Canada has emerged as one of the most sought-after destinations for higher education due to its globally recognized universities, multicultural environment, and research opportunities. However, international students often face financial challenges when pursuing studies abroad. Fully funded scholarships provide an excellent solution by covering tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes travel costs. In 2025, several scholarships in Canada are available for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs, offering students an opportunity to study without financial constraints. This article highlights the top 10 fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students.
Benefits of Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada
Studying in Canada on a fully funded scholarship comes with numerous advantages:
- Comprehensive Financial Support: Covers tuition fees, accommodation, books, health insurance, and travel allowances.
- Academic Excellence: Provides access to world-class research facilities and faculty.
- Professional Growth: Offers networking, internships, and leadership opportunities.
- Cultural Exposure: Enables interaction with students from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada
| Scholarship Name | Level | Coverage | Eligibility | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships | PhD | CAD 50,000/year | International PhD students in research programs | November 1, 2025 |
| Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship | Undergraduate | Full tuition, living costs, books | Outstanding high school students | December 15, 2025 |
| Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship | Masters/PhD | Tuition, travel, living allowance | Students from Commonwealth countries | January 31, 2025 |
| Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships | PhD | CAD 60,000/year | Social sciences and humanities international students | November 5, 2025 |
| Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) | Masters/PhD | Up to CAD 15,000/year | Academic excellence and research potential | Varies by institution |
| University of British Columbia International Leader of Tomorrow | Undergraduate | Tuition, living, books | Exceptional international students | January 15, 2025 |
| York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Scholarship | Undergraduate | Full tuition and living expenses | High academic achievement and leadership | February 1, 2025 |
| Alberta Innovates Graduate Student Scholarship | Masters/PhD | CAD 18,000/year | Students pursuing research in Alberta | March 1, 2025 |
| McGill University International Tuition Award | Undergraduate/Masters | Partial to full tuition | International students with strong academics | Varies by program |
| Mitacs Globalink Research Internship | Undergraduate/Graduate | Travel, stipend, research funding | Students participating in research projects in Canada | January 31, 2025 |
Detailed Overview of Selected Scholarships
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Vanier Scholarships are designed for doctoral students with exceptional research potential and leadership qualities. Each recipient receives CAD 50,000 per year for up to three years, making it one of Canada’s most prestigious PhD scholarships.
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
Offered by the University of Toronto, this scholarship targets high-achieving high school students demonstrating leadership and creativity. It covers tuition, books, residence, and living expenses for four years of undergraduate study.
3. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
This program supports students from Commonwealth countries for master’s and PhD studies. Scholarships include tuition fees, living allowance, and travel costs. Applicants are evaluated on academic excellence and potential contribution to their home country.
4. Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
Aimed at doctoral students in social sciences and humanities, this scholarship provides CAD 60,000 annually for three years. It emphasizes leadership, research excellence, and social impact.
5. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
OGS supports both domestic and international graduate students in Ontario. Scholarships are merit-based and range up to CAD 15,000 per year. Renewal depends on academic performance and research progress.
6. University of British Columbia International Leader of Tomorrow Award
UBC’s scholarship supports exceptional undergraduate students, covering tuition, living expenses, and books. Selection criteria include academic performance, leadership, and community involvement.
7. York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Scholarship
This scholarship is offered to undergraduate students with outstanding academic records and leadership skills. It covers tuition and living costs, enabling recipients to focus fully on their studies.
8. Alberta Innovates Graduate Student Scholarship
Alberta Innovates provides funding for master’s and PhD students conducting research in Alberta. Scholarships include CAD 18,000 per year and aim to encourage innovation and research excellence.
9. McGill University International Tuition Award
McGill University offers tuition awards to international students based on academic merit. Awards vary from partial to full tuition, depending on the program and student performance.
10. Mitacs Globalink Research Internship
Mitacs provides research funding, travel support, and a stipend for undergraduate and graduate students participating in research projects across Canada. The program enhances research experience and global collaboration.
Tips to Improve Scholarship Chances
- Maintain High Academic Performance: Most scholarships prioritize excellent academic records.
- Prepare a Strong Personal Statement: Clearly explain goals, achievements, and motivation.
- Obtain Strong References: Letters from professors or supervisors familiar with your work improve your application.
- Highlight Leadership and Extracurricular Activities: Demonstrates your holistic development.
- Apply Early: Start preparation well before deadlines to ensure a complete application.
Overview Table
| Scholarship | Level | Coverage | Deadline | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships | PhD | CAD 50,000/year | Nov 1, 2025 | Research & Leadership |
| Lester B. Pearson | Undergraduate | Tuition + living + books | Dec 15, 2025 | Academics & Leadership |
| Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship | Masters/PhD | Tuition + travel + living | Jan 31, 2025 | Commonwealth Students |
| Trudeau Foundation | PhD | CAD 60,000/year | Nov 5, 2025 | Social Sciences & Humanities |
| OGS | Masters/PhD | Up to CAD 15,000/year | Varies | Academic Excellence |
| UBC Leader of Tomorrow | Undergraduate | Tuition + living + books | Jan 15, 2025 | Academic Excellence & Leadership |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are these scholarships open to all nationalities?
Most scholarships accept international students, though some are country-specific.
Q2: Do these scholarships cover living expenses?
Yes, many scholarships provide living allowances in addition to tuition.
Q3: Can PhD students apply for undergraduate scholarships?
No, scholarships are specific to the level of study, e.g., undergraduate, master’s, or PhD.
Conclusion
Fully funded scholarships in Canada provide international students with opportunities to study at top universities without financial constraints. With proper research, preparation, and timely applications, students can secure scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs. These scholarships not only ease financial burden but also enhance academic and professional growth, opening doors to global opportunities and leadership development.