Canada is one of the most welcoming and affordable destinations for international students, known for its high-quality education, multicultural society, and safe living environment. While tuition in Canada is generally lower than in the U.S. or UK, many top Canadian universities offer scholarships and financial aid to help international students cover the cost of tuition and living expenses.
This article highlights the top universities in Canada offering scholarships for international (non-U.S.) students, with details on tuition fees, funding amounts, and eligibility.
1. 🍁 University of Toronto – Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded (Merit-Based)
- Tuition Fees: CAD $58,000+/year (for most programs)
- Funding: Covers full tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years
- Eligibility: Exceptional international students entering undergraduate programs
This is one of Canada’s most prestigious scholarships for international students. Only 37 students are selected each year.
🔗 https://future.utoronto.ca/pearson/
2. ❄️ University of British Columbia (UBC) – International Scholars Program
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded (Need & Merit-Based)
- Tuition Fees: CAD $44,000–$56,000/year
- Funding: Covers full tuition and living expenses
- Programs: Includes International Leader of Tomorrow Award and Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award
UBC’s International Scholars Program recognizes students who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need.
🔗 https://you.ubc.ca/financial-planning/scholarships/international-scholarships/
3. 🦉 McGill University – Entrance Scholarships for International Students
- Scholarship Type: Merit-Based
- Tuition Fees: CAD $20,000–$50,000/year (varies by program)
- Funding: Up to CAD $12,000 per year, renewable for 4 years
- Eligibility: Outstanding academic performance
McGill offers major entrance scholarships for high-achieving international students, plus need-based aid through the McGill Entrance Bursary Program.
🔗 https://www.mcgill.ca/studentaid/scholarships-aid/future-undergrads
4. 🔬 University of Alberta – International Student Scholarships
- Scholarship Type: Merit-Based
- Tuition Fees: CAD $29,000–$40,000/year
- Funding: Scholarships range from CAD $5,000 to $120,000 over 4 years
- Programs: Include International Entrance Leadership Scholarship and President’s International Distinction Scholarship
The University of Alberta offers several high-value scholarships for international undergraduate students based on academic excellence and leadership.
🔗 https://www.ualberta.ca/admissions/international/tuition-and-scholarships/index.html
5. 🐺 Simon Fraser University (SFU) – Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship
- Scholarship Type: Merit-Based
- Tuition Fees: CAD $31,000–$38,000/year
- Funding: Up to CAD $20,000–$120,000 over 4 years
- Eligibility: Top academic achievers and community leaders
SFU offers multiple entrance scholarships, and international students are automatically considered if they apply early.
🔗 https://www.sfu.ca/students/financialaid.html
6. 🌄 University of Calgary – International Entrance Scholarships
- Scholarship Type: Merit-Based
- Tuition Fees: CAD $27,000–$33,000/year
- Funding: Up to CAD $20,000 (CAD $5,000/year renewable)
- Eligibility: International students with high academic standing and extracurricular leadership
The President’s Admission Scholarship and International Entrance Award offer excellent value for high-performing students.
7. 🎨 York University – Global Leader of Tomorrow & International Entrance Scholarships
- Scholarship Type: Merit-Based
- Tuition Fees: CAD $28,000–$40,000/year
- Funding: Up to CAD $35,000/year (CAD $140,000 total)
- Eligibility: Strong academics and leadership
York offers prestigious scholarships for international students entering undergraduate programs in any faculty.
🔗 https://futurestudents.yorku.ca/finances/international
8. 📚 Carleton University – Prestige Scholarships
- Scholarship Type: Merit-Based
- Tuition Fees: CAD $27,000–$36,000/year
- Funding: Full tuition or up to CAD $30,000–$40,000
- Eligibility: 90%+ average and community involvement
International students with outstanding academic records can apply for Chancellor’s, Richard Lewar, and Carleton University Scholarships.
🔗 https://admissions.carleton.ca/scholarships/
✅ Tips for Applying as an International Student
- Apply Early: Many scholarships are tied to early application deadlines.
- Academic Excellence: Most scholarships require high grades (A average or equivalent).
- Leadership & Community Service: Many awards look for well-rounded students.
- Check Requirements: Some need separate applications; others consider you automatically.
🌍 Why Study in Canada?
- Affordable tuition compared to U.S. and U.K.
- Post-graduation work permit (PGWP) opportunities
- Multicultural campuses and friendly immigration policies
- High-quality, globally recognized degrees
🎓 Final Thoughts
Canadian universities offer competitive and generous scholarships to attract the best international talent. Whether you’re looking for full-ride scholarships like those at Toronto or UBC, or partial tuition awards from institutions like McGill or York, Canada makes higher education accessible for top global students.
Ready to start your journey? I can help you choose the right university, prepare your application, or even draft scholarship essays.