International students in Canada have access to various external scholarships provided by governments, organizations, and foundations. These scholarships can help offset the cost of education and provide additional financial support. Here are some notable external scholarships for international students in Canada:
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Overview: Designed for doctoral students, including those pursuing research-based programs.
- Eligibility: International students enrolled in a PhD or a combined MA/PhD program at a Canadian institution.
- Amount: CAD 50,000 per year for up to three years.
- Application: Nomination by the Canadian institution is required.
2. Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program
- Overview: Supports students pursuing a master’s degree, including those with a research focus.
- Eligibility: Open to international students studying at a Canadian institution.
- Amount: CAD 17,500 for one year.
- Application: Requires submission through the institutional application process.
3. The Commonwealth Scholarships
- Overview: Offered to students from Commonwealth countries to study in Canada.
- Eligibility: For students from Commonwealth countries pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies.
- Amount: Varies; often includes tuition, travel, and living expenses.
- Application: Application processes vary by country; typically through the national scholarship commission.
4. The Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
- Overview: Supports students from Commonwealth countries for graduate studies in Canada.
- Eligibility: International students from Commonwealth countries.
- Amount: Varies; typically covers tuition fees and provides a living stipend.
- Application: Typically through the Canadian embassy or high commission in your home country.
5. The Gates Millennium Scholars Program
- Overview: Although based in the U.S., this program supports international students from certain countries, including Canada.
- Eligibility: For exceptional international students with financial need.
- Amount: Full cost of education, including tuition, fees, and living expenses.
- Application: Requires a nomination from a designated organization and a comprehensive application.
6. The Fulbright Program
- Overview: Provides funding for graduate study, research, and teaching in Canada.
- Eligibility: For students from the U.S. and other countries, including those pursuing various degrees in Canada.
- Amount: Varies; includes a stipend for living expenses and tuition.
- Application: Through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. embassies.
7. The International Student Scholarship Program (ISS) - University-Specific
- Overview: While these are not external per se, many universities offer external scholarships and grants for international students, including:
- University of Toronto: Various external funding opportunities for international students.
- University of British Columbia: Offers scholarships and funding through external sources and partnerships.
- McGill University: Provides external scholarships for international students through partnerships and foundations.
8. The Rotary Peace Fellowships
- Overview: Supports students pursuing graduate degrees related to peace and conflict resolution.
- Eligibility: International students pursuing degrees in peace-related fields.
- Amount: Covers tuition, living expenses, and other costs.
- Application: Through Rotary clubs and the Rotary Foundation.
9. The Global Affairs Canada Scholarships
- Overview: Various scholarships for international students provided by Global Affairs Canada.
- Eligibility: Varies by program; generally for students from developing countries.
- Amount: Varies; often includes tuition and living expenses.
- Application: Through Canadian embassies or high commissions.
10. The Organization of American States (OAS) Scholarships
- Overview: Offers scholarships for students from the Americas, including Canada, for various degree programs.
- Eligibility: Open to students from OAS member states.
- Amount: Varies; includes tuition and sometimes living expenses.
- Application: Through the OAS and its partner institutions.
11. The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program
- Overview: Provides scholarships for postgraduate studies to students from selected countries.
- Eligibility: For students from developing countries pursuing master’s and PhD programs.
- Amount: Covers tuition and living expenses.
- Application: Through the Aga Khan Foundation’s regional offices.
12. The Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) Scholarships
- Overview: Offers scholarships to students from developing countries for studies in Canada.
- Eligibility: For students from eligible developing countries.
- Amount: Varies; typically includes tuition and living expenses.
- Application: Through CIDA and Canadian embassies.
Application Tips
- Check Eligibility: Carefully review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship to ensure you meet all requirements.
- Prepare Documents: Gather necessary documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
- Meet Deadlines: Ensure you adhere to application deadlines and submit all required materials.
- Research Thoroughly: Explore each scholarship’s specific application process and guidelines.
For the most accurate and detailed information, visit the official websites of the scholarship providers or contact their offices directly.