Canada is a top destination for international and domestic students seeking quality education. However, tuition and living expenses can be a challenge. Fortunately, numerous scholarships are available to ease the financial burden.
This article highlights the top 20 Canadian scholarships for bachelor’s degrees, covering eligibility, benefits, and application tips. Whether you’re a local or international student, there’s likely a scholarship here for you.
Why Study in Canada?
Before diving into the scholarships, here’s why Canada is a great choice:
- High-quality education with globally recognized degrees.
- Affordable tuition compared to the US and UK.
- Multicultural environment that welcomes international students.
- Post-graduation work opportunities through the PGWP (Post-Graduation Work Permit).
Now, let’s explore the scholarships.
1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
University: University of Toronto
Value: Full tuition, books, and living expenses
Eligibility: Exceptional academic achievement and leadership skills
Deadline: November (nomination-based)
This prestigious scholarship targets international students with outstanding academic records and leadership potential.
2. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Value: $50,000 per year for three years
Eligibility: Doctoral students with strong academic and research potential
Deadline: November
While primarily for PhD students, some bachelor’s students transitioning to research may qualify.
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award
Value: Full tuition plus living stipend
Eligibility: International students with financial need and academic excellence
Deadline: December
UBC rewards students who demonstrate leadership and academic brilliance.
4. Humber College International Entrance Scholarships
Value: Up to $5,000
Eligibility: New international students with strong academic records
Deadline: Varies
Humber College offers partial scholarships to ease tuition costs.
5. York University International Student Scholarship
Value: $80,000 – $120,000 over four years
Eligibility: High-achieving international students
Deadline: February
York University provides substantial funding for top-performing students.
6. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
Value: $15,000
Eligibility: International students with a 90%+ average
Deadline: December
A great option for students with excellent grades.
7. Carleton University Entrance Scholarships
Value: $4,000 – $16,000
Eligibility: High school applicants with strong academic records
Deadline: Automatic consideration upon admission
No separate application is needed—just apply to Carleton!
8. University of Manitoba Undergraduate Scholarships
Value: Up to $240,000 (for top-tier students)
Eligibility: High academic achievers
Deadline: Varies
One of the most generous scholarship programs in Canada.
9. Concordia University International Undergraduate Awards
Value: Up to $14,000
Eligibility: International students with strong grades
Deadline: February
A solid option for students heading to Montreal.
10. Seneca College President’s Honors List Scholarship
Value: $1,500
Eligibility: High academic performance in first year
Deadline: Automatic consideration
A reward for students who excel in their first year.
11. Dalhousie University Scholarships
Value: $40,000 over four years
Eligibility: High school applicants with 90%+ average
Deadline: March
A great opportunity for students in Atlantic Canada.
12. University of Alberta International Country Scholarships
Value: $5,000 – $15,000
Eligibility: Students from selected countries
Deadline: December
Country-specific awards for international applicants.
13. Western University President’s Entrance Scholarships
Value: Up to $50,000
Eligibility: Exceptional high school applicants
Deadline: Automatic upon admission
Western rewards top students without extra paperwork.
14. Simon Fraser University (SFU) Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship
Value: $24,000
Eligibility: High academic achievers
Deadline: December
SFU offers substantial support for bright students.
15. Centennial College International Student Scholarship
Value: $2,000
Eligibility: New international students
Deadline: Varies
A smaller but helpful scholarship for college students.
16. University of Ottawa President’s Scholarship for International Students
Value: $30,000
Eligibility: High-achieving international applicants
Deadline: April
A lucrative option for students in Canada’s capital.
17. McGill University Scholarships and Student Aid
Value: Varies (up to full tuition)
Eligibility: Based on merit and need
Deadline: January
McGill offers several funding options for undergrads.
18. Trent University International Global Citizen Scholarships
Value: $2,000 – $25,000
Eligibility: International students with leadership qualities
Deadline: February
Rewards students who excel beyond academics.
19. Brock University Scholars Awards
Value: $4,000 – $16,000
Eligibility: High school applicants with 80%+ average
Deadline: Automatic consideration
A straightforward scholarship for strong students.
20. Queen’s University International Scholarships
Value: $9,000 – $50,000
Eligibility: High academic achievers
Deadline: February
Queen’s provides generous funding for top students.
Tips for Winning Canadian Scholarships
- Start early – Many deadlines are months before the academic year.
- Check eligibility – Some awards are program-specific.
- Write strong essays – Leadership and community involvement matter.
- Apply to multiple scholarships – Increase your chances.
Best Canadian Scholarships for International & Domestic Students in 2025
Pursuing higher education in Canada is a dream for many students worldwide—and for good reason. With top-ranked universities, affordable tuition compared to the US and UK, and excellent post-graduation work opportunities, Canada remains one of the best study destinations.
Now, let’s dive into the best scholarships available in 2025!
Top Fully Funded Scholarships
1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
- Coverage: Full tuition, books, fees, and residence
- For: Exceptional international students
- Deadline: November 2025
2. UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award
- Coverage: Full tuition + living costs
- For: High-achieving international students with leadership experience
- Deadline: December 2025
3. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Value: $50,000/year (for PhD students, but some undergrads qualify)
- For: Research-focused students
- Deadline: November 2025
Best Merit-Based Scholarships
4. York University International Student Scholarship
- Value: Up to $120,000 over 4 years
- For: Top-performing international students
5. University of Alberta International Entrance Scholarship
- Value: Up to $60,000
- For: Students with 90%+ high school average
6. Western University President’s Entrance Scholarships
- Value: Up to $50,000
- For: Domestic & international students with 90%+ grades
Need-Based Financial Aid & Bursaries
7. McGill University Financial Aid
- Coverage: Up to full tuition + living costs
- For: Students with demonstrated financial need
8. University of Manitoba Bursaries
- Value: Varies (up to $10,000)
- For: Low-income domestic & international students
9. Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)
- Coverage: Grants + loans (for Ontario residents)
Country-Specific Scholarships
10. Canada-ASEAN Scholarships (for Southeast Asian students)
- Value: $10,000+
- For: Students from ASEAN member countries
11. Study in Canada Scholarships (for African students)
- Value: Up to $15,000
- For: Students from eligible African nations
How to Apply for Canadian Bachelor’s Degree Scholarships: Step-by-Step Guide (2025)
Step 1: Research Scholarships (6-12 Months Before Deadline)
Start early to find the best-fit scholarships.
Where to Look:
- University websites – Check the “Financial Aid” or “Scholarships” section
- Government portals – e.g., ScholarshipsCanada
- Country-specific programs – e.g., Canada-ASEAN Scholarships
- Private organizations – Banks, NGOs, and corporations
Key Details to Note:
- Eligibility criteria (GPA, nationality, field of study)
- Application deadline
- Required documents
Step 2: Check Eligibility & Prepare Documents
Most scholarships require:
- Academic transcripts (translated if not in English/French)
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL, if applicable)
- Letters of recommendation (2-3 from teachers/professors)
- Personal statement or essay (500-1000 words)
- CV/resume (highlighting leadership, volunteer work, awards)
- Portfolio (for arts/design applicants)
Step 3: Write a Winning Scholarship Essay
A strong essay sets you apart. Follow these tips:
Dos:
- Answer the prompt clearly – Stay on topic
- Show, don’t tell – Use specific examples (e.g., “Led a team of 20 volunteers”)
- Highlight uniqueness – What makes you stand out?
- Proofread – Avoid grammar/spelling errors
Don’ts:
- Use clichés – “I’ve always wanted to help people”
- Exceed word count – Stick to the limit
- Plagiarize – Write in your own voice
Step 4: Secure Strong Recommendation Letters
Choose referees who:
- Know you well (teachers, employers, mentors)
- Can highlight your strengths (academic, leadership, character)
How to Request:
- Ask politely – Give them 4-6 weeks’ notice
- Provide info – Share your CV, essay draft, and scholarship details
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Before hitting “submit”
- Double-check requirements – Missing documents = instant rejection
- Meet the deadline – Some portals close at midnight (local time)
- Save confirmation emails – Proof of submission
Step 6: Follow Up & Prepare for Interviews
- Track your application – Some scholarships require interviews
- Practice common questions – e.g., “Why do you deserve this scholarship?”
- Send thank-you emails – To recommenders after submission
Step 7: Accept the Award & Fulfill Requirements
If selected:
- Formally accept the offer – Before the deadline
- Maintain eligibility – Some scholarships require a minimum GPA
- Attend events – Networking opportunities with donors
Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting until the last minute – Rushed applications = mistakes
- Ignoring small scholarships – $1,000 awards add up!
- Reusing the same essay – Tailor each application
- Not proofreading – Typos hurt credibility
- Giving up after rejections – Apply to multiple scholarships
Final Thoughts
Canada offers numerous scholarships to help students fund their education. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, there’s financial support available. Research each opportunity, prepare strong applications, and take advantage of these awards to make your academic dreams a reality.
Need help with applications? Check university websites or consult scholarship advisors for guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Canadian Scholarships for Bachelor’s Degrees
1. Can international students apply for Canadian scholarships?
Yes! Many Canadian scholarships are open to international students, including prestigious awards like the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship (University of Toronto) and UBC’s International Leader of Tomorrow Award. Always check eligibility requirements before applying.
2. Do I need to apply separately for scholarships?
It depends. Some scholarships (like Carleton University’s Entrance Scholarships) automatically consider you upon admission. Others require a separate application, essays, or references. Always verify the process for each award.