Discover the top fully funded Canada Scholarships covering tuition, living costs, travel, and more for international students applying in 2025 and beyond.
A guide to fully funded Canadian scholarships offering complete tuition waiver plus monthly living stipends.
The Ultimate Guide for International Students (Fully Funded Opportunities)
Canada remains one of the most popular global study destinations due to its world-class universities, immigration opportunities, multicultural environment, and affordable—but still competitive—education system. For international students, tuition fees and living expenses can be the biggest barrier to studying in Canada. The good news? There are many fully funded Canadian scholarships that cover tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, health insurance, books, travel costs, and even monthly stipends.
This comprehensive guide highlights where and how to find Canada scholarships that fully fund both tuition and living costs—ideal for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students.
Why Canada is a Top Destination for Fully Funded Scholarships
Canada invests heavily in attracting top international talent. Each year, the Canadian government, universities, and external organizations offer hundreds of fully funded scholarships to international students. These scholarships help students study for free while enjoying a generous lifestyle support package.
Here’s why Canada stands out:
- Government-funded programs that cover up to CAD 70,000 per academic year
- University-specific full scholarships for bright, high-achieving students
- Research-based funding for master’s and doctoral students
- Scholarships for specific regions or developing countries
- Merit plus need-based funding options
- Immigration pathways after graduation, making scholarships even more valuable
If you’re searching for where to find fully funded Canadian scholarships, this guide lists the best sources with detailed explanations.
Top Places to Find Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada
Below are the top categories and scholarship sources to help you identify programs that cover both tuition and living costs.
1. Canadian Government Fully Funded Scholarships
The Government of Canada is the largest source of fully funded scholarships for international students. These scholarships often offer the highest financial support.
1.1 Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (PhD)
The Vanier CGS is one of the most prestigious fully funded doctoral scholarships globally. It provides:
- CAD 50,000 per year for 3 years
- Covers tuition, accommodation, food, research, and living costs
- Open to PhD candidates in health, sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities
This scholarship is ideal if you want complete financial freedom during your PhD program.
1.2 Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
For postdoctoral researchers, this fellowship offers:
- CAD 70,000 per year for 2 years
- Funding for research, living expenses, housing, and publications
It is one of Canada’s highest-paying academic fellowships.
1.3 Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program (CGS-M)
This scholarship covers:
- CAD 17,500 for 12 months
- Tuition fees and part of living expenses
- Open to 2000+ students annually
- Available across all research universities
This is excellent for research-focused master’s students.
1.4 IDRC Research Awards (For Developing Countries)
The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) offers:
- Fully funded master’s and PhD support
- Stipend of CAD 42,000–48,000 per year
- Living expenses and research travel fully covered
Ideal for students from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.
1.5 Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
Covers:
- Full tuition
- Monthly living allowance
- Accommodation
- Travel costs
- Health insurance
Open to ASEAN member countries.
1.6 Study in Canada Scholarships
These are short-term exchange scholarships for students from eligible countries and include:
- Tuition coverage
- Monthly stipend
- Living expenses
- Transportation
Although short-term, they are fully funded and competitive.
2. Fully Funded Scholarships Offered by Canadian Universities
Many top Canadian universities offer full scholarships for international students. These cover tuition and living costs for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs.
2.1 University of Toronto – Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (UG)
One of the most prestigious undergraduate scholarships in the world, offering:
- Full tuition
- Full residence support for 4 years
- Books + incidental fees
- Exclusive support for high-achievers
Ideal for international students with outstanding academic and leadership backgrounds.
2.2 University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
A fully funded scholarship for undergraduate students with:
- Full tuition
- Living expenses
- Additional annual allowances
Popular among academically gifted students with financial need.
2.3 University of Alberta Full-Funded Graduate Scholarships
UAlberta offers multiple fully funded scholarships:
- Graduate Research Assistantships
- Teaching Assistantships
- UAlberta Graduate Excellence Scholarships
- Stipends covering living costs
PhD students often receive complete financial packages.
2.4 University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)
Supports master’s and PhD students with:
- CAD 18,000 per year (PhD)
- CAD 14,000 per year (Master’s)
- Covers tuition and partial living expenses
Many students combine this with research funding to cover all costs.
2.5 McGill University Scholarships
Offers:
- Full tuition awards
- Living stipends
- Graduate funding packages up to CAD 30,000
A top choice for research students.
2.6 University of Saskatchewan Graduate Scholarships
The College of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies offers:
- Full tuition
- Monthly stipends
- Research funding
Strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and health science.
2.7 University of Waterloo International Master’s and PhD Scholarships
Waterloo offers:
- Full-funding packages
- Living allowances
- Research assistantships
- Teaching assistantships
One of the best for STEM students.
3. Provincial Government Scholarships (Fully Funded Opportunities)
Some Canadian provinces also offer fully funded programs to attract international talent.
3.1 Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
Although not always fully funded alone, many universities combine OGS with other funding to provide full coverage.
- CAD 15,000 per year
- Can be stacked with additional funding
- Popular among master’s students
3.2 Quebec Merit Scholarship Program (PBEEE)
A highly competitive program offering:
- Full tuition
- Generous monthly stipends
- Living expenses
- Medical insurance
- Research funding
Available for master’s, PhD, and postdoctoral students.
3.3 Alberta Innovates Graduate Scholarships
For STEM and technology fields:
- Full tuition
- Research funding
- Monthly living allowances
Ideal for tech and innovation-focused students.
4. Fully Funded External Scholarships for Canada
These scholarships are funded by global organizations but allow students to study at Canadian universities with full support.
4.1 Trudeau Foundation Scholarships (PhD)
One of Canada’s most generous scholarships:
- CAD 40,000 per year for living expenses
- CAD 20,000 per year for travel and research
- Full tuition covered
- Leadership development included
Total value exceeds CAD 60,000 per year.
4.2 Commonwealth Scholarships
For students from Commonwealth nations:
- Full tuition
- Monthly living allowances
- Book and travel support
Competitive yet widely recognized.
4.3 Rotary International Scholarships
Covers:
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses
- Travel
- Accommodation
- Language training
Ideal for leadership and humanitarian-focused students.
5. Research-Based Fully Funded Opportunities (Master’s + PhD)
Most Canadian graduate programs are fully funded through research assistantships and university funding packages.
5.1 Teaching Assistantships (TAs)
Cover:
- Tuition fees
- Monthly salary
- Additional benefits
Suitable for master’s and PhD students teaching undergraduate classes.
5.2 Research Assistantships (RAs)
Include:
- Full tuition coverage
- Living stipends
- Research grants
Most STEM programs offer these by default.
5.3 University Funding Packages
PhD students receive:
- Full tuition waivers
- CAD 20,000–40,000 yearly stipends
- Health insurance
- Research travel support
This ensures zero out-of-pocket expense.
6. Fully Funded Scholarships for Specific Regions
Many Canadian scholarships target students from:
- Asia
- Africa
- Middle East
- Latin America
- Europe
- Developing nations
Examples include:
- African Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship
- Aga Khan Foundation Scholarships
- ADB-Japan Scholarships for study in Canada
These often include:
- Full tuition
- Living allowance
- Health insurance
- Travel funding
7. How to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Fully Funded Scholarship
Competition is strong for fully funded scholarships, so preparation is key.
7.1 Build a Strong Academic Profile
Aim for:
- High grades
- Research experience
- Relevant projects
- Awards or distinctions
Universities value well-rounded students.
7.2 Write Powerful Personal Statements
Your essay should highlight:
- Career goals
- Leadership skills
- Social contributions
- Academic potential
A strong statement can set you apart.
7.3 Get Strong Recommendation Letters
Choose recommenders who:
- Know you academically
- Can write detailed evaluations
- Provide concrete examples
7.4 Apply Early to Multiple Programs
Deadlines vary by scholarship, so applying early increases your chances.
7.5 Prepare for Interviews
Many fully funded Canada Scholarships require interviews.
Practice:
- Academic discussions
- Research explanations
- Leadership-based questions
- Personal motivations
8. Documents Required for Fully Funded Canada Scholarships
Typically, you will need:
- Academic transcripts
- Passport
- CV or resume
- Personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
- Language proficiency test scores
- Research proposal (for graduate applicants)
9. Canada Offers Endless Fully Funded Opportunities
Finding a scholarship that covers tuition and living expenses in Canada is not as difficult as it seems—especially with so many government programs, university-funded Canada Scholarships , and external awards available.
Whether you’re applying for an undergraduate program, a master’s, or a PhD, Canada offers some of the best fully funded opportunities in the world. Start early, prepare your documents carefully, and apply to multiple programs to maximize your chances.
Also Read: How Can International Students Secure Canada Government Scholarships in 2025?
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FAQs
1. Are there Canada Scholarships that cover both tuition and living costs?
Yes! Many Canada Scholarships —including Vanier, Lester B. Pearson, UBC ISP, Trudeau, and IDRC—cover 100% tuition and offer living allowances.
2. Can international students get fully funded Canada Scholarships?
Absolutely. Thousands of international students receive full funding every year in undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs.
3. Which Canadian scholarship pays the most?
The Banting and Vanier Canada Scholarships are among the highest, offering CAD 50,000–70,000 yearly.
4. Do Canadian universities fund master’s students?
Yes, especially research-based master’s programs. Students can receive RA/TA positions that fully fund tuition and living expenses.
5. How competitive are fully funded Canada Scholarships in Canada?
They are competitive, but strong academic profiles, leadership skills, and early applications significantly increase your chances.
6. Are IELTS scores required for these Canada Scholarships ?
Most universities require IELTS or equivalent tests, but some accept alternatives like Duolingo or TOEFL.
7. Can I work while studying on a fully funded scholarship in Canada?
Yes. International students can work up to 20 hours per week (subject to updated policies).