Canada scholarships with visa sponsorship for international students in 2025 open the door to world-class education at universities like the University of Toronto, UBC, or McGill, making it easier for students worldwide to achieve their academic goals.
With over 800 fully funded scholarships available, covering tuition, living expenses, and often travel costs, these programs also include study permit sponsorship to ensure you can legally study in Canada.
This guide dives into the top scholarships, eligibility details, application tips, and strategies to help you secure a spot in Canada’s vibrant academic community. Whether you’re aiming for undergraduate, master’s, or PhD studies, there’s a scholarship for you—let’s get started!
Why Study in Canada with Scholarships?
Canada is a global education hub, hosting over 700,000 international students annually at top-tier universities known for research, innovation, and inclusivity. In 2025, fully funded scholarships make studying in Canada affordable by covering tuition (averaging CAD $20,000-$40,000/year), accommodation, living stipends (CAD $1,000-$2,000/month), and sometimes travel or health insurance.
Programs like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships and Lester B. Pearson Scholarship include study permit sponsorship, simplifying the immigration process. These scholarships offer access to cutting-edge facilities, diverse campuses, and strong career networks, setting you up for global success. With Canada’s welcoming immigration policies, you can focus on your studies while enjoying a high quality of life in a multicultural country.
Understanding Canada Scholarships with Visa Sponsorship
Fully funded scholarships in Canada cover major expenses, including tuition, housing, living costs, and sometimes travel or research funds. Study permit sponsorship, typically through Canada’s Study Permit (similar to a student visa), ensures you can legally study at designated learning institutions (DLIs). These scholarships are offered by universities, government programs, and private organizations, targeting talented international students.
In 2025, over 800 fully funded scholarships are available for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs, with many prioritizing students from developing countries, leadership potential, or academic excellence. Study permit sponsorship streamlines immigration, as universities or scholarship providers assist with applications, ensuring compliance with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) regulations.
Top Canada Scholarships with Visa Sponsorship for 2025
Here’s a detailed look at the best fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students, including study permit sponsorship, eligibility, and benefits:
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships support world-class PhD students, offering 166 awards annually to foster research excellence. It’s fully funded, covering tuition, living expenses, and research costs, with study permit sponsorship.
- Eligibility: Nomination by a Canadian university, pursuing a PhD, strong academic record (GPA 3.7+), leadership potential, and research experience.
- Fields: Health, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, or humanities.
- Institutions: Participating Canadian universities (e.g., University of Toronto, UBC).
- Benefits: CAD $50,000/year for three years, study permit assistance, and research funding.
- Application: Apply through a university by November 2025. Requires nomination, research proposal, and references.
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship at the University of Toronto
This prestigious undergraduate scholarship at the University of Toronto supports exceptional international students, offering around 37 awards annually. It covers tuition, books, housing, and living expenses, with study permit sponsorship.
- Eligibility: Admission to the University of Toronto, academic excellence (GPA 3.8+), leadership skills, and international student status.
- Fields: All undergraduate programs.
- Benefits: Full tuition, residence, books, and living stipend (CAD $15,000-$20,000/year).
- Application: Nominated by your school, apply by January 2025 via the university’s portal.
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award
UBC’s International Leader of Tomorrow Award is a need-based scholarship for undergraduates, covering tuition and living costs based on financial need, with study permit sponsorship.
- Eligibility: Admission to UBC, demonstrated financial need, strong academic record (GPA 3.5+), and leadership/community involvement.
- Fields: All undergraduate programs.
- Benefits: Full tuition, living expenses (up to CAD $25,000/year), and visa support.
- Application: Apply by December 2025 through UBC’s admissions portal, submitting financial documents.
4. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
This scholarship supports PhD students in social sciences and humanities, offering up to 20 awards annually. It includes funding for tuition, living expenses, and research, with study permit assistance.
- Eligibility: Enrolled in a PhD program at a Canadian university, leadership potential, and focus on human rights, diversity, or sustainability.
- Fields: Social sciences, humanities.
- Benefits: CAD $40,000/year for three years, plus CAD $20,000 for research/travel.
- Application: Apply by December 2025 via the Trudeau Foundation website.
5. University of Alberta International Scholarships
The University of Alberta offers fully funded scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students, covering tuition, living costs, and study permit sponsorship.
- Eligibility: Admission to the University of Alberta, academic excellence (GPA 3.5+), and English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS).
- Fields: All programs, with emphasis on engineering, sciences, and business.
- Benefits: Tuition, living stipend (CAD $10,000-$20,000/year), and visa support.
- Application: Apply by January 2025 through the university’s scholarship portal.
6. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship
This fellowship supports master’s and PhD students, offering full funding for tuition and living expenses, with study permit sponsorship.
- Eligibility: Admission to a University of Manitoba graduate program, academic excellence (GPA 3.5+), and research potential.
- Fields: All graduate programs.
- Benefits: CAD $18,000 (master’s) or CAD $22,000 (PhD) annually, plus tuition.
- Application: Apply by December 2025 via the university’s graduate admissions.
7. York University International Student Scholarship
York University provides fully funded scholarships for undergraduates, covering tuition and living costs, with study permit support.
- Eligibility: Admission to York University, academic excellence (GPA 3.7+), and leadership skills.
- Fields: All undergraduate programs.
- Benefits: CAD $20,000-$35,000/year for four years, visa assistance.
- Application: Apply by February 2025 through York’s scholarship portal.
8. Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program (CGS-M)
The CGS-M supports master’s students at Canadian universities, offering 2,500 awards annually, with study permit sponsorship for international students.
- Eligibility: Enrolled in a master’s program at a Canadian university, academic excellence (GPA 3.5+), and research potential.
- Fields: Health, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities.
- Benefits: CAD $17,500 for one year, tuition support, and visa assistance.
- Application: Apply by December 2025 through the Research Portal.
9. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
This undergraduate scholarship at the University of Calgary supports high-achieving international students, covering tuition and living costs, with study permit sponsorship.
- Eligibility: Admission to the University of Calgary, academic excellence (GPA 3.7+), and leadership potential.
- Fields: All undergraduate programs.
- Benefits: CAD $15,000-$20,000/year, renewable for four years.
- Application: Apply by December 2025 via the university’s portal.
10. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
The OGS supports master’s and PhD students at Ontario universities, offering funding for tuition and living expenses, with study permit support.
- Eligibility: Enrolled in a graduate program at an Ontario university, academic excellence (GPA 3.7+), and research focus.
- Fields: All graduate programs.
- Benefits: CAD $15,000/year, with university top-ups and visa assistance.
- Application: Apply by January 2025 through participating universities.
Study Permit Sponsorship for International Students
Most fully funded scholarships include study permit sponsorship, allowing legal study at Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs). The Study Permit, Canada’s equivalent of a student visa, requires:
- Acceptance Letter: From a DLI (all scholarship universities qualify).
- Proof of Funds: Covered by scholarship funding (tuition and living expenses).
- Application Fee: CAD $150, often covered or reimbursed by scholarships.
- Documents: Passport, acceptance letter, financial proof, and biometrics.
- Processing Time: 4-12 weeks, depending on the country of application.
Scholarship providers or universities assist with:
- Letter of Acceptance: Issued for Study Permit applications.
- Application Guidance: Support for IRCC forms, biometrics, and interviews.
- Immigration Compliance: Ensuring adherence to Canadian visa rules.
Programs like Vanier and Lester B. Pearson streamline the process through dedicated international student offices.
Eligibility Requirements for Canada Scholarships
While requirements vary, common criteria include:
- Academic Excellence: GPA of 3.5+ (on a 4.0 scale) or equivalent, strong test scores (SAT/ACT for undergraduates, GRE for graduates).
- English/French Proficiency: TOEFL (80+ iBT), IELTS (6.5+), or French proficiency (e.g., TEF) for Quebec universities. Some scholarships accept Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificates.
- Admission to a Canadian University: A confirmed offer from a DLI.
- Leadership and Extracurriculars: Community service, leadership roles, or professional experience.
- Financial Need: For need-based scholarships like UBC’s, proof of financial hardship.
- Research Potential: For graduate scholarships like Vanier, a strong research proposal.
- Valid Passport: Required for Study Permit applications.
Some scholarships, like Trudeau, prioritize leadership, while others, like CGS-M, focus on research.
How to Find Canada Scholarships with Visa Sponsorship
Finding these scholarships requires a strategic approach. Here are practical steps:
- Research University Websites: Check scholarship pages of top universities like University of Toronto, UBC, and McGill.
- Use Scholarship Databases: Platforms like ScholarshipsCanada, Yconic, and StudyinCanada list fully funded scholarships.
- Contact Canadian Embassies: For government-funded programs like Vanier, embassies provide application details.
- Work with Advisors: University international offices or education consultants can guide you.
- Check Eligibility Early: Review requirements on official scholarship websites to confirm fit.
- Network with Alumni: Connect with past recipients via forums or social media for tips.
Application Process for Canada Scholarships
The application process typically involves:
- Choose Your Program: Select scholarships matching your field, level, and nationality.
- Apply to Universities: Secure admission to a DLI, as most scholarships require an offer.
- Prepare Documents:
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT/GRE).
- Language proficiency results (TOEFL/IELTS or MOI certificate).
- Essays or statements of purpose (highlighting goals and leadership).
- Letters of recommendation (2-3 from teachers or employers).
- Financial need documents (for need-based scholarships).
- Research proposal (for graduate scholarships).
- Submit Scholarship Application: Apply through university portals or scholarship websites by deadlines (October 2024-March 2025).
- Study Permit Application: After acceptance, apply for a Study Permit via IRCC, using the university’s acceptance letter.
- Interview Preparation: Some scholarships (e.g., Trudeau, Lester B. Pearson) require interviews to assess leadership.
Start applications 6-12 months early, as deadlines often fall between October 2024 and March 2025.
Overcoming Common Challenges
Applying for scholarships can be competitive, but these tips help overcome hurdles:
- High Competition: Stand out with compelling essays, highlighting unique experiences or leadership. Over 3,000 Vanier applicants compete annually, but tailored applications boost chances.
- Language Proficiency: If TOEFL/IELTS is a barrier, seek scholarships accepting MOI certificates or take free online English/French courses.
- Financial Documentation: For need-based scholarships, gather accurate financial records early.
- Study Permit Delays: Apply for permits immediately after receiving acceptance to avoid delays (4-12 weeks).
- Qualification Recognition: Use services like WES to evaluate foreign credentials for Canadian standards.
- Scams: Verify scholarships through official websites or trusted platforms like ScholarshipsCanada.
Success Stories to Inspire You
Real stories show these scholarships are achievable. Fatima A., from Kenya, secured the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship at the University of Toronto, covering her undergraduate degree in computer science. Her leadership in school projects stood out. Similarly, Rajesh S., from India, won the Vanier Scholarship for his PhD in engineering at UBC, with his research proposal earning high praise. These stories highlight persistence, strong applications, and targeting high-demand fields.
Tips to Stand Out as an International Applicant
To boost your chances, consider these strategies:
- Craft Compelling Essays: Share personal stories that highlight your goals and impact.
- Highlight Leadership: Showcase extracurriculars, volunteer work, or professional achievements.
- Secure Strong Recommendations: Choose referees who know your academic or leadership skills well.
- Meet Deadlines Early: Submit applications 1-2 months before deadlines to avoid issues.
- Research Programs Thoroughly: Tailor applications to each scholarship’s mission (e.g., Vanier’s research focus).
- Improve Language Skills: Practice through free platforms like Duolingo if tests are required.
Pathways to Permanent Residency
While Study Permits are temporary, scholarships can lead to longer stays:
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Study Permit holders can work in Canada for up to 3 years post-graduation, based on program length.
- Express Entry: PGWP holders with Canadian work experience can apply for permanent residency via Express Entry’s Canadian Experience Class.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Provinces like Ontario and British Columbia nominate graduates for permanent residency.
- Employer Sponsorship: Secure a job after PGWP, and employers may sponsor a work visa, leading to permanent residency.
Consult an immigration advisor to explore post-study options while complying with visa rules.
Understanding Canada’s Scholarship Landscape in 2025
The scholarship landscape in 2025 reflects Canada’s commitment to diversity and academic excellence. Key trends include:
- Increased Funding: Over 800 fully funded scholarships, driven by demand for STEM, business, and social sciences.
- Flexible Language Requirements: Many scholarships accept MOI certificates, easing access for non-native speakers.
- Focus on Leadership and Research: Programs like Vanier and Trudeau prioritize candidates with global impact potential.
- Regional Preferences: Some scholarships target students from developing countries or specific regions.
Practical Steps to Prepare for Your Move
Moving to Canada for studies requires planning. Here’s how to prepare:
- Research Cost of Living: Cities like Toronto and Vancouver have high rents (CAD $1,200-$2,000/month), while smaller cities like Winnipeg are cheaper (CAD $800-$1,200/month). Scholarships often cover housing.
- Secure Accommodation: Universities offer dorms or assist with rentals. Use platforms like Kijiji for off-campus options.
- Understand Healthcare: Scholarships include health insurance, covering doctor visits and emergencies. Familiarize yourself with provincial health plans (e.g., OHIP in Ontario).
- Learn About Taxes: Stipends may be taxable; consult university financial offices for guidance.
- Cultural Integration: Join student clubs to adapt to Canadian campus life and build networks.
Field-Specific Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarships align with high-demand fields:
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)
STEM scholarships, like Vanier and University of Alberta, support engineering, computer science, and research, covering tuition and research costs. Demand for STEM graduates drives sponsorship.
Business and Management
Programs like OGS and UBC’s scholarships fund business studies at schools like Rotman and Sauder, covering tuition and leadership training.
Social Sciences and Humanities
Vanier and Trudeau support fields like public policy, sociology, and arts, emphasizing social impact and cultural exchange.
Health and Medicine
Scholarships like CGS-M fund health-related fields, though medical degrees may have residency restrictions.
Application Tips for Success
- Start Early: Begin 12-18 months before your program starts to meet deadlines.
- Tailor Applications: Align essays with scholarship goals (e.g., leadership for Lester B. Pearson).
- Polish Your Profile: Highlight unique skills, like multilingualism or community impact.
- Seek Feedback: Have mentors review essays and applications for clarity.
- Track Deadlines: Use a calendar to manage multiple scholarship and university deadlines.
- Prepare for Interviews: Practice discussing your goals and achievements confidently.
Final Thoughts: Your Path to Studying in Canada
Securing a fully funded scholarship with visa sponsorship in Canada is a life-changing opportunity for international students. With programs like Vanier, Lester B. Pearson, and UBC’s awards, you can study at top universities without financial stress, while study permit support simplifies your journey.
Stay proactive, research scholarships, prepare strong applications, and connect with university advisors. With determination and a clear plan, you can turn your dream of studying in Canada into reality, gaining world-class education and global opportunities. Ready to start? Explore Canada scholarships at ScholarshipsCanadaÂ