Learn how Indian students can apply for fully funded scholarships in Canada, including eligibility, top scholarships, step-by-step process, documents & expert tips.
Step-by-step guide for Indian students applying for fully funded scholarships in Canada for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD.
Canada is one of the most preferred higher-education destinations for Indian students due to its world-class universities, high employment prospects, post-study work permits, and immigrant-friendly policies. But studying abroad is expensive — especially when you factor in tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses. This is why fully funded scholarships have become a game-changer for thousands of Indian students.
If you are planning to study in Canada in 2025 or later and want to secure a fully funded scholarship, this guide covers everything you need to know, including:
⭐ 1. Why Study in Canada?
Before understanding how to apply for scholarships, it’s important to know why Canada is the top choice.
✔ 1.1 Global Recognition
Canadian degrees are globally recognized and valued across industries.
✔ 1.2 High Scholarship Availability
Canada offers some of the largest fully funded scholarships globally for undergraduates, master’s, and PhD students.
✔ 1.3 Strong Immigration Pathway
The Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) and Express Entry system make Canada attractive for long-term settlement.
✔ 1.4 Quality of Life
Canada ranks consistently high for safety, diversity, and quality of life.
✔ 1.5 Abundant Work Opportunities
Students can work while studying and after graduation.
⭐ 2. Types of Scholarships Available for Indian Students
Understanding the types of scholarships helps beginners plan strategically.
✔ 2.1 Fully Funded Scholarships
These cover:
- Full tuition
- Living allowance
- Accommodation support
- Travel grants
- Books & research materials
- Health insurance (sometimes)
Examples include:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
- Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
✔ 2.2 Partially Funded Scholarships
These cover 30–70% of tuition or living cost.
✔ 2.3 University-Specific Scholarships
Each university has internal scholarships for international students.
✔ 2.4 Government Scholarships
Funded by Canadian federal or provincial governments.
✔ 2.5 Private & Corporate Scholarships
Offered by foundations, trusts, and organizations.
⭐ 3. Top Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students in Canada (2025)
Below are the most competitive and prestigious fully funded scholarships available:
🥇 3.1 Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (PhD)
One of the most generous scholarships for doctoral students.
Covers:
- Full tuition
- Living allowance
- Research funding
- 3-year stipend
Eligibility:
- Strong academic profile
- Leadership and research potential
- University nomination required
- Indian students are eligible
🥈 3.2 Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (Undergraduate)
Offered by the University of Toronto.
Covers:
- Full tuition
- Books
- Incidental fees
- 4-year funding
Eligibility:
- Exceptional academic performance
- Leadership qualities
- School nomination
🥉 3.3 Trudeau Foundation Scholarships (PhD)
Ideal for research in humanities, public policy, leadership, and social sciences.
Covers:
- Full tuition
- Annual stipend
- Research funding
- Travel & leadership training
⭐ 3.4 Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
For master’s and doctoral students.
Covers:
- Tuition
- Research allowance
⭐ 3.5 UBC International Scholars Program (Undergraduate)
University of British Columbia offers several fully funded programs such as:
- International Leader of Tomorrow Award
- Outstanding International Student Award
Covers:
- Tuition
- Living expenses
- Full duration of program
⭐ 3.6 University of Alberta Fully Funded Scholarships
Popular among Indian students for MS/PhD programs.
Covers:
- Full tuition
- Stipend
- Research support
⭐ 3.7 University of Waterloo International Master’s Award of Excellence
Fully funded for research-based master’s students.
Covers:
- Tuition
- Research stipend
⭐ 3.8 McGill University Fully Funded Scholarships
McGill offers multiple funding programs for postgraduate students.
Covers:
- Tuition
- Living allowance
- Research support
⭐ 3.9 York University Global Leaders Through Excellence Scholarship
For high-achieving Indian students in undergraduate programs.
Covers:
- Full tuition
⭐ 4. Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students
Though each scholarship has unique requirements, common criteria include:
✔ 4.1 Academic Excellence
Minimum score expectations:
- Undergraduates: 85% and above
- Postgraduates: CGPA above 7.5 / 10
- PhD: Published research is a huge plus
✔ 4.2 English Language Proficiency
Most scholarships require:
- IELTS Academic
- TOEFL
- PTE
Some universities waive IELTS for:
- CBSE/ICSE students
- Students with English-medium education
✔ 4.3 Leadership Qualities
Demonstrated through:
- NGOs/volunteering
- School leadership roles
- Community service
✔ 4.4 Research Experience (for graduate scholarships)
Strong research proposals are critical for:
- Vanier
- UBC
- University funding
- Trudeau
✔ 4.5 Financial Need (for need-based scholarships)
Students may need to provide:
- Income certificates
- Bank statements
⭐ 5. Step-by-Step Process: How Indian Students Can Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada
This is the most important part of the guide.
✔ Step 1: Identify the Right Scholarship
Shortlist:
- Government scholarships
- University-specific scholarships
- Program-based funding
- Fully funded foundation scholarships
Make a spreadsheet of:
- Eligibility
- Deadlines
- Documents required
✔ Step 2: Choose Your University and Program
Most fully funded scholarships require admission into a Canadian university first.
✔ Step 3: Prepare Academic Documents
You will need:
- Class 10 & 12 mark sheets
- Bachelor’s mark sheets (for MS applicants)
- Transcripts
- Degree certificates
✔ Step 4: Write Strong Application Essays
Scholarships often require:
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Personal Statement
- Research Proposal
- Scholarship Motivation Letter
✔ Step 5: Obtain Letters of Recommendation
Ideally:
- 2–3 academic references
- 1 professional reference (if applicable)
✔ Step 6: Take English Language Tests
Most programs require:
- IELTS Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- PTE
✔ Step 7: Apply to Canadian Universities
After submitting applications, shortlisted candidates may receive:
- Interview calls
- Document requests
✔ Step 8: Apply for Scholarship (If Separate)
Some scholarships automatically consider you during admission. Others require a separate form.
✔ Step 9: Attend Interviews (If Required)
Common questions include:
- Why Canada?
- Your goals
- How scholarship will help
- Research interest
✔ Step 10: Receive Offer Letter and Scholarship Results
If selected, you receive:
- Admission letter
- Scholarship award letter
✔ Step 11: Apply for Canadian Study Permit
Required documents:
- Scholarship letter
- Admission letter
- Financial proof
- Passport
- SOP
✔ Step 12: Travel to Canada
Attend:
- Orientation
- Registration
- Scholarship briefings
⭐ 6. Required Documents Checklist
Here is the complete list:
- Valid passport
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- LORs
- SOP / Motivation letter
- Portfolio (if needed)
- English test scores
- CV / Resume
- Research proposal (for PhD/MS)
- Financial documents
⭐ 7. Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Fully Funded Scholarship
✔ Maintain a high academic score
✔ Start 12–18 months early
✔ Build leadership experience
✔ Write outstanding recommendation letters
✔ Develop a strong research profile
✔ Apply to multiple scholarships
✔ Apply to universities with high funding opportunities
✔ Craft a compelling SOP
✔ Prepare well for interviews
✔ Demonstrate financial need (if required)
⭐ 8. Common Mistakes Indian Students Make
- Applying late
- Submitting generic essays
- Lack of proofreading
- Weak research proposals
- Not checking eligibility properly
- Ignoring university-specific scholarships
- Missing deadlines
Also Read: Which DAAD Scholarships Can International Students Apply for in 2025?
Sources
PFEC India – Scholarships in Canada for Indian students including fully funded ones. pfecglobal.in
Visaseekers – Why study in Canada with scholarships + list of major Canadian scholarships. Visa Seekers
My Canadian University – Fully funded scholarships in Canada, covers several programs and universities. mycanadianuniversity.com
Future E Abroad – Complete guide for Indian students to apply for scholarships like Vanier, Pearson, Ontario Graduate Scholarship. FUTUREE ABROAD
⭐ 9. FAQs
Q1. Can an Indian student get a full scholarship in Canada?
Yes. Many fully funded scholarships are available for Indian students at all levels.
Q2. What is the easiest scholarship to get in Canada?
Institutional scholarships with automatic consideration are comparatively easier.
Q3. Is IELTS required for scholarships?
Usually yes, but some universities may waive it.
Q4. Can I get PR after studying on scholarship?
Yes. Scholarships do not affect PGWP or immigration.
Q5. What GPA is required for scholarships?
Most require:
- 85%+ for UG
- 7.5+ CGPA for PG
Q6. Do fully funded scholarships cover living expenses?
Yes, most of them do.
Q7. Can I work in Canada while studying on scholarship?
Yes. Most scholarships allow part-time work.