Best 11 Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in Canada

Canada has become one of the world’s most popular study destinations, hosting over 1 million international students in 2023 from more than 180 countries. The Spring 2025 edition of the ApplyBoard Student Pulse Survey reports that Canada tops the list of preferred study destinations for international students. Its universities are globally recognised for excellence, while the country itself is known for safety, diversity, and strong post-graduation opportunities.

The main challenge, however, is cost. International students spend an average of CAD $20,000 to $30,000 per year on tuition, excluding housing and living expenses. This makes fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students especially valuable, as they often cover tuition, living stipends, research funding, and even travel allowances. This helps remove financial stress and allows students to focus fully on their studies.

With affordable access to top-quality education and clear pathways to permanent residency, Canada remains a life-changing destination. Below is a list of the 11 best fully funded scholarships in Canada to help international students achieve their academic dreams.

1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) program is one of the most prestigious opportunities for doctoral students. Established in 2008 by the Government of Canada, this scholarship aims to attract and retain world-class researchers. It provides CA$50,000 per year for three years, which makes it one of the most generous fully funded scholarships for international students in Canada.

To qualify for this scholarship, you must be nominated by a Canadian institution with a Vanier quota, and eligible fields include health, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities. The scholarship not only provides financial freedom but also opens doors to top research facilities in Canadian universities.

2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)

The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship at the University of Toronto is designed for exceptional undergraduate students from around the world. It covers full tuition fees, books, incidental expenses, and residence support for up to four years. What makes it unique is its emphasis on creativity, leadership, and community involvement. As one of the most competitive fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students, it provides undergraduates with the opportunity to study at one of the world’s top-ranked universities without worrying about financial barriers.

3. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship

Created in memory of Canada’s 15th Prime Minister, the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship is a powerful option for international PhD students. It offers a CA$40,000 annual stipend plus CA$20,000 for research and travel, making it one of the best-rounded fully funded Canadian scholarships. This award is reserved for doctoral candidates in the social sciences and humanities who are passionate about public policy, leadership, and social impact. Beyond financial support, it provides access to a dynamic network of scholars and mentors, creating life-changing opportunities for its recipients.

4. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) is one of Canada’s oldest and most reliable programs, first introduced in 1975. It provides CA$10,000 for two consecutive years to master’s and PhD students. Unlike some centralised scholarships, each Ontario University manages its own OGS application process, giving students flexibility to apply through their chosen institution. It is highly valued among international applicants because of its long-standing reputation and strong government-university collaboration. For international students seeking fully funded scholarships in Canada, the OGS is a trusted pathway into graduate education.

5. President’s International Scholarship of Excellence (York University)

York University offers the President’s International Scholarship of Excellence, which supports outstanding undergraduate students for up to four years. Valued at CA$45,000 per year, this award is designed to cover tuition costs and alleviate the financial burden for high-achieving international students. Applicants must apply directly from high school, and the award is considered one of the best full-ride scholarships in Canada, giving talented students the freedom to focus entirely on their academic and leadership development.

READ MORE: 15 Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students without IELTS

6. Aga Khan Foundation Scholarships

The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarships are highly respected for their mission-driven approach. They provide full tuition coverage and living expenses for graduate students from developing countries. Unlike many scholarships, this program specifically targets students with financial need, ensuring that gifted individuals have equal access to quality education in Canada. Aga Khan Foundation remains committed to building future leaders who will return to their communities and create lasting impact.

7. UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award

At the University of British Columbia, the International Leader of Tomorrow Award (ILOT) is one of the most comprehensive scholarships available. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other study-related costs for undergraduate students. What sets this award apart is its dual focus on both academic merit and financial need, ensuring that high-potential students with limited financial resources can achieve success. Among the fully funded scholarships for international students in Canada, ILOT is well-regarded for its inclusivity and recognition of leadership potential.

8. McGill University Scholarships

McGill University in Montreal offers a range of financial awards, from partial aid to fully funded scholarships, for international students. Some of these scholarships cover full tuition, while others provide significant financial assistance based on academic excellence and leadership qualities. Both undergraduate and graduate students are eligible to apply, making McGill an attractive choice for students pursuing different levels of study. With its reputation as one of the world’s top universities, McGill offers not only funding but also access to global research opportunities and networks.

9. University of Winnipeg Scholarships

The University of Winnipeg offers several awards for international students, with amounts of up to CA$5,000. While some of these are partial scholarships, several provide full funding for students in specific academic fields. The scholarships are open to both undergraduate and graduate students, and the application deadline is. These awards reflect Winnipeg’s commitment to fostering a diverse learning environment and supporting international students in Canada.

10. Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowship

The Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowship is a specialised program designed to empower women from developing countries who are pursuing PhD or postdoctoral studies in STEM fields. The fellowship covers tuition costs and a portion of living expenses, providing recipients with the financial stability to focus on advanced research. It is highly competitive and globally recognised, often considered among the top fellowships offered in Canada. By supporting women in science and engineering, the fellowship fosters greater diversity and innovation in these critical fields.

11. Facebook (Meta) PhD Fellowship

For students in computer science and related disciplines, the Facebook (Meta) PhD Fellowship is an extraordinary opportunity. It provides a US$42,000 stipend per year, along with tuition coverage and additional research funding. The fellowship supports PhD students conducting cutting-edge research in areas like AI, data science, and computing. As one of the most globally recognised awards, it is also seen as one of the most impactful fully funded scholarships for international students in Canada, especially for those focused on technology and innovation.

Universities That Offer Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in Canada

1. University of Toronto

The University of Toronto is ranked among the world’s top universities and is a leading choice for international students seeking an exceptional educational experience. The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships for international students in Canada. The scholarship covers tuition fees, books, incidental expenses, and residence support for a period of four years, providing a comprehensive financial package. What makes it stand out is its focus on recognising students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability, creativity, and leadership qualities. With a strong global alumni network and world-class research facilities, studying at the University of Toronto is a life-changing opportunity for scholarship winners.

READ MORE: 11 Best Fully Funded Scholarships for Second Class Lower and Third Class Graduates

2. University of British Columbia (UBC)

The University of British Columbia is another top-ranked institution offering generous funding to international students. Its International Leader of Tomorrow Award (ILOT) is one of the most recognised fully funded scholarships in Canada, covering tuition, living expenses, and additional study-related costs. The award is designed for students who not only excel academically but also demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. UBC is especially popular among international students due to its diversity, cutting-edge research opportunities, and strong support services for scholarship recipients.

3. McGill University

Located in Montreal, McGill University is renowned for its academic excellence and multicultural environment. It offers a diverse range of scholarships, from partial to fully funded awards, for international students. Scholarships at McGill recognise high achievement and leadership, and they are open to both undergraduate and graduate students. International students benefit from the university’s strong reputation, which is globally recognised, especially in medicine, law, and engineering. McGill also provides financial aid packages to supplement scholarships, ensuring that deserving students can complete their studies without financial worries.

4. University of Manitoba

The University of Manitoba has a long tradition of supporting international students through scholarships and awards. One of its most notable options is the McCall MacBain Scholarship, which is fully funded and covers tuition fees along with a living stipend. This scholarship is especially attractive to students who demonstrate strong leadership skills, community involvement, and academic excellence. Additionally, the university offers over 1,600 entrance scholarships annually, making it one of the most supportive institutions for international applicants in Canada.

5. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta is highly regarded for its innovation and research excellence. It offers multiple fully funded scholarships in Canada, including the President’s International Distinction Scholarship. This award offers substantial financial support to outstanding undergraduate and graduate students from around the world. The university values high-achieving students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and potential to contribute to their fields. Alberta’s strong focus on research and practical learning makes it an attractive option for international students looking to combine scholarship opportunities with career development.

6. York University

York University, located in Toronto, offers one of the most competitive scholarships in Canada, which is the President’s International Scholarship of Excellence. This award supports undergraduate students for up to four years by covering tuition costs. The scholarship is designed for high-achieving students who not only excel academically but also demonstrate leadership and innovative thinking in their studies. York’s diverse community and strong international student support make it a welcoming environment for scholarship recipients.

7. University of Waterloo

The University of Waterloo is renowned for its exceptional programs in engineering, technology, and innovation. It offers the President’s Scholarship of Distinction and other awards, including fully funded scholarships for international students in Canada. These scholarships are awarded based on academic performance, leadership, and extracurricular achievements. Waterloo also offers co-op programs, enabling students to gain work experience while pursuing their studies. This combination of scholarships and career opportunities makes it one of the most forward-thinking universities in Canada.

READ MORE: 10 Cheapest Countries to Study in Europe for International Students (2025)

Canada offers countless opportunities for students worldwide, and these fully funded scholarships for international students in Canada make it possible to study without financial stress. From undergraduate to doctoral programs, these scholarships cover tuition, research, and even living expenses, giving you the chance to focus on education and career growth. If you’re planning to study in Canada, applying for these scholarships is a smart first step toward achieving your dream.