Canada, renowned for its high-quality education system, diverse culture, and welcoming immigration policies, remains a top destination for international students in 2025. What makes it especially attractive is the growing availability of fully funded scholarships that not only cover tuition but also offer support for living expenses, health insurance, travel costs, and even visa assistance. Whether you’re pursuing an undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degree, Canada offers numerous scholarship opportunities that make studying in this beautiful and progressive country both accessible and affordable.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best fully funded scholarships in Canada, along with the visa options available to international students, and provide practical tips for securing both.
Why Study in Canada?
Before diving into specific scholarships, it's important to understand what makes Canada such a compelling option for international education:
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Top-ranked universities such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, and University of British Columbia.
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Safe and inclusive society known for tolerance and multiculturalism.
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Work opportunities during and after studies, including post-graduate work permits.
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Pathways to permanent residency through programs like Express Entry.
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English and French instruction, offering bilingual learning options.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada (2025)
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Level: Doctoral (PhD)
Funding: $50,000 per year for 3 years
Fields: Health, Natural Sciences, Engineering, Social Sciences, Humanities
Eligibility:
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Open to Canadian and international students
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Exceptional academic record and leadership potential
Why It’s Great:
The Vanier Scholarship is one of Canada’s most prestigious awards, designed to attract world-class doctoral students.
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
Institution: University of Toronto
Level: Undergraduate
Funding Includes:
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Full tuition
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Books
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Incidental fees
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Full residence support for four years
Eligibility:
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International students entering their first year of undergraduate study
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Demonstrated academic excellence and leadership
What Sets It Apart:
Only students nominated by their high schools can apply, making it highly selective and prestigious.
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
Level: Undergraduate
Streams:
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Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award
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Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award
Coverage:
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Tuition, fees, and living expenses based on demonstrated financial need
Eligibility:
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High academic achievers from economically disadvantaged backgrounds
Why Apply:
UBC’s scholarships aim to support outstanding students who would be unable to attend university without financial aid.
4. McGill University – Scholarships and Financial Aid
Level: Undergraduate and Graduate
Types of Funding:
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Entrance scholarships (up to $12,000 per year)
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Fully funded graduate fellowships for international master’s and PhD students
Special Programs:
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One-year automatic funding package for all international PhD students
Visa Help:
McGill provides immigration advising and support for student visa processing.
5. University of Alberta International Entrance Scholarships
Level: Undergraduate and Graduate
Funding:
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Up to $9,000/year for undergraduates
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Fully funded graduate research and teaching assistantships
Additional Support:
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Fully funded PhD programs
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Graduate recruitment scholarships
Noteworthy:
Alberta’s cost of living is lower compared to cities like Toronto and Vancouver, making scholarships go further.
6. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
Level: Doctorate
Funding:
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$40,000 per year for 3 years
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Annual travel allowance of $20,000
Focus Areas:
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Human rights
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Public policy
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Global citizenship
Why It’s Unique:
In addition to financial support, recipients join a leadership training program and exclusive academic networks.
7. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
Eligibility: Citizens of Commonwealth countries
Level: Master’s and PhD
Funding Includes:
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Tuition
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Travel
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Living allowance
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Health insurance
Administered by: Global Affairs Canada
Ideal For:
Students from developing Commonwealth nations seeking to study in Canada and contribute to sustainable development.
8. Mitacs Globalink Graduate Fellowship
Level: Master’s and PhD
Coverage:
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CAD $15,000–$20,000 in research grants
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International research collaboration
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Travel support
Who Can Apply:
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Undergraduate students applying for graduate programs in Canada
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Students involved in international research partnerships
Bonus:
Gives students the opportunity to transition from research internships into graduate study with financial support.
Visa Options for International Students
Winning a scholarship is only part of the journey. To study in Canada, international students must obtain a Canadian Study Permit and possibly a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) depending on their nationality.
1. Canadian Study Permit
What it does:
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Allows international students to study in designated learning institutions (DLIs)
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Permits part-time work during studies and full-time during breaks
Requirements:
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Acceptance letter from a DLI
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Proof of financial support (often covered by scholarships)
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Valid passport
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Proof of clean record and medical exam (if applicable)
Processing Time:
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4 to 12 weeks depending on country of origin
Tip:
Students with full scholarships can use the scholarship offer as proof of financial support in their visa application.
2. Student Direct Stream (SDS)
Available to: Students from countries such as India, Philippines, China, Vietnam, Morocco, Pakistan, Senegal, and more
Processing Time: 20 days or less
Requirements:
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Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
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Tuition payment receipt
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IELTS score of 6.0 or higher
Why Use SDS?
It speeds up the visa process significantly for eligible countries and is a good option for scholarship recipients.
3. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
What it offers:
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Work in Canada for up to 3 years after graduation
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Can lead to permanent residency
Who’s Eligible:
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Graduates of eligible full-time programs (8 months or longer) from DLIs
Pathway to PR:
Combining a PGWP with Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) opens the door to Canadian permanent residency.
Tips to Win a Fully Funded Scholarship in Canada
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Start Early
Begin researching scholarships at least a year before your intended start date. -
Maintain Strong Academics
Most programs require top grades and demonstrated potential. -
Highlight Leadership & Community Involvement
Canadian scholarships often look for holistic candidates who make an impact. -
Tailor Your Application
Write a compelling personal statement that aligns with the scholarship’s mission. -
Prepare for the Visa Process
Keep documents like your admission letter, proof of funds, and passport ready well in advance.
Conclusion
Canada stands out as a beacon of opportunity for international students seeking a high-quality education without the financial burden. With a wealth of fully funded scholarships and streamlined visa processes, 2025 is an ideal year to make your academic dreams in Canada come true.