Canada’s allure as an educational destination for international students is indisputable. With its world-class institutions and a welcoming multicultural environment, it’s no wonder that students from around the globe aspire to pursue higher education in the Great White North. However, this academic pursuit often comes at a substantial financial cost, with tuition fees and living expenses being significant barriers to many international students.
Thankfully, Canada offers a wealth of scholarships and financial aid programs that can help alleviate the financial burden of studying abroad. While some scholarships, often offered by universities and government agencies, are well-known, there’s a hidden treasure trove of lesser-known scholarships that provide substantial financial support. In this article, we will introduce you to ten of these lesser-known graduate scholarships for international students in Canada, specifically for the 2024-25 academic year.
These scholarships span various fields of study, including business, science, engineering, and more. They are open to students from diverse countries and backgrounds, making them accessible to a wide range of applicants. Whether you’re an aspiring graduate student or already pursuing advanced studies, these scholarships can turn your academic aspirations into a reality.
So, if you’re an international student looking for ways to fund your graduate education in Canada, read on to learn more about these ten lesser-known scholarships, including application details and deadlines.
1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
Application Deadline: January 15, 2024
Application Link: Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, offered by the University of Toronto, is one of Canada’s most prestigious scholarships for international students. This highly competitive program is designed for exceptional students who wish to pursue graduate studies at the University of Toronto. The scholarship is named in honor of Lester B. Pearson, a former Prime Minister of Canada and Nobel Peace Prize laureate.
Scholarship Details: The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and provides full residence support for four years. This comprehensive financial support is a game-changer for international students.
Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for this scholarship, students must demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, creativity, leadership potential, and community involvement. It is a highly competitive scholarship, and only the best and brightest make the cut.
2. Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award
Application Deadline: January 5, 2024
Application Link: Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award
The Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award, offered by the University of British Columbia, is a need-based scholarship program that aims to support international students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement.
Scholarship Details: This scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees and living expenses for up to four years of undergraduate study at the University of British Columbia.
Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for this scholarship, students must have not only achieved outstanding academic performance but also demonstrated leadership skills and strong community involvement. It’s a scholarship that truly rewards well-rounded individuals.
3. Humber College International Entrance Scholarships
Application Deadline: May 17, 2024
Application Link: Humber College International Entrance Scholarships
Humber College, located in Toronto, extends a warm welcome to international students entering their first year of post-secondary studies. The college offers a range of scholarships that are awarded based on academic achievement, community involvement, and leadership potential.
Scholarship Details: Humber College International Entrance Scholarships vary in value from $1,000 to $5,000, which can be a significant financial boost for students.
Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible, students must have applied to Humber College and have received an offer of admission.
4. York University International Student Scholarship Program
Application Deadline: February 1, 2024
Application Link: York University International Student Scholarship Program
The York University International Student Scholarship Program, located in Toronto, offers a variety of scholarships for international students entering their first year of undergraduate study. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and leadership potential.
Scholarship Details: The scholarships offered by York University range in value from $5,000 to $35,000, providing substantial financial support.
Eligibility Criteria: To be considered, students must have applied to York University and received an offer of admission.
5. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
Application Deadline: December 1, 2023
Application Link: University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
The University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship is a merit-based program designed for exceptional international students aspiring to pursue graduate studies at the University of Calgary.
Scholarship Details: This scholarship is not just about tuition; it covers the full cost of tuition fees for up to four years.
Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for this scholarship, students must demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and community involvement.
6. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship
Application Deadline: December 5, 2023
Application Link: Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship
The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship program for outstanding doctoral candidates conducting research in the social sciences and humanities.
Scholarship Details: This scholarship provides up to $60,000 per year for up to three years of doctoral study, ensuring that students can fully focus on their research.
Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for this scholarship, students must have achieved academic excellence, demonstrated leadership potential, and shown a commitment to public engagement.
7. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship
Application Deadline: November 4, 2023
Application Link: Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship is a highly competitive program that supports outstanding doctoral candidates conducting research in the social sciences and humanities, natural sciences and engineering, or health sciences.
Scholarship Details: This scholarship provides a generous $50,000 per year for up to three years of doctoral study.
Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible, students must have achieved academic excellence, demonstrated leadership potential, and expressed a commitment to research and innovation.
8. Quebec Merit Scholarship for Foreign Students
Application Deadline: December 1, 2023
Application Link: Quebec Merit Scholarship for Foreign Students
The Quebec Merit Scholarship for Foreign Students is a scholarship program offered by the government of Quebec to international students who wish to pursue studies at the undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral level in Quebec.
Scholarship Details: This scholarship goes the extra mile, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and health insurance for up to three years.
Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible, students must have achieved academic excellence, demonstrated leadership potential, and shown a commitment to research and innovation. It’s an opportunity that welcomes students from all corners of the world.
These are just the first four scholarships out of the ten lesser-known scholarships that provide significant financial support for international students in Canada. Let’s delve into the details of the remaining six scholarships.
9. Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
Application Deadline: December 1, 2023
Application Link: Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
The Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships are prestigious awards for outstanding doctoral candidates pursuing research in the social sciences and humanities. These scholarships aim to nurture critical thinkers and community leaders.
Scholarship Details: Each scholarship provides financial support of up to $60,000 per year for a maximum of three years of doctoral study.
Eligibility Criteria: To qualify, students must have a proven track record of academic excellence, display leadership potential, and a deep commitment to engaging with the public and making a positive impact on society.
10. Quebec Merit Scholarship for Foreign Students
Application Deadline: December 1, 2023
Application Link: Quebec Merit Scholarship for Foreign Students
The Quebec Merit Scholarship for Foreign Students is a government-sponsored program that welcomes international students looking to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies in Quebec. This scholarship is a comprehensive support system for students from across the globe.
Scholarship Details: The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and health insurance for up to three years.
Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for this scholarship, students must exhibit academic excellence, demonstrate leadership potential, and show a commitment to research and innovation.
Conclusion
Studying as a graduate student in Canada is a remarkable opportunity. The country’s exceptional institutions, vibrant multicultural environment, and diverse range of academic programs make it an attractive destination for international students. However, the costs associated with graduate education, including tuition fees and living expenses, can be a significant barrier.
In this pursuit, scholarships and financial support play a vital role in making graduate education in Canada more accessible. While well-known scholarships are readily available, these lesser-known scholarships offer substantial financial support to a broader range of students. Whether you’re planning to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree, these scholarships can be the key to fulfilling your academic dreams.
When considering these scholarships, remember to conduct thorough research on each one, familiarize yourself with the eligibility criteria, and adhere to the application deadlines. Your determination, along with the financial support from these scholarships, can help you embark on your graduate journey in Canada. By taking advantage of these lesser-known scholarship opportunities, you not only advance your academic pursuits but also contribute to the cultural diversity and academic excellence of Canadian universities. Don’t let financial constraints hinder your academic ambitions; explore these hidden gems and turn your aspirations into a reality.
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