Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada 2024

In the first half of 2023, Canada welcomed around 1,75,201 Indian students to pursue education there, becoming increasingly popular due to its high-quality education, globally recognised courses and abundant career opportunities.

Since living in some cities in Canada is quite expensive, these fully funded scholarships can help you overcome that challenge. However, the significant course fees can be a hurdle for many aspiring students.

Nevertheless, fully funded scholarships in Canada have emerged as a solution for you to overcome this obstacle and make your academic dreams come true. These scholarships come in various forms; not everyone is eligible for them. Therefore, exploring the options and finding the best scholarship programs that suit your needs and qualifications is essential.

In this blog, we will learn more about Fully Funded scholarships in Canada for Indian students in 2024, their eligibility, requirements and qualifications.

Why study in Canada?

Canada has emerged as one of the top destinations for Indian students due to its many advantages. The country has world-renowned universities such as McGill and the University of Toronto, consistently among the top 35 universities in the QS ranking. Fully funded scholarships in Canada and financial aid opportunities for international students make it easier for you to pursue your academic goals.

Canada’s strong job market also presents an excellent opportunity to gain valuable work experience, with high-paying jobs available across various industries. According to The Economic Times, Around 640,000 students got work permits after pursuing their studies in Canada from 2010 to 2019. The post-graduation work permit (PGWP) option allows you to work while pursuing postgraduate courses, providing an excellent chance to gain international work experience. 

Diversity is another hallmark of Canada, with various cultures and ethnicities present. This creates a unique and inclusive environment for you. This allows you to experience and appreciate different viewpoints and ways of life. 

All these factors ultimately contribute to a higher standard of living, making Canada an ideal destination for international students.

Top 5 Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada

1. President’s International Scholarship of Excellence

York University offers this excellent & fully-funded scholarship to International (including Indian) students to study for various 4-year Bachelor courses, including The President’s International Scholarship of Excellence. It is an excellent, Fully Funded Scholarship in Canada for international students to pursue their undergraduate studies in Canada. This merit-based scholarship annually awards up to CAD 45,000 (INR 27,36,985) to 20 international students. However, this scholarship only applies to 4-year Bachelor’s courses. All international students, regardless of nationality, can apply for the President’s International Scholarship of Excellence.

Who is eligible to apply?

• You must have passed your 12th standard to be eligible for this scholarship.
• You must have received at least 80% in your final admission average.
• You must appear for a standardised English language proficiency test and score at least 88 in TOEFL, 6.5 in IELTS, or 60 in PTE.
• You must apply to York directly from high school no more than two years after passing out and have no previous university or college studies.
• You must apply to an undergraduate degree program at York that begins in the Fall.
• Note- If an applicant has already received a free bursary or has applied for another scholarship offered by the university, then he/she is not eligible for this scholarship.

What it covers? 

The scholarship awards up to INR 27,36,985 (CAD 45,000). This funding only covers tuition fees. The scholarship aims to support talented and deserving students in pursuing their academic and career goals without financial stress. 

Who is this for?

This scholarship pertains to all international students interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree, irrespective of their country of origin.

2. UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award

The Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award is one of Canada’s best Fully Funded Scholarships from the University of British Columbia (UBC). This scholarship is designed for international undergraduate students with academic excellence and leadership qualities. It recognises students who have made a positive impact through their involvement in community service and school projects and initiatives. They have hosted 500+ international scholars since 2001.

Who is eligible to apply?

• You must have completed high school no earlier than one gap year before the academic year you are applying for.
• You must be applying for your first undergraduate degree.
• You must demonstrate superior academic achievement (achieve all A grades).
• You must present a financial need that would otherwise prevent you from pursuing a UBC degree.
• You must score a minimum of 6.5 in IELTS, 65 in PTE, and 90 in TOEFL.

What it covers?

It amounts to INR 21,12,640 (CAD 35,000) after subtracting the contribution made by your family. This will awarded to you for one year and will renew every year based on your performance.

Who is this for?

International students who are applying for the undergraduate program at the University of British Columbia.

3. President’s International Distinction Scholarship

The University of Alberta awards the President’s International Distinction Scholarship to candidates who meet specific requirements related to their academic performance, leadership skills, community engagement, volunteer work, and participation in extracurricular activities will be considered for selection. It is one of the most impressive Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada. Those with exceptional academic standing who demonstrate outstanding leadership qualities and intend to pursue their undergraduate degree on a Student Visa Permit may be eligible to receive up to CAD 120,000 (INR 72,98,629). The award will be payable over four years, providing financial assistance to support their academic journey and goals.

Please note that Renewal of funding for the second, third, and fourth years is contingent upon achieving a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a minimum of 24 credits over the most recent September to April period at the University of Alberta while studying on a Study Permit. Students may not receive any other University of Alberta international entrance awards or scholarships

The deadline for this scholarship is 1st October 2024.

Who is eligible to apply?

• If you are applying for your undergraduate.
• You must demonstrate excellent academic performance.
• You must score a minimum of 6.5 in IELTS, 65 in PTE, and 90 in TOEFL.
• You must have passed your 12th exams from a recognised school.

What it covers?

It awards 120,000 CAD, which is approximately INR 72,98,629 over four years.

Who is this for?

This is for all international students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Alberta. 

4. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship

The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship is a charitable organisation that supports students through scholarships, fellowships, and mentorships. They offer one of the most unique, fully funded scholarships in Canada. Various Canadian universities offer this scholarship, such as McGill University, the University of Waterloo, and Ryerson University. International students pursuing their doctorate have gained immense benefits from this scholarship program. The scholarship is a three-year leadership program that aims to train engaged leaders. It enables exceptional doctoral candidates to acquire skills to implement their ideas and contribute to improving their communities, Canada, and the world. Every year, the foundation selects scholars who receive leadership training in Brave Spaces and generous funding for their studies.

Who is eligible to apply?

• You must be accepted into one or two years of a full-time doctoral program.
• Your field of study is broadly related to humanities or human sciences with direct relevance to the future of Canada.
• Your doctoral work must relate to at least one of the following themes: human rights and dignity, responsible citizens, Canada and the world, and people and their natural environment.

What it covers?

This scholarship covers the tuition fee for the program’s entire duration and living expenses. Apart from tuition fees, the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation also covers the costs for travel, research, and other activities conducted for their doctoral program. This will help the students to focus more on their doctorate.

Who is this for?

This is for international students pursuing doctoral degrees in Canada.

5. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship is one of Canada’s best Fully Funded Scholarships for doctorate programs. It is jointly administered by CIHR IRSC, NSERC CRSNG, and SSHRC CRSH.  It is named after the first Francophone Governor-General of Canada, Georges P. Vanier. This scholarship is meant for doctorate students and students applying for the combined master’s degree in Canadian universities. The application to the Vanier scholarship will be processed only through the university in which the student has enrolled. Up to 166 scholarships are awarded annually.  The selection criteria are 

• Academic Criteria
• Research Potential
• Leadership Skills

Who is eligible to apply?

• You must exhibit academic excellence, leadership qualities and research potential.
• You should have a first-class degree in UG as well as in PG.
• You should be in a doctoral program.
• You should have enrolled only in health research, natural sciences/engineering, social sciences and humanities.

What does it cover?

This scholarship covers the tuition fee and major living expenses of the international student. A student will be awarded a maximum of 50,000 CAD (INR 30,41,095) per year for three years.

Who is this for?

This scholarship can be availed only by maiden doctoral degree students whose specialisations include health research, natural sciences/ engineering, social sciences and humanities.

Top Universities Accepting Scholarships in Canada

Canadian universities offer various scholarships to international students, and each scholarship has its criteria for acceptance. In addition to merit-based scholarships, international students may be eligible for financial aid based on physical disability or gender. 

Sometimes, you may need to apply for scholarships on your own. In contrast, in others, you will be automatically considered for a scholarship or award based on your application to the university.

Some of the top universities in Canada that accept scholarship applications include:

1. University of Winnipeg: The University of Winnipeg is a public research university. It offers numerous Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada and various other scholarships. The university offers various scholarships, bursaries, and awards to help students offset tuition, textbooks, and other expenses.

These scholarships are available to domestic and international students and are awarded based on various criteria, such as academic achievement, financial need, and community involvement. Some scholarships available at the University of Winnipeg include the President’s Scholarship, the Manitoba Scholarship and Bursary Initiative, and the Indigenous Student Awards.

2. University of British Columbia:  The University of British Columbia (UBC) is consistently ranked among the top 20 public universities in the world and is known for its vital academic programs. UBC offers undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs across its two campuses, home to over 60,000 students worldwide.

It also offers one of the best Fully-Funded scholarships in Canada. The Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award is awarded to undergraduate international students who have demonstrated superior academic achievement, leadership skills, and community service. Another scholarship program UBC offers is the International Major Entrance Scholarship, awarded to exceptional international students entering their first year at UBC.

3. McGill University: McGill University is one of the top universities in Canada, known for its rigorous academic programs and research opportunities. The university offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to help international students pursue their educational goals without financial stress.

McGill University offers a range of awards and bursaries to support students in various disciplines, such as the Arts Undergraduate Research Internship Awards, the Engineering International Student Award, and the Music Undergraduate Talent Scholarship.

4. University of Alberta: The University of Alberta offers a range of fully funded scholarships in Canada to international students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership qualities. One such scholarship is the President’s International Distinction Scholarship, a fully funded scholarship for international students pursuing undergraduate studies. The University of Alberta is known for offering more fully funded scholarships in Canada.

The University of Alberta also offers other scholarships, including the International Entrance Leadership Scholarship, the International Country Scholarship, and the International Student Scholarship. These scholarships provide financial aid to international students based on academic merit, country of origin, and financial need. Overall, the University of Alberta is committed to supporting international students in achieving their educational and career goals by providing them with various scholarship opportunities.

5. University of Waterloo: The University of Waterloo offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. These scholarships aim to recognise academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. The President’s Scholarship of Distinction is one of the most prestigious scholarships offered by the University, providing up to $10,000 per year for up to four years. The International Master’s and Doctoral Student Awards are also available for exceptional international graduate students.

Additionally, scholarships are available for specific programs and faculties, such as the Faculty of Mathematics Entrance Scholarships and the Faculty of Engineering International Student Entrance Scholarships. Overall, the University of Waterloo’s scholarship programs provide ample opportunities for deserving students to pursue their academic goals.

Job prospects after studies in Canada

Canada also offers ample job opportunities to students after completing their studies. In 2023, employment in Canada rose by 64,000 (+0.3%) in September, following an increase of 40,000 (+0.2%) in August. You can pursue full-time employment or apply for a post-graduation work permit, which allows you to work in Canada for up to three years after completing your studies.

One of the significant advantages of studying in Canada is that the country has a strong and stable economy with low unemployment rates. The Canadian job market is diverse and offers opportunities in various fields, including healthcare, technology, finance, and engineering. Students who have completed their studies in these fields are in high demand and can secure well-paying jobs. Two of the top-demand professions in Canada are web development and electrical engineering. 

Moreover, the Canadian government has implemented various programs and policies to encourage you to stay and work in the country. The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program is a prime example. The program allows students who have completed their studies in Canada to work in the country for up to three years, which can be a significant advantage when looking for employment.

In conclusion, Canada has made it easier for international students to transition from studies to work and build successful careers due to initiatives like post-graduation work programs, its strong and diverse job market and welcoming society.

Final Thoughts

This blog taught us more about Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada for international students. Canadian universities are generous when granting scholarships to international students. Students who satisfy the eligibility criteria can get fully funded scholarships to cover their tuition fees and expenses. In conclusion, Canada offers numerous opportunities for international students seeking high-quality education.

The country is home to world-renowned universities and a welcoming community that values diversity and inclusivity. International students can also take advantage of Canada’s strong job market, gain valuable work experience, and secure well-paying jobs after their studies. Moreover, the Canadian government has implemented various programs and policies to help international students transition from studies to work and build successful careers. Overall, studying in Canada can be an excellent investment in your future, and Fully-funded scholarships can help make it possible for aspiring students.

Frequently Asked Questions