List of Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada for 2024 – 2025

Discover top fully funded scholarships in Canada for 2024. Explore opportunities at prestigious universities and government programs to fund your education.

Canada is the number one destination for international students seeking high-quality education and a welcoming environment. The good news is that numerous fully funded scholarships are available to help ease the financial strain of studying abroad. In this guide, we’ll explore the top fully funded scholarships in Canada for 2024, providing detailed information to help you find the right opportunity to fund your studies.

Understanding Fully Funded Scholarships

What is a Fully Funded Scholarship?

A fully funded scholarship covers all major expenses related to your education, including:

• Tuition Fees: The cost of attending your academic program.
• Accommodation: On-campus or off-campus housing expenses.
• Living Stipend: Funds for daily living costs, such as food and transportation.
• Books and Supplies: Costs associated with your coursework.
• Travel Expenses: Some scholarships include airfare and travel-related costs.
• Health Insurance: Coverage for medical expenses during your stay.

Types of Fully Funded Scholarships:

1. Government-Funded Scholarships
2. Institutional Scholarships
3. Private and Non-Governmental Scholarships

Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada for 2024

1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

Overview: The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships are prestigious awards aimed at attracting and retaining world-class doctoral students.

Key Features:

• Coverage: $50,000 per year for up to three years.
• Eligibility: Open to Canadian and international doctoral students who exhibits leadership skills and a high standard of scholarly achievement.
• Application Process: Apply through your Canadian university. The university must nominate you for the scholarship.

Notable Institutions:

• University of Toronto
• University of British Columbia (UBC)
• McGill University

2. Trudeau Foundation Scholarships

Overview: The Trudeau Foundation Scholarships support doctoral candidates who are pursuing research in social sciences and humanities.

Key Features:

• Coverage: Up to $60,000 per year for up to four years, including a research and travel allowance.
• Eligibility: Open to international students who are pursuing doctoral studies at a Canadian university in the areas of social sciences and humanities.
• Application Process: Apply through the Trudeau Foundation’s website and ensure your research aligns with the foundation’s themes.

3. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program

Overview: This program is designed for students from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries pursuing graduate studies in Canada.

Key Features:

• Coverage: Full tuition fees, living expenses, and travel allowances.
• Eligibility: Open to students from Commonwealth countries. The eligibility requirements may be diffeerent depending on the specific scholarship under this program.
• Application Process: Apply through your home country’s scholarship agency or the Canadian embassy.

4. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

Overview: The Ontario Graduate Scholarship is intended for students pursuing graduate studies in Ontario.

Key Features:

• Coverage: $15,000 per year (divided into $5,000 per term).
• Eligibility: Open to international students who are enrolled in a graduate program at an Ontario university.
• Application Process: Apply directly through participating Ontario universities. Each university has its own application process and deadlines.

5. Quebec Merit Scholarship Program for Foreign Students

Overview: The Quebec Merit Scholarship Program supports international students studying at participating universities in Quebec.

Key Features:

• Coverage: Varies, but typically includes tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
• Eligibility: Open to international students studying in Quebec at the master’s or doctoral level.
• Application Process: Apply through your Quebec institution. Each institution may have specific criteria and application procedures.

6. Global Affairs Canada Scholarships

Overview: Global Affairs Canada offers scholarships for students from developing countries to study in Canada.

Key Features:

• Coverage: Full tuition fees, living expenses, and travel allowances.
• Eligibility: Open to students from developing countries. Specific scholarships are often tied to bilateral agreements between Canada and other countries.
• Application Process: Apply through Global Affairs Canada or your home country’s scholarship office.

7. The International Leader of Tomorrow Award at UBC

Overview: The International Leader of Tomorrow Award is designed for international students who demonstrate leadership and academic excellence.

Key Features:

• Coverage: Full tuition fees, living expenses, and other financial needs.
• Eligibility: Open to international students applying to the University of British Columbia (UBC) who have a strong academic record and demonstrate leadership potential.
• Application Process: Apply for admission to UBC and indicate your interest in the scholarship through the application process.

8. The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship at the University of Toronto

Overview: This scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students who exhibits academic excellence and leadership skills.

Key Features:

• Coverage: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and living expenses for up to four years.
• Eligibility: Open to international students who are in their final year of secondary school or who have graduated in the past year.
• Application Process: Apply for admission to the University of Toronto and be nominated by your school for the scholarship.

9. University of Alberta International Scholarships

Overview: The University of Alberta offers several fully funded scholarships to international students.

Key Features:

• Coverage: Full tuition, living expenses, and other costs.
• Eligibility: Varies by scholarship. Generally open to international students with a strong academic record.
• Application Process: Apply directly to the University of Alberta and check specific scholarship opportunities on their website.

10. The Canadian Government’s International Scholarships

Overview: The Canadian government offers a variety of scholarships to international students, including those through the Canada-CARICOM Leadership Scholarships Program.

Key Features:

• Coverage: Full tuition fees, living expenses, and travel allowances.
• Eligibility: Open to students from eligible countries within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and other regions.
• Application Process: Apply through the Canadian Embassy or High Commission in your home country.

Tips for Securing a Fully Funded Scholarship

1. Start Your Research Early

Begin researching scholarships as early as possible. This will give you ample time to understand the eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines.

2. Prepare Your Documents

Ensure you have all necessary documents ready, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and standardized test scores. Keep them updated and organized.

3. Customize Your Application

Tailor your application to align with the specific scholarship’s requirements. Highlight how your academic achievements, leadership skills, and personal goals match the scholarship’s objectives.

4. Follow Application Guidelines

Carefully follow the application guidelines provided by each scholarship. Adhere to formatting requirements, word limits, and submission instructions.

5. Seek Guidance

Don’t think it twice to seek advice from academic advisors, mentors, or scholarship consultants. They can provide valuable feedback and help you strengthen your application.

6. Proofread and Review

Thoroughly proofread your application to avoid errors and ensure clarity. Have someone else review it for additional feedback and suggestions.

Conclusion

Fully funded scholarships in Canada offer international students the opportunity to pursue higher education without financial hold back. By exploring options, understanding requirements, and preparing strong applications, you can enhance your chances. Canada’s diverse scholarships cater to various fields and study levels. Start your application today and achieve your educational goals in Canada.

References: University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, McGill University