Canada has become one of the most attractive destinations for international students seeking quality education, internationally recognised qualifications and opportunities to build successful careers. Its universities are known for their research facilities, diverse academic programmes and welcoming learning environments. However, studying in Canada can be expensive, particularly for international students who are required to pay higher tuition fees than domestic students.
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Depending on the university and programme, international students can spend tens of thousands of Canadian dollars annually on tuition alone. Accommodation, feeding, transportation, health insurance and other personal expenses add considerably to the overall cost of studying in the country.
Fortunately, several Canadian universities, government-funded institutions and international foundations offer generous scholarships to outstanding students from around the world. Some of these opportunities cover full tuition fees, accommodation and living expenses, while others provide substantial annual stipends that can support students throughout their academic programmes.
These scholarships are available at different academic levels, including undergraduate, master’s and PhD programmes. Some are also specifically designed to support talented African students and applicants from developing countries.
In this guide, we explore 10 of the best fully funded and comprehensive scholarship opportunities in Canada for international students in 2027, including their financial benefits, eligibility considerations and what makes each opportunity attractive.
1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship at the University of Toronto
Study Level: Undergraduate
Scholarship Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Funding: Full tuition, books, incidental fees and university residence support for four years.
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is one of Canada’s most prestigious undergraduate scholarship opportunities for international students. Offered by the University of Toronto, the programme recognises exceptional students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements, creativity, leadership abilities and a commitment to making positive contributions to their communities. It attracts applicants from different countries and is particularly competitive because only a limited number of students receive the award each year. Approximately 37 students are selected annually.
One of the biggest attractions of this scholarship is its comprehensive financial coverage. Successful recipients receive funding for their full undergraduate tuition, books, incidental university fees and residence support for four years. This means students can concentrate on their academic development without having to worry about the major expenses associated with attending one of Canada’s leading universities. The scholarship is specifically intended for international students entering their first undergraduate degree and does not apply to master’s or doctoral programmes.
The selection process places considerable emphasis on more than examination results. Applicants are expected to demonstrate intellectual curiosity, creativity, leadership and meaningful involvement in activities outside the classroom. Students who have contributed to community development, initiated projects or demonstrated exceptional commitment to their interests may have an advantage. For the September 2027 intake, the November 6, 2026 application deadline has already passed, so students planning for a subsequent intake should prepare well in advance.
2. McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill University
Study Level: Master’s Degree and Selected Professional Degrees
Scholarship Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Funding: Full tuition and fees, CAD $2,300 monthly living stipend, relocation grant and additional summer funding opportunities.
The McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill University are among the most attractive postgraduate funding opportunities in Canada. The programme was established to support exceptional individuals who demonstrate leadership potential, academic excellence and a commitment to improving the lives of others. It brings together students from different countries and professional backgrounds, providing them with the opportunity to pursue eligible graduate programmes at McGill University while participating in a structured leadership development experience.
The scholarship covers full tuition and university fees for the standard duration of an eligible master’s or second-entry professional degree. Recipients also receive a monthly living stipend of CAD $2,300 during academic terms, a one-time relocation grant to assist with moving to Montreal, and access to summer funding opportunities. Beyond the financial benefits, scholars participate in leadership workshops, mentoring sessions, professional coaching, and interdisciplinary activities. These additional opportunities make the programme valuable for students interested in developing both their academic qualifications and leadership capabilities.
International students are eligible to compete for the scholarship, although the number of awards available to international applicants is limited. For the 2027 admission cycle, up to 10 international scholars are expected to join the programme. Applicants are assessed on academic strength, leadership experience, community involvement, and their potential to contribute positively to society. The international application deadline for the 2027 intake was August 19, 2026, and has passed. The next application cycle will be an opportunity for students planning to begin their postgraduate education in 2028.
3. University of British Columbia International Scholars Program
Study Level: Undergraduate
Scholarship Location: Vancouver and Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
Funding: Financial assistance based on demonstrated need, potentially covering the full cost of an undergraduate education.
The University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program is a major opportunity for academically outstanding international students who require significant financial assistance to pursue an undergraduate degree in Canada. The programme recognises students who combine excellent academic performance with leadership qualities, community involvement and a demonstrated commitment to making a difference. It is particularly attractive to applicants from families who cannot independently afford the cost of an international university education.
Unlike scholarships that offer every recipient a fixed amount, UBC’s International Scholars Program assesses each student’s financial circumstances individually. Awards are based on demonstrated financial need and can provide substantial assistance towards tuition and living expenses. The amount varies according to the applicant’s financial situation and the overall cost of their education. The programme includes different award categories, such as the Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award, the Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award and the International Impact Award. Students with particularly significant financial needs may receive funding that covers the full cost of their studies.
Applicants generally need exceptional academic achievement, a record of leadership and community involvement, and evidence that meaningful financial assistance is necessary for them to attend UBC. The programme is primarily designed for students entering their first undergraduate degree directly from secondary school. For the September 2027 intake, applications are currently open, with the scholarship application deadline extended to December 2, 2026. This makes it one of the particularly time-sensitive opportunities for international students planning to study in Canada in 2027.
4. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University
Study Level: Master’s Degree
Scholarship Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Funding: Full international tuition, accommodation, monthly living stipend, academic resources and additional support.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University is an important opportunity for talented African students who want to pursue postgraduate education in Canada. The programme is designed to identify promising individuals with strong academic backgrounds, leadership potential and a commitment to contributing to the development of Africa. It particularly supports students interested in addressing important challenges affecting the continent, including public health, nutrition, public policy and sustainable agriculture.
Unlike scholarships that only pay university tuition, the Mastercard Foundation programme at McGill provides comprehensive financial support covering the major costs associated with attending the university. Its benefits include full international student tuition, on-campus accommodation, a personal monthly stipend for food, transportation, and other expenses, academic resources, books, a laptop and pre-arrival and immigration support. Scholars also receive leadership training, mentoring, professional development and career support. The programme further provides support for certain post-graduation transition expenses, making it one of the more comprehensive funding opportunities available to African postgraduate students in Canada.
The scholarship is open to citizens and residents of African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, South Africa and several other nations. Applicants must meet the academic requirements for eligible McGill master’s programmes and satisfy the programme’s additional eligibility conditions. The university indicates that approximately 35 scholarships are available annually across 13 graduate programmes. The Fall 2027 application cycle has already closed, with the next recruitment cycle expected to provide another opportunity for eligible African applicants.
5. Ontario Trillium Scholarship
Study Level: PhD
Scholarship Location: Participating universities in Ontario, Canada
Funding: CAD $40,000 annually, renewable for up to four years.
The Ontario Trillium Scholarship is a prestigious provincial scholarship established to attract outstanding international doctoral students to universities in Ontario. The programme recognises exceptional academic ability and research potential, helping participating universities attract talented researchers from around the world. It is particularly relevant to international students interested in pursuing doctoral studies in areas such as engineering, health sciences, social sciences, natural sciences and humanities.
Each scholarship is valued at CAD $40,000 per year and can be renewed for up to four years, subject to the university’s academic and programme conditions. This represents a potential total funding value of CAD $160,000 over the full four-year period. The scholarship provides substantial financial support for doctoral research and living expenses, although students should confirm the individual university’s tuition arrangements and any additional funding conditions before accepting an award. Approximately 75 scholarships are awarded annually across participating Ontario universities.
International applicants with exceptional academic records and strong research potential are eligible for consideration. The scholarship is competitive, and individual Ontario universities are responsible for selecting and nominating their candidates. Students should understand that it is intended for doctoral-level education rather than undergraduate or ordinary master’s programmes. Its substantial annual value makes it one of the most attractive provincial funding opportunities for international PhD candidates who want to study at a Canadian university.
6. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship
Study Level: PhD
Scholarship Location: Participating Canadian universities
Funding: Up to CAD $50,000 annually for three years, plus up to CAD $20,000 annually for research and travel.
The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship is a prestigious programme supporting exceptional doctoral researchers whose work addresses important social, political and economic challenges. It is designed for individuals who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential and an interest in contributing to meaningful change through research and public engagement. The programme places particular emphasis on humanities and social sciences research that can contribute to the advancement of Canadian society and address wider global challenges.
The financial package is particularly attractive. Successful scholars can receive up to CAD $50,000 annually for three years to support tuition and living expenses associated with their doctoral studies. In addition, they may receive up to CAD $20,000 annually for research-related expenses, networking, travel and participation in the foundation’s academic and leadership activities. This creates a potential total award value of CAD $210,000 over three years. Beyond financial assistance, recipients become part of a network of scholars, mentors and experienced professionals and participate in seminars, workshops and experiential learning activities.
The scholarship is particularly suitable for researchers working on subjects connected to human rights and dignity, responsible citizenship, Canada and the world, and people and their natural environment. International students can be eligible, but they must satisfy the programme’s Canadian university enrolment requirements. For the 2027 scholarship competition, applicants must be in the first or second year of their doctoral programme at the time of application. The opportunity is therefore not intended for someone applying directly from overseas without an existing qualifying doctoral enrolment in Canada.
7. Québec Merit Scholarship Program for International Students (PBEEE)
Study Level: PhD, Postdoctoral Research and Short-Term Research
Scholarship Location: Participating universities in Quebec, Canada
Funding: CAD $25,000 annually for doctoral research, plus international tuition exemption and health insurance coverage.
The Québec Merit Scholarship Program for International Students, commonly associated with the PBEEE programme, is a provincial funding initiative designed to attract talented international researchers to Quebec. It supports international students and researchers who want to pursue advanced academic studies and research at participating institutions in the province. The programme is particularly interesting because it combines direct financial assistance with benefits that can significantly reduce the overall cost of studying in Canada.
For doctoral research students, the scholarship provides CAD $25,000 per year for a maximum of three years, with a possible extension of up to 12 additional months under the programme’s conditions. During an approved extension, recipients may receive a monthly allowance of CAD $1,000. Another major benefit is the exemption from the additional tuition fees normally charged to international students, alongside health insurance and hospitalisation coverage through Quebec’s public health insurance arrangements. This combination makes the award particularly valuable for international PhD candidates.
The programme also has separate funding categories for postdoctoral researchers and short-term research stays. Postdoctoral fellows can receive CAD $35,000 for one year, while eligible international researchers undertaking short-term research or professional development can receive CAD $3,000 per month for up to four months. Applicants should note that doctoral candidates generally need to be preselected by an eligible Quebec institution, and selection is based on academic and research merit. The scholarship is therefore particularly suitable for students with strong research backgrounds who want to pursue advanced studies in Quebec.
8. Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Doctoral (CGRS-D)
Study Level: PhD
Scholarship Location: Eligible Canadian universities
Funding: CAD $40,000 annually for three years.
The Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Doctoral, commonly known as CGRS-D, is a major federal scholarship programme supporting outstanding doctoral researchers in Canada. It is administered through Canada’s three federal research funding agencies: the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council. The programme aims to strengthen Canada’s research environment by supporting talented doctoral students working across a wide range of academic disciplines.
Successful applicants receive CAD $40,000 annually for three years, representing a total scholarship value of CAD $120,000. The funding is intended to help doctoral researchers concentrate on their academic work, develop research skills and contribute to Canada’s scientific, technological, social and economic development. Eligible research areas include health, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences and humanities, including interdisciplinary research. Unlike some university scholarships that provide different amounts depending on the institution, CGRS-D has a nationally established annual award value.
International students can compete for this scholarship, but there is an important eligibility restriction: foreign applicants must already be registered in an eligible doctoral programme at a Canadian institution by the application deadline. Up to 15% of the available awards are reserved for international applicants. This means it is not generally an opportunity for someone applying directly from another country who has not yet enrolled in a Canadian PhD programme. Applicants are assessed on research potential, relevant experience and academic achievements, making it especially attractive to students with strong research backgrounds.
9. University of British Columbia Four Year Doctoral Fellowship (4YF)
Study Level: PhD and Eligible Doctoral Programmes
Scholarship Location: University of British Columbia, Vancouver and Okanagan campuses
Funding: CAD $24,000 annual stipend plus full tuition coverage for up to four years.
The University of British Columbia’s Four Year Doctoral Fellowship is an important funding opportunity for outstanding doctoral students interested in pursuing advanced research in Canada. The programme is designed to provide stable financial support throughout the early and middle stages of doctoral education, allowing recipients to concentrate on their research and academic development. It is open to both Canadian and international students, making it a valuable opportunity for qualified applicants from around the world.
From September 2026, the fellowship provides recipients with CAD $24,000 annually in stipend funding, together with full tuition coverage for up to four years of doctoral studies. Over the maximum funding period, this represents CAD $96,000 in stipend support, in addition to the value of the covered tuition fees. The annual stipend can help recipients manage accommodation, food, transportation, books and other living expenses while studying at UBC. The fellowship therefore offers a combination of tuition assistance and predictable living support rather than a one-time scholarship payment.
The fellowship is generally intended for students beginning their first year of full-time doctoral studies, although continuing students may also be considered in certain circumstances. Eligible programmes include PhD, Doctor of Musical Arts and MD/PhD studies. Students are normally considered through their graduate programmes, and the availability of awards depends on institutional selection and funding arrangements. For international applicants seeking a doctoral degree at a reputable Canadian university, the Four Year Doctoral Fellowship is one of the more attractive university-based funding opportunities.
10. University of Waterloo Guaranteed PhD Funding
Study Level: PhD
Scholarship Location: University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
Funding: Minimum CAD $29,145 annually, with additional international doctoral tuition support for eligible students.
The University of Waterloo is internationally recognised for its research, innovation and strong academic programmes, particularly in engineering, technology, computer science and applied sciences. One of its attractive features for international postgraduate students is its minimum guaranteed funding commitment for eligible full-time doctoral candidates. Rather than relying entirely on students winning separate competitive scholarships, the university provides a minimum level of financial support to qualifying PhD students who remain in good academic standing.
For the 2026–2027 funding period, the university’s published minimum doctoral funding is CAD $29,145 annually, effective May 1, 2026, for up to four years. This creates a potential minimum funding value of CAD $116,580 over the four-year period. Funding can come from several sources, including research opportunities, employment, scholarships and other university-supported awards. Eligible international doctoral students may also receive the International Doctoral Student Award, which helps offset the difference between domestic and international tuition fees. From Fall 2026, this additional award can be worth up to CAD $5,100 per term, or CAD $15,300 annually.
This funding arrangement is particularly relevant to international applicants pursuing research-based doctoral programmes at Waterloo. However, it is important to understand that the minimum funding commitment is a university funding package rather than a single traditional scholarship. Some of the money may be provided through research or teaching employment, and the final package depends on the student’s programme, eligibility and funding arrangements. Applicants should therefore distinguish between the guaranteed funding amount and the additional tuition-support award when assessing the overall financial value of an admission offer.
Comparison of the 10 Best Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada
The following table summarises the major funding opportunities and their respective academic levels.
| Scholarship | Study Level | Funding Value |
| Lester B. Pearson | Undergraduate | Full tuition, books and residence for 4 years |
| McCall MacBain | Master’s | Full tuition + $2,300 monthly stipend |
| UBC International Scholars | Undergraduate | Funding based on demonstrated financial need |
| Mastercard Foundation at McGill | Master’s | Comprehensive funding package |
| Ontario Trillium | PhD | $40,000 annually for up to 4 years |
| Pierre Elliott Trudeau | PhD | Up to $70,000 annually for 3 years |
| Québec Merit Scholarship | PhD | $25,000 annually + tuition exemption |
| Canada Graduate Research Scholarship | PhD | $40,000 annually for 3 years |
| UBC Four Year Doctoral Fellowship | PhD | $24,000 annually + full tuition |
| Waterloo PhD Funding | PhD | Minimum $29,145 annually + eligible tuition support |
All amounts are in Canadian dollars (CAD). Funding conditions, eligibility and renewal requirements vary. Some awards are comprehensive scholarships, while others are research funding packages or need-based financial aid.
Important Information About Canadian Scholarships
Students researching Canadian scholarships should be aware that some previously popular funding programmes have changed.
For example, the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, which historically provided CAD $50,000 annually for three years, are no longer accepting applications. The Canadian government directs prospective doctoral applicants towards the newer Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Doctoral programme.
This is important because many scholarship articles continue to advertise Vanier as an active opportunity for 2027 applicants, even though the programme has been discontinued.
It is also worth understanding that not every scholarship described as fully funded covers every possible personal expense. Some cover tuition and accommodation, while others provide a fixed annual stipend that students use towards their living and academic costs. Always consider the complete funding package rather than focusing on the scholarship’s headline amount.
Final Thoughts
Canada offers several excellent scholarship opportunities for international students who want to pursue higher education without taking on the full financial burden themselves.
From the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship at the University of Toronto to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University, undergraduate and postgraduate applicants have opportunities to access substantial financial support. Doctoral candidates also have attractive options through the Ontario Trillium Scholarship, Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation, CGRS-D and university-based doctoral funding programmes.
The most important thing is to identify scholarships that match your academic qualifications, intended degree and financial circumstances. Some opportunities are designed for students entering university directly from secondary school, while others require an existing master’s degree, professional experience or enrolment in a Canadian doctoral programme.
A fully funded scholarship can significantly reduce the financial barriers to studying abroad and provide access to world-class academic and research opportunities. With proper preparation and a suitable scholarship choice, studying in Canada can become a realistic possibility for talented international students.