Canada is one of the top destinations for international students seeking quality education and fully funded scholarships. With world-class universities, a diverse cultural environment, and strong post-graduate opportunities, studying in Canada can be a life-changing experience. However, the cost of tuition and living expenses can be a challenge. Thankfully, numerous fully funded scholarships are available to help students cover tuition fees, living costs, and additional expenses.
This guide explores the best scholarship opportunities in Canada for international students in 2025, including eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and tips for increasing your chances of success.
Benefits of Studying in Canada on a Fully Funded Scholarship
1. Tuition-Free Education
Fully funded scholarships cover full tuition fees, ensuring students can focus on their academic pursuits without financial burdens.
2. Monthly Stipend for Living Expenses
Many scholarships provide a generous monthly allowance to cover accommodation, food, and transportation.
3. Health Insurance Coverage
Some scholarship programs offer free medical insurance, ensuring students receive proper healthcare during their studies.
4. Research and Travel Grants
Many fully funded scholarships include additional grants for research projects, international conferences, and study-related travel.
5. Post-Graduation Work Opportunities
Canada offers excellent work opportunities for international students after graduation, with many scholarship programs including career support services.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada for International Students 2025
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Overview
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) are among the most prestigious scholarships for international PhD students. This program aims to attract top-tier doctoral students to Canadian universities.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to international and domestic students
- Must be pursuing a PhD degree
- Demonstrated leadership skills and academic excellence
Benefits
- $50,000 per year for three years
- Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and research costs
How to Apply
Applicants must be nominated by a Canadian institution and submit an online application through the Vanier CGS website.
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
Overview
This scholarship, offered by the University of Toronto, is designed for exceptional international students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and leadership potential.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to non-Canadian students
- Must be applying for an undergraduate program at the University of Toronto
- Strong academic performance and leadership experience
Benefits
- Full tuition coverage
- Living expenses support
- Books and incidental fees covered
How to Apply
Students must be nominated by their high school and submit their application through the University of Toronto’s portal.
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
Overview
The UBC International Scholars Program provides fully funded scholarships to exceptional international students.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to non-Canadian students
- High academic achievement and financial need
- Demonstrated leadership skills
Benefits
- Full tuition waiver
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
- Additional funding for academic projects
How to Apply
Students must apply for admission to UBC and submit a separate scholarship application.
4. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
Overview
The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships support international PhD students conducting research in humanities and social sciences.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to both international and Canadian students
- Must be enrolled in a PhD program in Canada
- Research focused on social sciences and humanities
Benefits
- $40,000 per year for up to three years
- Additional research and travel funding
- Mentorship from academic and industry leaders
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation portal.
5. University of Waterloo International Master’s and Doctoral Awards
Overview
The University of Waterloo offers fully funded scholarships for international students pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to international students
- Enrolled in a research-based graduate program
- Strong academic performance
Benefits
- Full tuition coverage
- Research grants
- Monthly living stipend
How to Apply
Applications are automatically considered when applying for admission to the University of Waterloo.
6. York University International Student Scholarships
Overview
York University offers fully funded undergraduate scholarships for outstanding international students.
Eligibility Criteria
- Non-Canadian students
- High academic performance
- Leadership and community involvement
Benefits
- Full tuition waiver
- Financial assistance for accommodation and books
How to Apply
Applicants must apply for admission to York University and submit a separate scholarship application.
7. Dalhousie University Scholarships
Overview
Dalhousie University offers generous funding opportunities for international graduate students.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to international master’s and PhD students
- Strong academic record
- Research-focused studies
Benefits
- Tuition fee waiver
- Monthly stipend
- Research funding
How to Apply
Applications are submitted via the Dalhousie University website along with supporting documents.
8. Concordia University International Excellence Scholarships
Overview
The Concordia University scholarships support exceptional international undergraduate and graduate students.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to non-Canadian students
- Academic excellence
- Community involvement and leadership
Benefits
- Full tuition coverage
- Living expenses stipend
How to Apply
Students must apply for admission and indicate interest in scholarship consideration.
How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada
Step 1: Research Scholarship Opportunities
Identify scholarships that match your academic background and career goals.
Step 2: Check Eligibility Requirements
Ensure you meet the academic, leadership, and financial need requirements before applying.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
- Academic transcripts
- Personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
- Research proposal (for graduate scholarships)
- Proof of financial need (if applicable)
Step 4: Submit Application Before Deadlines
Most scholarships have strict application deadlines, so submit all required materials early.
Step 5: Prepare for Interviews (If Required)
Some scholarships require interviews as part of the selection process. Prepare well and showcase your motivation and leadership qualities.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship
1. Maintain High Academic Performance
Strong academic records significantly improve your scholarship application.
2. Showcase Leadership and Community Involvement
Scholarship committees look for candidates who demonstrate leadership skills and social impact.
3. Write a Strong Personal Statement
Highlight your career aspirations, achievements, and how the scholarship will help you make an impact.
4. Apply for Multiple Scholarships
Increase your chances of securing funding by applying to several scholarships at once.
Conclusion
Studying in Canada on a fully funded scholarship in 2025 is a great opportunity for international students. With numerous scholarships covering tuition fees, living expenses, and research costs, deserving students can focus on their education without financial stress. By researching scholarships, meeting eligibility criteria, and preparing strong applications, you can successfully secure funding for your academic journey in Canada.