Canada has consistently ranked among the top destinations for international students, thanks to its world-class education system, cultural diversity, and welcoming environment. With the rising cost of higher education worldwide, scholarships have become a crucial pathway for students to make their academic dreams a reality.
This guide explores the key scholarships available for international students in Canada in 2025—highlighting eligibility requirements, application processes, funding details, and tips for success.
Scholarships not only ease the burden of tuition and living expenses but also enrich Canadian campuses by fostering cultural exchange and bringing together bright minds from across the globe. For many, they are the deciding factor between pursuing higher education abroad and giving up due to financial constraints.
Why Choose Canada for Your Studies?
Before diving into scholarship opportunities, it’s worth noting why Canada stands out as a top study destination:
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World-Class Institutions – Home to renowned universities such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia.
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Wide Range of Programs – From engineering and medicine to arts, business, and social sciences.
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Cultural Diversity – Inclusive, vibrant campuses filled with students from all over the world.
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Post-Graduation Opportunities – The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) allows graduates to gain valuable Canadian work experience.
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Safety & Quality of Life – Consistently ranked among the safest countries, with excellent living standards.
Major Canadian Scholarships for International Students (2025)
1. Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
The SEED program promotes academic collaboration between Canada and ASEAN member countries, fostering sustainable development and regional cooperation.
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Funding: Up to CAD 15,900 for tuition, living costs, and study materials.
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Eligibility: Citizens of ASEAN countries, full-time students in their home country, proficiency in English or French, and admission to an eligible Canadian institution.
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Application: Apply to a Canadian institution offering your desired program; the institution forwards selected candidates to SEED. Deadlines vary by school.
2. Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowships in Canada
Aimed at high-achieving students from Commonwealth nations, this program supports master’s and doctoral studies in Canada.
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Funding: Up to CAD 10,000 for tuition, living expenses, and travel.
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Eligibility: Citizens of a Commonwealth country with a strong academic record (first-class degree or equivalent).
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Application: Apply through a participating Canadian university; deadlines differ by institution (usually fall or early winter).
3. Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program (CGS M)
Managed by NSERC, CIHR, and SSHRC, this program supports exceptional students pursuing master’s degrees in Canada.
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Funding: CAD 17,500 for one year.
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Eligibility: First-class average in the last two years of study; must be enrolled in or applying to a full-time eligible master’s program at a participating Canadian university.
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Application: Submit through your chosen institution, including transcripts, CV, research proposal, and recommendations.
4. Canada Graduate Scholarships for Undergraduate Students (CGS-US)
Designed to promote research at the undergraduate level, this scholarship encourages academic excellence and innovation.
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Funding: CAD 5,000 for one academic term (renewable).
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Eligibility: Full-time undergraduate students at a Canadian institution undertaking a research project.
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Application: Apply through your university’s scholarship portal; deadlines often fall in early spring.
5. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
One of Canada’s most prestigious awards, the Vanier CGS attracts top-tier doctoral candidates who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and research potential.
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Funding: CAD 50,000 annually for up to three years.
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Eligibility: Nominated by a Canadian institution with a Vanier quota; pursuing a first doctoral degree; strong academic record; less than 20 months of doctoral studies completed at the time of application.
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Application: Secure institutional nomination, then submit a detailed application including research plan, transcripts, and references.
Final Thoughts
For international students, Canada offers not just high-quality education but also generous financial support through scholarships. Whether you’re from ASEAN countries, a Commonwealth nation, or applying independently, there are funding opportunities to match your goals.
The key to success is early preparation—research eligibility, align your academic plans with the scholarship’s objectives, and ensure your application is complete, compelling, and submitted before the deadline.
With the right approach, a Canadian education—and all the opportunities it brings—can be within your reach.