Scholarships in Canada

There are several ways for Indian students planning to study in Canada to apply for scholarships. Some of the common requirements for scholarship applications include:

Good Academic Performance: Due to the high level of competition among students seeking international education, academic excellence is one of the most important criteria for scholarship selection. Students with strong grades in their previous studies have a better chance of securing scholarships.
English Language Proficiency: Most Canadian universities require proof of English language proficiency through tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. A strong IELTS or TOEFL score can significantly enhance a student’s chances of receiving a scholarship.
Extracurricular Activities: Students who have demonstrated excellence in extracurricular activities, such as sports, leadership, community service, arts, or other achievements, may be eligible for additional scholarship opportunities offered by Canadian universities or other organizations.
Additional Factors:
Some scholarships may also consider:
- Leadership qualities
- Volunteer work and community involvement
- Personal statements or essays
- Letters of recommendation
- Financial need (for need-based scholarships)

Bachelor’s in Canada Master’s in Canada

Eligiblity for a Scholarship

Several factors determine scholarship eligibility for Indian students. Generally, a strong academic record, chosen subject, degree program, and level of study are among the most important criteria.

International students in Canada may be eligible for both merit-based and need-based scholarships, which can be either fully funded or partially funded. The eligibility criteria for most scholarships in Canada typically include a valid study permit, proof of enrollment at a Canadian post-secondary educational institution, academic excellence, and, in some cases, demonstrated leadership skills.

Apply for a Scholarship in Canada

If you are an Indian student who wishes to apply for scholarships to study in Canada, follow these steps:

Research Available Scholarships: Begin by researching scholarships available for international and Indian students in Canada. You can use scholarship databases, university websites, and government portals to find information about scholarships, eligibility criteria, benefits, and application deadlines.
Check the Eligibility Criteria: Carefully review the eligibility requirements for each scholarship and ensure that you meet all the criteria before applying.
Prepare the Required Documents: Once you have identified suitable scholarships, gather and prepare all necessary documents. These may include:
- Academic transcripts
- English language test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, etc.)
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) or essays
- Resume/CV
- Other supporting documents as required
Apply for Admission to a Canadian Institution: Many scholarships require applicants to have received an admission offer from a Canadian college or university. Therefore, start your admission application process early.
Submit Your Scholarship Application: After securing admission (if required), apply for the scholarships for which you are eligible. Follow the application instructions carefully and ensure that all required documents are submitted before the deadline.
Follow Up on Your Application: After submitting your application, keep track of its status and follow up with the scholarship provider if necessary to confirm that your application has been received.
Explore Multiple Opportunities: Do not rely on a single scholarship application. Apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances of receiving financial assistance.
Be Patient: Scholarship evaluation and selection processes can take time. Stay patient and wait for the official results.

Government-Funded and Government-Supported Canadian Scholarships for International Students

Canada offers several scholarships and funding opportunities for international students pursuing higher education and research. Some of the most popular options include:

Mitacs Globalink Research Internship: Provides international undergraduate students with funded research internship opportunities at Canadian universities.
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS): Merit-based scholarship available to graduate students at participating universities in Ontario.
Ontario Trillium Scholarship (OTS): Awarded to exceptional international PhD students studying at universities in Ontario.
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship / Successor Federal Doctoral Awards: Prestigious funding opportunities for outstanding doctoral students conducting research in Canada. Eligibility and program structure should be verified for the latest intake.
Study in Canada Scholarships (SICS): Government-supported scholarships that promote international student mobility and short-term study opportunities in Canada.

Non-Governmental Canadian Scholarships for International Students

There are several prestigious non-governmental and university-funded scholarships available for international students, including those from India, who wish to study in Canada.

University of Toronto – Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to exceptional international students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, creativity, and leadership. It covers Full tuition fees, Books and incidental fees, and Full residence support. The scholarship is renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study.
Humber Polytechnic International Entrance Scholarships: These scholarships are available to international students admitted to Humber programs. Depending on eligibility and academic performance, students may receive partial tuition scholarships.
University of British Columbia International Scholars Program (International Leader of Tomorrow Award): This award recognizes outstanding international students with strong academic achievement, leadership qualities, and financial need. The scholarship can cover tuition and living expenses based on the student’s demonstrated financial need.
York University International Scholarships: York University offers several scholarships and awards for international students, including the President’s International Scholarship of Excellence and other entrance scholarships. Award values vary and can reach up to CAD 180,000 over four years for top-performing students.
Quest University Canada Scholarships: Quest University offers merit-based financial aid and scholarships to international students. Scholarship amounts vary and may cover a significant portion of tuition costs.
Carleton University Entrance Scholarships: Carleton University automatically considers eligible international students for entrance scholarships based on academic achievement. Award values vary according to admission averages.

University-Specific Canada Scholarships for International Students

Many Canadian universities offer scholarships specifically for international students, including students from India. Some popular options include:

University of Alberta International Admission Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students admitted to undergraduate programs. Eligible students may receive up to CAD 5,000 based on their admission average.
University of Waterloo International Student Entrance Scholarship: International students admitted to eligible first-year undergraduate programs may receive an automatic entrance scholarship of CAD 10,000. Additional faculty-specific scholarships are also available.
University of Toronto Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS): The OGS program supports outstanding graduate students, including eligible international students studying at participating Ontario universities. Award values can be up to CAD 15,000 per year, subject to eligibility and program requirements.
University of British Columbia Outstanding International Student (OIS) Award: UBC offers merit-based awards to exceptional international students entering undergraduate programs. Award values vary and can provide significant financial assistance.
McMaster University Entrance Awards for International Students: McMaster University offers several entrance scholarships for international students based on academic achievement. Award amounts vary depending on the scholarship.
Simon Fraser University International Major Entrance Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students entering undergraduate studies. Awards can range from CAD 10,000 to CAD 40,000 or more, depending on the student’s profile and program.

Popular Scholarships in Canada for Indian Students

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

For outstanding PhD students demonstrating academic excellence, research potential, and leadership.
Award: CAD 50,000 per year for up to 3 years.

Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
- Available for Master’s and PhD students studying at participating universities in Ontario.
- Award: Up to CAD 15,000 annually.
Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship
- For doctoral students pursuing research in social sciences and humanities.
- Includes generous funding, leadership training, and mentorship opportunities.
Mitacs Globalink Research Internship
- For undergraduate students interested in research projects at Canadian universities.
- Includes funding for travel, accommodation, and living expenses.
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
- One of Canada’s most prestigious undergraduate scholarships.
- Covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence support.
International Major Entrance Scholarship (University of British Columbia)
- Merit-based scholarship for exceptional international undergraduate students.
University of Alberta International Scholarships
- Various merit-based awards for international undergraduate and graduate students.
McCall MacBain Scholarship (McGill University)
- Fully funded scholarship for eligible Master’s and professional degree students.

Get in Touch with Us

At Global Opportunities, we assist students throughout their study abroad journey by offering free counselling for all study abroad-related queries. With 20 offices operating across India, we are always closer to every student.

Every year, Global Opportunities organizes the Global Education Fair, where hundreds of international universities participate. Our education experts, counsellors, ex-visa officers, and travel advisors provide students with free guidance on courses, universities, destinations, and various study options that help fulfil their dream of studying abroad.

Contact Global Opportunities and speak to a counsellor today. Students can also get their scholarships-related queries resolved by calling our Toll-Free number: 1800-111-119 and booking an appointment with our Ex-Scholarships Officials.