7 Free Scholarship Schools in Canada for International Students | Apply Now
Canada has some of the best universities in the world, as well as a strong system for finding work after you graduate. It's easy to see why it's so popular with foreign students. Many foreign students, on the other hand, are worried about how much it costs to go to school and live. The good news? You can study in Canada for free if you get into schools that give scholarships.
This complete guide will show you the 7 best scholarship schools in Canada that let international students learn for free or with full grants. Not only do these schools offer top-notch education, but they also take away the financial obstacles that keep many students from following their dreams abroad.
Let's get started.
Why Choose Canada for Scholarship Opportunities?
7 Free Scholarship Schools in Canada for International Students | Apply Now
Before we discuss the schools, let's take a look at why Canada is the best place to get a free education through scholarships:
Good Education: Canadian colleges are always ranked among the best in the world.
Canada has welcoming immigration policies. After studying, you can get a work card and eventually become a permanent resident.
Global Recognition: A degree from Canada is accepted all over the world.
Generous Scholarships: Many schools give scholarships that pay for everything, including tuition, books, living expenses, and even trips.
Top 7 Free Scholarship Schools in Canada for International Students
Here are the seven best universities and schools in Canada that offer free scholarships or full funding to international students:
1. University of Toronto (U of T)
Scholarship: Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
The University of Toronto is one of the best universities in the world and the best university in Canada. Some foreign students can go to U of T for free thanks to the Lester B. Pearson Foreign Scholarship.
The scholarship covers the full cost.
Books and other learning tools
Extra charges
Full help with housing for four years
International high school seniors who are in their last year or who finished no earlier than June of the previous year are eligible to apply.
Outstanding performance in school and creativity
Shown leadership and effect on the community
The application deadline is typically in November, but it is important to verify the exact date each year.
Steps to Take:
Your high school chose you. Fill out an application for U of T and the Pearson Scholarship online.
Please go to the U of T Lester B. Pearson Scholarship Page.
2. University of British Columbia (UBC)
Scholarships: International Scholars Program (includes Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award)
Every year, UBC is ranked as one of the top 40 universities in the world, making it a global leader in study. The Foreign Scholars Program gives scholarships to outstanding foreign students that cover all costs.
The full cost is covered by the scholarship.
Cost of living
Valid for up to 4 years
International students starting their first year of college are eligible to apply.
Excellent performance in school
Leadership and getting involved in the neighborhood
Need for money
The deadline to apply is usually between December and January.
How to Apply: Fill out an application to UBC and the International Scholars application by the due date.
Check out the UBC International Scholars Program.
3. University of Alberta
Scholarships: International Entrance Leadership Scholarships, President’s International Distinction Scholarship
For foreign students who do really well in school, the University of Alberta offers large entrance scholarships that can cover all of their costs, including tuition.
Up to CAD 120,000 over four years in scholarships
Includes education, housing, and living costs
Who Can Apply: International kids who have done very well in school
People who are starting a full-time undergraduate school
shown leadership and interest outside of school
Due date for applications: varies (usually in December or March)
How to Apply: Use the UAlberta application site to apply to a degree program and the scholarship application.
Refer to the University of Alberta's scholarship page.
4. McGill University
Scholarships: McGill Entrance Scholarships, McCall MacBain Scholarships
McGill University is one of the oldest and most prestigious schools in Canada. It is located in Montreal. The McCall MacBain Scholarship pays for the whole master's or professional degree program. The entrance grants help pay for college for first-year students.
Full cost is covered by the scholarship.
Living pay every month
Building leadership
Grant for moving
International students who want to get a master's degree can apply (McCall MacBain).
Undergraduate kids who do well in school
Due dates for applications vary by school.
Once you receive acceptance to McGill, proceed to apply for the scholarship directly through the school's portal.
Check out the McGill Scholarships page.
5. University of Waterloo
Scholarships: International Student Entrance Scholarships, David Johnston–Lebovic Foundation International Experience Awards
Waterloo is known all over the world for its innovative science and engineering classes and co-op programs. They have several merit-based scholarships for foreign students starting college or graduate school.
Up to CAD 10,000 per year in scholarships (entrance scholarships).
More money for foreign experience
International students starting their first year of college are eligible to apply.
Based on how well you did in school
Some gifts are based on financial need.
The deadline to apply is usually early February.
You can apply to Waterloo and complete the scholarship section at the same time.
Go to the Waterloo Scholarships Page.
6. Simon Fraser University (SFU)
Scholarships: Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarships (USES)
SFU is one of Canada's most cutting-edge public research universities. Their USES program gives scholarships to outstanding students who can pay for all of their school costs.
Scholarship Amount: Up to $130,000 over four years
Renewable depends on how well you do in school
Includes books, tuition, and costs
Who Can Apply: New college students
Great academic background
Being a leader and helping others
Deadline for Applications: December to January
How to Apply: Fill out an online application for admission and check the box that says you are interested in scholarships.
Go to the SFU Scholarships Page
7. University of Concordia
Scholarships: Concordia Presidential Scholarship
Concordia, which is in Montreal, offers a Presidential Scholarship that pays for all of an international undergraduate's study.
What the scholarship covers: full tuition
Books
Costs of living for up to four years
Who Can Apply: International students who are starting their first year of college
High academic success
Service to the community and being a leader
Deadline for Applications: Usually February 1st every year
How to Apply: First, apply for admission. Then, send in a scholarship application that includes a personal statement, a CV, and references.
Go to the Concordia Scholarships Page
How to Secure a Fully Funded Scholarship in Canada
Do you want to improve your chances of receiving one of these highly sought-after scholarships? Here are some ideas from experts:
1. Get a head start
Many scholarships stop taking applications months before the school year starts. Get your papers ready ahead of time!
2. Maintain Excellent Grades
The first thing that is often looked at is how well you do in school. Strive to rank in the top 5% of your class.
3. Get letters of recommendation that are strong
Pick mentors, instructors, or employers who know you well and can write strong letters of support.
4. Gain experience in leadership and community service
Most scholarships give money to those who are leaders, do community service, or do other activities outside of school.
5. Write a strong personal statement
Share your narrative, your passion, and how the scholarship will help you make a difference in the world.
6. Apply to More Than One School
Don't rely solely on one scholarship. Apply to three to five colleges that have a favorable track record of giving out scholarships.
It's not impossible to get a free scholarship in Canada anymore. If you get the appropriate knowledge and get ready, you can get into a top Canadian school and study for free. The University of Toronto's Lester B. Pearson Scholarship and the UBC International Scholars Program are two examples of actual opportunities that are open to you.