Canada has rapidly become one of the world’s most attractive destinations for international students. Known for its top-ranked universities, multicultural society, and high quality of life, Canada offers more than just an education—it provides a pathway to opportunity, growth, and even permanent residency.
One of the most compelling reasons students choose Canada is its abundance of fully funded scholarships and student-friendly visa programs. These financial aids not only cover tuition fees but also living costs, travel expenses, and sometimes even health insurance. For those dreaming of studying in Canada without the burden of debt, this guide will walk you through Canada’s best fully funded scholarships and the visas that make them possible.
Why Choose Canada for Higher Education?
Before diving into scholarships, let’s briefly understand why Canada is such a popular academic hub:
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World-Class Institutions: Home to prestigious universities like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and University of British Columbia.
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Affordable Living: Compared to the U.S. or U.K., Canada offers relatively lower tuition and living costs.
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Multicultural Environment: Welcoming to immigrants and international students from all over the world.
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Post-Study Work Opportunities: Up to 3 years of work visa after graduation through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
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Pathway to PR: International students can easily transition to permanent residency through programs like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada for International Students (2025)
Let’s explore the best scholarships available that offer full funding for tuition, living, and more.
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
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Level: PhD
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Value: $50,000 per year for 3 years
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Eligibility: Academic excellence, research potential, leadership
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Host Institutions: All Canadian universities
Funded by the Canadian government, Vanier CGS is one of the most prestigious scholarships for doctoral studies. It’s highly competitive and designed for students with exceptional academic and leadership credentials.
Deadline: November 2024 (check with university-specific deadlines)
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
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Level: Undergraduate
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Value: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for 4 years
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Eligibility: Exceptional academic achievement and leadership
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Open To: International students
One of the most comprehensive scholarships in Canada, it covers almost every expense for undergraduate studies. Around 37 students are selected each year.
Deadline: School nomination deadline in November; student application by mid-January 2025
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
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Level: Undergraduate
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Value: Fully funded based on financial need and merit
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Programs: International Leader of Tomorrow Award & Donald A. Wehrung Award
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Open To: International students with academic merit and financial need
UBC’s International Scholars Program supports promising students who would not be able to study in Canada otherwise. It’s renewable each year based on academic performance.
Deadline: December 2024
4. University of Alberta Graduate Entrance Scholarships
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Level: Master's and PhD
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Value: Up to CAD 30,000 (includes tuition and living allowance)
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Eligibility: High academic standing, research proposal
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Open To: International graduate students
UAlberta offers a variety of internal awards and research-based scholarships for international students, many of which are fully funded and come with visa and work support.
Deadline: Varies by department (most between January–March 2025)
5. McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill University
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Level: Master’s and Professional degrees
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Value: Full tuition, $2,000 monthly stipend, relocation and travel grants
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Open To: All international students
This scholarship focuses on leadership, character, and academic strength. The McCall MacBain Scholarship is one of Canada’s most comprehensive for master’s programs.
Deadline: September 2024 (international), December 2024 (Canadian)
6. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
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Level: PhD (Humanities and Social Sciences)
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Value: Up to $60,000/year for 3 years
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Includes: Tuition, travel, living expenses, leadership training
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Open To: International students accepted into Canadian PhD programs
This scholarship is not only financially generous but also connects scholars with mentors and leadership networks.
Deadline: December 2024
Popular Canadian Visa Programs for International Students
Getting a scholarship is one part of the equation. You also need a valid study visa, which enables you to study, work part-time, and potentially stay in Canada after graduation.
Here are the most relevant visa options:
1. Canada Study Permit
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Required For: Any course longer than 6 months
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Includes: Off-campus work rights (up to 20 hours/week during classes)
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Eligibility: Letter of acceptance, proof of funds, medical and police clearances
Students with fully funded scholarships often receive expedited approvals, as funding removes financial risk in the eyes of visa officers.
2. Student Direct Stream (SDS)
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Eligibility: Citizens of India, China, Philippines, Vietnam, Senegal, Morocco, and others
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Processing Time: 20 calendar days (fast-track)
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Requirements: Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC), IELTS score of 6.0+, full tuition payment
If you're from one of the eligible countries and have a scholarship or funds ready, SDS is the fastest route to get your study visa.
3. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
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Issued After: Completion of a program of 8 months or more
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Validity: Up to 3 years depending on course duration
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Purpose: Allows full-time work in Canada
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Path to PR: Experience under PGWP counts toward Express Entry
Scholarship recipients who graduate from Canadian universities are highly favored in Canada’s immigration system, making this a strategic pathway for long-term residency.
Tips for Winning a Fully Funded Scholarship in Canada
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Start Early: Applications open a year in advance.
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Perfect Your Personal Statement: Highlight leadership, community service, and vision.
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Focus on Academics: Most scholarships are merit-based.
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Secure Strong References: Professors, mentors, or employers who can vouch for you.
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Research Each University’s Offerings: Many have their own internal scholarships for specific programs or faculties.