List of Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada 2025. Canada’s excellent educational system, diverse community, and open-door policy for international students make it a popular choice for them as a study abroad location. On the other hand, living expenses and tuition can add up. Thankfully, there are many fully funded scholarships in Canada that will cover living expenses, tuition, and even travel charges for overseas students in 2025. With the help of these scholarships, you can explore the rich and varied Canadian culture while concentrating on your studies.
We have put together a list of fully funded scholarships in Canada for 2025 in this guide, including options for graduate, undergraduate, and postgraduate study. Students from different nationalities and academic backgrounds are eligible to apply for these scholarships, which are offered by the Canadian government, institutions, and other organisations.
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships are among the most prestigious scholarships for doctoral students. These scholarships are awarded to highly talented students who demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership skills.
- Eligibility: Open to international students pursuing a PhD at a Canadian university. Applicants must be nominated by the institution where they intend to study.
- Coverage: CAD 50,000 per year for up to three years, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and research costs.
- Application Deadline: November 2024 for the 2025 academic year.
Tip: Highlight your research achievements, academic excellence, and leadership potential in your application, as these are key selection criteria for the Vanier CGS.
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships are offered by the University of Toronto and are aimed at exceptional international undergraduate students. These scholarships recognize students who demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership qualities, and creativity.
- Eligibility: Open to international students who are nominated by their high school and applying to the University of Toronto for undergraduate studies.
- Coverage: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence costs for four years.
- Application Deadline: November 2024 for school nominations and January 2025 for application submission.
Tip: Ensure you secure a nomination from your high school and prepare a compelling application that highlights your leadership experiences and academic achievements.
3. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships are awarded to doctoral students in the social sciences and humanities. These scholarships support students who are passionate about engaging with the community and making a positive impact on society.
- Eligibility: Open to international students pursuing doctoral studies in the social sciences or humanities at a Canadian university. Candidates must demonstrate leadership and a commitment to public engagement.
- Coverage: Up to CAD 60,000 per year for three years, covering tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and additional research and networking expenses.
- Application Deadline: December 2024.
Tip: Be sure to highlight your community involvement and commitment to social change in your application, as these are essential qualities sought by the foundation.
4. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award
The International Leader of Tomorrow Award at the University of British Columbia (UBC) is a merit-based scholarship for outstanding undergraduate students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community service.
- Eligibility: Open to international students entering undergraduate studies at UBC. Applicants must be nominated by their high school and demonstrate financial need.
- Coverage: Full tuition fees, living expenses, and a comprehensive financial support package based on demonstrated need.
- Application Deadline: December 1, 2024.
Tip: Focus on your leadership roles and community contributions in your application, as UBC seeks students who will make a positive impact on campus and beyond.
5. Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships support international and Canadian students pursuing postdoctoral research at Canadian institutions. This fellowship is awarded to students who show potential for future leadership and a commitment to research.
- Eligibility: Open to international and Canadian postdoctoral researchers in all fields. Applicants must secure a supervisor and be endorsed by their host institution.
- Coverage: CAD 70,000 per year for two years.
- Application Deadline: September 2024.
Tip: Highlight your research accomplishments and potential impact in your field. Strong letters of recommendation and a clear research proposal are essential for this fellowship.
6. University of Calgary Graduate Awards
The University of Calgary offers a variety of fully funded scholarships and awards for both international and Canadian graduate students. These scholarships are based on academic merit and research potential, covering a wide range of disciplines.
- Eligibility: Open to international students pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree at the University of Calgary. Specific eligibility criteria vary by scholarship type.
- Coverage: Full or partial funding, including tuition fees, living expenses, and research costs.
- Application Deadline: Varies by programme, typically around December 2024 to February 2025.
Tip: Research specific awards offered by your department or faculty, as many programmes offer specialised funding opportunities based on your field of study.
7. Canada Graduate Scholarships—Master’s Programme (CGS-M)
The Canada Graduate Scholarships—Master’s Programme (CGS-M) is designed to support outstanding students pursuing a master’s degree in Canada. The programme aims to develop research skills and foster excellence in Canadian higher education.
- Eligibility: Open to Canadian and international students pursuing a master’s degree in a research-based programme at a Canadian institution.
- Coverage: CAD 17,500 for one year.
- Application Deadline: December 1, 2024.
Tip: Highlight your academic achievements, research potential, and alignment with the goals of the CGS-M programme. Strong letters of reference can significantly boost your application.
8. York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Scholarships
The Global Leader of Tomorrow Scholarships at York University are awarded to international students entering their first year of undergraduate study. These scholarships recognise students who excel academically and show leadership potential.
- Eligibility: Open to international students entering a full-time undergraduate programme at York University. Applicants must have a minimum grade point average and demonstrate financial need.
- Coverage: CAD 20,000 per year, renewable for up to four years, based on academic performance.
- Application Deadline: February 1, 2025.
Tip: Emphasise your leadership experiences, academic achievements, and financial need in your application.
9. Carleton University Richard J. Van Loon Scholarship
The Richard J. Van Loon Scholarship is awarded to outstanding African students at Carleton University. This scholarship is intended for students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership skills, and a commitment to community service.
- Eligibility: Open to African students pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies at Carleton University. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential.
- Coverage: Up to CAD 5,000.
- Application Deadline: March 1, 2025.
Tip: Highlight your academic achievements and community service in your application. Strong letters of reference can make a significant difference.
10. Humber College International Entry Scholarships
Humber College offers entrance scholarships to international students beginning their undergraduate studies. These scholarships are awarded based on academic performance, community involvement, and letters of reference.
- Eligibility: Open to international students applying to Humber College for undergraduate programmes. Awards are based on academic performance and involvement in the community.
- Coverage: Full tuition or partial scholarships, renewable for up to three years based on academic performance.
- Application Deadline: February 2025 for the September intake.
Tip: Make sure to emphasise your community involvement and academic achievements, as Humber College values well-rounded students.
Conclusion
The fully funded scholarships in Canada for 2025 offer outstanding chances for overseas students to pursue their academic goals stress-free. With the help of these scholarships, you can concentrate on your studies and personal development while studying in Canada. They also cover living expenses and, in certain situations, travel costs.
Whether you’re aiming for undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies, there are numerous scholarship options available to help you achieve your goals. Start researching early, prepare your application carefully, and make the most of these opportunities to secure funding for your education in Canada.
FAQs
1. Can I apply for multiple fully funded scholarships in Canada?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships as long as you meet the eligibility requirements for each. Ensure you tailor your application to the specific criteria of each scholarship.
2. What documents are required for fully funded scholarships in Canada?
Most scholarships require academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and proof of English or French language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or TEF for French programmes). Some may also require a research proposal.
3. When should I start applying for scholarships for the 2025 academic year?
Start preparing your applications by mid-2024, as many deadlines for Canadian scholarships fall between late 2024 and early 2025.
4. Are fully funded scholarships in Canada competitive?
Yes, fully funded scholarships in Canada are competitive, especially those offered by top universities. Submitting a well-prepared application that highlights your academic achievements and goals will improve your chances.
5. Are there scholarships available for specific fields of study?
Yes, many scholarships are targeted at specific fields such as science, technology, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. Make sure to research scholarships that align with your academic and career goals.
By preparing early and crafting a compelling application, you can take advantage of these fully funded scholarships and pursue a rewarding academic experience in Canada.
