Canada offers a plethora of scholarships for international students looking to pursue short courses, and undergraduate, master’s, and Ph.D. degree programs at top Canadian universities. Thousands of scholarships are available for the academic year 2024-2025, ranging from funded to fully funded opportunities. This article will delve into the top 10 scholarships in Canada, covering their benefits, eligibility criteria, academic programs, and application processes for 2024-2025.
Canada is a highly sought-after destination for international education, with around 640,000 overseas students. It ranks third after the United States and the United Kingdom. The demand for Canadian education is understandable, given the country’s excellent quality of life and top-tier universities. Despite not being the most expensive country for education, the cost of studying in Canada can be high, particularly in cities like Toronto and Vancouver. Therefore, scholarships can significantly alleviate the financial burden for students.
Here is a detailed look at the top 10 scholarships in Canada for 2024-2025:
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
The Vanier CGS is a prestigious scholarship funded by the Canadian government, designed to attract the best Ph.D. students worldwide. It is awarded to students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and research potential. Each year, 166 scholarships are distributed across three councils: the Institute of Health, the Natural Science & Engineering Research Council, and the Social Science & Humanities Research Council.
Scholarship Amount: CAD 50,000 per year for three years
Eligible Degree: Doctorate
Application Requirements:
- Researchnet application form
- Common CV
- Leadership statement
- Research contributions
- Special circumstances statement
- Two letters of reference
- Research proposal
- Project references
- Transcript of records
2. Ontario Trillium Scholarship
This scholarship is available to outstanding international students pursuing a Ph.D. at Ontario’s top universities. Candidates must have an average of 80% in the last two years of study and demonstrate significant research potential.
Scholarship Amount: CAD 40,000 per year for four years
Eligible Degree: Full-time doctorate degrees at Ontario-based institutions
Application Requirements:
- Transcripts
- Academic intent
- Letters of recommendation
- Supporting documentation
3. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship
Named after the former Canadian Prime Minister, this scholarship supports Ph.D. students focusing on the foundation’s four themes: Human Rights and Dignity, People and the Natural Environment, Responsible Citizenship, and Canada and the World.
Scholarship Amount: CAD 40,000 per year for three years
Eligible Degree: Full-time doctorate in the foundation’s themes
Application Requirements:
- Acceptance into a Canadian doctoral program
- Academic achievement
- Commitment, leadership, and involvement
- Agility and resilience
4. Lester B. Pearson International Student Scholarships
This scholarship is awarded to international students with outstanding academic and leadership qualities. It covers tuition, books, lodging, and other fees for the duration of the program at the University of Toronto.
Scholarship Amount: Full tuition for four years
Eligible Degree: Bachelor’s degree at the University of Toronto
Application Requirements:
- Nomination by high school counselor
- Admission to the University of Toronto
5. Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award
This award is for international students entering their first baccalaureate degree at the University of British Columbia, who demonstrate leadership in community service and student affairs.
Scholarship Amount: Proportional to financial need
Eligible Degree: Bachelor’s degree at the University of British Columbia
Application Requirements:
- Leadership in community service and student affairs
- Academic excellence
6. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
Awarded to two students annually, this scholarship recognizes international students with outstanding academic achievements. It is renewable each year, provided the student maintains a GPA of 2.60 or higher.
Scholarship Amount: CAD 15,000 per year
Eligible Degree: Bachelor’s degree at the University of Calgary
Application Requirements:
- Meeting English proficiency requirements
- Academic achievement
7. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF)
UMGF offers fellowships to academically excellent master’s or Ph.D. students at the University of Manitoba. Candidates must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and be recommended by their departments.
Scholarship Amount: CAD 14,000 per year for master’s students, CAD 18,000 per year for Ph.D. students
Eligible Degree: Full-time master’s and doctorate degrees at the University of Manitoba
Application Requirements:
- Department recommendation
- Academic excellence
8. International Undergraduate Leadership Scholarships
This scholarship is awarded to 50 international students annually who demonstrate contributions to the arts, athletics, and community service. Candidates must be nominated by their high schools and meet academic performance standards.
Scholarship Amount: CAD 10,000 per year for four years
Eligible Degree: Bachelor’s degree at York University Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies
Application Requirements:
- High school nomination
- Academic performance
- Leadership evidence
9. University of British Columbia (UBC) Public Scholars Award
Awarded to 30-40 Ph.D. students annually, this scholarship supports those whose research benefits the public. Candidates must submit a detailed study proposal and other supporting documents.
Scholarship Amount: CAD 10,000 per year for two years
Eligible Degree: Doctorate at UBC
Application Requirements:
- Fellowship application form
- Study proposal
- Canadian Common CV
- Letter of support
10. Ontario Graduate Scholarships
This merit-based scholarship is offered by the Government of Ontario and partner schools to graduate students. It lasts for one to two years, with a maximum six-year lifetime limit.
Scholarship Amount: CAD 10,000 for two terms to CAD 15,000 for three terms
Eligible Degree: Master’s and doctorate degrees at Ontario-based institutions
Application Requirements:
- Enrollment in a full-time graduate program
- Separate applications for multiple institutions
Conclusion
These scholarships provide incredible opportunities for international students to pursue higher education in Canada without the financial burden. Each scholarship has its own set of criteria and application processes, so it’s essential to carefully review and apply for those that best suit your academic goals and achievements. For more information about studying in Canada, visit the official scholarship websites provided.