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The Best Scholarships for International Students in Canada

27 Jan 2026The Best Scholarships for International Students in Canada

Studying in Canada comes with a significant cost. Between tuition, living expenses, and travel, the overall cost can quickly exceed your expectations for a single year. That is precisely why scholarships for international students in Canada have become a lifeline, helping to manage or reduce the cost of a world-class education and making financial planning more manageable for students and their families.

Types of Canadian Scholarship Opportunities  

There are many types of scholarships for international students in Canada. This diversity gives students from different backgrounds an equal chance to win an award. International scholarships are a key category, offering financial support specifically for students from outside Canada. Here we will classify Canadian scholarships by 2 ways:

By Funding Source 

Based on their funding sources, scholarships in Canada can be categorized into:

  • Government Scholarships: They are provided directly by the Canadian or provincial governments, typically based on merit, research projects, or bilateral agreements between Canada and your native country. International students seeking government-sponsored scholarships to Canada must attend a specific school.
  • Private & Non-Profit Scholarships: They are funded by private companies, non-governmental groups, or individuals to help students pursue specialized fields or concentrate on specific research projects.
  • University Scholarships: Canadian universities and colleges offer scholarships to recruit high-achieving international students. These scholarships are specifically designed to support international students and may be accompanied by additional services such as academic advising or financial planning to help students succeed academically and financially. They can be partial fee reductions to full-ride scholarships.

By Criteria 

Besides, Canadian scholarships can be divided into as follow, based on certain criteria:

  • Merit-Based: Academic merit scholarships are offered based on candidates’ academic excellence, which is determined by their GPA, standardized test scores, or participation in honors courses. Consideration for these awards is given to applicants based on academic achievement and extracurricular involvement, often after admission decisions are made.
  • Need-Based: They are granted mostly or completely based on the applicant’s financial needs. Students are typically required to declare their or their family’s income throughout the application process to prove their eligibility.
  • Discipline-Specific: Also known as Subject- or Major-specific scholarships, they are awarded only to students who are currently studying or intending to study a specific topic. These scholarships can be related to a specific career (such as accountancy) or a broad industry (such as business). Only students enrolled in eligible degree programs are considered for these scholarships.
  • Country-Specific: They are provided by governments or universities, to encourage foreign talent from specific nations or regions to study in their country. Only students enrolled in eligible programs are considered for these scholarships.

Entry Requirements for Applying for a Scholarship in Canada

Requirements For Applying For A Scholarship In Canada
Requirements For Applying For A Scholarship In Canada

To qualify for scholarships in Canada, international students have to fulfill a few basic requirements. They may differ depending on the university or scholarship sponsor, but these are the general ones:

It is important to note that students must enroll in an eligible program or course to meet the eligibility requirements for most scholarships. Meeting the eligibility criteria—such as academic performance, admission status, and language proficiency—is essential for consideration.

Some scholarships may cover first year tuition, while others provide financial support until degree completion, depending on the eligibility criteria set by the sponsor.

Academic Performance and Language Requirements

When applying for a scholarship, one of the first requirements to consider is your GPA. The required GPA will vary by school, as well as their rankings and your programs. Yet, they usually require a strong academic record with a minimum GPA of 8.5/10 or above in your previous studies. You will have a better chance of applying for a scholarship to Canada if your GPA is high. International undergraduate students are often eligible for merit based awards, which are granted based on academic performance and achievements.

Besides, you need to demonstrate your English language proficiency with an accepted English test score, such as:

  • IELTS Academic: The minimum requirement is an overall band of 6.5 with no band below 6.0.
  • TOEFL iBT: The minimum requirement is an overall score of 89 with 22 in each of Speaking and Writing.
  • PTE Academic: The minimum requirement is an overall score of 65 with no part below 60.

Meanwhile, you may also provide your proof of French proficiency if you attend a  French-language course. The most common tests are TEF and TCF with a requirement of B2/CLB 7 achievement.

Country of Citizenship and Residency Rules 

If your scholarship options are country-specific ones, you will need to submit proof that you are a citizen of an eligible developing country, not a Canadian citizen/PR, and studying in your home country first. Students applying from abroad must also provide proof of citizenship and residency as part of the application process. These rules are put in place to make sure the country-specific scholarships are distributed to the right people.

Enrollment Status and Course Level 

You must have an offer letter or confirmation of enrollment from a recognized Canadian university to apply for a scholarship. In some cases, you might be assessed automatically for a range of general entrance scholarships once you confirm your enrollment. Only students enrolled in eligible programs, such as undergraduate students pursuing a bachelor’s degree, may qualify for certain scholarships, while those in certificate programs are typically not eligible.

Furthermore, some scholarships are offered specifically to students applying for specific degrees and topics, or for certain study levels (bachelor’s, master’s, etc.). Thus, showing proof of your course level is necessary.

Financial Need and Equity Criteria 

You may be requested to supply documents demonstrating your need for financial help, especially when you are applying for need-based scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support students who face financial challenges or equity considerations, ensuring they have access to educational opportunities. Moreover, students with a medical ailment or handicap must provide a letter from their doctors or counsellors outlining how it affects their pursuit of higher education.

Required Documents for Scholarship Applications

You will need to have a few documents ready to apply for scholarships in Canada. These assist universities or funding authorities in determining your eligibility for their scholarships. Below is a list of regularly requested documents:

  • Academic transcripts
  • Language proficiency test scores
  • Offer letter from a Canadian university
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP) to explain your goals, achievements, and why you deserve the scholarship
  • Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from teachers, professors, or employers who know your academic or professional work
  • CV or Resume to outline your education, experience, and extracurriculars
  • Proof of financial need like bank statements or income certificates (if applicable)
  • Valid passport copy for identity and visa-related purposes

Please take notice of any updates or changes to document requirements or deadlines, as scholarship providers may issue important notices that could affect your application.

Top 15 Scholarships for International Students in Canada

It is now time to reveal our top 15 scholarships for international students in Canada. Many of these scholarships are highly competitive, so it is important for students to carefully review the requirements and consider whichever options best fit their profile and goals. These scholarships come in different types with various values. This section may help you to identify some potential options for further examination later on your own.

Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Doctoral program

Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Doctoral program
Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Doctoral program

Description: This program acknowledges and supports the next generation of exceptional innovators, knowledge workers, creative thinkers, and researchers. It aims to bring benefits both within and outside of the research environment by supporting recipients in obtaining a high-quality research training experience. The scholarship provides financial support to international students through to degree completion, ensuring they can focus on their doctoral studies without interruption.

Value: CAD $40,000 per year (for 3 years)

Eligibility:

  • Must be enrolled in your doctoral program of study at an eligible Canadian institution by the application deadline if you are an international applicant
  • Must have completed no more than 36 months of full-time equivalent study in the doctoral program, the PhD portion of the joint professional undergraduate/PhD program (such as MD/PhD, JD/PhD, DVM/PhD) or the joint program (such as MA/PhD, MSc/PhD, MBA/PhD)
  • Participate in federal or agency-specific research priority areas

Selection criteria:

  • Relevant experience and achievements obtained within and beyond academia
  • Research Potential; the scholarship is awarded based on research potential and achievements

Canada-ASEAN SEED Scholarships

Canada-ASEAN SEED Scholarships
Canada-ASEAN SEED Scholarships

Description: This scholarship offers financial assistance to undergraduate and graduate students from ASEAN member countries for short-term research or course-related exchanges. It enables students to gain valuable experience studying abroad in Canada.

Value: CAD $10,200 for 4 months or 1 academic term

Eligibility:

  • Must be citizens of an ASEAN member state
  • Must have enrolled full-time at a post-secondary institution in an ASEAN member state
  • Must not hold or have a pending application for Canadian citizenship or permanent residency
  • Have not received a scholarship program funded by the Government of Canada
  • Have not enrolled in a degree, diploma or certificate program at a Canadian post-secondary institution

Selection criteria:

  • The proposed research or study that the student will perform in Canada is linked to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
  • The candidate’s commitment to use their proposed research or study in Canada to assist reduce poverty and close the development gap in the ASEAN region
  • Merit of the research or study to be conducted in Canada
  • Proof that the proposed exchange rankings will benefit both the home institution and its peers, as well as the Canadian institution, supervisor, and peers.

Canada Postdoctoral Research Award (CPRA) program

Canada Postdoctoral Research Award (CPRA) program
Canada Postdoctoral Research Award (CPRA) program

Description: The CPRA program is a federal research talent investment program within the Canada Research Training Awards Suite (CRTAS). Its mission is to help the next generation of innovators by providing funds and high-quality research training, developing research skills, encouraging innovation, and empowering grantees to make important contributions to Canada’s research ecosystem, economy, and prosperity. The award also offers comprehensive support to international postdoctoral researchers, including financial assistance and academic advising, to help them succeed during their studies in Canada.

Value: CAD $70,000 per year (for 2 years)

Eligibility:

  • Must have currently enrolled in or completed a doctorate or health professional degree at a Canadian institution if you are international applicants
  • Must conduct postdoctoral research at a Canadian institution if you are international applicants
  • Your postdoctoral research program must be predominantly research oriented, not adapting a doctoral thesis for publication in a book or manuscript, edit textbooks, translate or acquire a foreign language
  • Participate in federal or agency-specific research priority areas

Selection criteria:

  • Research potential and experience
  • Quality of proposed research program

Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship

Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship
Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship

Description: This program allows PhD students to join a dynamic and transformative group whose shared goal is to contribute to a brighter future for Canada and the world. Scholars are chosen not only for their academic achievements, but also for their commitment and ability to share and spread knowledge for the benefit of others. Scholarship recipients also benefit from a wide range of services and resources, including academic support, professional development, and guidance from a dedicated team of advisors.

Value: Up to CAD $50,000 stipend + CAD $20,000 research and travel allowance per year (for 3 years)

Eligibility:

  • Must be a foreign student studying at a Canadian university
  • Must be the first year of a doctoral program, or in the second year of a doctoral program at the time of application
  • Your doctoral work must relate to at least one of the Foundation’s four major themes: Human Rights and Dignity, Responsible Citizenship, Canada and the World, and People and their Natural Environment

Selection criteria:

  • Academic excellence
  • Research potential and experience
  • Leadership qualities & Active involvement in the Foundation’s activities and events

Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program

Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program

Description: It is a one-of-a-kind international framework that allows Commonwealth countries to offer university scholarships and fellowships to citizens of other member countries. The purpose is to foster long-term relationships and provide valuable opportunities for cultural and academic exchange across borders.

Value: CAD $10,000 for 5-6 months

Eligibility:

  • Must be a citizen of a Commonwealth country (not Canada)
  • International undergraduate students from Commonwealth countries are also eligible to apply, depending on the specific program requirements.
  • Must have a strong academic record (often an undergraduate degree with at least an upper second class/2:1)
  • Must enroll in a full-time graduate (Master’s/PhD) program at a Canadian university

Selection criteria:

  • Academic merit
  • Research quality
  • Institutional endorsements

University of Toronto’s Ontario Graduate Scholarship

University of Toronto’s Ontario Graduate Scholarship
University of Toronto’s Ontario Graduate Scholarship

Description: The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) program fosters success in graduate studies at Ontario’s publicly funded universities. Since 1975, the OGS program has awarded merit-based scholarships to Ontario’s top graduate students in all fields of study.

Value: CAD $5,000 per session (for 1 year)

Eligibility:

  • Must be an international students who are studying or plan to study at the University of Toronto under a temporary resident visa (student study permit)
  • Must be registered or intend to register in an eligible program on a full-time basis
  • Have not exceeded the maximum government-funded or OGS/QEII assistance available for your current level of study
  • ​Have completed at least two years of full-time study with an A- or comparable grade point average.

Selection criteria:

  • The scholarship is awarded based on academic assessment and plan of study.
  • Relevant experience and achievements obtained within and beyond academia
  • Plan of Study
  • Academic Assessment Reports

University of Waterloo International Student Entrance Scholarship

University of Waterloo International Student Entrance Scholarship
University of Waterloo International Student Entrance Scholarship

Description: 20 scholarships are awarded each year to outstanding overseas students admitted to the first year of an undergraduate degree program, regardless of your major. An application isn’t required.

Value: CAD $10,000. The scholarship can be applied toward first year tuition costs.

Eligibility:

  • Must be an international students who are studying or plan to study at the University of Waterloo
  • Must be admitted with an admission average of 90% or above
  • Must enroll in an eligible program on a full-time basis

Selection criteria:

  • Academic achievements
  • Any other Faculty-specific entrance scholarship criteria

University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship

University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship

Description: This is offered annually to undergraduate overseas students commencing their first year of any undergraduate degree. The scholarship is renewable for additional years beyond the first year—specifically in the second, third, and fourth years at the University of Calgary—provided that recipients maintain a GPA of 2.60 or above over a minimum of 24.00 units in the prior fall and winter terms and continue to pay an international differential tuition fee as an international student.

Value: CAD $20,000

Eligibility:

  • Must be an international students who are required to pay international tuition fees and who are not Canadian citizens or Permanent Residents of Canada
  • Must have satisfied the university’s English Language Proficiency requirement
  • Must enroll in an eligible program on a full-time basis

Selection criteria:

  • Academic merit

University of Alberta President’s International Distinction Scholarship

University of Alberta President’s International Distinction Scholarship
University of Alberta President’s International Distinction Scholarship

Description: It will be given to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic accomplishment and are entering their first year of an undergraduate degree at the University of Alberta. The scholarship provides financial support through to degree completion for eligible students. Renewal of this financial aid for the second, third, and fourth years is subject to achieving a minimum GPA of 2.0 on at least 18 credits from the most recent September to April period at the University of Alberta while studying under a Study Permit.

Value: CAD $120,000 (for over 4 years)

Eligibility:

  • Must be an international students on a Study Permit, entering the first year of an undergraduate degree at the University of Alberta
  • Must have superior academic achievement
  • Must not receive any other University of Alberta international entrance awards or scholarships.

Selection criteria:

  • Academic standing
  • Demonstrated leadership
  • Community engagement, volunteerism and/or involvement in extracurricular activities

University of British Columbia’s International Major Entrance Scholarship

University of British Columbia’s International Major Entrance Scholarship
University of British Columbia’s International Major Entrance Scholarship

Description: International Major Entrance Scholarships (IMES) are given to excellent international undergraduate students pursuing degrees at UBC. These scholarships are specifically for international undergraduate students entering UBC. You will receive your IMES when you begin your first year at UBC, and the scholarships can be renewed for up to three years. The number and value of these scholarships provided each year varies according to available funding.

Value: CAD $10,000 – $25,000/year

Eligibility:

  • Must be new to UBC, entering directly from secondary school
  • Must be an international student who will be studying at UBC on a Canadian study permit (student visa)
  • Must not be nominated for a need-and-merit-based International Scholars award

Selection criteria:

  • Academic achievement and intellectual promise
  • Impressive extracurricular and community involvement

Queen’s University Dean’s International Award program

Queen’s University Dean’s International Award program
Queen’s University Dean’s International Award program

Description: International students pursuing undergraduate programs at Queen’s University will be automatically considered for the Dean’s International Award program. The scholarship is renewable for three years if the student continues to be enrolled full-time in a program of study within their original faculty of admission. Only students enrolled full-time in their original faculty are eligible for renewal.

Value: CAD $10,000 – $25,000/year (for 4 years)

Eligibility:

  • Must be an international student entering undergraduate programs at Queen’s University
  • Must be paying international student fees; those paying domestic fees are not eligible
  • Must enroll in the first year of any first-entry degree program in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Stephen J. R. Smith School of Engineering and Applied Science, Smith School of Business (Bachelor of Commerce), or Faculty of Health Sciences

Selection criteria:

  • Academic achievement

McGill University’s International One-Year Entrance Scholarships  

McGill University’s International One-Year Entrance Scholarships
McGill University’s International One-Year Entrance Scholarships

Description: McGill University provides merit-based admission scholarships to first-time university students pursuing a full-time undergraduate degree. All applicants to certain McGill undergraduate degree programs are automatically considered, thus no additional application is required.

Value: CAD $3,000 (one-time payment)

Eligibility:

  • Must be an international first-time students entering a full-time undergraduate degree program at McGill University
  • Must be paying international student fees; those paying paying domestic fees are not eligible
  • Must enroll in eligible programs, excluding the BCL/JD (Law), Dent-P (Dentistry), or Med-P (Medicine) programs starting Fall 2026

Selection criteria:

  • Awarded based on academic achievement and outstanding leadership in school or community activities

Dalhousie University’s Research Excellence Scholarships

Dalhousie University’s Research Excellence Scholarships
Dalhousie University’s Research Excellence Scholarships

Description: The Dalhousie Research Excellence Scholarship was established in 2024 to attract and assist incoming Dalhousie PhD candidates who have extraordinary leadership and research potential. Award recipients are Dalhousie’s emerging leaders, and their research is projected to have a major regional, national, or international effect. In addition to financial assistance, the scholarship provides comprehensive support to PhD candidates, including academic advising and ongoing student services to help them succeed throughout their studies.

Value: CAD $35,000 per year (for up to 4 years)

Eligibility:

  • Must have an intent to start (enroll in or transfer to) a PhD program at Dalhousie
  • Must be admitted to and registered in their intended program of study

Selection criteria:

  • Academic achievement
  • Research quality

Western University’s Welcome to Canada Admission Scholarships

Western University’s Welcome to Canada Admission Scholarships
Western University’s Welcome to Canada Admission Scholarships

Description: Western University offers an unlimited number of Welcome to Canada Admission Scholarships as part of their commitment to meeting the different requirements of international students throughout their academic careers. This program is part of Western University’s broader commitment to providing international scholarships to students, supporting their academic journey and integration into campus life. The program provides you with a generous grant and guaranteed on-campus housing for your first two years.

Value: CAD $10,000 for first year

Eligibility:

  • Must be an International student who is completing school outside of Canada, or who is transferring from a post-secondary institution within Canada
  • Must apply for first year full-time studies (minimum of 3.5 courses) in any first-entry undergraduate program at Western Main Campus
  • Must be paying international student tuition and fees
  • Must meet the admission conditions as specified in your offer

Selection criteria:

  • Academic merit

Humber President’s International Entrance Award

Humber President’s International Entrance Award
Humber President’s International Entrance Award

Description: Starting April 14, 2025, overseas students living outside of Canada without a Humber DLI study visa may be eligible for the President’s overseas Entrance Award. The award is only given once per student for the three eligible start terms.

Value: CAD $2,000 (one-time payment)

Eligibility:

  • Must accept an offer of admission to an eligible full-time program at Humber, excluding the English for Academic Purposes program
  • Must enrol in an eligible program to receive the award
  • Must submit their study permit application to IRCC by the dates specified under Eligibility by Intake
  • Must have paid the $3,000 tuition deposit by the due date on the Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
  • Must pay the remaining program and ancillary fees by the due date on the LOA
  • Must register and remain enrolled as a full-time international student paying international fees past the withdrawal deadline (the 10th day of classes) for the awarded start term

Selection criteria:

  • Academic merit

York President’s International Scholarship of Excellence

York President’s International Scholarship of Excellence
York President’s International Scholarship of Excellence

Description: The scholarship is given to international high school students who display academic distinction, dedication to voluntary and extracurricular activities, and leadership abilities. Their program represents students with the best academic standing from around the globe.

Value: CAD $45,000 per year (for 4 years)

Eligibility:

  • Must be a high-school student entering the first year of undergraduate degree at York
  • Must hold international student status and be subject to international tuition fees during their studies at York
  • Must have a minimum final admission average of 80% (A) or equivalent
  • Must be officially nominated by a guidance counsellor, principal or senior school official

Selection criteria:

  • This scholarship is one of York’s merit based awards for international students.
  • Academic merit
  • Leadership skills
  • Active involvement in volunteer work and extracurricular activities

Application Timeline & Key Deadlines (2026 Intakes) 

To prepare for the scholarship application, you must first understand the deadlines. Scholarship deadlines in Canada could vary per course and university. Yet, they typically fall between September and February for the following academic year.  For example:

  • Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships deadline: Early November
  • York University International Student Scholarship Programme: February
  • Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships: December
  • Humber College International Entrance Scholarships: September (Fall intake) and January (Winter intake)

According to our experience, you should begin researching and preparing at least 12 months in advance, which means from the start of your junior year of high school. Ideally, you can begin as early as your freshman or sophomore year of high school. That would allow you more time and space to establish a strong application.

Take notice of all scholarship deadlines and any official updates or notices from universities to ensure you do not miss important information or changes.

How to Apply for Scholarships in Canada  

How to Apply for Scholarships in Canada
How to Apply for Scholarships in Canada

Applying for scholarships in Canada typically involves researching available opportunities, preparing required documents, and submitting applications before the deadlines. Be sure to visit university websites and official scholarship pages to access detailed information about eligibility, application instructions, and deadlines. Each scholarship may have its own set of requirements, so carefully review all guidelines before applying.

Research & Locate Potential Options

There are thousands of scholarships in Canada for you to apply, which could make you feel overwhelmed. Thus, you need to sit down and thoroughly research based on your destination, course level or academic performance.

The best place to start looking for a scholarship is definitely the university websites. Most Canadian universities provide information on all available scholarships for international students, including how to apply. Make sure to visit the official university scholarship pages and government scholarship websites to access detailed information, application forms, and financial planning tools. Normally, students find scholarships from the university that they have applied to and received their offer.

However, if you haven’t picked your university yet and scholarships are what help you to do so, then you can look for information from online platforms like Scholarships Canada or the government sources like EduCanada.

After that, you can make a shortlist of all the potential options and get ready for the application process.

Check For Eligibility Carefully  

After shortlisting the options, you now need to review their requirements. Each scholarship will have its own eligibility criteria, which may include academic performance benchmarks, admission status, language requirements, and enrollment conditions. You will find some common requirements among those scholarships, with some having special criteria like country-specific rules. Note that you should only apply for scholarships which you are eligible for. Despite your excellent profile, your application won’t be reviewed if you fail to meet those specific criteria.

Prepare & Tailor Your Application 

Once you have found the suitable scholarships, it is advisable to start preparing your applications right away. This is especially important for merit based awards, which often require strong evidence of academic achievement and extracurricular involvement. Gather all the basic materials like academic transcript, language proficiency test scores, etc.

In some cases, you are required to submit personal statements, essays and even your resume or portfolio. If this is your case, spend some time to learn and prepare those materials perfectly to help you win the selection committee’s approval.

Applying for scholarships can be an intense competition, especially for those with high value or great popularity. Therefore, your application should be unique and honest to stand out in the crowd.

Submit Applications & Track Status

Scholarship deadlines are frequently earlier than admission deadlines, so keep track of the dates to ensure that you submit your scholarship application by the deadline. You can apply directly in person or send your application by mail or online through the university portal.

However, some scholarships take separate applications, whereas some are automatically considered when you submit your admission form. Then, all you need to do now is tracking your application status.

Normally, it will take the selection committee 4 to 6 weeks after the application deadline to review your case and send you a response. So try to stay positive while waiting for their responses.

Be sure to take notice of any communications or notices regarding your application status, as important updates or requests for additional information may be sent during this period.

Respond to Offers  

If you receive a positive response, confirm your acceptance of the offer. Yet, students usually apply for more than just one scholarship, so they may wait for responses from other sponsors and think for a while before responding to any offer. When you have multiple offers, carefully compare the benefits and requirements, and select whichever scholarship best meets your needs and goals.

The best scenario here is that you’ve got your favorite one. Then, you should report it to your college’s financial aid office to organize funding and complete any follow-up documentation.

Nevertheless, it is best to prepare for the worst situation where you fail to receive any scholarship. In such situations, you might need to find other scholarships or resort to other financial aid alternatives like student loans.

Tips to Enhance Your Chances of Winning Scholarships 

When applying for scholarships, we all want to succeed right at the first attempt. The whole process of preparation and application takes a lot of effort and time, so no one expects failure in the end.

Many scholarships for international students in Canada are highly competitive, so thorough preparation and attention to detail are essential.

To help you achieve that, here are some tips you can try to enhance your success probability.

Know Where to Start

The first step is really important but some don’t know where to start. To apply for a scholarship, you must first know where to find one and which option is suitable for you. The fact that there are hundreds of scholarships available gives you plenty of chances while overwhelming you.

Thus, you should start with yourself. Define where you want to study: Big cities or other less popular regions. By that, you can locate scholarships available to students in those areas. In our opinion, it is always best to choose universities first and then, find scholarships offered by your university. Be sure to visit university and scholarship websites to access the most up-to-date information, application pages, and financial planning tools.

Once you can lay the first, solid first brick on your journey quickly, you will have much time to prepare carefully or better yet, re-attempt in case of failure the first time.

Check Eligibility & Application Requirements Carefully

This might be obvious! But you don’t want to apply for anything for which you are ineligible or risk losing your chances by mistakenly leaving out a piece of papers specified in the scholarship application requirements. For example, some scholarships are offered to post-graduate students only or students from certain countries.

Before applying, make sure to carefully review all eligibility requirements for each scholarship, as failing to meet these criteria can result in disqualification.

In fact, some don’t require any separate application while others do. So, read the application instructions carefully to avoid missing anything. You can also contact the provider if you require clarification on any points.

Highlight Your Skills & Personalities

With so much competition for a full scholarship, it is critical to separate out from the crowd by displaying a genuine dedication to personal development. This includes having a few extracurricular activities to showcase your talents and interests outside of the classroom, as well as examples of times you’ve been engaged with the local community, such as volunteering for a worthy cause.

Many scholarships are awarded based on a combination of academic merit and extracurricular achievements, so demonstrating both strong grades and active involvement can significantly improve your chances.

Importantly, scholarship providers place a high importance on leadership skills, which you can demonstrate by volunteering to lead projects in extracurricular activities or community service.

In case no separate application is required, you must highlight your profile with a glowing report on your academic qualities, including certificates, honors or projects since academic merit is the only selection criteria.

Submit Excellent Supporting Documents

You might be required to submit an application essay and recommendation letter. These documents will help selection committees to understand your goals and impact on other people.

For a personal essay, you need to make sure it is clear, concise and formatted correctly without any spelling and grammar errors. Try to grab the reader with a strong introduction and emphasize its key theme or topic with details.

Meanwhile, it is better to submit more than just one letter of recommendation. Therefore, it is critical to establish good relationships with your academic mentors and employers (if any). If a mentor knows you well, they will be able to write a letter that is more personal and genuine about you.

Take notice of all required supporting documents and submission guidelines to ensure your application is complete and meets all scholarship requirements.

Conclusion

Finding scholarships for international students in Canada is a real competition. Yet, do not let this discourage you from applying, but be realistic about your expectations. Moreover, if you get prepared in advance, there is nothing to be afraid of. 

So, thoroughly go through our blog to equip yourself with sufficient information and tips to win scholarships more easily. Good luck!

FAQs

1. How much money is available through Canada scholarships?

International students in Canada earn an average of CAD $10,000 to $25,000 in scholarships every year, depending on the type of award and academic profile.

2. Is it possible to apply for multiple scholarships in Canada at the same time?

Yes, you can apply for many scholarships simultaneously. However, certain scholarships may limit the number of awards that can be held concurrently.

3. Can I work while studying in Canada on a scholarship? 

Yes, international students in Canada are typically permitted to work part-time during their studies and full-time during scheduled breaks. However, the particular conditions may differ based on the scholarship and visa requirements.

Moni Vuong
Moni Vuong

PTE Magic

My name is Moni, and I am a seasoned PTE teacher with over 6 years of experience. I have helped thousands of students overcome their struggles and achieve their desired scores. My passion for teaching and dedication to my student’s success drives me to continually improve my teaching methods and provide the best possible support. Join me on this journey toward PTE success!

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