Canada Scholarships for International Students make studying in Canada more accessible, even with the country’s high academic standards and living costs. Canada is globally recognized for its world-class education system, multicultural society, post-study work opportunities, and student-friendly immigration policies. To reduce the financial burden, the Canadian government, universities, and external organizations offer a wide range of fully funded and partially funded scholarships for the 2026 academic year.
This guide offers a complete overview of the top Canada Scholarships for International Students in 2026, covering eligibility criteria, scholarship benefits, and step-by-step application guidance to help you apply successfully.
🇨🇦 1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (PhD)
Overview
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) program is one of Canada’s most prestigious funding opportunities for doctoral students. It aims to attract world-class researchers and future academic leaders.
Scholarship Benefits
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CAD $50,000 per year
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Funding for up to 3 years
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Covers tuition, living expenses, and research support
Eligibility Requirements
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International students and Canadian citizens
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Admitted to or nominated by a Canadian institution
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Outstanding academic performance
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Strong research potential and leadership skills
Application Link
🎓 **2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
(University of Toronto – Undergraduate)**
Overview
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship is a fully funded undergraduate scholarship for exceptional international students at the University of Toronto.
Scholarship Benefits
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Full tuition for 4 years
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Accommodation and meal plan
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Books and incidental fees
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Living support
Eligibility Requirements
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International student
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Final-year secondary school student
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Must be nominated by your school
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Strong academic excellence and leadership involvement
Application Link
🔗 https://future.utoronto.ca/pearson/
🏛️ 3. Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
Overview
This program supports students from eligible developing countries to pursue short-term studies or research in Canada.
Scholarship Benefits
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Tuition coverage
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Monthly living allowance
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Travel expenses
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Health insurance
Eligibility Requirements
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Citizen of an eligible country
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Enrolled in a post-secondary institution
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Meet academic requirements of the host Canadian institution
Application Link
🔗 https://www.educanada.ca/scholarships-bourses/can/institutions/asean.aspx
🧪 4. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
Overview
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship supports international Master’s and PhD students studying in Ontario universities.
Scholarship Benefits
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CAD $10,000 – $15,000 per year
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Renewable based on academic performance
Eligibility Requirements
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Admission to a participating Ontario university
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Minimum academic achievement (usually first-class or equivalent)
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Full-time graduate enrollment
Application Link
🔗 https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-graduate-scholarship
🏫 5. University-Specific Scholarships (Fully & Partially Funded)
Many Canadian universities offer generous scholarships for international students.
Examples
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University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
🔗 https://students.ubc.ca/enrolment/finances/awards-scholarships -
McGill University Entrance Scholarships
🔗 https://www.mcgill.ca/studentaid/scholarships -
University of Alberta International Scholarships
🔗 https://www.ualberta.ca/admissions/international/tuition-and-scholarships/index.html
Common Benefits
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Full or partial tuition coverage
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Living allowances
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Merit-based and need-based awards
🧾 6. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
Overview
This scholarship supports students from Commonwealth countries pursuing Master’s and PhD studies in Canada.
Scholarship Benefits
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Tuition fees
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Living allowance
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Travel and research support
Eligibility Requirements
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Citizen of a Commonwealth country
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Academic excellence
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Admission to a Canadian university
Application Link
🔗 https://www.educanada.ca/scholarships-bourses/can/commonwealth.aspx
📋 General Requirements for Canada Scholarships (2026)
While requirements vary, most Canadian scholarships require:
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Academic transcripts
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Proof of admission or offer letter
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Statement of Purpose / Personal Statement
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Letters of recommendation
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Research proposal (for Master’s & PhD)
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Proof of English or French proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or alternatives where applicable)
📝 How to Apply for Canada Scholarships – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Choose Your Program & University
Apply for admission first, as many scholarships require an offer letter.
Step 2: Prepare Documents
Start early and ensure all documents are properly certified.
Step 3: Apply for Scholarships
Some scholarships require separate applications, while others are automatic.
Step 4: Track Deadlines
Most Canada scholarships for 2026 open between September 2025 – February 2026.
🎯 Tips to Increase Your Chances
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Maintain a strong academic record
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Highlight leadership, volunteering, and community impact
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Write a compelling statement of purpose
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Apply to multiple scholarships
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Follow official sources only
🧠 Conclusion
Canada offers a wealth of scholarship opportunities for international students in 2026, from fully funded undergraduate awards like the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship to high-value graduate funding such as the Vanier CGS and Ontario Graduate Scholarship. With early preparation, strong documentation, and strategic applications, studying in Canada can become a reality—without overwhelming financial burden.