Scholarships in Canada Series #1
For many international students, the cost of studying abroad is an important part of deciding where and what to study. The good news is that Canada offers a variety of scholarship and funding opportunities for international students — but understanding where to look and how different scholarships work is essential.
Scholarships in Canada may be offered by the Government of Canada, Canadian universities and colleges, governments and organizations in a student’s home country, as well as private and international organizations.
In this first article of Shaws Education’s Scholarships in Canada Series, we take a closer look at the scholarship landscape for international students and where prospective students can begin their search.
Can International Students Receive Scholarships in Canada?
Yes. International students may be eligible for scholarships, awards and other funding opportunities to study or conduct research in Canada.
However, there is no single scholarship program that applies to every international student.
Eligibility can depend on factors such as:
- Citizenship or country of residence
- Level and field of study
- Academic achievement
- Leadership or extracurricular experience
- Financial need
- Current institution
- Proposed Canadian host institution
- Type and duration of study or research
This is why students should look beyond a single source when researching financial support.
Government of Canada Scholarship Opportunities
EduCanada, the Government of Canada’s official website for international students, provides information about scholarship opportunities for international applicants.
Featured programs include opportunities such as:
- Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP) – supporting eligible students from Latin America and the Caribbean undertaking short-term studies or research in Canada.
- Study in Canada Scholarships (SICS) – supporting eligible students from selected countries and territories for short-term study or research opportunities in Canada.
- Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development – Phase 2 (SEED-2) – supporting eligible students from ASEAN member states, Pacific Island countries and Mongolia for short-term study or research in Canada.
Programs, participating countries, eligibility requirements and application periods can change. Students should always review the current information published by EduCanada before making plans based on a particular scholarship.
An Important Distinction: Not Every Scholarship Is for a Full Degree
One common misunderstanding is that every Government of Canada scholarship is designed to fund a complete diploma, bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in Canada.
This is not necessarily the case.
Several Global Affairs Canada scholarship programs are designed primarily for short-term study or research exchanges. For example, the Study in Canada Scholarships program supports eligible international students undertaking short-term study or research in Canada rather than simply providing a general scholarship for anyone applying to a Canadian degree program.
For students planning to complete an entire academic program in Canada, scholarships and entrance awards offered directly by Canadian universities and colleges may therefore be particularly important to explore.
Can International Students Apply Directly for Government Scholarships?
This is another important point for prospective students to understand.
For several scholarship programs administered by Global Affairs Canada, international students do not submit the scholarship application directly themselves. Instead, an eligible Canadian post-secondary institution applies on behalf of the candidate.
The exact process varies by program.
Students interested in these opportunities should carefully review the application guidelines and, where appropriate, speak with their current institution, international office or prospective Canadian partner institution.
Understanding who is responsible for submitting the application is just as important as determining whether you meet the eligibility requirements.
Scholarships from Canadian Universities and Colleges
Government programs are only one part of the scholarship landscape.
Canadian universities and colleges may offer their own financial awards to international students, including:
- Entrance scholarships
- Merit-based scholarships
- International student awards
- Faculty or program-specific awards
- Research funding
- Leadership awards
- Need-based financial assistance
Some awards are automatically considered as part of an admission application, while others require a separate scholarship application.
Eligibility, award value and application procedures vary significantly between institutions.
For students planning to pursue a full credential in Canada, researching scholarships at the institutional level should therefore be an important part of the school-selection process — ideally before submitting applications.
Where Else Should International Students Look?
EduCanada recommends exploring multiple sources when searching for funding opportunities.
In addition to Government of Canada programs and awards offered by Canadian institutions, international students may find opportunities through:
- Government or non-government organizations in their home country
- Private organizations
- Foundations and international organizations
- Research organizations and professional associations
- Other scholarship providers in Canada or internationally
Students can also use the official EduCanada Scholarship Search Tool to explore opportunities based on factors such as citizenship, applicant profile and destination.
Before You Apply: Read the Requirements Carefully
Scholarship requirements vary widely.
Before applying, students should carefully check:
Eligibility
Confirm that your citizenship, academic level, field of study and proposed study or research activity meet the program requirements.
Application method
Determine whether you can apply directly or whether an institution must submit the application on your behalf.
Deadlines
Scholarship deadlines may be different from university admission deadlines.
Supporting documents
Applications may require academic records, letters of recommendation or other supporting materials. These can take time to prepare.
Language requirements
Language requirements vary depending on the scholarship and institution.
Starting early can make a significant difference, particularly when applications involve coordination between institutions.
Start with the Right Study and Scholarship Strategy
A scholarship should ideally be considered as part of a broader education plan — not as a separate decision after choosing a school.
When researching Canadian study opportunities, students may want to consider admission requirements, tuition, available scholarships, program length, academic goals and longer-term career plans together.
At Shaws Education, we help international students explore Canadian education options, compare institutions and programs, understand admission requirements, and identify scholarship and institutional award opportunities that may be relevant to their academic background and study goals.
Looking for Scholarship Opportunities in Canada?
If you are considering studying in Canada, our team can help you explore suitable programs and understand potential scholarship opportunities as part of your overall application strategy.
Contact Shaws Education to start planning your Canadian education journey.
Official Resources
Information in this article is based in part on resources published by EduCanada, Government of Canada. Scholarship availability, eligibility requirements, application procedures and deadlines are subject to change.
Students should always consult the latest official information before applying:
- EduCanada – Scholarships for International Applicants
- EduCanada – Search for Scholarships
- EduCanada – Frequently Asked Questions About Scholarships for International Applicants
- EduCanada – Apply for Scholarships
This article is intended for general educational information and does not guarantee scholarship eligibility, admission or funding.
Scholarships in Canada Series
This is Part 1 of Shaws Education’s Scholarships in Canada Series.
Coming next:
Part 2 – University Scholarships in Canada for International Students: Where to Look
We’ll explore entrance scholarships, merit-based awards and other funding opportunities offered directly by Canadian universities and colleges.