Canada Masters Scholarships for
International Students
Canada is home to some of the world’s top universities, including the University of Toronto,
McGill University, and the University of British Columbia. These universities offer a wide range
of Masters programs in various fields, including business, engineering, social sciences, and
humanities.
However, studying in Canada as an international student can be expensive, with tuition fees
ranging from CAD 20,000 to CAD 50,000 per year, depending on the program and the
university. In addition, students must also pay for accommodation, living expenses, and other
costs. Scholarships can help international students cover these costs and make studying in
Canada more accessible.
According to a report by the Canadian Bureau for International Education, over 500,000
international students were studying in Canada in 2020, with the number increasing each year.
However, studying abroad can be expensive, which is why scholarships are essential in
supporting international students financially. In this article, we will provide an overview of the
different types of Masters scholarships available to international students in Canada, the
eligibility criteria, how to apply, and a list of some of the top scholarships available.
Types Canada Masters Scholarships for International
Students
There are several types of Masters scholarships available for international students in Canada.
Each scholarship has its own criteria and requirements, and they are designed to meet the
needs of different types of students. In this section, we will explore the different types of Masters
scholarships in Canada and what they offer.
1. Fully-funded scholarships
Fully-funded scholarships are the most prestigious type of scholarship available for international
students in Canada. These scholarships cover tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses,
and other costs. They are highly competitive and are usually awarded based on academic merit
and research potential. Students who receive fully-funded scholarships are expected to maintain
a high level of academic achievement throughout their studies.
Examples of fully-funded scholarships in Canada include the Vanier Canada Graduate
Scholarship, the International Graduate Scholarship at the University of Waterloo, and the Ontario Trillium Scholarship. These scholarships are open to international students who have
excellent academic records and are pursuing a Masters degree in a Canadian university.
1. Partially-funded scholarships
Partially-funded scholarships cover a portion of the tuition fees or living expenses of
international students. They are also competitive and are usually awarded based on academic
merit or financial need. These scholarships are designed to help students cover some of the
costs of studying in Canada.
Examples of partially-funded scholarships in Canada include the Canada Graduate
Scholarships-Master’s Program, the University of Calgary Graduate Awards, and the Graduate
Fellowship Program at the University of Manitoba. These scholarships are open to international
students who have excellent academic records and are pursuing a Masters degree in a
Canadian university.
1. Merit-based scholarships
Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence and research potential.
They are usually awarded by universities or private organizations and can cover tuition fees,
living expenses, or both. These scholarships are designed to reward students who have
demonstrated exceptional academic achievement and have the potential to make significant
contributions to their field of study.
Examples of merit-based scholarships in Canada include the Quebec Merit Scholarship for
Foreign Students, the University of Alberta International Graduate Scholarship, and the Trudeau
Foundation Scholarships. These scholarships are open to international students who have
excellent academic records and are pursuing a Masters degree in a Canadian university.
1. Need-based scholarships
Need-based scholarships are awarded based on financial need. They are usually awarded by
universities or private organizations and can cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both. These
scholarships are designed to help students who may not have the financial resources to cover
the costs of studying in Canada.
Examples of need-based scholarships in Canada include the International Student Emergency
Bursary at the University of Toronto, the International Student Scholar Award at the University of
British Columbia, and the International Student Bursary at the University of Ottawa. These
scholarships are open to international students who have demonstrated financial need and are
pursuing a Masters degree in a Canadian university.
1. Country-specific scholarships
Country-specific scholarships are awarded to students from specific countries. They are usually
awarded by governments or private organizations and can cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both. These scholarships are designed to promote cultural exchange and international
cooperation.
Examples of country-specific scholarships in Canada include the Canadian Francophonie
Scholarship Program, the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan, and the China
Scholarship Council. These scholarships are open to international students from specific
countries who are pursuing a Masters degree in a Canadian university.
1. University-specific scholarships
University-specific scholarships are awarded by specific universities and can cover tuition fees,
living expenses, or both. They are usually awarded based on academic merit or research
potential. These scholarships are designed to attract talented students to specific universities
and to support their academic endeavors.
Examples of university-specific scholarships in Canada include the York Graduate Scholarship,
the Concordia University Graduate Fellowship, and the Memorial University Graduate
Fellowship. These scholarships are open to international students who are pursuing a Masters
degree at specific universities in Canada.
How to Apply to Trudeau Foundation Masters Scholarships
To apply for Masters scholarships in Canada, students should first research potential
scholarships and universities. They should carefully read the application guidelines and ensure
they meet all eligibility criteria.
For better understanding, follow the guide below
- Go to the Trudeau Foundation website: To begin your application process, visit the
Trudeau Foundation website at https://www.trudeaufoundation.ca/become-scholar. On
the page, you will find detailed information about the scholarship, including eligibility
criteria, selection criteria, and deadlines. - Create an account: Click on the Apply button to create an account. You will be asked
to provide your name, email address, and a password. Once you’ve created an account,
you will be able to start your application. - Complete the online application form: You will be required to complete an online
application form that includes personal information, academic background, research
proposal, and a statement of interest. The research proposal should be no more than
2,000 words and should outline your research topic, methodology, and expected
outcomes. The statement of interest should be no more than 750 words and should
explain why you’re interested in pursuing research in your chosen field and how the
scholarship will help you achieve your goals. - Provide transcripts and letters of recommendation: You will need to upload official
transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you’ve attended, as well as two letters of recommendation from academic referees who can speak to your academic
achievements, leadership abilities, and community engagement. - Submit your application: Once you’ve completed all the required fields, reviewed your
application for accuracy and completeness, and uploaded all necessary documents, you
can submit your application by clicking the Submit. You will receive a
confirmation email once your application has been received. - Wait for the results: The Trudeau Foundation will review all applications and select a
shortlist of candidates for interviews. If you’re selected for an interview, you will be
contacted by the Foundation to schedule a time and date. Final decisions will be made in
April, and successful candidates will be notified shortly thereafter.
To stand out as a candidate, students should ensure their personal statement is well-written and
highlights their academic achievements and career goals. They should also provide any
additional supporting documents that demonstrate their eligibility for the scholarship.
That’s it! Good luck with your application.
Top 6 Masters Scholarships for International Students in
Canada
There are several Masters scholarships available to international students in Canada. Below is
a list of some of the top scholarships:
Government of Canada Scholarships: These scholarships are fully-funded and cover all
expenses for the duration of the program, including airfare, tuition fees, and a monthly living
allowance. There are several scholarships available, including the Canada Graduate
Scholarships, the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, and the Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships.
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship: This scholarship provides up to $50,000 per year for
three years to students pursuing a doctoral degree in Canada. The scholarship is awarded
based on academic excellence, research potential, and leadership abilities.
Canada Graduate Scholarships: These scholarships provide funding for Master’s and doctoral
studies in Canada. The scholarship is awarded based on academic excellence and research
potential.
Ontario Graduate Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to students pursuing Master’s or
doctoral studies in Ontario. The scholarship provides up to $15,000 for one year of study and is
awarded based on academic excellence.
Trudeau Foundation Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to students pursuing
doctoral studies in social sciences or humanities. The scholarship provides up to $60,000 per year for three years and is awarded based on academic excellence, leadership, and social
engagement.
University of Alberta International Graduate Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to
international students pursuing Master’s or doctoral studies at the University of Alberta. The
scholarship provides up to $17,000 per year for two years and is awarded based on academic
merit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pursuing a Masters degree in Canada as an international student can be a
rewarding experience, but it can also be expensive. Scholarships are essential in supporting
students financially and can help make studying abroad more accessible.
There are several types of scholarships available, including fully-funded scholarships, partially-
funded scholarships, merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, country-specific
scholarships, and university-specific scholarships. To be eligible for these scholarships,
students must meet certain criteria, including academic requirements, English language
proficiency, work experience, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. By
researching potential scholarships, carefully reading the application guidelines, and submitting a
well-prepared application, international students can increase their chances of receiving a
scholarship and achieving their academic and career goals in Canada.