SCHOLARSHIPS FOR STUDENTS FROM ABROAD
One way that international students can help finance their studies in Canada is through scholarships, which are non-repayable financial awards. They tend to be granted to students with outstanding academic achievement, although some also recognize volunteer and work experience.
You must apply for some scholarships, but others are awarded automatically.
Student in lounge at Algoma University
Scholarship funding for international students who wish to study in Canada is limited, highly competitive, and available mostly at the postgraduate level. Nevertheless, here are some tips and resources to help you explore this possibility.
Start at home
Students should first explore scholarships and other funding possibilities in their home country. Contact the department of education in your country of citizenship.
Contact your chosen university
Get in touch with the financial aid office of the university you wish to attend to ask for information about scholarships for international students and any application guidelines.
Research additional opportunities
Learn about scholarships administered by the Canadian government, provincial governments, private foundations, and not-for-profit organizations.
Here are some suggestions and resources to help you get started:
Government of Canada International Scholarships Program
Global Affairs Canada is responsible for the government’s participation in major international scholarship programs. This website enables users to search for awards for study and research by country of origin.
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Open to both Canadian and international PhD students studying at Canadian universities, the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship is worth $50,000 per year for three years.
Fonds de recheche du Quebec Scholarships and Grants
The Quebec government offers scholarships and grants through its research funds FRQNT (nature et technologies), FRQS (santé) and FRQSC (société et culture) for doctoral studies, postdoctoral fellowships and short-term research or professional development.
Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral scholarships
Each year, the Trudeau Foundation rewards up to 15 outstanding doctoral candidates who are enrolled or about to be enrolled in a social sciences and humanities program. The annual value is up to $60,000 per scholar for up to four years.
