Canada is renowned for its diverse and inclusive educational environment, attracting international students from all corners of the globe. The Government of Canada, in collaboration with various provinces and institutions, offers a plethora of scholarships to support these students financially. For those aiming to pursue studies in Canada in 2025, here are eight of the best scholarships available:
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1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
Established in 2008, the Vanier CGS program aims to attract and retain world-class doctoral students by offering significant financial support.
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Benefits: Recipients receive CAD 50,000 per year for three years, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and research-related costs.
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Eligibility: Open to international students pursuing doctoral studies in health, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, or humanities. Applicants must demonstrate leadership skills and a high standard of scholarly achievement.
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Application Process: Students must be nominated by a Canadian university. It’s essential to check with potential universities for specific nomination procedures and deadlines.
2. Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program
This program provides financial assistance to exceptional international students pursuing master’s degrees in Canada.
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Benefits: Provides CAD 17,500 for one year of study.
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Eligibility: Available to international students enrolled in a master’s program at a Canadian university, demonstrating academic excellence. Nomination by the institution is required.
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Application Process: Interested candidates should contact the graduate studies office of their chosen university for nomination procedures and deadlines.
3. Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
Designed for postdoctoral researchers, this fellowship attracts top-tier international talent to conduct research in Canada.
Benefits: Offers CAD 70,000 per year for two years, supporting living expenses and research activities.
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Eligibility: Open to international applicants who have completed their PhD within the last five years, showcasing excellence in research. A host institution in Canada must be secured.
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Application Process: Applications are submitted directly to the program, with details available on the official website.
4. Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
This initiative aims to enhance mutual understanding and strengthen ties between Canada and ASEAN countries.
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Benefits: Provides up to CAD 15,900, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs, depending on the program duration.
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Eligibility: Citizens of ASEAN member states pursuing short-term study or research at Canadian institutions.
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Application Process: Applications are submitted through the Canadian Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s home country.
5. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
Offered by the Province of Ontario, the OGS supports international students pursuing graduate studies at Ontario universities.
Benefits: Provides CAD 5,000 per term, with a maximum of CAD 15,000 for three terms.
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Eligibility: International students studying full-time at an Ontario university, maintaining a minimum A- average.
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Application Process: Interested candidates should apply through their chosen Ontario university’s graduate office.
6. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program at the University of Toronto
This prestigious scholarship recognizes international students with exceptional academic achievements and leadership potential.
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Benefits: Covers full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence support for four years.
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Eligibility: International students applying to undergraduate programs at the University of Toronto, demonstrating excellence in academics, leadership, and community involvement.
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Application Process: Students must be nominated by their high school. After receiving an offer of admission, they can apply for the scholarship through the university’s official channels.
7. Quebec Merit Scholarships for Foreign Students
Offered by the Quebec government, these scholarships support international students at various academic levels.
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Benefits: Varies by scholarship; typically includes tuition fee exemptions, living stipends, and travel allowances.
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Eligibility: International students pursuing undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, or postdoctoral studies at eligible Quebec institutions.
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Application Process: Applications are submitted through the Quebec government’s official portal or the international office of participating universities.
8. Mitacs Globalink Scholarships
Mitacs offers research internships for international undergraduate and graduate students, fostering global research collaborations.
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Benefits: Provides CAD 6,000 for research internships conducted at Canadian institutions.
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Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students from various partner countries aiming to undertake research projects in Canada.
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Application Process: Students must apply through the Mitacs Globalink portal after securing a research project with a Canadian institution.
Additional Scholarships to Consider
Beyond the aforementioned scholarships, several other programs offer substantial support to international students:
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Trudeau Foundation Scholarships: Aimed at doctoral candidates in social sciences and humanities, offering up to CAD 60,000 per year for three years.
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IDRC Research Awards: For international students from developing countries enrolled in master’s or doctoral programs, covering travel, accommodation, and research expenses.
Application Tips
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Early Preparation: Begin researching scholarships and preparing application materials well in advance of deadlines.
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University Liaison: Maintain close communication with the international office or graduate studies office of your chosen Canadian university for guidance and support.
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Documentation: Ensure all required documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of language proficiency, are prepared and submitted as per the scholarship guidelines.
Pursuing higher education in Canada is a rewarding endeavor, and these scholarships are designed to make that journey more accessible for international students. It’s crucial to thoroughly review the eligibility criteria and application procedures for each scholarship and to reach out to the respective administering bodies or university offices for the most current information.
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