Without mincing words, let’s get straight to the point, which is about applying for fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students. Here in Canada, there are many fully funded scholarships that international students can apply for. So, yes, you can get a 100% scholarship in Canada to study for free.
Understand that there are generally three types of scholarships you can get: government-funded, non-government funded, and institutional. We will explain. Government-funded, as the name implies, are those scholarships that are fully funded by the Canadian Government. We also have non-government funded, which are sponsored by charities and trust funds. As for institutional scholarships, these ones are sponsored by schools in Canada for international students.
Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada for International Students
Now, let’s talk about the scholarships you can apply for right now. There are currently six scholarships we will discuss on this page, and these scholarships are guaranteed ways to move to Canada through the study route. As long as you meet the requirements, and you are an international applicant, you are good to go. Below are the top fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students.
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
So, the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) program is named after Major-General Georges P. Vanier, the first francophone Governor General of Canada. This is the best scholarship for any person looking to move to Canada in 2024.
Through this government-funded scholarship, Canadian colleges and universities attract highly qualified doctoral students from foreign countries such as yours. This scholarship is valued at $50,000 per year for 3 years during doctoral studies. The selection criteria are equally weighted across 3 major areas, including your (1) academic excellence, (2) research potential, and (3) leadership (both potential and demonstrated ability).
One thing you need to know about this scholarship is that you have to be nominated by a Canadian institution with a quota to host Vanier scholars. This simply means that you apply as a foreign citizen to the university of your choice, and then you indicate that you need this scholarship. The areas of research covered include health research, natural sciences and/or engineering, and social sciences and humanities.
2. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
When you apply for the first one, check whether you are eligible for the Pierre Elliot Trudeau scholarship. Remember, we classified types of scholarships earlier? This one is now classified as a non-government funded scholarship in Canada for international students.
This scholarship is part of a three-year leadership program designed to train “Engaged Leaders”. The program includes leadership training, opportunities for knowledge dissemination, and community building among Scholars, Fellows, and Mentors. You can receive up to $40,000 per year for 3 years for tuition and living expenses in Canada. You can also receive up to $20,000 per year for language learning, travel, and research related to your doctoral studies. You need language proficiency in Canada’s official languages (French and English), and familiarity with Canada’s Indigenous Languages.
3. University of Alberta Undergraduate Admissions & Programs
The University of Alberta also offers many fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students. This scholarship is classified under institutional scholarships. These include both admission-based and application-based scholarships. Admission-based scholarships are awarded based on the student’s high school admission average at the time of their admission offer. This means that the university automatically offers you this scholarship if your high school admission average grade is high enough.
On the other hand, we have the Application-based scholarships. For this one, you have to manually fill out a single scholarship application, which is then used to match you with suitable scholarships that suit your background, experiences, academics, and needs. Entrance scholarships have specific eligibility requirements, such as presenting an admission average that meets or exceeds the required level, entering university directly from high school or after a gap (without receiving post-secondary credit), and enrolling in the first year of full-time undergraduate studies.
4. University of British Columbia Undergraduate Programs and Admissions
If you really prioritize institutional scholarships, then the University of British Columbia’s International Scholars Program is one for you. They have four prestigious need-and-merit-based awards, including the Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award, the Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award, the International Impact Award, and the Vantage One Excellence Award.
Now, each of these fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students only applies when you show exceptional academic achievement, leadership skills, and a commitment to community service. Your background, including whether you are from war-torn areas, a first-generation learner, etc., does not matter. Canada is just making sure that you get the same treatment as others.
5. University of Toronto President’s Scholars of Excellence Program
If you apply to study at the University of Toronto, then you can apply for the President’s Scholars of Excellence Program (PSEP). This scholarship is only available to about 150 of the most highly qualified students applying to the first year of direct-entry undergraduate studies. In this program, you are automatically considered an international secondary school student upon admission. Therefore, no separate application is required. Unfortunately, if you previously attended a post-secondary institution, you are not eligible for PSEP.
This scholarship gives you a $10,000 entrance scholarship in the first year, which is non-renewable. There are other benefits offered by the admitting division, which you will find in your offer letter. The eligibility for this scholarship depends on your admission average. This award is paid after full-time registration in September at the division or faculty making the offer, and the funds are credited to the student’s fees account. Any balance remaining after the deduction of fees is given to you by direct deposit.
6. York University President’s International Scholarship of Excellence
The last on the list is the York University President’s International Scholarship of Excellence. As an international high school student entering your first year of a 4-year undergraduate degree program at York University, Canada, I recommend you go for this one. Note that you have to apply for studies in Canada.
To be eligible, you must be an international student with a minimum 80% (A) final admission average. The scholarship also considers financial need during the selection process. This scholarship is renewable for 3 additional years of full-time study or until the completion of your degree, whichever is earlier. You will lose this scholarship if you fail to complete a minimum of 24 credits each Fall/Winter session with a minimum sessional grade point average of 6.0.
The application process is simple. You apply online with a personal statement of 500 words or less. Include your financial profile, a list of activities and volunteer experiences, and one letter of reference. A minimum A average or equivalent is required for this scholarship.
How Can an International Student Get Fully Funded Scholarship in Canada?
1. Apply for a Fully Funded Scholarship
First, you have to identify Canadian universities and the scholarships they offer. Your focus here is on fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students. Such scholarships can be found on the websites of universities, scholarship databases, and educational forums, which are great resources. On this page, you can find Canadian scholarships specifically meant for international students and apply.
2. Meet the Criteria
Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria. Some of them require academic achievements, extracurricular activities, or specific areas of study. You just have to meet these criteria before applying. The criteria are usually not difficult. Scholarship requirements for international students tend to be lenient.
3. Submit Your Application
So, your next step is to submit your application. However, you have to gather all required documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose. Your application should reflect your academic excellence, leadership qualities, and community involvement.
Some of the scholarships you see here can require you to write essays or personal statements. This allows you to stand out. You just have to highlight your achievements, goals, and how the scholarship will help you contribute to your field and community.
Another important aspect is that you have to apply early and apply for multiple scholarships. Don’t limit yourself to one fully funded scholarship in Canada for international students. Apply for as many scholarships as you qualify for. Also, look out for deadlines and try to submit your applications in advance.
4. Prepare for Interviews
Some scholarships will require interviews. So, be prepared to discuss your academic background, future goals, and why you deserve the scholarship. After applying for the scholarship, you have to keep an eye on your emails for any communication concerning the application. If necessary, follow up with the scholarship committee to show your continued interest. Do not fail to take advantage of the guidance and support for international students seeking scholarships offered by the university of your choice.
Does Studying in Canada Count Towards Permanent Residency?
Now, the good news! If you have been so determined to relocate to Canada and you get this scholarship, then you are already two feet in Canada. As an international student, you can apply for Canadian permanent resident status while studying or after your studies. You just have to fulfill the requirements of the Canadian immigration program.
When you apply for a Canada study permit and Canadian permanent resident status at the same time, it is called dual intent, which is accepted by Canadian immigration law.
Getting the scholarship of your dreams in Canada can be a competitive and overwhelming task. However, you can achieve a fully funded scholarship in Canada with the right resources, knowledge, and academic excellence. A high-quality education and research environment are offered in Canada at every level of education, from elementary school to post-secondary education. Furthermore, you won’t experience roadblocks common in other parts of the world when transferring between types and levels of education.
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