During the first half of 2023, approximately 175,201 Indian students chose to pursue education in Canada, attracted by its high-quality education, globally recognized courses, and plentiful career opportunities. Nevertheless, the substantial course fees can pose a challenge for many aspiring students.
However, fully funded scholarships in Canada have emerged as a solution to overcome the obstacle of substantial course fees and make academic dreams come true. These scholarships are available in various forms, and not everyone is eligible for them. Therefore, it is essential to explore the options and find the best scholarship programs that suit your needs and qualifications.
In this blog, we will delve into fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students in 2024, exploring their eligibility, requirements, and qualifications.
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Why study in Canada?
Canada has become one of the top destinations for foreign students due to its many advantages. The country has world-renowned universities such as McGill and the University of Toronto, consistently among the top 35 universities in the QS ranking. The fully funded scholarships and financial aid opportunities in Canada for international students make it easier for students to pursue their academic goals.
Opportunities in Canada for International Students
Canada’s robust job market offers an exceptional opportunity for individuals to acquire valuable work experience, with high-paying positions available in diverse industries. According to The Economic Times, approximately 640,000 students obtained work permits after completing their studies in Canada between 2010 and 2019. The post-graduation work permit (PGWP) option enables students to work while pursuing postgraduate courses, providing them with an excellent chance to gain international work experience.
Diversity and Inclusivity:
Canada is celebrated for its diversity, with a wide array of cultures and ethnicities coexisting within its borders. This diversity fosters a unique and inclusive environment, allowing individuals to experience and appreciate different perspectives and ways of life.
Enhanced Standard of Living:
Collectively, these factors contribute to a higher standard of living, rendering Canada an ideal destination for international students seeking a well-rounded and enriching academic and professional experience.
Top 5 Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada 2024:
1. President’s International Scholarship of Excellence:
The President’s International Scholarship of Excellence is a prestigious, Fully Funded Scholarship program in Canada designed for international students seeking to pursue their undergraduate studies in the country. This merit-based scholarship offers up to CAD 45,000 (INR 27,36,985) to 20 international students annually, providing significant financial support for their education.
It is important to note that this scholarship is specifically applicable to 4-year long Bachelor’s courses, and it is open to all international students, irrespective of their nationality.
- Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for the president int’l scholarship of excellence:
- you must have passed your 12th standard.
- must have received at least 80% in your final admission average.
- must appear for a standardized English language proficiency test and score at least 88 in TOEFL, 6.5 in IELTS, or 60 in PTE.
- You must apply to York directly from high school no more than two years after passing out and have no previous university or college studies.
- You must apply to an undergraduate degree program at York that begins in the Fall.
- Coverage:
This scholarship awards up to CAD 45,000. The funding only covers tuition fees. The scholarship aims to support talented and deserving students in pursuing their academic and career goals without financial stress and burden.
- Recipients:
This scholarship concerns all foreign students interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree, irrespective of their country of origin.
2. UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award
The Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award, offered by the University of British Columbia (UBC), is a prestigious fully funded scholarship in Canada. It is aimed at international undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and leadership qualities. This scholarship recognizes individuals who have positively contributed to their communities through their involvement in various service and school projects.
- Eligibility Criteria:
Completion of high school no earlier than one year before the academic year of application
First-time undergraduate degree applicants
Demonstrated outstanding academic achievement (all As)
Evidence of financial need that could hinder pursuit of a UBC degree
Attainment of a minimum score of 6.5 in IELTS, 65 in PTE, and 90 in TOEFL - Coverage:
The scholarship covers all tuition fees and living expenses beyond the contribution made by the recipient’s family. The award is granted for one year and can be renewed annually based on the recipient’s performance. - Target Recipients:
This scholarship is intended for international students seeking admission to the undergraduate program at the University of British Columbia.
3. President’s International Distinction Scholarship
The President’s International Distinction Scholarship, offered by the University of Alberta, recognizes candidates who exhibit exceptional academic performance, leadership skills, community engagement, volunteer work, and participation in extracurricular activities. This scholarship is among the most noteworthy fully funded scholarships in Canada. Students with outstanding academic achievements, exemplary leadership qualities, and a desire to pursue their undergraduate degree on a Student Visa Permit may qualify to receive up to CAD 120,000 (approx. INR 72,98,629) in financial support. The scholarship is disbursed over four years to aid the recipients in their academic pursuits and aspirations.
- Eligibility Criteria:
Undergraduate program applicants
Demonstrated excellent academic performance
Minimum scores of 6.5 in IELTS, 65 in PTE, and 90 in TOEFL
Completion of 12th exams from a recognized school - Coverage:
The scholarship grants 120,000 CAD, which is approximately INR 72,98,629, over a period of four years. - Target Recipients:
This scholarship is available to all international students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Alberta.
4. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship
The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship is an esteemed charitable organization that offers scholarships, fellowships, and mentorships to support students. This foundation provides one of the most remarkable fully-funded scholarships in Canada, in collaboration with various Canadian universities including McGill University, the University of Waterloo, and Ryerson University, among others. International students pursuing their doctorate have greatly benefited from this scholarship program, which spans a three-year leadership initiative aimed at developing engaged leaders. It equips exceptional doctoral candidates with the skills to implement their ideas and contribute to the improvement of their communities, Canada, and the world. Annually, the foundation selects scholars to receive leadership training in Brave Spaces along with generous funding for their studies.
- Eligibility Criteria:
Acceptance into a full-time doctoral program lasting one or two years
Field of study broadly related to humanities or human sciences with direct relevance to the future of Canada
Doctoral work linked to at least one of the following themes: Human Rights and Dignity, Responsible Citizen, Canada and the World, People and their Natural Environment - Coverage:
Full tuition fees for the entire program duration
Living expenses
Costs for travel, research, and other doctoral program activities - Target Recipients:
This scholarship is tailored for international students pursuing doctoral degrees in Canada.
5. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship is renowned as one of the finest fully funded scholarships in Canada for doctoral programs. Named after Georges P. Vanier, the first Governor-General of Canada, this scholarship is intended for doctoral students and those applying for combined master’s degree programs in Canadian universities. Applications for the Vanier scholarship are processed exclusively through the university in which the student is enrolled.
- Eligibility Criteria:
Demonstrated academic excellence, leadership qualities, and research potential
Attainment of a first-class degree in undergraduate as well as in postgraduate studies
Enrollment in a doctoral program
Specialization in health research, natural sciences/engineering, social sciences, and humanities - Coverage:
Full tuition fees
Major living expenses of international students
A maximum award of 50,000 CAD (approximately INR 30,41,095) per year for three years - Target Recipients:
This scholarship is available exclusively to first-time doctoral degree students specializing in health research, natural sciences/engineering, social sciences, and humanities.
Top Universities Accepting Scholarships in Canada:
International students pursuing higher education in a foreign country often encounter significant financial challenges. While many rely on family support or student loans to cover their expenses, several scholarships are available to alleviate some of the financial burden.
Canadian universities offer various scholarships to international students, each with its own criteria for acceptance. Some scholarships are awarded based on merit cum means, while others are available based on factors such as physical disability and gender.
Here are some of the top universities in Canada that accept scholarship applications:
University of Winnipeg:
The University of Winnipeg is a public research university that offers numerous fully funded scholarships in Canada and various other scholarships.
The university provides a wide range of scholarships, bursaries, and awards to help students offset the cost of tuition, textbooks, and other expenses.
Available scholarships include the President’s Scholarship, the Manitoba Scholarship and Bursary Initiative, and the Indigenous Student Awards.
These scholarships are open to both domestic and international students and are awarded based on criteria such as academic achievement, financial need, and community involvement.
University of British Columbia (UBC):
UBC is consistently ranked among the top 20 public universities globally and is known for its vital academic programs.
The university offers various undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs across its two campuses and is home to over 60,000 students worldwide.
UBC provides the Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award, which is awarded to undergraduate international students demonstrating superior academic achievement, leadership skills, and community service.
Another scholarship program offered by UBC is the International Major Entrance Scholarship, awarded to exceptional international students entering their first year at UBC.
McGill University:
McGill University is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and research opportunities.
The university offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to help international students pursue their educational goals without financial stress.
McGill University provides various awards and bursaries to support students in disciplines such as the Arts Undergraduate Research Internship Awards, the Engineering International Student Award, and the Music Undergraduate Talent Scholarship.
University of Alberta:
The University of Alberta provides a range of fully funded scholarships in Canada to international students demonstrating academic excellence and leadership qualities.
Among these scholarships is the President’s International Distinction Scholarship, a fully funded scholarship for international students pursuing undergraduate studies.
The university also offers other scholarships, including the International Entrance Leadership Scholarship, the International Country Scholarship, and the International Student Scholarship, which provide financial aid based on academic merit, country of origin, and financial need.
The University of Alberta is committed to supporting international students in achieving their educational and career goals by providing various scholarship opportunities.
University of Waterloo:
The University of Waterloo offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students, aiming to recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
The President’s Scholarship of Distinction is one of the prestigious scholarships offered by the University, providing up to $10,000 per year for up to four years.
Additionally, the International Master’s and Doctoral Student Awards are available for exceptional international graduate students.
Specific programs and faculties at the University of Waterloo also offer scholarships, such as the Faculty of Mathematics Entrance Scholarships and the Faculty of Engineering International Student Entrance Scholarships.
Overall, the University of Waterloo’s scholarship programs provide ample opportunities for deserving students to pursue their academic goals.
Read also: 10 Basic mindsets for Securing Scholarships Abroad
Job Prospects After Studies in Canada
After completing studies in Canada, international students have ample job opportunities. Here are some key points to consider:
Employment Statistics: In 2023, employment in Canada rose by 64,000 (+0.3%) in September, followed by an increase of 40,000 (+0.2%) in August, indicating a growing job market.
Post-Graduation Work Permit: Students can apply for a post-graduation work permit, allowing them to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies.
Strong and Stable Economy: Canada boasts a strong and stable economy with low unemployment rates, offering diverse job opportunities in fields such as healthcare, technology, finance, and engineering.
High-Demand Professions: Professions like web development and electrical engineering are particularly in high demand in Canada, providing opportunities for well-paying jobs.
Government Programs and Policies: The Canadian government has implemented programs like the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program to encourage students to stay and work in the country, facilitating the transition from studies to employment.
In conclusion:
Canada offers numerous opportunities for international students seeking high-quality education. The country’s renowned universities, welcoming community, strong job market, and government initiatives make it an excellent location for students to invest in their future. Fully funded scholarships further facilitate this investment by providing financial support for aspiring students.
