Canada is one of the best study destinations for international students, offering world-class education, multicultural cities, and excellent post-graduation opportunities. The best part? You can study for free with fully funded scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and even travel costs.
If you’re looking for a master’s degree scholarship in Canada, this guide covers the top opportunities, eligibility criteria, and tips to secure funding.
Why Study in Canada on a Fully Funded Scholarship?
Canada is home to top-ranked universities like the University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, and McGill University. Many Canadian schools offer generous scholarships for international students, including:
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly stipends for living expenses
- Health insurance and travel grants
- Research funding for thesis-based programs
Plus, Canada allows students to work part-time during studies and offers post-graduation work permits (PGWP), making it easier to transition to permanent residency.
Top Fully Funded Masters Scholarships in Canada
Here are some of the best scholarships for international students:
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Funding: $50,000 per year for 3 years
- Eligibility: PhD and master’s students in health, engineering, social sciences, or humanities
- Deadline: November (annual)
2. University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
- Funding: Full tuition, books, and living expenses
- Eligibility: Exceptional international students
- Deadline: January
3. University of British Columbia Graduate Global Leadership Fellowship
- Funding: Up to $18,200 per year
- Eligibility: Master’s and PhD students with leadership potential
4. McGill University Scholarships
- Funding: Full or partial tuition waivers
- Eligibility: High academic achievers
5. Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program (CGS-M)
- Funding: $17,500 for 12 months
- Eligibility: Canadian and international students
How to Apply for a Fully Funded Scholarship in Canada
Check Eligibility
Each scholarship has different requirements, but most look for:
- Strong academic records (minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0)
- Research experience (for thesis-based programs)
- English/French proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/DALF)
Prepare Required Documents
- Academic transcripts
- Statement of purpose (SOP)
- Letters of recommendation
- CV/resume
- Research proposal (if applicable)
Apply Early
Some scholarships have deadlines 6-12 months before the program starts, so plan ahead.
Look for University-Specific Scholarships
Many Canadian universities offer their own funding—check their official websites.
Final Tips to Win a Scholarship
- Apply to multiple scholarships to increase your chances.
- Tailor your application to each scholarship’s requirements.
- Show leadership and community involvement—many scholarships value this.
- Proofread your essays before submitting.
How to Get a Fully Funded Scholarship to Canada: Best Websites & Tips
If you dream of studying in Canada but worry about costs, fully funded scholarships can make it possible. These scholarships cover tuition, living expenses, and sometimes even flights. But where do you find them, and how do you increase your chances?
This guide will show you the best websites to search for scholarships and proven strategies to secure funding for your studies in Canada.
Best Websites to Find Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada
1. Government of Canada Scholarships Website
- Official source for scholarships funded by the Canadian government.
- Includes programs like Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships and Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships.
2. University Websites
Most Canadian universities list scholarships for international students. Check:
- University of Toronto → https://future.utoronto.ca/finances/scholarships
- University of British Columbia → https://you.ubc.ca/financial-planning/scholarships/
- McGill University → https://www.mcgill.ca/studentaid/scholarships-aid
3. Scholarship Databases
- ScholarshipsCanada → https://www.scholarshipscanada.com
- Yconic → https://yconic.com
- InternationalScholarships → https://www.internationalscholarships.com
4. External Scholarship Programs
- Commonwealth Scholarships → https://www.commonwealthscholarship.org
- Fulbright Canada → https://www.fulbright.ca
How to Secure a Fully Funded Scholarship for Canada
1. Start Early
Many scholarships have deadlines 6-12 months before the program starts.
2. Meet Eligibility Requirements
Most scholarships require:
- Strong academic grades (usually GPA 3.0+/4.0)
- English/French proficiency (IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+)
- Research experience (for thesis-based programs)
3. Prepare a Winning Application
- Personal Statement → Explain why you deserve the scholarship.
- Letters of Recommendation → Get them from professors or employers.
- CV/Resume → Highlight achievements, leadership, and volunteer work.
4. Apply to Multiple Scholarships
Don’t rely on just one—apply to at least 5-10 to increase your chances.
5. Check University-Specific Funding
Many Canadian schools offer teaching assistantships (TAs) or research grants—contact the department directly.
Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada for African Students (2025-2026)
Canada offers life-changing opportunities for African students through fully funded scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and even travel costs. If you’re looking to study in Canada for free, this guide covers the best scholarships, eligibility criteria, and application tips specifically for African students.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships for African Students
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- For: Master’s & PhD students
- Funding: $50,000 per year for 3 years
- Eligibility: Academic excellence & research potential
- Deadline: November (annually)
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
- For: Undergraduate & Master’s students
- Funding: Full tuition + living stipend
- Eligibility: Exceptional leadership & academics
- Deadline: January
3. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
- For: Undergraduate & Master’s students
- Funding: Full tuition, housing, books, & travel
- Eligibility: Financial need & leadership qualities
- Deadline: Varies by university (check McGill, UBC, etc.)
4. African Leaders of Tomorrow (ALT) Scholarship
- For: Master’s in public administration
- Funding: Full tuition + living allowance
- Eligibility: African professionals with work experience
- Deadline: October
5. Canada-Africa Scholarships (Government of Canada)
- For: Short-term exchange & full-degree programs
- Funding: Tuition, flights, & living costs
- Eligibility: Varies by country (check EduCanada)
Conclusion
Canada offers life-changing opportunities for master’s students through fully funded scholarships. By researching early, preparing strong applications, and applying to multiple programs, you can secure funding for your studies.
Start your scholarship search today and take the first step toward studying in Canada for free!
Frequently Asked Questions About Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships in Canada
- Are there really fully funded Master’s scholarships in Canada for international students?
Absolutely! Programs like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships and university-specific awards (e.g., U of Toronto’s Connaught Scholarship) cover full tuition plus living expenses for qualified candidates. - When should I start applying for scholarships?
Start researching 12-18 months before your intended start date. Most deadlines fall 6-12 months before the academic year begins (typically October-February for September intake).