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Studying in Canada is a dream for many international students due to its high-quality education system, diverse cultural environment, and excellent post-graduation opportunities. One of the most significant barriers to studying abroad, however, is the cost. Fortunately, several fully funded scholarships are available for international students to study in Canada for free. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the top 10 fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students, ensuring you have all the information needed to pursue your academic ambitions without financial worries.
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) are prestigious awards designed to attract and retain world-class doctoral students. These scholarships support students who demonstrate leadership skills and a high standard of scholarly achievement in graduate studies in social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, engineering, and health.
- Eligibility: Open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students.
- Award Amount: $50,000 per year for three years.
- Application Process: Candidates must be nominated by the Canadian institution at which they want to study.
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships at the University of Toronto provide an unparalleled opportunity for outstanding international students. The scholarship program is intended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and creativity and who are recognized as leaders within their school.
- Eligibility: International students from around the world.
- Award Amount: Covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years.
- Application Process: Nomination by the student’s high school is required.
3. University of British Columbia Scholarships for International Students
The University of British Columbia (UBC) offers several International Major Entrance Scholarships (IMES) and Outstanding International Student (OIS) Awards. These scholarships are merit-based and offered to exceptional international students entering undergraduate programs.
- Eligibility: Open to international students applying for their first undergraduate degree.
- Award Amount: Amounts vary, with IMES awards renewable for up to three additional years.
- Application Process: Automatically considered when applying to UBC.
4. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships are among the most prestigious awards in Canada. These scholarships are awarded to highly talented doctoral students pursuing research in social sciences and humanities.
- Eligibility: Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students.
- Award Amount: Up to $60,000 per year for up to four years.
- Application Process: Applicants must be nominated by their Canadian institution.
5. University of Waterloo International Funding
The University of Waterloo offers several international funding opportunities for students from around the world, including the International Master’s and Doctoral Awards. These scholarships are designed to attract top talent to the university’s graduate programs.
- Eligibility: International students applying for master’s or doctoral programs.
- Award Amount: Varies depending on the program and level of study.
- Application Process: Automatically considered upon admission to a graduate program.
6. University of Calgary Graduate Awards
The University of Calgary offers various graduate awards to support international students pursuing their master’s and doctoral degrees. The Graduate Awards Database provides access to all available scholarships, awards, prizes, and bursaries.
- Eligibility: Open to all graduate students, including international students.
- Award Amount: Varies; includes full and partial funding options.
- Application Process: Application processes vary by award; some require a separate application, while others are automatically considered.
7. Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships are highly competitive and prestigious awards aimed at attracting and retaining top-tier postdoctoral talent nationally and internationally. These fellowships support postdoctoral researchers who will positively contribute to Canada’s economic, social, and research-based growth.
- Eligibility: Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students.
- Award Amount: $70,000 per year for two years.
- Application Process: Applicants must apply directly through the Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships program.
8. McGill University Scholarships and Student Aid
McGill University offers a range of scholarships and student aid for international students. The university provides entrance scholarships, in-course scholarships, and need-based financial aid.
- Eligibility: International students at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
- Award Amount: Varies; includes full and partial funding options.
- Application Process: Automatically considered for entrance scholarships; additional applications for need-based aid.
9. University of Alberta International Scholarships
The University of Alberta offers several international scholarships to attract the best and brightest minds to its campus. These scholarships are available for undergraduate and graduate students and are awarded based on academic excellence.
- Eligibility: International students at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
- Award Amount: Varies; includes full and partial funding options.
- Application Process: Automatically considered for some awards; others require a separate application.
10. Carleton University Entrance Awards for International Students
Carleton University provides Entrance Awards for high-achieving international students entering undergraduate programs. These scholarships are based on academic performance and are renewable for up to four years.
- Eligibility: Open to international students entering an undergraduate program.
- Award Amount: Varies; renewable based on maintaining good academic standing.
- Application Process: Automatically considered upon admission.
Conclusion
Canada offers a plethora of fully funded scholarships for international students, making it an attractive destination for those seeking high-quality education without the burden of financial stress. From prestigious government-funded scholarships like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships and Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships to university-specific awards like those offered by UBC, McGill, and the University of Toronto, there are numerous opportunities to study in Canada for free. We encourage all prospective students to explore these options and take the necessary steps to secure their financial future while pursuing their academic dreams in one of the world’s leading education hubs.
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