Scholarships in Canada for Indian Students

Canada offers several scholarships to support international students at various stages of their academic journeys. The scholarships for international students in Canada can be broadly categorised into 3 types based on funding source and the level of study:

The Canadian government provides several prestigious scholarships for international students, including Indian students, to pursue higher education and research. Below, we have listed the top 10 fully funded scholarships for international students in Canada.

Detailed Overview of the Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada for Indian Students in 2026-2027

Discover the top 10 fully funded scholarships in Canada for Indian students in 2026-2027. Explore each scholarship’s eligibility, benefits, application process, and timelines to maximise your chances of success.

1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)

• Offered by: Government of Canada
• Eligibility:
  • Indian citizens pursuing a PhD at a Canadian institution
  • Demonstrated academic excellence, research potential, and leadership qualities
• Benefits:
  • CAD 50,000 per year for three years
• Application Process:
  • Apply through the Canadian institution where admission is sought
  • Institution nominates the candidate for the scholarship
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts
  • Letters of reference
  • Research proposal
  • Personal leadership statement
• Application Timeline:
  • Institutional deadlines: Vary by institution (typically August–September 2025)
  • National deadline: November 1, 2025

2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship

• Offered by: University of Toronto
• Eligibility:
  • Indian high school students applying for undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto
  • Exceptional academic achievement and leadership qualities
• Benefits:
  • Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years
• Application Process:
  • Obtain nomination from your high school
  • Apply to the University of Toronto for undergraduate studies
  • Complete the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship application
• Documents Required:
  • High school transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement
• Application Timeline:
  • School nomination deadline: November 2025
  • University application deadline: December 2025
  • Scholarship application deadline: January 2026

3. McCall MacBain Scholarships

• Offered by: McGill University
• Eligibility:
  • Indian students applying for full-time master's or professional programs at McGill University
  • Demonstrated leadership, academic excellence, and community engagement
• Benefits:
  • Full tuition and fees
  • CAD 2,000 per month living stipend
  • One-time relocation grant
• Application Process:
  • Apply for admission to an eligible program at McGill University
  • Submit the McCall MacBain Scholarship application
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement
  • Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Application Timeline:
  • International applicant deadline: August 21, 2025
  • Canadian and U.S. applicant deadline: September 25, 2025

4. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

• Offered by: Government of Ontario
• Eligibility:
  • Indian students pursuing master's or doctoral studies at participating Ontario universities
  • Minimum A- (80%) average in the last two years of study
• Benefits:
  • CAD 15,000 per year (CAD 5,000 per term for up to three terms)
• Application Process:
  • Apply through the graduate studies office of the chosen Ontario university
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts
  • Two academic references
  • Statement of interest or research proposal
• Application Timeline:
  • University-specific deadlines: Typically October–December 2025

5. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award

• Offered by: University of British Columbia
• Eligibility:
  • Indian students applying for undergraduate studies at UBC
  • Demonstrated academic excellence, leadership skills, and financial need
• Benefits:
  • Covers tuition, fees, and living costs, proportional to financial need
• Application Process:
  • Submit an application for admission to UBC
  • Complete the International Scholars Program application
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Financial documentation
• Application Timeline:
  • Application deadline: November 15, 2025

6. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships

• Offered by: Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation
• Eligibility:
  • Indian students enrolled in or applying for full-time doctoral programs in social sciences or humanities at Canadian institutions
  • Research aligned with the foundation's themes: Human Rights and Dignity, Responsible Citizenship, Canada and the World, and People and their Natural Environment
• Benefits:
  • Up to CAD 60,000 per year for three years, covering tuition, living expenses, and travel
• Application Process:
  • Apply directly through the Trudeau Foundation's application portal
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts
  • Research proposal
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement
• Application Timeline:
  • Application opens: September 2025
  • Application deadline: December 2025

7. Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master's Program (CGS-M)

• Offered by: Government of Canada
• Eligibility:
  • Indian students enrolled in or applying for a full-time master's program at a Canadian institution with a strong academic record
• Benefits:
  • CAD 17,500 for one year
• Application Process:
  • Apply through the Research Portal of the Canadian government's website
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts
  • Letters of reference
  • Research proposal
• Application Timeline:
  • Application deadline: December 1, 2025

8. University of Calgary Graduate Awards

• Offered by: University of Calgary
• Eligibility:
  • Indian students applying for thesis-based master's or doctoral programs at the University of Calgary
  • Demonstrated academic excellence and research potential
• Benefits:
  • Varies by award; some provide full tuition coverage and annual stipends up to CAD 30,000
• Application Process:
  • Apply for admission to an eligible graduate program at the University of Calgary
  • Complete the scholarship application through the university's portal
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Research proposal
• Application Timeline:
  • Application deadlines vary by program; typically December 2025 – February 2026

9. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)

• Offered by: University of Manitoba
• Eligibility:
  • Indian students with a minimum GPA of 3.75 applying for full-time master's or doctoral programs at the University of Manitoba
• Benefits:
  • Master's: CAD 14,000 per year for up to two years
  • Doctoral: CAD 18,000 per year for up to four years
• Application Process:
  • Apply for admission to an eligible graduate program at the University of Manitoba
  • Submit the UMGF application through the respective department
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Research proposal
• Application Timeline:
  • Application deadlines vary by department; typically January–March 2026

10. University of Alberta International Admission Scholarships

• Offered by: University of Alberta
• Eligibility:
  • Indian students applying for undergraduate or graduate programs at the University of Alberta
  • Demonstrated academic excellence
• Benefits:
  • Varies by scholarship; some awards cover full tuition and provide living stipends
• Application Process:
  • Apply for admission to an eligible undergraduate or graduate program at the University of Alberta.
  • No separate application is needed for some scholarships, automatically considered at the time of admission.
  • Some scholarships (e.g., President's International Distinction Scholarship) require a separate application after receiving an admission offer.
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts
  • Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
  • Statement of Purpose (for graduate programs)
  • Passport
  • Letters of reference (for graduate-level awards)
• Application Timeline:
  • Undergraduate Deadlines:
    • Fall 2026 intake: Apply by March 1, 2026 (for scholarship consideration)
  • Graduate deadlines vary by faculty but generally:
    • Fall 2026: Apply between December 2025 – February 2026

Canada has emerged as a top study-abroad destination for Indian students due to its world-class education, diverse campuses, and strong post-study work opportunities. While fully funded scholarships are competitive, partially funded scholarships are more accessible and still cover significant tuition or living expenses. 

Here's a curated list of the top 10 partially funded scholarships in Canada for Indian students, along with their eligibility criteria, benefits, and providers.

Detailed Overview of the Top 10 Partially Funded Scholarships in Canada for Indian Students in 2026-2027

Explore the top 10 partially funded scholarships in Canada for Indian students in 2026-2027, offering tuition discounts, living stipends, and merit-based support.

1. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship

• Offered By: University of Calgary
• Eligibility:
  • International students entering the first year of any undergraduate degree in the upcoming fall term.
  • Must have satisfied the university's English Language Proficiency requirement.
  • Academic merit.
• Benefits:
  • CAD 20,000 (renewable for up to four years, totaling CAD 80,000).
• Application Process:
  • Apply for undergraduate admission.
  • Complete the High School Prestige Awards Competition application.
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
  • Personal statement.
  • Letters of recommendation.
• Application Timeline:
  • Admission application deadline: December 1, 2025.
  • Scholarship application deadline: March 1, 2026.

2. York University International Entrance Scholarships

• Offered By: York University
• Eligibility:
  • International high school applicants and transfer students admitted with less than 24 transfer credits.
  • Final admission average of 75% or higher.
• Benefits:
  • York International Scholarship of Distinction: Up to CAD 37,500 over four years.
  • York International Merit Award: Up to CAD 25,000 over four years.
  • York International Entrance Award: CAD 5,000 (one-time).
• Application Process:
  • Automatic consideration upon admission.
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Proof of English proficiency.
• Application Timeline:
  • Admission application deadline: February 15, 2025.

3. Waterloo International Master’s Award of Excellence (IMAE)

• Offered By: University of Waterloo
• Eligibility:
  • Full-time international students enrolled in research-based master's programs.
  • Academic excellence.
• Benefits:
  • CAD 2,500 per term for up to five terms (totaling CAD 12,500).
• Application Process:
  • Students are nominated by their faculty; no separate application required.
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Proof of English proficiency.
  • Letters of recommendation.
  • Statement of interest.
• Application Timeline:
  • Varies by program; typically aligns with program admission deadlines.

4. Carleton University Entrance Scholarships

• Offered By: Carleton University
• Eligibility:
  • International students entering undergraduate programs with an admission average of 80% or higher.
• Benefits:
  • CAD 4,000 to CAD 16,000 over four years (renewable).
• Application Process:
  • Automatic consideration upon admission.
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Proof of English proficiency.
• Application Timeline:
  • Admission application deadlines vary by program; early application is recommended.

5. Humber International Entrance Scholarships

• Offered By: Humber College
• Eligibility:
  • International students with high academic achievement and involvement in community service, extracurricular activities, or other areas of leadership.
• Benefits:
  • One full tuition scholarship and several partial scholarships ranging from CAD 3,000 to CAD 5,000.
• Application Process:
  • Submit a separate scholarship application along with admission application.
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Statement of interest.
  • Reference letters.
  • Proof of English proficiency.
• Application Timeline:
  • Deadlines vary by intake; applicants should check specific program deadlines.

6. Brock University International Awards

• Offered By: Brock University
• Eligibility:
  • International students entering undergraduate programs with high academic standing.
• Benefits:
  • CAD 4,000 to CAD 16,000 over four years (renewable).
• Application Process:
  • Automatic consideration upon admission.
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Proof of English proficiency.
• Application Timeline:
  • Admission application deadlines vary by program; early application is recommended.

7. University of Manitoba International Undergraduate Student Entrance Scholarships

• Offered By: University of Manitoba
• Eligibility:
  • International students entering undergraduate programs with a minimum high school average of 85%.
• Benefits:
  • CAD 1,000 to CAD 3,000 (one-time award).
• Application Process:
  • Automatic consideration upon admission.
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Proof of English proficiency.
• Application Timeline:
  • Admission application deadlines vary by program; early application is recommended.

8. University of Saskatchewan International Excellence Awards

• Offered By: University of Saskatchewan
• Eligibility:
  • International students entering undergraduate programs with academic excellence.
• Benefits:
  • CAD 10,000 (one-time award).
• Application Process:
  • Automatic consideration upon admission.
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Proof of English proficiency.
• Application Timeline:
  • Admission application deadline: February 15, 2025.

9. Concordia University International Tuition Award of Excellence

• Offered By: Concordia University
• Eligibility:
  • International students admitted to doctoral programs.
  • Must not be receiving other funding that reduces tuition to the Quebec rate.
• Benefits:
  • Reduces tuition fees to the Quebec rate, valued at approximately CAD 47,463.
• Application Process:
  • Automatic consideration upon admission to a doctoral program.
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Proof of English proficiency.
  • Research proposal.
  • Letters of recommendation.
• Application Timeline:
  • Admission application deadlines vary by program; early application is recommended.

10. Douglas College International Student Scholarships

• Offered By: Douglas College
• Eligibility:
  • International students with above-average GPA (B equivalent or higher) and strong English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 7.0 or above).
• Benefits:
  • Douglas International Education Regional Entrance Award: CAD 1,000–2,000.
  • Dr. Guangwei Ouyang International Education Entrance Scholarship: CAD 2,500.
• Application Process:
  • Regional Entrance Award: Automatic consideration upon admission.
  • Dr. Guangwei Ouyang Scholarship: Requires separate application.
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Proof of English proficiency.
  • Scholarship application form (for Dr. Guangwei Ouyang Scholarship).
• Application Timeline:
  • Summer (May) Intake: Apply by January 31, 2026
  • Fall (September) Intake: Apply by May 31, 2026
  • Winter (January) Intake: Apply by September 30, 2026

While government and university-funded scholarships are widely known, private organizations and NGOs also offer significant funding opportunities to Indian students pursuing higher education in Canada. These scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, subject-specific, or focused on leadership, community impact, or diversity.

Detailed Overview of Top Private & NGO-Funded Scholarships in Canada for Indian Students (2026–2027)

Below is a detailed overview of top private and NGO-funded scholarships in Canada available to Indian students, including eligibility criteria, benefits, application processes, required documents, and application timelines for the 2026–2027 academic year.

1. J.N. Tata Endowment Loan Scholarship

• Eligibility:
  • Indian nationals under 45 years of age.
  • Graduates from recognized Indian universities with a minimum of 60% marks.
  • Secured admission or applied to a postgraduate program abroad.
• Benefits:
  • Loan scholarships ranging from ₹1 to ₹10 lakhs.
  • Gift awards for select scholars.
• Application Process:
  • Online application through the official website.
  • Selection involves an online test and interview.
• Documents Required:
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP).
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Admission letter.
  • Letters of recommendation.
  • Proof of age and nationality.
• Timeline for 2026–2027:
  • Applications open: January 7, 2026.
  • Deadline: March 23, 2026.

2. K.C. Mahindra Scholarships for Postgraduate Studies Abroad

• Eligibility:
  • Indian citizens with a first-class degree or equivalent diploma.
  • Secured admission or applied to a recognized foreign university for courses commencing between August 2025 and February 2026.
• Benefits:
  • Top 3 scholars receive up to ₹10 lakhs.
  • Others receive ₹5 lakhs.
• Application Process:
  • Online application submission.
  • Shortlisted candidates are called for interviews.
• Documents Required:
  • Admission letter.
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Statement of Purpose.
  • Letters of recommendation.
  • Proof of age and nationality.
• Timeline for 2026–2027:
  • Applications open: April 2026.
  • Deadline: August 21, 2026.

3. Narotam Sekhsaria Postgraduate Scholarship

• Eligibility:
  • Indian nationals below 30 years of age.
  • Graduates with a consistently excellent academic record.
  • Secured admission to a postgraduate program at a top-ranking institution.
• Benefits:
  • Interest-free loan scholarships up to ₹20 lakhs.
  • Mentorship and guidance from the foundation.
• Application Process:
  • Online application submission.
  • Shortlisted candidates undergo interviews.
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Admission letter.
  • Statement of Purpose.
  • Letters of recommendation.
  • Proof of age and nationality.
• Timeline for 2026–2027:
  • Applications open: January 2026.
  • Deadline: March 2026.

4. Generation Google Scholarship (North America)

• Eligibility:
  • Female students pursuing a degree in computer science or related fields.
  • Enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program at a university in the USA or Canada.
  • Demonstrated academic excellence and leadership.
• Benefits:
  • CAD 5,000 (~₹3,13,480) scholarship for the academic year.
• Application Process:
  • Online application through Google's scholarship portal.
  • Submission of essays and academic records.
• Documents Required:
  • Resume.
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Responses to essay questions.
  • Letters of recommendation (if required).
• Timeline for 2026–2027:
  • Applications open: January 2026.
  • Deadline: March 2026.

5. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship

• Eligibility:
  • International students pursuing full-time doctoral studies in social sciences and humanities.
  • Research aligned with the foundation's themes.
• Benefits:
  • CAD 60,000 (~₹37,61,740) per year for up to three years.
  • Leadership training and mentorship opportunities.
• Application Process:
  • Online application through the foundation's portal.
  • Submission of research proposal and academic records.
• Documents Required:
  • Research proposal.
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Letters of recommendation.
  • Proof of admission to a doctoral program.
• Timeline for 2026–2027:
  • Applications open: September 9, 2025.
  • Deadline: December 2025.

6. Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship

• Eligibility:
  • Undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in accounting, finance, or criminal justice.
  • Enrolled full-time at an accredited institution.
• Benefits:
  • Scholarships ranging from USD 2,000 to USD 10,000 (~₹1,71,600 to ~₹8,57,995).
• Application Process:
  • Online application through the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) website.
  • Submission of academic records and recommendations.
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Letters of recommendation.
  • Proof of enrollment.
• Timeline for 2026–2027:
  • Applications open: September 2025.
  • Deadline: February 2026.

7. Shastri Research Student Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  • Doctoral students registered at Indian or Canadian universities.
  • Affiliated with Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute member institutions.
• Benefits:
  • CAD 500 – 1,000 (~₹31,350 to ~₹62,695) for research support.
• Application Process:
  • Online application through the Shastri Institute's portal.
  • Submission of research proposal and academic records.
• Documents Required:
  • Research proposal.
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Proof of affiliation with member institution.
• Timeline for 2026–2027:
  • Applications open: April 2026.
  • Deadline: July 2026.

8. Canada-India IC-IMPACTS Fellowship

• Eligibility:
  • Graduate students engaged in research related to infrastructure, water, public health, or food security.
  • Affiliated with Canadian or Indian academic institutions.
• Benefits:
  • Funding support for research projects (amount varies).
• Application Process:
  • Submission of research proposal through IC-IMPACTS portal.
  • Collaboration with partner institutions.
• Documents Required:
  • Research proposal.
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Letters of recommendation.
  • Proof of institutional affiliation.
• Timeline for 2026–2027:
  • Applications open: February 2026.
  • Deadline: May 2026

9. Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara Scholarship Fund (Surrey, Canada)

• Eligibility:
  • Indian-origin undergraduate students studying in Canada.
  • Must demonstrate active community service, especially within Sikh or South Asian communities.
  • Minimum academic performance (typically 75%+).
  • Open to students across all disciplines.
• Benefits:
  • CAD 2,000 to CAD 5,000 (~₹1,25,390 to ~₹3,13,480) [one-time or renewable, depending on merit and need].
  • Recognition at a community event.
• Application Process:
  • Submit a completed application form through the Gurdwara or partner community websites.
  • Attach supporting documents and a personal statement.
• Documents Required:
  • Academic transcripts.
  • Proof of enrollment in a Canadian university/college.
  • A statement of purpose (community involvement focus).
  • Recommendation letter from a religious or community leader.
  • Proof of Indian/Sikh heritage (if applicable).
• Timeline for 2026–2027:
  • Applications Open: August 2026
  • Deadline: October 2026
  • Disbursement: December 2026 or January 2027

10. Hani Zeini Scholarship (Entrepreneurship-Focused)

• Eligibility:
  • Open to Indian and international students applying for undergraduate or graduate programs.
  • Must demonstrate entrepreneurial spirit or startup initiative.
  • No restriction on field of study but preference for business/innovation-related courses.
• Benefits:
  • USD 1,000 (~₹85,800) [one-time, non-renewable].
  • Personal branding and networking opportunities in entrepreneurship communities.
• Application Process:
  • Online application through the official scholarship website.
  • Submit an essay describing your entrepreneurial goals.
• Documents Required:
  • Resume/CV
  • Essay (usually 500–800 words on entrepreneurial plans)
  • Academic records
  • Admission letter (optional but preferred)
• Timeline for 2026–2027:
  • Applications Open: August 2026
  • Deadline: November 2026
  • Winners Announced: January 2027

Securing a scholarship is not about luck; it's about strategy. This guide is designed specifically for Indian students targeting the 2026-2027 academic intakes. We will break down everything you need to know, from the biggest awards to the smartest application tactics, to maximize your chances of studying in Canada with financial support.

1. Start at Least 12-18 Months Early 

This is the golden rule. The application process for Canadian universities and scholarships begins well before the intake. For the September 2026 intake, you should start your research and profile building by early 2025.

2. Build a Stellar Academic Profile 

Your marksheet is the first thing a scholarship committee sees. If you are still in college or school, focus on achieving the highest possible scores. If you have graduated, focus on how you present your academic achievements.

3. Ace Your English Proficiency Tests 

Don't just aim for the minimum score. A higher IELTS or TOEFL score (e.g., IELTS 7.5+) can set you apart from other applicants with similar academic grades.

4. Craft a Compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP) 

Your SOP is your chance to tell your story. Don't just list your achievements. Connect them to your future goals and explain why you are the perfect candidate for the scholarship and the university. Tailor it for each application!

5. Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation (LORs) 

Choose recommenders (professors, managers) who know you well and can speak to your specific skills and potential. Give them ample time (at least a month), your resume, your SOP, and details about the scholarship to help them write a powerful, personalized letter.

6. Research Extensively & Create a Scholarship Shortlist 

Don't just apply for the most famous scholarships. Look for university-specific and program-specific awards, which often have less competition. Create a spreadsheet to track deadlines, requirements, and application status.

7. Highlight Your Extracurriculars & Work Experience 

Canadian universities value well-rounded individuals. Highlight leadership roles, volunteer work, internships, relevant projects, or research publications. Show them you are more than just your grades.

8. Tailor Every Single Application 

A generic, copy-pasted application is easy to spot and reject. Address the specific values and criteria mentioned in the scholarship description. Show the committee you've done your homework.

9. Check Your Finances & Be Realistic 

Many scholarships are partial. Be prepared to show proof of funds for the remaining tuition and living expenses. This is a crucial part of your study permit application.

Jan - May 2025: Research universities and courses. Start preparing for IELTS/GRE/GMAT. Focus on building your profile.

Jun - Aug 2025: Take your standardized tests. Start drafting your SOP and contact your recommenders for LORs.

Sep - Dec 2025: University application portals open. Submit your applications for admission. Simultaneously, work on and submit applications for scholarships with early deadlines.

Jan - Apr 2026: This is the peak scholarship application period. Keep a close eye on all deadlines. You will also start receiving admission offers during this time.

May - Jul 2026: Accept your offer of admission and any scholarship awards. Begin the visa application process.

Aug 2026: Prepare for your departure to Canada!