Canada remains a popular destination for international students seeking quality education, professional development, and opportunities to study in a multicultural environment. However, the cost of tuition, accommodation, transportation, and daily living expenses can make studying in Canada challenging for many students.
Scholarships can help eligible international students reduce the financial burden of studying abroad. Some Canadian universities and scholarship organizations offer funding that may cover tuition fees, living expenses, accommodation, or other approved educational costs.
In this guide, we explore Canada scholarships for international students in 2027, including scholarship opportunities, eligibility requirements, application procedures, and practical tips for students from Nigeria and other countries.
Important: Scholarship availability, deadlines, funding amounts, and eligibility requirements vary. Always confirm the latest information through the official scholarship website before applying.
What Are Canada Scholarships for International Students?
Canada scholarships for international students are financial awards provided by Canadian universities, government organizations, foundations, and other institutions to support eligible students pursuing education in Canada.
Depending on the scholarship, funding may be available for undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, or research programs.
Scholarship benefits may include:
- Full or partial tuition fee coverage.
- Monthly living allowances.
- Accommodation support.
- Research funding.
- Travel or relocation allowances.
- Other educational expenses.
Not all scholarships are fully funded. Some provide partial financial support, while others cover specific expenses only. Students should carefully review the award conditions.
Top Canada Scholarships for International Students in 2027
1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship – University of Toronto
University: University of Toronto
Study Level: Undergraduate
Official Website: University of Toronto Future Students
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is an undergraduate scholarship at the University of Toronto designed for international students who demonstrate academic achievement, creativity, and leadership potential.
The scholarship is intended for students entering their first undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto.
Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship provides support toward:
- Tuition fees.
- Books.
- Incidental fees.
- Full residence support for four years, according to the scholarship conditions.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants generally need to:
- Be an international student who requires a study permit.
- Be in the final year of secondary school or have recently graduated, according to the applicable criteria.
- Be nominated by their school.
- Be applying for their first undergraduate degree.
- Meet the university’s admission requirements.
How to Apply
- Check the official University of Toronto scholarship information.
- Confirm that your school can participate in the nomination process.
- Receive a school nomination.
- Complete the University of Toronto admission application.
- Submit the scholarship application according to the official instructions.
Important: The scholarship is highly competitive and is not available for every academic program or applicant category.
2. McCall MacBain Scholarship – McGill University
University: McGill University
Study Level: Master’s and professional graduate programs
Official Website: McCall MacBain Scholars
The McCall MacBain Scholarship is a graduate scholarship at McGill University that supports students who demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and academic potential.
The program provides financial support and leadership development opportunities for eligible scholars.
Scholarship Benefits
Depending on the award category, benefits may include:
- Tuition and fees.
- Monthly living stipend.
- Relocation grant for eligible scholars.
- Leadership development.
- Mentorship and other program support.
Eligibility Requirements
Requirements vary by applicant category and admission year. Applicants should review:
- Degree and academic requirements.
- Eligible master’s or professional programs.
- Application deadlines.
- Citizenship and study eligibility conditions.
- Leadership and community involvement expectations.
How to Apply
- Visit the official McCall MacBain Scholars website.
- Review the scholarship eligibility criteria.
- Check the eligible programs at McGill University.
- Prepare your academic and personal documents.
- Submit the scholarship and university applications through the required process.
2027 Application Note: The published 2027 admission application deadlines differ between international applicants and applicants from Canada and the United States. Check the official website for the relevant deadline.
3. University of British Columbia International Scholars
University: University of British Columbia (UBC)
Study Level: Undergraduate
Official Website: UBC International Scholarships
The University of British Columbia offers scholarship and award opportunities for international undergraduate students. Some programs are designed for students with strong academic records, leadership experience, and financial need.
UBC’s International Scholars Program includes different award categories, and eligibility depends on the specific award.
Potential Benefits
- Financial support toward educational expenses.
- Scholarship awards based on the applicable program.
- Support that may consider financial need and academic achievement.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should check the official requirements for the selected award, including:
- International student status.
- Academic achievement.
- Leadership experience.
- Financial need, where applicable.
- Admission to an eligible undergraduate program.
How to Apply
- Visit the official UBC international scholarships website.
- Review available scholarship categories.
- Check admission and award requirements.
- Prepare the necessary documents.
- Follow the official application instructions and deadlines.
Tip: Some UBC awards require separate consideration or nomination, so check the specific process for your chosen scholarship.
4. University of Waterloo International Scholarships
University: University of Waterloo
Study Level: Undergraduate and other available awards
Official Website: Waterloo International Scholarships
The University of Waterloo offers scholarships for international students, including admission-based awards and scholarships that may require an application.
These opportunities can help eligible students manage the cost of studying in Canada.
Scholarship Benefits
Benefits vary by scholarship. For example, Waterloo has announced international entrance scholarship opportunities with specific award amounts and eligibility conditions.
Eligibility Requirements
- Be an eligible international student.
- Apply for an eligible full-time degree program.
- Meet academic admission requirements.
- Satisfy the requirements of the selected scholarship.
How to Apply
- Visit the official Waterloo scholarship website.
- Review the available international awards.
- Check whether the award requires a separate application.
- Apply for admission to an eligible program.
- Complete any required scholarship application.
Important: Award amounts and eligibility conditions may change between academic years.
5. University of Alberta International Entrance Scholarships
University: University of Alberta
Study Level: Undergraduate
Official Website: University of Alberta Scholarships
The University of Alberta provides scholarship opportunities for international undergraduate students. Its awards may be based on academic achievement, student profile, and other applicable criteria.
Potential Benefits
- Entrance scholarships.
- Admission-based awards.
- Application-based scholarship opportunities.
- Other financial support depending on eligibility.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should review:
- International student eligibility.
- Academic requirements.
- Program admission conditions.
- Scholarship application requirements.
- Applicable deadlines.
How to Apply
- Visit the official University of Alberta scholarship page.
- Review the available international awards.
- Apply for an eligible undergraduate program.
- Check whether the scholarship requires a separate application.
- Submit all required information before the deadline.
6. Ontario Trillium Scholarship
Study Destination: Ontario, Canada
Study Level: Doctoral
Program Type: University-administered doctoral scholarship
The Ontario Trillium Scholarship is a doctoral scholarship initiative associated with Ontario universities. It is intended to support eligible international students pursuing doctoral studies.
Availability and selection procedures depend on the participating university and applicable program arrangements.
Potential Benefits
The scholarship has historically been associated with substantial doctoral funding. However, applicants should confirm current award amounts, duration, and university participation through official sources.
Eligibility Requirements
- Meet international student eligibility conditions.
- Meet doctoral program admission requirements.
- Demonstrate strong academic performance.
- Meet the participating university’s scholarship criteria.
How to Apply
- Identify Ontario universities offering relevant doctoral programs.
- Check the university’s current scholarship information.
- Review nomination and application requirements.
- Prepare academic records and supporting documents.
- Follow the university’s official application process.
Note: Confirm the current status of the scholarship before publishing specific funding amounts or deadlines.
7. University of Manitoba Graduate Scholarships
University: University of Manitoba
Study Level: Master’s and doctoral
Official Website: University of Manitoba Graduate Funding
The University of Manitoba offers graduate funding opportunities for eligible students, including scholarships and awards for master’s and doctoral studies.
Graduate funding may be available through university awards, departments, research supervisors, and other sources.
Potential Benefits
- Graduate scholarship awards.
- Research-related financial support.
- Departmental funding opportunities.
- Other awards subject to program conditions.
Eligibility Requirements
- Meet the academic requirements of the graduate program.
- Apply to an eligible master’s or doctoral program.
- Meet scholarship-specific conditions.
- Provide required academic and supporting documents.
How to Apply
- Visit the University of Manitoba graduate funding website.
- Search for scholarships relevant to your field.
- Review eligibility requirements.
- Contact the relevant department when required.
- Submit your application through the correct official route.
8. University of Calgary International Scholarships
University: University of Calgary
Study Level: Undergraduate and graduate, depending on the award
Official Website: University of Calgary Awards and Scholarships
The University of Calgary offers scholarship and award opportunities for students, including international students who meet the relevant eligibility requirements.
Some awards are designed for incoming undergraduate students, while other funding opportunities may be available to graduate students.
Potential Benefits
- Entrance scholarships.
- Academic awards.
- Graduate funding opportunities.
- Other financial awards based on the scholarship.
Eligibility Requirements
- Meet the requirements for the chosen academic program.
- Have the required academic qualifications.
- Meet international student eligibility conditions.
- Complete any required scholarship application.
How to Apply
- Visit the official University of Calgary scholarship website.
- Explore awards available to international students.
- Review the individual scholarship requirements.
- Apply for admission to the university.
- Submit additional scholarship documents where required.
9. University of Winnipeg President’s Scholarship for World Leaders
University: University of Winnipeg
Study Level: Graduate and other eligible categories depending on the award
Official Website: University of Winnipeg Awards
The University of Winnipeg offers scholarship opportunities for international students. Its President’s Scholarship for World Leaders is associated with international students entering graduate programs.
Applicants should check the current award conditions and eligible academic programs.
Potential Benefits
- Scholarship funding toward educational expenses.
- Support based on the specific award.
- Other benefits according to the applicable scholarship conditions.
Eligibility Requirements
- Be an eligible international student.
- Meet the academic requirements of the selected program.
- Demonstrate leadership or other required qualities.
- Submit the required application documents.
How to Apply
- Visit the official University of Winnipeg awards website.
- Review the scholarship requirements.
- Confirm the eligible study level and program.
- Prepare your application documents.
- Submit the scholarship application before the applicable deadline.
10. Canadian University-Specific Graduate Scholarships
Study Destination: Canada
Study Level: Master’s and doctoral
Many Canadian universities provide graduate scholarships through academic departments, research groups, and university-wide funding programs.
These scholarships may be especially relevant to international students interested in research-based master’s and doctoral programs.
Potential Funding Sources
- University graduate scholarships.
- Faculty or departmental awards.
- Research assistantships.
- Teaching assistantships.
- Supervisor-funded research opportunities.
Eligibility Requirements
Requirements vary depending on the university, department, and award. Applicants may need to meet academic performance standards, research requirements, language requirements, and admission conditions.
How to Apply
- Choose a Canadian university and study program.
- Search for graduate funding opportunities.
- Review the department’s eligibility requirements.
- Contact potential supervisors where appropriate.
- Apply through the official university process.
Eligibility Requirements for Canada Scholarships in 2027
Eligibility requirements depend on the scholarship and the academic level. However, international students should consider the following common requirements.
1. Academic Qualifications
Most scholarships require applicants to meet specific academic standards.
Depending on the study level, you may need:
- Secondary school certificates for undergraduate programs.
- A bachelor’s degree for master’s programs.
- A master’s degree or equivalent qualification for doctoral programs.
- Academic transcripts.
- Minimum grades or other academic conditions.
2. English or French Language Proficiency
Canadian universities may require proof of language proficiency, depending on the program and the applicant’s educational background.
Accepted tests and exemption policies vary. Some institutions may accept alternatives to IELTS, but applicants must confirm the requirements of their chosen university.
3. International Student Eligibility
Some scholarships are open to international students, while others are restricted to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or specific nationalities.
Check whether the scholarship accepts applicants from Nigeria and other eligible countries.
4. Admission to a Canadian University
Many scholarships require students to apply for admission to a participating university. Some awards require an admission offer before scholarship selection, while others use separate nomination processes.
Read the official application instructions carefully.
5. Financial Need or Leadership Experience
Some scholarships consider financial need, leadership, community involvement, research potential, or academic achievement.
Prepare supporting documents that accurately demonstrate your qualifications and experience.
How to Apply for Canada Scholarships for International Students
Step 1: Choose Your Preferred Study Program
Start by selecting a course and academic level that matches your qualifications and career goals.
Research universities offering programs in fields such as:
- Engineering.
- Computer Science.
- Business Administration.
- Public Health.
- Education.
- Environmental Science.
- Social Sciences.
Step 2: Search for Scholarships
Visit official university websites and scholarship portals to identify opportunities that match your academic background.
Useful starting points include:
- EduCanada.
- Government of Canada Education Information.
- Official university scholarship pages.
Step 3: Check Eligibility Requirements
Read the eligibility criteria before beginning an application.
Confirm:
- Academic qualifications.
- Nationality requirements.
- Language requirements.
- Age restrictions, where applicable.
- Application deadlines.
- Required admission conditions.
Step 4: Prepare Your Documents
Common scholarship application documents may include:
- International passport or valid identification.
- Academic certificates.
- Academic transcripts.
- Curriculum vitae (CV).
- Statement of purpose.
- Recommendation letters.
- Research proposal, where applicable.
- Language test results, if required.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Complete your scholarship or university application through the official application portal.
Check that all documents are uploaded correctly and submit the application before the stated deadline.
Step 6: Monitor Your Application
After submitting your application, monitor your email and scholarship portal for updates, requests for additional documents, interview invitations, or admission decisions.
Canada Scholarships for Nigerian Students
Nigerian students can explore Canadian scholarships that accept applicants from Nigeria. However, eligibility depends on the scholarship, academic level, university, and application year.
Students from Nigeria may consider researching:
- Undergraduate scholarships at Canadian universities.
- Graduate scholarships for master’s programs.
- Doctoral research funding.
- University-specific international awards.
- Government-supported scholarship programs.
Tips for Nigerian Applicants
- Prepare academic transcripts and certificates early.
- Check the university’s international admission requirements.
- Confirm English-language test requirements.
- Research scholarship deadlines well in advance.
- Use official scholarship websites.
- Avoid anyone promising guaranteed scholarship selection.
Are Fully Funded Scholarships Available in Canada?
Yes, some scholarships and graduate funding packages in Canada can cover substantial educational and living expenses. However, the availability of fully funded awards varies by academic level, institution, program, and applicant eligibility.
International students should distinguish between:
- Fully funded scholarships: Designed to cover approved expenses under specific award conditions.
- Partial scholarships: Cover only part of tuition or other expenses.
- Graduate funding packages: May combine scholarships, research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and other sources of financial support.
Before accepting an offer, review the total funding amount and determine whether it is sufficient for your expected expenses.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
1. Ignoring the Official Deadline
Missing a scholarship deadline can prevent you from being considered. Track deadlines using a calendar and check whether the university has an earlier internal deadline.
2. Applying for the Wrong Scholarship
Not every scholarship is available to international students or to every academic level. Check eligibility before preparing your application.
3. Submitting Incomplete Documents
Review the application checklist carefully and provide all required documents in the correct format.
4. Using False or Misleading Information
Ensure that your academic records, work experience, and personal statements are accurate. False information can result in application rejection or other consequences.
5. Paying Unverified Agents
Be cautious of people who guarantee scholarships or admission in exchange for money. Verify scholarship information through the official university or scholarship provider.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can international students get fully funded scholarships in Canada?
Yes, some Canadian scholarships and graduate funding programs offer substantial financial support to eligible international students. Coverage varies by scholarship and academic program.
2. Can Nigerian students apply for scholarships in Canada?
Yes. Nigerian students can apply for scholarships that accept applicants from Nigeria and meet the relevant academic and eligibility requirements.
3. What documents do I need to apply for a Canadian scholarship?
Common documents include academic certificates, transcripts, identification, a CV, motivation letter, and recommendation letters. The exact requirements depend on the scholarship.
4. Can I study in Canada without IELTS?
Some universities may accept alternative language evidence or exemptions. However, requirements vary, and students should check the official university admission policy.
5. Do Canadian scholarships cover accommodation?
Some scholarships provide accommodation support or living allowances. Others may only cover tuition or provide partial funding. Review the scholarship’s official benefits.
6. When should I apply for Canada scholarships for 2027?
Start researching as early as possible. Deadlines vary by university, scholarship, and study program. Check official 2027 application announcements and prepare your documents in advance.
7. Can I apply for multiple Canadian scholarships?
Some students may apply for multiple scholarships if they meet the eligibility requirements. However, each scholarship has its own application rules, and some awards cannot be combined.
8. Is there a government scholarship for all international students in Canada?
There is no single government scholarship that automatically covers all international students. Government-supported programs and university scholarships have specific eligibility requirements and application procedures.
Conclusion
Canada scholarships for international students in 2027 provide opportunities for eligible applicants to pursue undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral education with financial support.
From university-specific scholarships to graduate research funding, students have different options to explore based on their academic qualifications and study goals.
The most important step is to verify each scholarship’s eligibility requirements, funding details, and application deadline through its official website.
Start preparing your documents early, choose a suitable academic program, and submit your applications through the correct official channels.
With proper research and preparation, you can identify scholarship opportunities that match your plans for studying in Canada.