Canada is a top study destination for international students due to its high-quality education system, strong research universities, multicultural society, and relatively affordable tuition compared with other popular study regions. Additionally, Canadian institutions and government bodies provide numerous scholarships and financial awards for international students across undergraduate, master’s, and Ph.D. levels. These opportunities help reduce the cost of studying abroad, sometimes offering full financial support for tuition, living expenses, and related fees.
This guide covers the major scholarship opportunities available in Canada for international students in 2026, how they work, and direct links to where you can find application details and deadlines.
How Scholarships in Canada Work
Scholarships in Canada fall into several categories:
University-funded scholarships – offered directly by universities to attract global talent.
Government scholarships – funded by the Canadian government or provincial governments.
Research and merit awards – based on academic excellence or research potential.
Entrance awards – for incoming students with strong academic profiles.
Many scholarships also include additional allowances, such as living stipends, health insurance, and travel support.
Key Fully & Partially Funded Scholarships in Canada (2026)
Below are some of the top scholarships open to international students:
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (PhD)
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Level: PhD
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Coverage: CAD 50,000 per year for up to 3 years
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Description: One of Canada’s most generous research awards designed to attract world-class doctoral students. Nomination by a Canadian institution is required.
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
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Level: Undergraduate
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Coverage: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence support
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Description: Covers all study related costs at U of T for four years for outstanding international undergraduates.
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholarships
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Level: Undergraduate
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Coverage: Varies—can include full tuition and partial living support
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Details: UBC offers multiple awards including Outstanding International Student Award and International Major Entrance Scholarship.
4. University of Waterloo Scholarships
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Level: Undergraduate / Masters / PhD
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Coverage: Up to CAD $10,000 (may vary by award)
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Description: Waterloo University automatically considers international applicants for certain scholarships upon admission.
5. Université de Montréal Scholarships
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Level: Undergraduate / Masters / PhD
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Coverage: Tuition fee exemptions up to CAD $27,300 per year
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Description: Provides fee waivers that make study affordable across many programs.
6. University of Saskatchewan Graduate Scholarship
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Level: Masters / PhD
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Coverage: Up to around CAD $20,000 (PhD) & CAD $16,000 (Masters)
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Description: Supports research and graduate study with competitive funding.
7. McGill University Scholarships
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Level: Undergraduate / Masters / PhD
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Coverage: Various scholarships and awards available
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Description: Offers multiple awards that can include full or partial funding; some include living stipends and need-based options.
8. Dalhousie University Scholarships
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Level: Masters / PhD
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Coverage: Up to around CAD $30,000 (plus monthly stipend, accommodation support, fee waivers, and health insurance)
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Description: Provides comprehensive graduate funding.
9. University Canada West Scholarships
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Level: Undergraduate / Masters
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Coverage: Up to CAD $20,000 (UG) & $10,000 (Masters)
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Description: Merit-based financial awards for international students.
10. York University Scholarships
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Level: Undergraduate
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Coverage: Up to approx. CAD $35,000 per year (renewable)
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Description: Supports first-year students with one of the most generous entrance scholarships in Canada.
Eligibility Criteria Overview
Eligibility varies by scholarship, but common requirements include:
Academic Merit: Strong GPA or research performance
Language Proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL (varies by university)
Admission Offer: Many require an official letter of acceptance
Research Proposal: Required for graduate research awards
Tip: Some universities automatically consider international applicants for scholarships based on their application—no separate scholarship form is needed.
Application Deadlines (2026 Intake)
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Many university awards for fall 2026 close between November 2025 and March 2026
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Research and graduate awards often require nomination and internal deadlines earlier than public deadlines
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Always check official university pages for precise dates
How to Apply
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Choose your program and university
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Confirm scholarship categories and eligibility
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Prepare academic and supporting documents
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Submit your admission and scholarship applications online
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Monitor communications and prepare for interviews if required
Official university pages typically list step-by-step application guidance and links for submission.
Conclusion
Canada’s educational landscape offers diverse and generous scholarship opportunities for international students in 2026 across top universities and government-aligned awards. From fully funded doctoral programs like Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships to extensive undergraduate support at institutions such as the University of Toronto and UBC, global students can secure significant financial aid to pursue their academic goals in Canada. Careful preparation, meeting eligibility criteria, and applying early can enhance your success chances.