Canada is one of the most popular study destinations for international students because of its high-quality education system, safe environment, multicultural campuses, and career opportunities after graduation. As tuition fees continue to rise worldwide, students actively search for fully funded scholarships in Canada to make their academic journey affordable. Fortunately, Canadian universities, government organizations, and global institutes offer a wide range of fully funded scholarships for international students in 2026, covering tuition, accommodation, travel expenses, health insurance, and research grants.
Whether you’re interested in undergraduate, master’s, or PhD studies, this complete guide will help you explore the top scholarships in Canada, eligibility requirements, benefits, and how to apply successfully.
| Name: | Scholarships in Canada |
| Scholarships Location | Toronto, Winnipeg, Edmonton |
| Funded: | CAD $50,000 to 100,000 |
| Last Updated: | December 20, 2025 |
Undergraduate Scholarship in Canada | Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada without IELTS 2026
Why Study in Canada?
Before diving into scholarships, here’s why Canada remains the #1 choice for millions of international students:
- World-class universities: University of Toronto, McGill, UBC, and more
- Globally recognized degrees
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) opportunities
- Safe and diverse environment
- High quality of life and affordable living compared to other developed countries
These reasons make scholarships in Canada even more competitive and valuable.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada for International Students 2026
Below are the most prestigious and fully funded scholarship programs available for 2026:
| Scholarship Name | Benefits | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships 2026 (PhD) | – CAD $50,000 per year for 3 years- Covers tuition, accommodation & research expenses- Study at top Canadian universities | – Excellent academic standing- Strong research proposal- Leadership qualities- Must be nominated by a Canadian institution |
| Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto) | – Full tuition coverage- Books & study materials- Living expenses- 4 years of full financial support | – High academic performance- Leadership potential- Creativity & innovation- Must be nominated by your school |
| UBC International Scholars Program 2026 | – Full tuition, housing & living expenses- Renewable for up to 4 years- Additional research/activity support | – Academic excellence- Financial need- Leadership & community involvement |
| McGill University – McCall MacBain Scholarships 2026 | – Full tuition- Monthly stipend- Leadership training- Travel & study allowance | – Bachelor’s degree- Leadership experience- Strong academic record |
| University of Waterloo Scholarships 2026 | – Full/partial tuition- Research funding- Monthly stipend (graduate students) | – Based on program requirements (Master’s/PhD)- Academic excellence- Research potential |
| University of Alberta Scholarships 2026 | – Full tuition- Monthly living allowance- Health insurance- Research support | – Academic merit- Admission to UAlberta program- Graduate-level eligibility (if applicable) |
| Canada Graduate Scholarships (CGS) – Master’s | – Up to CAD $17,500 for 12 months | – High academic standing- Enrolled in an eligible Master’s program |
| Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships | – CAD $70,000 per year for 2 years | – Postdoctoral researchers- Strong research background- Institutional support required |
| IDRC Research Awards 2026 | – Funding for students from developing countries (amount varies) | – Must be from a developing country- Research interest aligned with IDRC themes |
Subject-Specific Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada 2026
- STEM Scholarships (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics)
- NSERC Scholarships
- Schulich Leader Scholarships (Undergraduate)
These are ideal for students pursuing engineering, science, and mathematics degrees.
- Business & Management Scholarships
- Ontario Graduate Scholarship
- UBC Sauder Scholarships
- Health & Medical Research Scholarships
- CIHR Scholarships
- UBC Medical Scholarships
Eligibility
While requirements differ across programs, the most common criteria include:
- Strong academic performance
- English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or waiver)
- Leadership and extracurricular involvement
- Research proposal (for graduate programs)
- Statement of Purpose / Motivation Letter
- Letters of Recommendation
- Financial need (for need-based programs)
How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada 2026?
Follow these steps to increase your chances of success:
- Start Preparing Early (12 Months Before)
Scholarship deadlines usually begin in August–December 2025 for 2026 admissions.
- Choose Your University and Program
Apply only to universities that offer scholarships in your field.
- Gather Required Documents
- Academic transcripts
- English test scores
- Passport copy
- SOP / Personal Statement
- CV / Resume
- Recommendation letters
- Build a Strong Profile
Focus on:
- Research experience
- Community service
- Volunteer work
- Leadership roles
- Awards and achievements
- Apply Before Deadlines
Submit your application early to avoid last-minute errors.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship
- Maintain a high GPA
- Create a powerful Statement of Purpose
- Get strong recommendation letters
- Highlight leadership and volunteer work
- Apply to multiple scholarships
- Tailor each application to the specific scholarship
Scholarships Outline:
Canada offers a wide range of fully funded scholarships in canada for Masters, from undergraduate to PhD levels. Whether you want to study engineering, business, medicine, computer science, or social sciences, there are scholarships that cover tuition fees, accommodation, travel, and living expenses. With proper planning, a strong academic record, and a well-prepared application, you can secure one of these prestigious awards and start your educational journey in Canada.