Canada is one of the top choices for international students, offering an exceptional education, a multicultural setting, and excellent career opportunities. Nonetheless, because of the expense associated with studying abroad, scholarships are crucial for enhancing the accessibility of education.
If you’re an international student looking to pursue an undergraduate degree in Canada, there are several scholarships available to help ease your financial burden. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best scholarship opportunities, eligibility criteria, and tips to improve your chances of securing funding.
Why Study in Canada?
Before diving into scholarships, it’s important to understand why Canada is a great choice for international students:
- High-Quality Education: Canadian universities consistently rank among the best in the world.
- Affordable Tuition: Compared to the US and UK, Canada offers lower tuition fees.
- Work Opportunities: Students can work part-time during studies and apply for post-graduation work permits.
- Multicultural Society: Canada is welcoming to international students, offering a safe and inclusive environment
Top Undergraduate Scholarships in Canada for International Students
Here are some of the best scholarships available for international students pursuing undergraduate studies in Canada:
1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
- Coverage: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence support.
- Eligibility: Exceptional academic achievement, leadership skills, and creativity.
- How to Apply: Must be nominated by their school.
2. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
- Coverage: Up to $40,000 per year.
- Eligibility: Outstanding academic performance and leadership qualities.
- Deadline: December 1 (for nominations).
3. York University International Student Scholarship Program
- Coverage: $80,000 – $140,000 over four years.
- Eligibility: High academic achievement (minimum A average).
- Deadline: February 15.
4. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
- Coverage: $15,000 (renewable for up to four years).
- Eligibility: High school students with a minimum 90% average.
- Deadline: December 1.
5. Carleton University Entrance Scholarships
- Coverage: $4,000 – $16,000.
- Eligibility: Based on academic merit (minimum 80% average).
- Deadline: Automatic consideration upon admission.
6. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Coverage: $50,000 per year for doctoral students.
- Eligibility: Academic excellence, research potential, and leadership.
- Note: While primarily for graduate students, it’s worth mentioning for future reference.
Government-Funded Scholarships
The Canadian government also offers scholarships to support international students:
- Canada-ASEAN Scholarships: For students from ASEAN member countries.
- Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP): For students from Latin America and the Caribbean.
- Study in Canada Scholarships: For students from eligible countries.
How to Improve Your Scholarship Chances
Winning a scholarship is competitive, but these tips can help you stand out:
- Start Early: Many scholarships have early deadlines, so begin your research at least a year in advance.
- Maintain High Grades: Most scholarships require strong academic performance.
- Write a Strong Essay: Personal statements should highlight your achievements, goals, and why you deserve the scholarship.
- Get Strong Recommendation Letters: Choose teachers or mentors who know you well.
- Apply to Multiple Scholarships: Don’t rely on just one—increase your odds by applying to several.
What GPA is Required for Scholarships in Canada?
If you’re an international student dreaming of studying in Canada, scholarships can be a game-changer in funding your education. But one of the most common questions is: What GPA do you need to qualify for scholarships in Canada?
The answer varies depending on the scholarship, university, and level of study. However, in this article, we’ll break down the typical GPA requirements for undergraduate scholarships in Canada and how you can improve your chances of winning one.
General GPA Requirements for Canadian Scholarships
Most Canadian scholarships for international students require a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent). However, top scholarships—especially fully funded ones—often demand much higher academic performance, sometimes 3.7 or above.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Minimum Requirement (Most Universities): 2.5 – 3.0 GPA (for smaller, less competitive scholarships).
- Moderately Competitive Scholarships: 3.0 – 3.5 GPA (common for merit-based awards).
- Highly Competitive Scholarships (Full-ride awards): 3.7+ GPA (e.g., Lester B. Pearson, UBC International Scholars).
Some Canadian universities use percentage systems instead of GPA. In that case:
- 75% – 80% = Minimum for some entrance scholarships.
- 85% – 90%+ = Required for top-tier scholarships.
GPA Requirements at Top Canadian Universities
Each university sets its own standards. Here’s what some leading schools expect:
1. University of Toronto
- Lester B. Pearson Scholarship: Top 5% of class (approx. 3.9 GPA or 90%+ average).
- President’s Scholars of Excellence: Minimum 3.7 GPA (varies by faculty).
2. University of British Columbia (UBC)
- International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES): 90%+ average (varies by program).
- Outstanding International Student Award: Strong academics + leadership (approx. 85%+).
3. McGill University
- Entrance Scholarships: Minimum 3.7 GPA (or 93%+ average).
- Need-based aid: Lower GPA may be acceptable if financial need is demonstrated.
4. University of Alberta
- International Admission Scholarship: 80%+ average (varies by country).
- Gold Standard Scholarship: 95%+ average (for top-performing students).
5. York University
- International Student Scholarship: Minimum “A” average (approx. 85%+).
Final Thoughts
Canada provides many scholarship options for international undergraduate students, facilitating the affordability of a high-quality education. Whether it’s through awards specific to universities or programs funded by the government, there are numerous options to investigate.
When planning to study in Canada, it’s important to research scholarships well in advance, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria, and provide a persuasive application. By being persistent and well-prepared, you can obtain financial support for your academic journey in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions About Undergraduate Scholarships in Canada for International Students
1. Can international students get full scholarships in Canada?
Yes! Several Canadian universities offer full-ride scholarships covering tuition, living expenses, and even travel costs. Examples include:
- Lester B. Pearson Scholarship (U of Toronto) – Covers full tuition + living expenses
- UBC International Scholars Program – Awards up to $40,000 per year
- York University Global Leader Scholarship – Up to $140,000 over four years
However, these are highly competitive and require exceptional grades (90%+ average) and strong leadership experience.
2. What GPA do I need for scholarships in Canada?
Most scholarships require at least a 3.0 GPA (80% average), but top awards demand 3.7+ (90%+ average).
- Minimum for some entrance scholarships: 2.5 – 3.0 GPA
- Competitive scholarships (partial funding): 3.0 – 3.5 GPA
- Full-ride scholarships: 3.7+ GPA (90%+ average)