount: Up to $5,000 (one-time).
- Eligibility: New international students with strong academic records.
- Deadline: Varies by intake.
Ideal for students enrolling in diploma or certificate programs.
6. York University International Student Scholarships
- Amount: $80,000 – $180,000 (over four years).
- Eligibility: High-achieving undergraduate applicants.
- Deadline: February.
York offers automatic consideration for some scholarships upon admission.
7. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
- Amount: Up to $60,000 (over four years).
- Eligibility: High school applicants with a minimum 90% average.
- Deadline: December 15.
A great opportunity for academically outstanding students.
8. Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
- Amount: Up to $60,000 per year (for three years).
- Eligibility: Doctoral students in social sciences and humanities.
- Deadline: November/December.
This scholarship supports research that addresses critical societal issues.
9. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) Program
- Amount: $10,000 – $15,000 per year.
- Eligibility: Master’s and PhD students in Ontario.
- Deadline: Varies by university.
A competitive award for graduate students in Ontario-based institutions.
10. Carleton University Entrance Scholarships
- Amount: $4,000 – $16,000 (renewable).
- Eligibility: International students with strong academic records.
- Deadline: Automatic consideration upon admission.
Carleton provides several automatic scholarships based on grades.
How to Improve Your Scholarship Chances
Winning a scholarship requires more than just good grades. Here’s how to stand out:
- Start early – Many scholarships have deadlines a year before studies begin.
- Write a compelling essay – Showcase your achievements, goals, and why you deserve the award.
- Get strong recommendation letters – Professors or employers who know you well can boost your application.
- Apply to multiple scholarships – Don’t rely on just one opportunity.
- Meet all requirements – Missing documents can disqualify you instantly.
Can You Get a Full Scholarship in Canada as an International Student?
Yes, full scholarships for international students in Canada do exist, but they are highly competitive. These scholarships typically cover:
- 100% of tuition fees
- Living expenses (housing, food, insurance)
- Travel costs (some programs include flight allowances)
- Books and supplies
Top Full-Ride Scholarships in Canada
1. Lester B. Pearson Scholarship (University of Toronto)
- What’s covered: Tuition, books, incidental fees + residence support for 4 years
- Eligibility: Exceptional academic achievement + leadership
- Catch: Only about 37 students selected globally each year
2. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
- Value: $60,000/year for 3 years + research travel grants
- For: PhD students in social sciences/humanities
- Bonus: Includes mentorship program
3. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Funding: $50,000/year for 3 years of PhD studies
- Key requirement: Research excellence in health, natural sciences, or social sciences
4. University of British Columbia’s Karen McKellin Scholarship
- Coverage: Full tuition + living costs for undergrads
- Special consideration: Students from war-affected regions
Realistic Chances of Getting Full Funding
While possible, full scholarships are rare:
- Undergraduate: Extremely competitive (usually <1% acceptance rate)
- Graduate: Better odds, especially for PhD candidates with strong research proposals
Pro Tip: Many students combine multiple partial scholarships to create “full funding.” For example:
- 50% from university scholarship
- 30% from government award
- 20% from part-time campus work
Can Nigerian Students Get Scholarships to Study in Canada?
Absolutely! Nigerian students are eligible for hundreds of Canadian scholarships at undergraduate, master’s, and PhD levels. In fact, Canada awarded over 1,200 scholarships to African students last year, with Nigerians being among the top recipients.
Top Canadian Scholarships Open to Nigerians
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- For: PhD students
- Value: $50,000/year for 3 years
- 2023 Nigerian Winners: 7 recipients
2. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships
- Amount: Up to $18,000/year
- Special Benefit: No separate application needed – automatic consideration
3. York University Global Leader Scholarships
- For: Undergraduates
- Value: $80,000-$180,000 over 4 years
- Nigerian Success Rate: 12% of African awards go to Nigerians
4. Ontario Trillium Scholarship
- For: PhD students in Ontario
- Value: $40,000/year for 4 years
- Recent Nigerian Awardees: 23 students
Nigerian-Specific Opportunities
- Canada-Nigeria Scholarships (Government-funded)
- NNPC/Chevron Scholarships (For oil/gas-related fields)
- MTN Foundation Scholarships (For STEM students)
Application Success Tips for Nigerians
- Start Early – Begin preparing 12-18 months before your intended start date
- Academic Requirements:
- Undergrad: Minimum 5 Bs in WAEC/NECO
- Graduate: Second Class Upper minimum
- Essential Documents:
- WAEC/NECO certificates (with scratch cards)
- NYSC certificate (if applicable)
- Strong reference letters
Which Canadian University Offers the Most Scholarships to International Students?
Based on recent data and scholarship accessibility, these Canadian universities stand out for offering the most financial support to international students:
Top 5 Most Generous Canadian Universities for International Scholarships
- University of Toronto
- Scholarship Highlights: Awards over 5,000 entrance scholarships annually
- Top Award: Lester B. Pearson Scholarship (full tuition + living expenses)
- Average Value: $5,000-$50,000 per recipient
- Special Note: 37% of international undergraduates receive some funding
- University of British Columbia (UBC)
- Scholarship Highlights: $30+ million awarded to international students yearly
- Flagship Program: International Major Entrance Scholarships
- Average Value: $10,000-$40,000
- Special Note: Automatic consideration for most awards
- University of Alberta
- Scholarship Highlights: 1 in 3 international students receives funding
- Top Awards: International Country Scholarships
- Average Value: $5,000-$60,000
- Special Feature: Separate scholarships for specific countries (including Nigeria)
- York University
- Scholarship Highlights: $180,000 maximum value over 4 years
- Key Program: Global Leader of Tomorrow Award
- Average Value: $20,000-$100,000
- Special Note: Strong support for African students
- McGill University
- Scholarship Highlights: Need-blind admissions policy
- Top Award: McCall MacBain Scholarships
- Average Value: $3,000-$50,000
- Special Feature: Many automatic entrance scholarships
Key Findings From Recent Data (2023-2024):
- Most Awards Given: University of Toronto (5,400+ international recipients)
- Highest Total Funding: University of British Columbia ($32 million)
- Best for Automatic Awards: University of Alberta (no separate application needed)
- Most Generous Single Award: U of T’s Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
Important Note: While these universities offer the most scholarships, they’re also the most competitive. Smaller schools like:
- University of Manitoba
- University of Calgary
- Dalhousie University
Often have higher success rates (15-25% vs 3-8% at top schools) with decent funding amounts.
Smart Application Strategy:
- Apply to 1-2 “dream” schools (UofT, UBC)
- Include 2-3 mid-range universities (Alberta, York)
- Add 1-2 safety schools (Manitoba, Memorial University)
Final Thoughts
Canada offers numerous scholarships for international students at all levels—undergraduate, master’s, and PhD. Research thoroughly, prepare a strong application, and apply early to maximize your chances.
If you need help with applications or finding more scholarships, check university websites or trusted resources like EduCanada.
Good luck with your studies in Canada!