Canada remains one of the top study destinations globally, known for its high academic standards, multicultural environment, post-study work opportunities, and welcoming immigration policies. However, the cost of studying in Canada can be high for international students. To bridge this gap, 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 provides a complete overview of top Canada scholarships for international students in 2026, including eligibility requirements, benefits, and step-by-step application guidance.
🇨🇦 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.