Scholarships in Canada for International Students: Complete Guide

Canada is a popular study destination for students from around the world. Canadian universities, colleges, governments, and other organizations offer a range of scholarships and funding opportunities for international students.

Scholarships can help reduce the cost of studying abroad, but the amount and type of financial support can vary considerably. Some opportunities provide funding for short-term study or research, while others may offer tuition assistance or other financial support.

The Government of Canada’s official EduCanada website provides a scholarship search tool and information about funding opportunities for international applicants.

This guide explains how international students can find scholarships in Canada, where to search, what types of funding may be available, how eligibility works, and how to prepare a stronger application.

Why Study in Canada?

Canada has universities, colleges, and other post-secondary institutions offering programs across many academic fields.

International students can choose from programs in areas such as:

• Business
• Engineering
• Computer science
• Medicine and health sciences
• Education
• Social sciences
• Environmental studies
• Arts and humanities
• Natural sciences

The cost of studying in Canada depends on your program, institution, and level of study. EduCanada notes that tuition fees vary according to the level of study, program, and school.

Scholarships can therefore be an important part of planning your education budget.

Are Scholarships Available for International Students in Canada?

Yes.

The Government of Canada’s EduCanada website has a dedicated section for scholarships for international applicants. It currently lists programs such as:

• Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program
• Study in Canada Scholarships
• SEED-2
• Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program
• Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030
• Organization of American States Academic Scholarships Program

Eligibility differs between programs, and some are available only to students from particular countries or regions.

Universities and colleges in Canada also offer their own scholarships and awards.

Where Can You Find Scholarships in Canada?

There are several places to search.

1. EduCanada

EduCanada is the official Government of Canada source for international students and researchers interested in studying in Canada.

Its scholarship section allows students to search for scholarship opportunities and learn about different funding programs.

The search tool allows users to consider factors such as citizenship, profile, and country or territory when looking for opportunities.

This should be one of the first places international students check.

2. Canadian University Websites

Universities may offer scholarships directly to international students.

When visiting a university website, look for sections such as:

• International scholarships
• Scholarships and awards
• Financial aid
• Graduate funding
• Undergraduate scholarships
• Research funding
• International student funding

Some awards may be considered automatically when you apply for admission, while others require a separate application.

Always read the individual university’s instructions.

3. Government Scholarship Programs

The Canadian government supports several international scholarship and exchange programs.

However, these programs do not all work in the same way.

Some require a Canadian institution to nominate or apply on behalf of an international student rather than allowing the student to submit a direct application.

For example, the current Study in Canada Scholarships program is administered through eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions, and individual international students cannot apply directly through the program.

This is an important point to check before preparing an application.

4. Faculty and Department Websites

Students applying for graduate or research programs should also check the department or faculty offering their program.

Funding may be available through:

• Research projects
• Graduate awards
• Department scholarships
• Research assistantships
• Faculty awards
• Other academic funding

These opportunities may not always appear on a university’s main scholarship page.
If you are just starting your scholarship search, read our guide on How to Find Scholarships Online.

Major Canadian Scholarship Programs for International Students

Canada has several government-supported scholarship programs. However, each one has its own target countries, academic levels, and application procedures.

Study in Canada Scholarships

The Study in Canada Scholarships program is funded by Global Affairs Canada.

It provides opportunities for eligible international students to undertake short-term study or research in Canada.

For the 2026–27 cycle, the program provides opportunities lasting approximately 4 to 6 months and can include support such as airfare, selected living expenses, health insurance, and visa or study/work permit fees, depending on the program terms.

An important point is that Canadian post-secondary institutions apply for this program and identify eligible participants. Individual students do not apply directly.

Students interested in this program should therefore check whether their home institution and a Canadian partner institution participate.

Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program

The Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP) supports students from eligible countries and territories in Latin America and the Caribbean for short-term study or research opportunities in Canada.

It is one of the international scholarship programs listed by EduCanada.

Because eligibility and participating institutions can change between cycles, students should check the current official information before applying.

SEED-2

The Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development – Phase 2 (SEED-2) program supports students from eligible countries in the Indo-Pacific region.

The current program includes students from ASEAN member states, Pacific Island countries, and Mongolia for short-term study or research in Canada.

As with other Global Affairs Canada programs, students should carefully check the application procedure because Canadian institutions may be responsible for submitting applications.

Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program

Canada also operates an official exchange program for eligible Chinese scholars.

The program supports research opportunities in Canada and is part of the international scholarship programs listed by EduCanada.

Eligibility and application requirements should be checked through the official program information.

Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030

EduCanada also lists Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 among its programs for international applicants.

The program supports professionals and scholars from selected countries to study and train in Canada, with a focus connected to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Students should check the current eligibility criteria and participating countries before considering this opportunity.

University Scholarships in Canada

Government programs are only one part of the Canadian scholarship landscape.

Many Canadian universities provide their own funding opportunities for international students.

When choosing a university, check:

• International entrance scholarships
• Merit scholarships
• Graduate awards
• Faculty scholarships
• Research funding
• Department awards
• Tuition awards
• Need-based assistance, where available

Some awards may be based on academic performance, while others may consider leadership, community involvement, research, or other achievements.

Scholarships for Bachelor’s Students

International undergraduate students should search individual Canadian universities for entrance scholarships and other awards.

Possible criteria may include:

• Academic performance
• Leadership
• Extracurricular activities
• Community involvement
• Nationality
• Intended program
• Other achievements

The amount of funding can vary significantly.

Some scholarships may reduce tuition costs, while others may provide a fixed financial award.

Don’t assume that an undergraduate scholarship is fully funded unless the official university information clearly states what expenses are covered.

Scholarships for Master’s Students

Canada offers a range of funding possibilities for postgraduate students.

Master’s students should consider:

• University scholarships
• Faculty awards
• Department funding
• Research-based funding
• Government programs
• International scholarship programs

Your academic background, intended field, research interests, and university can all influence which opportunities are available.

Scholarships for PhD Students

Doctoral students should search beyond general scholarship websites.

Look for:

• PhD scholarships
• Doctoral awards
• Research funding
• Graduate fellowships
• Faculty funding
• Department funding
• Research assistant opportunities
• University-specific awards

For research-based programs, contacting the relevant department and reviewing faculty funding information can be particularly useful.

Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada

Before applying, it is important to understand what “fully funded” actually means. Read our Complete Guide to Fully Funded Scholarships for more information.
Some Canadian scholarships can provide substantial financial support, but not every scholarship in Canada is fully funded.

Funding can potentially include:

• Tuition
• Living expenses
• Travel
• Health insurance
• Books and supplies
• Research expenses
• Other approved costs

The exact benefits depend on the individual scholarship.

For example, the current Study in Canada Scholarships program can include airfare, selected living expenses, health insurance, and visa or permit fees, but it is designed for short-term study or research rather than automatically funding an entire degree.

Therefore, students should always read the official funding description rather than relying on the phrase “fully funded.”

Scholarships for Pakistani Students in Canada

Pakistani students should search both Canadian university scholarships and programs that specifically include Pakistan or broader international regions.

A good starting point is the official EduCanada scholarship search because eligibility can depend on citizenship, profile, and the particular program.

Pakistani students should also check individual university websites because university-specific scholarships can have different requirements from government programs.

When searching, try terms such as:

Scholarships in Canada for Pakistani students

Canadian scholarships for international students from Pakistan

Master’s scholarships in Canada for Pakistani students

PhD scholarships in Canada for Pakistani students

However, always verify the opportunity on the official university or scholarship-provider website.

What Are the Requirements for Canadian Scholarships?

Requirements vary between scholarships.

Common criteria can include:

• Academic qualifications
• Minimum grades
• Nationality
• Degree level
• Field of study
• Admission to a Canadian institution
• Research experience
• Leadership
• Community involvement
• Professional experience
• English or French language requirements

Some programs are restricted to particular countries or regions.

For example, EduCanada’s international scholarship programs have different geographic eligibility requirements.

Never assume that you qualify simply because you found a scholarship online.

Do You Need IELTS for Canadian Scholarships?

There is no single IELTS requirement that applies to every scholarship in Canada.

Language requirements can depend on:

• University
• Program
• Degree level
• Scholarship
• Previous education
• Language of instruction
• Applicant’s circumstances

Some universities may accept other approved English-language tests.

Others may have specific exemptions.

Always check the language requirements of the university and program you are applying to.

How to Apply for Scholarships in Canada

The application process depends on the scholarship. For additional help preparing your application, explore our Scholarship Application Guides

A typical process may involve:

Step 1: Choose Your Program

Decide what you want to study and which Canadian universities offer the program.

Step 2: Check Your Eligibility

Review nationality, academic, degree-level, language, and other requirements.

Step 3: Search for Funding

Use EduCanada, university websites, faculties, departments, and other reliable sources.

Step 4: Check the Application Method

This is especially important.

Some scholarships accept direct applications from students.

Others require a Canadian university or another institution to submit the application.

The Government of Canada’s current scholarship guidance specifically notes that international students cannot directly apply for certain Global Affairs Canada programs and that Canadian host institutions apply on their behalf.

Step 5: Prepare Your Documents

You may need:

• Passport
• Academic transcripts
• Degree certificates
• CV
• Personal statement
• Scholarship essay
• Recommendation letters
• Proof of language ability
• Admission documents
• Research proposal

Requirements vary. You can also learn more about preparing important application materials in our Personal Statement & Documents guide.

Step 6: Submit Before the Deadline

Record the deadline and allow enough time to review the application.

How to Improve Your Chances

Canadian scholarships can be competitive.

You can improve your application by:

• Choosing scholarships that match your profile
• Starting early
• Maintaining strong academic records
• Preparing a focused personal statement
• Explaining your goals clearly
• Highlighting meaningful achievements
• Choosing suitable recommenders
• Following every application instruction
• Checking your documents carefully
• Applying to several suitable opportunities

Don’t simply submit the same application to every scholarship.

Adapt your application to the specific scholarship and institution.
For more practical advice, see our Scholarship Tips for Students.

Don’t Focus Only on Fully Funded Scholarships

Students sometimes search only for scholarships that cover every expense.

That can unnecessarily limit the number of opportunities they consider.

A partial scholarship can still reduce your overall education costs.

For example, a university award that reduces tuition may become valuable when combined with personal savings, family support, assistantship funding, or another legitimate source of financial assistance.

Compare the total cost of studying with the total funding package rather than judging a scholarship only by its title.

How to Organize Your Canadian Scholarship Search

Create a simple spreadsheet.

Scholarship	University	Degree	Funding	Deadline	Status
Scholarship A	University	Master’s	Tuition support	Date	Researching
Scholarship B	University	PhD	Funding package	Date	Preparing
Scholarship C	University	Bachelor’s	Award	Date	Checking

You can also record:

• Official website
• Eligibility
• Application method
• Required documents
• Language requirements
• Deadline
• Application status
• Date submitted

This can make managing several applications much easier.

Be Careful With Scholarship Scams

Students searching for scholarships online should be careful about fraudulent offers.

Be suspicious if someone claims:

• You have won a scholarship you never applied for
• Your scholarship is guaranteed
• You must pay a large upfront fee
• You need to provide banking information to receive an award
• You must pay immediately to secure funding

Always verify a scholarship through the official university, Canadian government, or scholarship-provider website.

A social media post or third-party website can help you discover an opportunity, but it should not be your final source for eligibility, funding, or deadlines.

How to Verify a Canadian Scholarship

Before applying, check:

1. Who provides the scholarship?
2. Is there an official website?
3. Is the university or organization legitimate?
4. Are the eligibility requirements clearly published?
5. Is the deadline clearly stated?
6. Does the funding information make sense?
7. Is the application method explained?
8. Does the information match the official source?

For Canadian government-supported opportunities, EduCanada is an important official source.

A Simple Strategy for Finding Scholarships in Canada

If you are starting your search, follow this process.

Step 1: Decide What You Want to Study

Choose your:

• Degree
• Subject
• Preferred province or city
• Preferred universities

Step 2: Understand Your Profile

Record:

• Nationality
• Academic qualifications
• Grades
• Degree level
• Field of study
• Language qualifications
• Work experience
• Research experience
• Extracurricular activities

Step 3: Search EduCanada

Use the official scholarship search tool to identify programs that may match your profile.

Step 4: Search University Websites

Check the scholarship and funding pages of your preferred Canadian institutions.

Step 5: Check the Application Method

Determine whether you apply yourself or whether a Canadian institution must submit the application.

Step 6: Compare Funding

Write down exactly what each scholarship provides.

Step 7: Prepare Your Documents

Prepare your CV, transcripts, personal statement, essays, recommendations, and other required documents.

Step 8: Verify Everything

Check the official provider’s website before submitting your application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can international students get scholarships in Canada?

Yes. Canada offers scholarship opportunities for international students through government programs, universities, and other organizations. EduCanada maintains a dedicated section for international applicants.

What is the best scholarship in Canada for international students?

There is no single best scholarship for everyone. The right opportunity depends on your nationality, degree, field, university, academic background, and eligibility.

Are fully funded scholarships available in Canada?

Some Canadian scholarship programs provide substantial financial support, but funding differs between programs. Always check exactly which costs are covered.

Can Pakistani students get scholarships in Canada?

Yes. Pakistani students can explore scholarships for international applicants and university-specific funding. Eligibility depends on the individual program.

Can I get a Bachelor’s scholarship in Canada?

Yes. Some Canadian universities offer scholarships and awards to international undergraduate students. Check individual university requirements.

Can I get a Master’s scholarship in Canada?

Yes. Master’s students can explore university, faculty, departmental, research, and other funding opportunities.

Are PhD scholarships available in Canada?

Yes. Doctoral students can find university and research-based funding opportunities, although eligibility and funding structures vary.

Can I study in Canada with a scholarship?

A scholarship may reduce your education costs, but you should not assume that it will cover every expense. Review the complete funding package and Canada’s current study-permit financial requirements before making plans. EduCanada also advises international students to budget for study and living expenses.

Can I apply directly for every Canadian government scholarship?

No. Application procedures differ. For example, the current Study in Canada Scholarships program requires Canadian post-secondary institutions to apply, rather than individual international students applying directly.

Final Thoughts

Finding scholarships in Canada requires careful research, but international students have several potential sources of financial support.

Start with official resources such as EduCanada, then explore university scholarship pages, faculty funding, department opportunities, and relevant government programs.

Don’t assume that every scholarship covers the same expenses. Compare tuition support, living assistance, travel benefits, research funding, and other costs before making your decision.

Most importantly, always verify current eligibility requirements, deadlines, funding details, and application procedures through the official scholarship provider.

Start early, keep your applications organized, and apply only for opportunities that genuinely match your profile.

If you’re also considering studying in the UK, read our guide to Scholarships in the UK for International Students.

For more scholarship advice, explore our Scholarship Guides for help with finding scholarships, preparing applications, writing essays, personal statements, and organizing important documents.