Fully Funded Scholarships: For international students looking to pursue higher education, fully funded scholarships present an excellent opportunity to study in Canada without the financial burden.
In this blog post, we will explore the top fully funded scholarships available in Canada for the academic year 2025/2026.
These scholarships not only cover tuition fees but also provide living expenses, travel costs, and health insurance, ensuring a smooth educational journey.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada for 2025/2026
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships are designed for doctoral students who exhibit leadership skills and a high standard of academic excellence. This prestigious scholarship is valued at $50,000 per year for up to three years.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be pursuing a doctoral degree at a Canadian university.
- Hold a first-class average, as determined by the university.
- Demonstrate leadership skills and research potential.
Application Process:
Candidates must be nominated by a Canadian university. The application involves submitting a research proposal, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
Benefits:
- Annual stipend of $50,000.
- Opportunity to work with leading researchers in Canada.
- Exposure to a vibrant academic community.
2. Canadian Government Scholarships
The Government of Canada offers various scholarship programs for international students through its Global Affairs Canada initiative. These scholarships are aimed at promoting educational exchanges and fostering international collaboration.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Varies by program but generally includes being a citizen of a participating country.
- Applicants must meet the specific requirements of the scholarship program.
Application Process:
Students can apply through the Canadian embassy or consulate in their home country. Each program has its own application deadline and requirements.
Benefits:
- Tuition coverage.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Health insurance coverage.
3. University of Toronto International Scholarships
The University of Toronto is one of Canada’s leading institutions, offering a range of scholarships for international students. The International Scholar Award is a notable fully funded scholarship available for undergraduate and graduate students.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be an international student applying to the University of Toronto.
- Academic excellence and leadership potential are essential.
Application Process:
Students are automatically considered for the scholarship when they apply for admission. No separate application is required.
Benefits:
- Covers tuition fees and living expenses.
- Access to university resources and networking opportunities.
- Enhances students’ academic profiles.
4. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award
The UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award is designed for international students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and leadership skills.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be an international student applying for undergraduate studies at UBC.
- Financial need is a key consideration.
Application Process:
Students must apply for admission to UBC and submit a separate application for the scholarship, including a personal statement and financial information.
Benefits:
- Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs related to education.
- Provides a platform for networking and personal growth.
5. McGill University Scholarships
McGill University offers various scholarships for international students, including the McGill Entrance Scholarships, which are available for undergraduate programs.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be a new international student at McGill.
- Academic excellence is a primary criterion.
Application Process:
Students are automatically considered for scholarships upon applying for admission to the university.
Benefits:
- Financial support for tuition and living costs.
- Opportunity to study in one of Canada’s most renowned institutions.
6. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship is available for graduate students in Ontario. This scholarship is intended to encourage academic excellence in graduate studies.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be a full-time graduate student enrolled in an Ontario university.
- Academic performance must be at a high level (minimum B+ average).
Application Process:
Students must apply through their respective universities. Each university has its own application process and criteria.
Benefits:
- Up to $15,000 per year.
- Opportunity to engage in research and development projects.
7. Queen’s University International Scholarships
Queen’s University offers a variety of scholarships for international students, including the International Admission Scholarship.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be an international student applying for undergraduate programs.
- Strong academic performance is required.
Application Process:
Students are automatically considered for scholarships upon applying for admission.
Benefits:
- Financial support covering tuition fees and living expenses.
- Access to a diverse and inclusive academic environment.
8. Simon Fraser University (SFU) Scholarships
Simon Fraser University provides various scholarships for international students, including the SFU International Entrance Scholarship.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be an international student applying for undergraduate programs.
- Demonstrated academic excellence is required.
Application Process:
Students need to apply for admission, and the scholarship application is typically included in the admission process.
Benefits:
- Covers tuition fees and living costs.
- Opportunity to participate in research and community engagement.
9. Alberta Graduate Excellence Scholarship
The Alberta Graduate Excellence Scholarship is available for graduate students studying at Alberta universities. This scholarship aims to support exceptional students in their academic pursuits.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be a full-time graduate student at an Alberta university.
- A minimum GPA of 3.5 is required.
Application Process:
Students must apply through their respective universities, which will have specific application instructions.
Benefits:
- Up to $11,000 for one year.
- Encourages students to excel in their studies and research.
10. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship
The University of Manitoba offers graduate fellowships for international students to support their academic pursuits.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be enrolled in a graduate program at the University of Manitoba.
- Academic merit is a key consideration.
Application Process:
Students are typically considered for the fellowship upon admission.
Benefits:
- Provides financial support for tuition and living expenses.
- Enhances research opportunities and academic networking.
Conclusion
Canada’s scholarship landscape is rich and diverse, offering numerous fully funded opportunities for international students. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria and application process, but they all share a common goal: to support students in their pursuit of higher education.
By leveraging these scholarships, students can alleviate the financial burden of studying abroad, allowing them to focus on their academic and personal growth.
Whether you’re interested in pursuing a master’s degree, a Ph.D., or an undergraduate program, there’s likely a scholarship that fits your needs. Start preparing your applications early, and take the first step toward achieving your academic dreams in Canada for the 2025/2026 academic year.
Make sure to check the official websites of each scholarship for the most up-to-date information and guidelines. Happy scholarship hunting!