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Canada

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Funding opportunities, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines for international students in Canada

Scholarships & Financial Aid for Canada

Numerous scholarships are available for international students in Canada. Below is a comprehensive list of the most notable funding opportunities, along with eligibility details and deadlines.

Scholarships can cover partial to full tuition fees and sometimes include living allowances. Competition is strong, so starting your application early and presenting a strong academic profile is key.

Scholarship Snapshot

Available Scholarships

10+ programs

Coverage Range

10% – 100% tuition

Application Window

6–12 months before intake

Nexsus Assistance

Free scholarship matching

Scholarship Application Process

Step 1

Research & Match

Identify scholarships that align with your academic profile and goals

Step 2

Prepare Materials

Draft your personal statement, gather transcripts, and request recommendations

Step 3

Submit on Time

Lodge applications before deadlines — early submissions are often prioritized

Step 4

Track & Follow Up

Monitor your application status and respond promptly to any requests

Available Scholarships

5 scholarships
#Scholarship NameAward AmountEligibilityDeadline
1
Vanier Canada Graduate ScholarshipsCA $50,000/year for 3 yearsDoctoral students showing leadership, research and academic excellence in health, engineering, natural sciences or social sciencesNovember 1
2
Banting Postdoctoral FellowshipsCA $70,000/year for 2 yearsPostdoctoral researchers in health, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences or humanitiesSeptember (annual)
3
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)CA $10,000 over 2 terms, or CA $15,000 over 3Master's and doctoral students at participating Ontario universitiesVaries by university
4
Ontario Trillium ScholarshipCA $40,000/year for 4 yearsInternational PhD students at Ontario universitiesVaries by university
5
Canada-ASEAN SEED ScholarshipsCA $10,200 for a 4-month study termFirst-time recipients from ASEAN member countries on a full-time post-secondary programmeVaries by intake

Scholarship Details

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

CA $50,000/year for 3 years
Doctoral students showing leadership, research and academic excellence in health, engineering, natural sciences or social sciences
Deadline: November 1

Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships

CA $70,000/year for 2 years
Postdoctoral researchers in health, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences or humanities
Deadline: September (annual)

Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

CA $10,000 over 2 terms, or CA $15,000 over 3
Master's and doctoral students at participating Ontario universities
Deadline: Varies by university

Ontario Trillium Scholarship

CA $40,000/year for 4 years
International PhD students at Ontario universities
Deadline: Varies by university

Canada-ASEAN SEED Scholarships

CA $10,200 for a 4-month study term
First-time recipients from ASEAN member countries on a full-time post-secondary programme
Deadline: Varies by intake

University Scholarships in Canada

5 scholarships across 5 institutions
1 scholarship

University of Toronto

Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship

Fully funded — tuition, books, incidental fees and 4 years of residence support

1 scholarship

University of British Columbia

International Major Entrance Scholarship

CA $10,000 – $20,000 per year

1 scholarship

University of Calgary

International Entrance Scholarship

CA $20,000, renewable for 4 years

1 scholarship

York University

York International Scholarship of Distinction

CA $15,000 in year one, CA $7,500 thereafter

1 scholarship

University of Manitoba

Graduate Fellowships

Master's CA $20,000/year · Doctoral CA $25,000/year

Scholarship values are indicative and subject to change. For updated and additional information, including research and PhD scholarships, check the university's official page or ask Nexsus for free scholarship matching.

Types of Scholarships Available

Merit-Based

Awarded based on academic achievement, test scores, and leadership qualities. Typically covers 25–100% of tuition.

Need-Based

Designed for students who demonstrate financial need. May cover tuition, living costs, or both.

Country-Specific

Government or institution scholarships targeting students from specific countries or regions.

Research Scholarships

Funded positions for postgraduate students engaged in university research projects.

Sports & Talent

Scholarships for students with exceptional athletic or artistic abilities.

University Grants

Internal funding offered by specific universities to attract international talent.

Scholarship Application Tips

Apply early — most scholarships have limited spots and strict deadlines

Prepare a compelling personal statement highlighting achievements and goals

Check university-specific scholarships in addition to national programs

Maintain strong academic records throughout your current studies

Gather strong recommendation letters from academic or professional referees

Apply to multiple scholarships to maximize your chances of funding

Highlight community service, leadership, and extracurricular activities

Contact Nexsus for help identifying scholarships you may be eligible for

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