Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada for International Students – 2025 Guide

Canada continues to be one of the most sought-after destinations for international students due to its world-class education system, multicultural environment, and robust post-graduation career opportunities. However, the cost of studying abroad can be a major obstacle—making fully funded Canadian scholarships a critical resource for international students aiming to study in Canada.

This guide explores the top high-value scholarships in Canada for 2025, including eligibility requirements, award amounts, and application deadlines. Whether you’re pursuing a Master’s, PhD, or short-term study, these scholarships can drastically reduce your expenses and unlock exceptional educational experiences.

🎓 1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) – $50,000/year

The Vanier CGS is one of Canada’s most prestigious and high-paying scholarships for doctoral students, created to attract global research talent in health, engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Open to international students, Canadian citizens, and permanent residents.

• Requires nomination by a Canadian university with a Vanier CGS quota.

• Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and strong leadership.

Funding Value: CAD $50,000 per year for 3 years

Deadline: November (exact date varies annually)

Key Benefits:

• Supports world-class PhD research in Canadian institutions.

• Enhances academic profile for high-impact career pathways.

• One of the most competitive and prestigious government scholarships in Canada.

🌏 2. Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)

Designed to strengthen educational partnerships, the Canada-ASEAN SEED Scholarship supports students from ASEAN countries for short-term exchange programs in Canada.

Eligibility:

• Must be a citizen of ASEAN member states.

• Enrolled full-time in a degree program in their home country.

• Nominated by a Canadian institution.

Award Amount: CAD $8,700 to $15,900 depending on study duration

Covers: Tuition, airfare, health insurance, and living expenses

Deadline: March 31, 2025

🌐 3. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program

Backed by Global Affairs Canada, this scholarship targets students from Commonwealth nations pursuing graduate research in Canada.

Eligibility:

• Citizens of Commonwealth countries

• Enrolling in a Master’s or PhD program

• Strong academic and research background

Application: Via the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) and the home country’s nominating agency

Award Value: Fully covers tuition, living expenses, and travel

Deadline: Varies by country

📚 4. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) – Up to $15,000/year

The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) is a government-funded initiative supporting graduate students enrolled at participating Ontario universities.

Eligibility:

• Open to both international and domestic students

• Must pursue Master’s or Doctoral studies at an eligible Ontario institution

• Based on academic excellence

Funding: CAD $5,000 per term, up to $15,000 per year

Deadline: Varies by university (usually between October and January)

Pro Tip: Some universities offer matching internal awards, increasing total funding value.

🏫 5. Top University-Specific Scholarships in Canada (2025)

Several leading Canadian universities offer automatic or application-based scholarships to international students. Here are a few notable options:

✅ University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program

• Fully funded scholarships covering tuition and living expenses

• Based on academic merit and leadership potential

✅ McGill University Scholarships

• Entrance scholarships for new undergraduates and financial aid for graduates

• Need-based and merit-based options available

✅ University of Alberta International Scholarships

• Automatically considered upon admission

• Value varies based on academic performance and research experience

✅ University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)

• Open to Master’s and PhD students

• Funding up to $18,000/year

💡 Final Thoughts: Maximize Your Chances to Study in Canada for Free

Canada offers an abundance of scholarship opportunities at both government and institutional levels, allowing talented students to pursue degrees without the financial burden. Whether you’re aiming for a fully funded PhD scholarship, graduate exchange program, or research-based Master’s degree, these programs provide both financial support and access to top-tier education.

To increase your chances:

• Start early and research thoroughly.

• Tailor each application to scholarship criteria.

• Highlight academic excellence, research goals, and leadership achievements.

Don’t miss your opportunity to study in Canada on a scholarship in 2025—start your application journey today.