Canada has rapidly become a global education destination for international students pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees. With world-class institutions, multicultural cities, and a high quality of life, it offers a welcoming environment for graduate studies. One of the most attractive reasons to consider Canada is the abundance of scholarships and funding opportunities available for international and domestic students alike.
This guide highlights the top scholarships for graduate school in Canada, eligibility criteria, how to apply, and tips to increase your chances of winning.
Benefits of Studying in Canada as a Graduate Student
- Access to globally ranked universities and research-intensive programs
- Availability of fully funded scholarships and assistantships
- Opportunity to work while studying and post-graduation
- Pathway to permanent residency
- Multicultural environment and safe, inclusive campuses
Types of Graduate Scholarships in Canada
1. Government-Funded Scholarships
Funded by the Canadian government to attract talented graduate students.
2. University-Specific Scholarships
Offered directly by Canadian universities to admitted graduate students.
3. External Scholarships
Funded by organizations such as NGOs, foundations, or international institutions.
4. Research Assistantships and Teaching Assistantships
Provide stipends in exchange for academic work, commonly available at master’s and PhD levels.
Top Government Scholarships for Graduate Students in Canada
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
- Value: CAD $50,000/year for 3 years
- Level: Doctoral (PhD)
- For: Canadian and international students
- Criteria: Academic excellence, research potential, and leadership
- Website: vanier.gc.ca
2. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
- Funded by: Global Affairs Canada
- For: Citizens of Commonwealth countries pursuing master’s or PhD
- Covers: Tuition, travel, and living expenses
- Website: scholarships.gc.ca
3. Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program (CGS M)
- Value: CAD $17,500 for 12 months
- For: Canadian citizens and permanent residents
- Eligible Institutions: 50+ universities in Canada
- Website: nserc-crsng.gc.ca
4. IDRC Research Awards
- For: Students from developing countries pursuing master’s or PhD
- Focus: International development-related research
- Covers: Up to CAD $15,000
- Website: idrc.ca
University-Specific Scholarships in Canada for Graduate Studies
1. University of Toronto – School of Graduate Studies Fellowship
- Level: Master’s and PhD
- Covers: Tuition and living allowance
- Website: gradschool.utoronto.ca
2. University of British Columbia (UBC) – Four-Year Doctoral Fellowship (4YF)
- For: PhD students
- Covers: CAD $18,200/year stipend + full tuition
- Website: grad.ubc.ca
3. University of Alberta Graduate Entrance Scholarships
- For: International students enrolling in master’s or PhD
- Covers: CAD $17,500 + additional tuition support
- Website: ualberta.ca
4. McGill University Graduate Funding
- For: Graduate students in research programs
- Offers: Fellowships, assistantships, and external funding
- Website: mcgill.ca
5. University of Waterloo International Master’s and Doctoral Awards
- Level: Master’s and PhD
- Amount: CAD $2,045–CAD $4,090 per term
- Website: uwaterloo.ca
External Scholarships and Fellowships
1. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
- For: Students pursuing PhD in social sciences or humanities
- Value: CAD $60,000/year for 3 years
- Focus: Leadership, engagement, academic excellence
- Website: trudeaufoundation.ca
2. Mitacs Globalink Research Internship
- For: International graduate students
- Duration: 12-week paid research internship
- Fields: Science, engineering, math, and social sciences
- Website: mitacs.ca
3. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
- Value: CAD $15,000/year
- Level: Master’s and doctoral
- Open to: Canadian and international students
- Website: ontario.ca
Eligibility Criteria
While each scholarship has specific conditions, general criteria include:
- A bachelor’s degree with high academic standing
- Admission to a Canadian university for a graduate program
- Research proposal (especially for PhD-level)
- Language proficiency (English/French depending on the institution)
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose or personal statement
- Relevant work or research experience
How to Apply for Graduate Scholarships in Canada
Step 1: Research Your Program and School
Start by choosing the graduate program that aligns with your academic and career goals.
Step 2: Apply for Admission
You typically must be accepted into a program before being considered for university-funded scholarships.
Step 3: Explore Funding Opportunities
Check both internal (university) and external (government or foundation) scholarships.
Step 4: Prepare Strong Documents
- Academic transcripts and degrees
- CV or resume
- Letters of reference
- Research proposal
- Language proficiency results (IELTS, TOEFL)
Step 5: Apply Early
Deadlines vary but can be as early as six to twelve months before the academic year starts.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early and plan your application timeline
- Customize your research proposal to fit the scholarship’s priorities
- Highlight leadership, community involvement, and research experience
- Choose referees who can provide strong, relevant recommendations
- Carefully proofread your application documents
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students get full scholarships for graduate school in Canada?
Yes. Several universities and government programs offer fully funded scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and research costs.
Do I need to apply for the scholarship separately from university admission?
Some scholarships are automatic upon admission; others require separate applications. Always check the university’s financial aid page.
Is work experience required?
Not always. It depends on the program. Research-focused graduate programs may value prior experience or published work.
Is IELTS or TOEFL mandatory?
Yes, unless you’re from an English-speaking country or have completed prior education in English.
What GPA is required for Canadian scholarships?
A GPA of 3.0/4.0 or higher is usually expected, but competitive scholarships often require 3.5+.
Final Thoughts: Turning Your Canadian Dream into Reality
Graduate education in Canada is not only high in quality but also accessible with the right funding. With a combination of government scholarships, university awards, and external fellowships, thousands of international students are achieving their academic dreams in Canada every year.
Be proactive, apply early, and let your academic and leadership strengths shine through your application. A life-changing opportunity may be just one scholarship away.
