Canada is a leading destination for international students due to its high-quality education, multicultural environment, and strong research opportunities. However, tuition fees and living expenses can be significant barriers for many students. Full tuition and living expense scholarships provide international students with the opportunity to study in Canada without financial concerns, covering tuition, accommodation, living costs, health insurance, and sometimes travel allowances. In 2025, several prestigious scholarships offer complete financial support for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies.
Advantages of Full Tuition and Living Expense Scholarships
Receiving a scholarship that covers both tuition and living expenses provides multiple benefits:
- Financial Freedom: No need to worry about tuition or day-to-day expenses.
- Focus on Academics: Enables students to concentrate fully on studies and research.
- Access to Quality Education: Study at top Canadian universities with world-class faculty.
- Global Networking: Connect with students from diverse backgrounds.
- Professional Growth: Opportunities for internships, research projects, and leadership roles.
Top Full Tuition + Living Expense Scholarships in Canada 2025
| Scholarship Name | Level | Coverage | Eligibility | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships | PhD | CAD 50,000/year + research support | International PhD students with research excellence | Nov 1, 2025 |
| Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship | Undergraduate | Full tuition + living + books | High-achieving high school students | Dec 15, 2025 |
| Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships | PhD | CAD 60,000/year + living allowance | Social sciences & humanities PhD students | Nov 5, 2025 |
| University of British Columbia International Leader of Tomorrow | Undergraduate | Tuition + living + books | Exceptional international students | Jan 15, 2025 |
| York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Scholarship | Undergraduate | Full tuition + living expenses | Academic excellence and leadership | Feb 1, 2025 |
| Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship | Masters/PhD | Tuition + travel + living allowance | Students from Commonwealth countries | Jan 31, 2025 |
Detailed Overview of Key Scholarships
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
The Vanier Scholarship is designed for international doctoral students demonstrating exceptional academic achievement and research potential. It provides CAD 50,000 annually for up to three years and includes support for research-related expenses. Candidates are nominated by Canadian universities and selected based on leadership and research excellence.
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
Offered by the University of Toronto, this scholarship covers full tuition, residence, books, and living expenses for four years of undergraduate study. It targets high-achieving high school students with leadership skills and a strong commitment to community service.
3. Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
Trudeau Foundation Scholarships support doctoral students in social sciences and humanities. Recipients receive CAD 60,000 per year for up to three years along with mentorship, networking opportunities, and a living allowance. Selection emphasizes leadership, research impact, and academic excellence.
4. University of British Columbia International Leader of Tomorrow Award
UBC’s scholarship targets outstanding undergraduate students from around the world. It covers full tuition, living costs, and books. Candidates are selected based on academic performance, leadership, and community involvement.
5. York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Scholarship
This scholarship supports undergraduate students with exceptional academic achievement and leadership skills. It covers full tuition and living expenses, enabling students to focus entirely on their education and extracurricular development.
6. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship
Funded by Global Affairs Canada, this scholarship is available for students from Commonwealth countries pursuing Masters or PhD programs in Canada. It covers tuition, travel, and living expenses. Selection criteria include academic excellence, leadership potential, and the potential to contribute to the development of the applicant’s home country.
Tips to Secure Full Tuition and Living Expense Scholarships
- Maintain Academic Excellence: High grades and strong academic achievements are crucial.
- Prepare a Strong Statement of Purpose: Clearly convey your goals, motivation, and accomplishments.
- Obtain Strong Recommendations: Letters from professors or mentors strengthen your application.
- Show Leadership and Extracurricular Involvement: Participation in community, research, or leadership activities is valued.
- Apply Early: Begin preparing documents well in advance to meet scholarship deadlines.
How to Apply
- Research Scholarships: Identify those offering full tuition and living expense coverage aligned with your academic goals.
- Prepare Required Documents: Academic transcripts, personal statements, letters of recommendation, and proof of English or French proficiency (if required).
- Submit Applications: Follow the official guidelines of each scholarship carefully.
- Attend Interviews (if applicable): Some scholarships may require interviews or additional evaluations.
- Acceptance and Enrollment: Complete visa procedures and university enrollment after selection.
Overview Table
| Scholarship | Level | Coverage | Duration | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships | PhD | CAD 50,000/year + research support | 3 years | Nov 1, 2025 |
| Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship | Undergraduate | Tuition + living + books | 4 years | Dec 15, 2025 |
| Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships | PhD | CAD 60,000/year + living | 3 years | Nov 5, 2025 |
| UBC International Leader of Tomorrow | Undergraduate | Tuition + living + books | 4 years | Jan 15, 2025 |
| York University Global Leader of Tomorrow | Undergraduate | Full tuition + living | 4 years | Feb 1, 2025 |
| Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship | Masters/PhD | Tuition + travel + living | 1–2 years | Jan 31, 2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do these scholarships cover both tuition and living expenses?
Yes, these scholarships provide full tuition and living cost coverage.
Q2: Can international students apply for these scholarships?
Yes, most scholarships are open to international students from around the world.
Q3: Are these scholarships renewable?
Many scholarships, like Vanier and UBC awards, are renewable based on academic performance and progress in research or study.
Conclusion
Full tuition and living expense scholarships in Canada provide international students with the opportunity to pursue higher education without financial stress. By maintaining excellent academics, preparing strong applications, and applying early, students can secure scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and other essential costs. These scholarships not only provide financial relief but also open doors to research, leadership, and professional growth, making Canada a top choice for ambitious students in 2025.