How To Get Scholarship To Study In Canada? 2025
Applying for a scholarship is the best way to finance your education in Canada, allowing you to get the higher studies you desire without taking on an enormous financial burden. In recent years, Canada has become increasingly popular as a desirable destination for higher studies.
So, if you are interested in studying in Canada but don’t have the necessary funds, this write-up will be a guide to help you out. We will be discussing how to get scholarship to study in Canada, various types of offered scholarships, requirements, universities, and more. So, let’s get going.
Does Canada Offer Scholarships For International Students?
Canada offers different types of scholarships for international students. Many Canadian universities, colleges, and organizations offer scholarships to international students who wish to study in Canada. As a student studying in Canada, you may receive full or partial scholarships for study.
The government of Canada also offers several scholarships for international students. The Canada Graduate Scholarships Program, the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships Program, and the Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship Program are some of the government scholarships for undergrads and postgraduates.
These scholarships provide funding for tuition fees, living expenses, and research expenses. In addition, various other organizations also offer scholarships to international students in Canada. Some of these scholarships are merit-based, so you must demonstrate excellent academic performance.
You should research the scholarships available in Canada for your study area and apply to those most suitable for your academic and financial needs.
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Scholarships For International Students In Canada
Before starting a scholarship search, you should know the different types of scholarships. Many Canadian universities offer scholarships for international students. You can categorize scholarships into two ways: need-based and merit-based.
Need-based scholarships are offered to students who need financial assistance to continue their studies. These scholarships are awarded to students from lower-income backgrounds. On the other hand, merit-based scholarships are awarded to students who have excellent academic track records.
Scholarships For High School Students
High school scholarships in Canada for international students are very rare but available. Some high schools offer scholarships for international students. Some popular high school scholarships are the TD Scholarship for Community Leadership, Loran Award, Centennial Scholarships, etc.
Scholarship For Undergrad Students
There are many undergrad scholarships for international students in Canada. Many international students come to Canada for higher studies after the 12th grade, and many of them opt for scholarships. Government, university, and private organization scholarships are available for international undergraduate students.
Canada Scholarships For Masters
Canada also offers various government scholarships for graduate students. Individual universities and private organizations also offer scholarships for master’s students. Some of these scholarships are very prestigious and awarded to great minds in different fields.
Ph.D. Scholarships In Canada
Many international students with excellent track records are awarded PhD scholarships each year. Most of these scholarships cover full tuition fees, accommodation costs, monthly stipends, health insurance, airfare, etc.
How To Apply For Scholarship In Canada?
Applying for a scholarship is a daunting task. You should be proactive and robust in every step. But most importantly, you must know the entire process of applying for a scholarship in Canada.
Let’s see the step-by-step process of how to apply for a scholarship in Canada:
Step 1: Research Scholarships
The first step in applying for a scholarship is to research available scholarships that match your qualifications, interests, and educational goals. You can research scholarships online, visit seminars, or attend various fairs where you will get adequate information regarding the scholarship.
Step 2: Apply For Scholarships
After finalizing the best scholarships that meet your needs, it’s time for you to apply for them. Every application will be different from the others, but all of them will ask you to submit a personal statement, letter of recommendation, academic transcription, etc.
Step 3: Follow Up
After submitting your scholarship applications, you must wait patiently and follow up with the scholarship provider. You have to make sure all your documents have been received. Remember, it’s a very crucial step in the application process.
Step 4: Prepare For The Scholarship Interview
Your scholarship provider may ask for a real-time interview with you. For international students, this interview is held virtually via videoconferencing. At this point, you should prepare yourself for the interview by studying the organization providing the scholarship, its work, and your study area.
Step 5: Maintain Eligibility
When you are awarded a scholarship, you must maintain your eligibility throughout your scholarship. You may need to maintain a certain grade point average or participate in extracurricular activities. Filing to maintain eligibility may result in dropping out of the scholarship.

Eligibility For Scholarship In Canada
There are specific scholarship requirements in Canada for international students. Most of these scholarships are offered by provincial governments, individual universities or colleges, the federal government, and private organizations.
Eligibility criteria vary for different scholarships, but you may get a scholarship available to international students studying in Canada if you meet the following requirements:
- Demonstrate an excellent academic track record
- Letter of Acceptance to a Canadian university or college
- Demonstration of potential leadership ability
- Participation in extracurricular activities and volunteering
- Contribution to the local community or campus
- Professional experience
- Membership in certain organizations
- Proof of financial need
- Specific area of study
Requirement For Scholarship In Canada
The requirements for a scholarship in Canada vary depending on the type of scholarship and the institution. However, there are some general requirements that all scholarship providers look into. Let’s see what they are:
Academic Excellence
Most international student scholarships in Canada require excellent academic records from students. As an international student applying for a scholarship in Canada, you must achieve high grades in your secondary and post-secondary studies.
Language Proficiency
To be admitted to a Canadian university or college and receive a scholarship, you must prove your English language proficiency. You can take English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
Financial Need
You may have to submit proof of financial need by providing supporting documents like bank statements, tax returns, etc. These documents are necessary if you apply for need-based scholarships.
Extracurricular Activities
Some scholarships in Canada require you to be involved with extracurricular activities. These can include volunteer activities, community work, and other activities outlined by the scholarship criteria.
Scholarships For International Students In Canada
The Canadian government, universities, private organizations, and other institutions offer many scholarships for international students. These scholarships are generally awarded based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial assistance.
The following table shows some of the best scholarships available in Canada for international students:
Scholarship Name | Awarded To | Scholarship Amount |
---|---|---|
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship | Ph.D. Students from all areas of study | CAD 50,000 per year for 3 years |
Ontario Trillium Scholarship | PhD students studying humanities and social sciences | CAD 40,000 per year for up to 4 years |
NSERC Postgraduate Scholarships | International students studying Natural Sciences & Engineering | CAD 17,500 per year for up to 4 years |
Trudeau Foundation Scholarships | Ph.D. students studying humanities and social sciences | CAD 60,000 per year for up to 4 years |
York International Scholarships | Students enrolled at York University | CAD 50,000 per year for up to 4 years |
SSHRC Doctoral Fellowships | International students studying Humanities & Social Sciences | CAD 35,000 per year for up to 3 years |
CIHR Doctoral Awards | International students studying Health Sciences | CAD 35,000 per year for up to 3 years |
CSS Masters Awards | Master’s students | CAD 17,500 for 1 year |
Mitacs Accelerate | Research internship program for international postgraduate students | CAD 15,000 per month for 4 months |
Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges | Students from ASEAN member countries | Varies (typically covers tuition and living expenses) |
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship | International PhD students studying in Ontario | Tuition and full residence support for 4 years |
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship | Students from Commonwealth countries pursuing master’s and doctoral studies | Varies based on program and level |

Frequently Asked Questions
How to get scholarship in Canada for international students?
Canada offers a variety of scholarships for international students for higher studies. The most popular and easiest way to apply for a scholarship is through the International Scholarship Program offered by the Canadian government. Universities and different organizations also offer many scholarships.
How to get full scholarship to study in Canada?
To get a full scholarship to study in Canada, you must research the full scholarships available in Canada and then apply to the most suitable ones. You must submit all the documents the scholarship providers require and fulfil all the criteria.
How much percentage is required for scholarship in Canada?
Different scholarships have different eligibility criteria. You have to have a certain GPA to become eligible for a scholarship. In most cases, Canadian universities and colleges ask for a minimum GPA of 3.0 or equivalent grade in your secondary and higher secondary.
Can I get scholarship through IELTS in Canada?
Most Canadian universities and colleges require an IELTS score to prove English language proficiency. So, an IELTS score is an essential factor in getting a scholarship in Canada for international students. However, it is not the only thing scholarship providers look for.
What amount of money is available through scholarships?
The amount of money available through scholarships in Canada for international students can vary significantly depending on the institution, program, and eligibility criteria. Scholarships can range from a few hundred dollars to full tuition coverage, with some prestigious awards offering additional financial support for living expenses.
Which scholarship is easy to get in Canada?
The CSS Masters Awards are easier for international students in Canada to obtain. They target master’s students and offer CAD 17,500 for one year. Applicants must show strong academic records and potential in their field. The application process is simpler and less competitive than major scholarships like the Vanier or Trudeau Scholarships, making it a good option for many.
What IELTS score is required for Canada scholarship?
Canadian scholarships typically require an overall IELTS score between 6.5 and 7.5. Most scholarships mandate a 6.5 overall score, with no individual section below 6.0. Highly competitive scholarships may demand scores of 7.0 or higher. Always check each scholarship’s official guidelines to confirm their specific IELTS requirements.
What GPA do you need for scholarships in Canada?
Most Canadian scholarships require a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Competitive scholarships might need higher grades, such as 3.5 or above. Review each scholarship’s specific requirements to confirm you meet the GPA standards.
Is It Easy to Get a Scholarship in Canada?
Securing a scholarship in Canada can be challenging. Scholarships are competitive and require excellent grades, leadership skills, and specific study areas. International students have many opportunities, but the application process is strict. Preparing strong applications, meeting all requirements, and submitting early improve your chances. Research available scholarships thoroughly to enhance your success.
Final Thoughts
Higher study in Canada is an excellent opportunity to widen your horizons and gain valuable experience that you can apply in your professional life. After knowing how to get scholarship to study in Canada, you can make the necessary preparations and make yourself eligible for a scholarship.