How to Study in Canada with a Scholarship?

Canada is one of the most popular study destinations for international students but unfortunately studying in Canada is not cheap. So, International students always find ways to study in Canada with a scholarship. There are various government and non-government scholarships in Canada. 

In this blog, we will discuss the popular scholarships to study in Canada and the ways how can you study in Canada with a scholarship. 

Why should You Study in Canada with a Scholarship?

Studying in Canada with a scholarship offers many benefits. First, it helps you save money by reducing your tuition fees and living costs. Canada is home to top universities known for high-quality education, making it a great learning place. A scholarship can also make it easier to focus on your studies without worrying about finances.

Additionally, Canada is a welcoming and diverse country, with safe cities and plenty of opportunities for international students. With a scholarship, you get a chance to access a world-class education while experiencing a new culture. Plus, Canadian degrees are recognized worldwide, improving your career prospects.

How to Find a Scholarship in Canada?

There are millions of dollars in scholarships available for Canadian students every year. Scholarships help you avoid student loans and reach your goals for college or university. Here are five simple ways to start finding scholarships in Canada:

1. Check Your Post-Secondary School: One of the best ways to find scholarships is through the college or university you want to attend. Schools offer thousands of dollars in scholarships to new and current students. There are two main types: automatic entrance scholarships (you get these just by applying) and merit-based scholarships (you need good grades or other achievements to qualify).

2. Ask Your University: Many universities offer scholarships for their top students. These are great because fewer people can apply, which increases your chances. Some of these scholarships might not be well-advertised, so talk to your school counsellor or a teacher early in the year to find out what’s available.

3. Check with Your University Province: Some universities or provincial education departments also offer scholarships to graduating students. While the competition might be tougher than for high school scholarships, your community involvement can help you stand out. Ask your school counsellor if they know about any district scholarships you can apply for.

4. Talk to Your Community: You can also find scholarships through your connections. These “affiliate” scholarships are available if you’re a part of certain groups or organisations. Examples include:

• Your parents’ or your employer’s scholarship programs
• Clubs you’re involved in (like sports, dance, or drama)
• Groups based on ethnicity, gender, or religion
• Organizations you volunteer with
• Scholarships for family members of veterans.

5. Use a Scholarship Search Engine: You can also use online tools to find scholarships. However, these websites often list thousands of options, so it can be overwhelming. Some of these scholarships have lots of competition or are more like contests, so they might not focus on your grades or activities. Be ready to spend time looking for the best ones that fit you.

Popular Scholarships to Study in Canada

Before you start looking for scholarships, it’s important to understand the different types. Many Canadian universities offer scholarships to international students, and they usually fall into two main categories: need-based and merit-based.

Scholarships for High School Students in Canada

High school scholarships in Canada for international students are rare but do exist. Some high schools do offer scholarships for international students. A few well-known high school scholarships include the TD Scholarship for Community Leadership, the Loran Award, and Centennial Scholarships.

Undergraduate Scholarships in Canada

Do you want to study in Canada with a scholarship for your bachelor’s program? There are many scholarships for international students who want to study in Canada after finishing high school. A lot of students come to Canada for higher education and apply for scholarships. Scholarships are available from the government, universities, and private organizations for international undergraduate students. Here are some undergraduate scholarships in Canada for international students. 

• President Scholarship
• The University of Waterloo International Funding
• UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award
• Lester B Pearson Scholarship
• David Strangway Award for Excellence
• University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship, etc. 

Canada Scholarships For Masters

Canada offers several government scholarships for graduate students. Universities and private organizations also provide scholarships for master’s students. Some of these scholarships are highly respected and given to top students in various fields. Here are some scholarships for studying master’s in Canada as an international student. 

• IDRC Research Awards
• Vanier Canada Scholarship
• Ontario Graduate Scholarship
• Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan
• University of Manitoba Graduate Scholarship
• University of Alberta Entrance Scholarships, etc. 

Ph.D. Scholarships In Canada

Each year, many international students with outstanding achievements receive Ph.D. scholarships. Most of these scholarships cover the full tuition fees, accommodation, monthly living expenses, health insurance, and airfare.

• IDRC Research Awards
• Vanier Canada Scholarship
• Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
• Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan
• Ontario Trillium Scholarship
• Internal and Donor Funded awards
• University of Manitoba Graduate Scholarship, etc. 

Government Scholarships to Study in Canada

The government of Canada also offers several scholarships for international students. Some examples are the Canada Graduate Scholarships Program, the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships Program, and the Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship Program. These are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Here are some government scholarships to study in Canada.

• Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
• Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program
• IDRC Research Awards
• NSERC Postgraduate scholarships
• Organization of American States (OAS) Academic Scholarship Program
• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships Program, etc. 

Private Scholarships to Study in Canada

Canada provides various scholarships for international students. Many organizations in Canada offer scholarships to students from other countries. As a student in Canada, you might get a full or partial scholarship to help with your studies. Here are some private scholarships to study in Canada for international students.

• Anne Vallee Ecological Fund
• Canada Memorial Scholarship
• Surfshark Privacy and Security Scholarship
• Trudeau Scholarships and Fellowships, etc.

Top Universities to Study in Canada with a Scholarship

Applying for a scholarship is a great way to pay for your education in Canada. It helps you get the higher education you want without a big financial burden. In recent years, Canada has become a popular choice for students looking to study abroad. Here are some top universities to study in Canada with a Scholarship. 

• University of Waterloo
• Trinity Western University 
• University of Ottawa
• Western University
• Queen’s University
• University of Guelph
• Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) 
• Concordia University of Edmonton
• University of Regina
• University of New Brunswick 
• Brock University
• University of Manitoba
• University of Saskatchewan
• Toronto Metropolitan University
• Carleton University
• University of Windsor, etc. 

What are the Requirements to Study in Canada with a Scholarship?

The requirements to study in Canada with a scholarship can vary depending on the type of scholarship and the institution. However, there are some common requirements that most scholarships look for. Here’s what you need to know:

• Academic Excellence: Most scholarships for international students in Canada require you to have strong academic records. You need to show high grades from your previous studies.
• Language Proficiency: You must prove your English skills to get admitted to a Canadian university or college and qualify for a scholarship. You can do this by taking tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
• Financial Need: For need-based scholarships, you may need to provide proof of financial need. This could include documents like bank statements or tax returns.
• Extracurricular Activities: Some scholarships require you to be involved in extracurricular activities. This could include volunteering, community work, or other activities listed in the scholarship requirements.

Documents Requirements to Study in Canada with a Scholarship

Once you’ve made your list of scholarships, contact the financial aid office for each one or check their websites for important details like deadlines and special requirements. Before you start filling out your scholarship application, make sure you have these documents ready to study in Canada with a scholarship:

• Online application form from the Canadian university
• Letter of Acceptance
• All your academic transcripts
• Certificates that show you meet the scholarship requirements
• Statement of Intent (explaining why you want the scholarship)
• Test scores (like GMAT, SAT, GRE, etc.)
• Proof of English proficiency (such as IELTS or TOEFL)
• Medical test results (if required)

How Can You Apply for a Scholarship in Canada?

Applying for a scholarship can seem tough, but staying organized and understanding the process can help. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to study in Canada with a scholarship

• Step 1: Research Scholarships: Start by finding scholarships that match your qualifications and goals. You can search online, attend seminars, or go to fairs for information about different scholarships.
• Step 2: Apply for Scholarships: Once you’ve chosen the scholarships that fit you best, it’s time to apply. Each application may be a bit different, but most will require you to submit a personal statement, letter of recommendation, academic transcripts, and other documents.
• Step 3: Follow Up: After you submit your applications, be patient and follow up with the scholarship providers. Make sure they’ve received all your documents. This step is very important.
• Step 4: Prepare for the Scholarship Interview: Some scholarships may require an interview. For international students, this is usually done online through video calls. Prepare by learning about the scholarship organization, its work, and your field of study.
• Step 5: Maintain Eligibility: If you get a scholarship, you need to keep up your eligibility. This might mean maintaining a certain grade point average or participating in specific activities. Failing to meet these requirements could result in losing the scholarship.

Can You Study in Canada with a Full-Free Scholarship?

Yes, it is possible to study in Canada with a full scholarship. Many scholarships cover all your expenses, including tuition, accommodation, and sometimes even living costs. These full scholarships are often offered by:

1. Canadian Government Programs: Such as the Canada Graduate Scholarships and Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships.
2. University Scholarships: Many Canadian universities offer full scholarships for outstanding international students.
3. Private Organizations: Some private organizations and foundations provide full scholarships to international students based on merit or need.

To find and apply for these scholarships, you’ll need to research, meet the eligibility criteria, and follow the application process carefully.

Final Words

Studying in Canada with a scholarship is a dream for many international students. Getting a Canadian student visa with scholarships is not so tough but one must meet some eligibility criteria for that. In this article, we have mentioned the ways to study in Canada with a scholarship. However, choosing the best university and the highest scholarship may seem difficult to you.  So, if you want to study abroad in Canada, you can always contact AIMS Education. 

FAQ