Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada for Undergraduates

Canada is a beautiful country in North America that ranks among the top destinations for higher education. The educational system in Canada is exceptional, making it a top choice for international students seeking quality education. However, the significant course fees can be a hurdle for many aspiring students. If you’re dreaming of studying in the Great White North, you’ll be thrilled to know that there are several fully funded scholarships available for undergraduate students. With these scholarships, you can study in Canada for free.

These scholarships for international students are offered by the Canadian government to help students with their academic expenses. They cover tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes even additional perks like housing and books. However, not everyone is eligible for these scholarships, as they come in various forms with different requirements.

Therefore, in this article, we will explain in detail the fully funded scholarships offered by top universities in Canada for undergraduates, their benefits, the options available, and the step-by-step application process to help you find the best scholarship programs that suit your needs and qualifications.

What are the Types of Scholarships in Canada?

Students are always advised to start preparing for the scholarship process well in advance of their intended intake. However, before preparing and applying, it is essential to be aware of the types of scholarships available. Here are the three types of fully funded scholarships in Canada for Indian students:

1. Government-Funded Scholarships: These scholarships are fully funded by the Canadian government. They include awards that encourage students to pursue their higher studies in Canada.
2. Non-Government Funded Scholarships: Provided by entities other than the government, such as charities and trust funds, these scholarships are often designated for specific courses.
3. Institutional Scholarships: These scholarships are offered by schools and universities themselves.
4. Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded based on a student’s academic, artistic, or athletic achievements. They recognize excellence in various fields and do not typically consider financial need.

Why study in Canada?

Canada has become one of the top destinations for students due to its numerous advantages. The country boasts world-renowned universities such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia, which consistently rank among the top in global university rankings. Canadian degrees are recognized internationally, ensuring that your education is valued wherever your career takes you.

Canada’s robust job market also offers excellent opportunities to gain valuable work experience, with high-paying jobs available across various industries. According to The Economic Times, around 640,000 students obtained work permits after studying in Canada from 2010 to 2019. The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows graduates to gain valuable work experience in Canada for up to three years. This practical experience can be a significant advantage in the competitive job market, providing a pathway to permanent residency for many students.

Canada consistently ranks high in quality of life indices due to its excellent healthcare system, low crime rates, and clean environment. Cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal are known for their vibrant cultural scenes, outdoor activities, and overall livability. Studying in Canada means you’ll be living in a safe, healthy, and dynamic environment.

Additionally, Canada is renowned for its multicultural society, welcoming people from all over the world. This diversity enriches the educational experience, allowing you to interact with individuals from various cultural backgrounds. It promotes an inclusive environment where you can learn and grow in a global context, preparing you for a globalized workforce.

Requirements for Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada

1. Academic Excellence Most fully funded scholarships in Canada require applicants to have a strong academic record. This typically means maintaining a high GPA and achieving top grades in relevant subjects.
2. 2. Admission to a Canadian University Applicants must first gain admission to a recognized Canadian university. This involves meeting the specific entry requirements of the chosen institution and program.
3. English or French Proficiency Proof of language proficiency is often required. International students may need to provide test scores from exams such as IELTS or TOEFL for English, or TEF for French, depending on the language of instruction.
4. Leadership and Community Involvement Many scholarships look for students who demonstrate leadership qualities and active involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, or volunteer work.
5. Letters of Recommendation Applicants usually need to submit letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or employers who can attest to their academic abilities and character.
6. Personal Statement or Essay A compelling personal statement or essay is often required. This should highlight the applicant’s achievements, goals, and reasons for applying for the scholarship.
7. Financial Need Some scholarships are need-based, requiring applicants to demonstrate financial need. This might involve providing detailed financial information and documentation.
8. Specific Criteria Certain scholarships may have additional criteria based on the field of study, nationality, or other factors. It’s important to carefully review the specific requirements for each scholarship.

Documents Required for Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada

Here is a list of documents commonly required for fully funded scholarships in Canada:

1. Application Form: Each scholarship program may have its own application form that needs to be completed accurately and submitted on time.
2. Proof of Admission: You will need to provide proof of admission or acceptance to a Canadian university or institution where you intend to study.
3. Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all previous academic institutions attended, showing your grades and courses completed.
4. Letters of Recommendation: Typically, you will need two or three letters of recommendation from teachers, professors, or employers who can attest to your academic abilities and character.
5. Personal Statement or Essay: A well-written personal statement or essay that outlines your academic goals, achievements, and reasons for applying for the scholarship.
6. Language Proficiency Test Scores: If applicable, proof of proficiency in English (such as IELTS or TOEFL scores) or French (such as TEF scores), depending on the language of instruction at your chosen university.
7. Financial Statements: Some scholarships require documentation of your financial situation to determine financial need.
8. CV or Resume: A current CV or resume detailing your academic achievements, work experience, extracurricular activities, and any relevant skills.
9. Passport Copy: A copy of your passport or other identification documents.
10. Additional Documentation: Depending on the scholarship, you may need to provide additional documents such as a portfolio (for arts programs), proof of community service or leadership activities, or certificates of awards and achievements.

Fully-Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in Canada 

The average cost for enrolling in an undergraduate program in Canada is approximately CAD 34,000. This figure excludes additional expenses like living costs, books, transportation, and healthcare.

Fully funded scholarships in Canada provide significant relief for students, enabling them to pursue their education abroad without financial strain. Here are some renowned fully-funded undergraduate scholarships available in Canada.

1. UdeM Exemption Scholarships

The UdeM Exemption Scholarships are available to international students attending the University of Montreal, offering full funding to study at one of Canada’s premier francophone research universities. This highly sought-after scholarship is among the best fully funded opportunities in the country. Eligible candidates, enrolled full-time in undergraduate or postgraduate programs with an admission offer, can benefit from this scholarship, which varies in financial coverage depending on the chosen program.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Hold a valid study permit.
• Be enrolled full-time in an academic program.

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2. McCall MacBain Scholarship Summer/Fall Source

The McCall MacBain Scholarship for Summer/Fall in Canada is a fully funded opportunity offered by Canadian Universities Canada. It supports domestic and international students pursuing Masters or Undergraduate degrees through this prestigious scholarship. International applicants must meet Canada Universities’ admission criteria before applying for the McCall MacBain Scholarship in Canada.

Eligibility Criteria for the McCall MacBain Scholarship: For the 2025 academic year, candidates must meet the following criteria to be eligible:

• Nationality Requirement: Applicants must be Canadian, U.S. citizens, or international students.
• Age Criteria: Candidates should be under 30 years old at the time of application.
• Academic Status: Applicants must be current students on track to complete their first bachelor’s degree by August 2025.
• Language Proficiency and Thesis Requirement: Candidates need to demonstrate proficiency in English. Those with a thesis in French may have higher chances of acceptance.

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3. President’s International Scholarship of Excellence

The President’s International Scholarship of Excellence at York University is a prestigious, fully-funded opportunity offered to international students pursuing various 4-year Bachelor’s courses, including this specific scholarship. It is a highly regarded scholarship in Canada, providing financial support for undergraduate studies.

Eligible applicants for the President’s International Scholarship of Excellence must meet the following criteria:

• Achieve a minimum of 80% in their final admission average.
• Demonstrate proficiency in English through a standardized test, achieving at least 88 in TOEFL, 6.5 in IELTS, or 60 in PTE.
• Apply to York University directly from high school within two years of graduation, with no previous university or college studies.
• Apply to an undergraduate degree program at York starting in the Fall term.

Note: Applicants who have already received a full bursary or applied for another university scholarship are ineligible for this particular scholarship.

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4. The University of Waterloo Scholarships

The University of Waterloo offers scholarships exclusively for full-time degree students, with the unique feature that most scholarships do not require a separate application, except in rare cases. Notable scholarships include:

• Merit Scholarship
• President’s Scholarship of Distinction
• International Student Entrance Scholarship
• President’s Scholarship

Eligibility criteria include:

• Must be a full-time undergraduate student with a minimum admission average of 90%. 

Specific conditions apply:

• For Mathematics and Computer Science programs, students must pass the Euclid Mathematics Contest.
• Scholarships for Accounting and Financial Management programs are awarded based on assessment scores from Admissions Assignments in relevant courses.

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5. University of Victoria Canada Scholarship 

The University of Victoria, located in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, is a distinguished public university established in 1963, making it the oldest university in British Columbia. Recognized as one of Canada’s top comprehensive universities, it offers a wide range of Canadian Scholarships for International Students, catering to diverse backgrounds and interests.

Scholarships at the University of Victoria are awarded based on outstanding academic achievement and leadership qualities. The university provides degree programs across various fields to over 21,000 students at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD levels.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada are eligible for specific scholarships.
• International students must first gain admission to the University of Victoria to be considered for an entrance scholarship. Eligible candidates are automatically referred to Student Awards & Financial Aid by Undergraduate Admissions.
• International students applying from secondary school must submit interim transcripts, while those who have graduated within the last two years and have not attended another post-secondary institution must provide final transcripts.

For More Information: Visit Here

How to Apply for a Fully-Funded Scholarship in Canada

Applying for a fully-funded scholarship in Canada typically involves these steps:

1. Understand the Requirements: Before applying for any scholarship or program, it’s crucial to thoroughly understand and meet the eligibility requirements specific to Canadian scholarships to avoid disqualification.
2. Research Available Scholarships and Choose Your School: Conducts comprehensive research on the various scholarships available for international students, each offering different funding amounts. Select the scholarships that best align with your academic and personal goals.
3. Apply Early: Early application is essential as scholarships often have limited openings. Starting your application process early increases your chances of consideration, as late applications may not be accepted.
4. Obtain a Reference Letter: A well-written reference letter from someone familiar with your abilities and achievements, excluding relatives, is crucial. The letter should be on official letterhead and signed.
5. Highlight Non-Academic Achievements: Many scholarships consider factors beyond academic performance, such as sportsmanship, musical talent, or other creative abilities. Highlighting these strengths can enhance your scholarship application.

Following these steps diligently can significantly improve your chances of securing a fully-funded scholarship to study in Canada.

READ MORE: Masters Scholarships in Canada for International Students

Conclusion

Applying for a fully-funded scholarship in Canada requires careful preparation and understanding of the eligibility criteria. By researching available scholarships early, obtaining strong reference letters, and showcasing diverse talents beyond academics, students can enhance their chances of success. Starting the application process well in advance is key to securing opportunities and achieving academic goals in Canada.

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