Dreaming of studying in Canada but held back by finances? Canada isn’t just known for its high-quality education and multicultural society—it’s also home to some of the most generous fully funded scholarships for international students. If you’re searching for a life-changing opportunity to study abroad without worrying about tuition and living expenses, this guide is for you.
In this blog post, we highlight fully funded scholarships in Canada you shouldn’t miss in 2025—ranging from undergraduate to postgraduate programs. These scholarships cover tuition, living costs, travel, books, and more.
🎯 Why Choose Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada?
Fully funded scholarships in Canada help international students:
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Eliminate financial barriers
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Access top-tier education
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Receive monthly stipends and research grants
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Join a network of global scholars
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Obtain a post-study work permit (PGWP) advantage
Whether you are applying for an undergraduate degree, Master’s, or PhD, there’s a fully funded scholarship in Canada tailored for your academic journey.
🎓 Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada You Shouldn’t Miss (2025)
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (PhD)
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Amount: CAD 50,000/year for 3 years
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Covers: Tuition, living expenses, and research funding
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Fields: Health, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities
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Deadline: November 2024
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Website: vanier.gc.ca
This is Canada’s most prestigious doctoral scholarship for both domestic and international students, aimed at developing world-class researchers.
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto – Undergraduate)
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Amount: Fully covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence
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Duration: Four years
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Eligibility: International students entering undergraduate programs
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Deadline: December 2024
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Website: future.utoronto.ca/pearson
This competitive award is designed for students who show exceptional academic performance, leadership, and community impact.
3. McCall MacBain Scholarships (McGill University – Master’s/Professional)
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Amount: Full tuition + CAD 2,000/month stipend + relocation grant
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Covers: Tuition, living allowance, and leadership training
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Deadline: September 2024
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Website: mccallmacbainscholars.org
This is one of Canada’s most comprehensive scholarships, perfect for students pursuing graduate studies with a passion for leadership.
4. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships (PhD)
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Amount: Up to CAD 60,000/year
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Covers: Tuition, research, travel, and living costs
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Focus: Social sciences and humanities
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Deadline: December 2024
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Website: trudeaufoundation.ca
Designed for PhD candidates committed to driving real social impact in their communities and beyond.
5. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
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Scholarships Offered:
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International Leader of Tomorrow Award (ILOT)
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Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award
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Coverage: Full tuition and living expenses, based on financial need
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Level: Undergraduate
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Deadline: January 2025
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Website: you.ubc.ca
UBC offers some of the most generous awards for exceptional students demonstrating both academic excellence and financial need.
6. University of Waterloo International Master’s and Doctoral Awards
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Amount: Up to CAD 10,000+ per year
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Level: Master’s and PhD
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Eligibility: Full-time international students in research-based programs
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Website: uwaterloo.ca
While some scholarships are partially funded, many students combine them with departmental funding to fully cover expenses.
7. York University International Student Scholarships (Undergraduate)
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Award: Up to CAD 35,000/year (CAD 140,000 total)
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Covers: Tuition and living costs
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Eligibility: Academic merit and leadership
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Deadline: February 2025
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Website: futurestudents.yorku.ca
York University offers competitive fully funded awards to undergraduate international students across a wide range of disciplines.
8. Canadian Francophonie Scholarship Program (CFSP)
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Funded by: Global Affairs Canada
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Level: Master’s and PhD
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For: Citizens of Francophone developing countries
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Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, travel, and medical insurance
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Website: boursesfrancophonie.ca
This program promotes capacity building in Francophone countries by offering full funding to professionals and students.
9. President’s International Scholarship of Excellence (York University)
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Amount: CAD 45,000/year x 4 years
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Level: Undergraduate
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Covers: Full tuition and partial living expenses
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Eligibility: Top international students with strong academics and leadership
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Deadline: February 2025
Another fully funded opportunity for academically excellent students applying to York University.
10. Carleton University Prestige Scholarships (Undergraduate)
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Includes: Chancellor’s Scholarship, Richard Lewar Entrance, and others
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Amount: Up to CAD 30,000–CAD 40,000+
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Covers: Tuition and partial living expenses
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Eligibility: 90% admission average or higher
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Website: carleton.ca
Top-tier high school students applying to Carleton can compete for several fully funded and near-fully funded scholarships.
📝 Application Tips for Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada
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Start early: Scholarship deadlines are often earlier than admission deadlines.
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Gather strong references: Choose mentors or teachers who can speak to your leadership and academic strengths.
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Craft a powerful personal statement: Showcase your academic achievements, goals, and community impact.
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Check for nominations: Some awards (e.g., Lester B. Pearson) require school or university nominations.
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Highlight leadership and extracurriculars: Canadian scholarships value well-rounded individuals.
🌍 Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to study in Canada without the burden of tuition fees, these fully funded scholarships in Canada for 2025 are golden opportunities you shouldn’t ignore. With proper planning, a strong academic record, and compelling application materials, you can secure a spot in Canada’s world-class education system—without paying a dime.
