Government of Canada Scholarships for International Students

Canada remains one of the most sought-after destinations for higher education. Every year, thousands of international students from Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America move to Canada because of its world-class education, peaceful environment, and high living standards. However, studying abroad can be expensive, especially when tuition, living costs, and travel are combined.

To make education accessible, the Government of Canada offers several fully and partially funded scholarships to international students. These programs are designed to attract talented individuals, promote cultural exchange, and support global development.

If you have the ambition to study in Canada but are worried about expenses, these scholarships can completely transform your future. They often cover tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, research costs, and travel allowances.

In this article, you will discover the top 5 Government of Canada scholarships for international students in 2025, including details on eligibility, benefits, and how to apply effectively.

Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)

The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship — often called the U of T Pearson Scholarship — is one of Canada’s most prestigious undergraduate awards. It is hosted by the University of Toronto (U of T), one of the top universities in the world.

Overview

Established in 1827, U of T is Canada’s first institution of higher learning in Ontario. The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship recognizes outstanding international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, creativity, and leadership qualities.

It is fully funded and covers a wide range of undergraduate programs — more than 700 in total. Fields include:

• Mathematical Sciences

• Commerce & Management

• Computer Science

• Engineering

• Humanities and Social Sciences

• Life Sciences

• Architecture

• Music and Physical Education

Benefits

Recipients of the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship enjoy the following:

• Full tuition coverage for all four years of undergraduate study.

• Books and academic materials fully funded.

• Comprehensive health insurance for the duration of study.

• Full accommodation and living allowance, ensuring students can focus on their education without financial stress.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must be international students (non-Canadian citizens or permanent residents).

• Must currently be in their final year of secondary school or have graduated no earlier than June of the previous year.

• Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and active involvement in leadership or community service.

Application Process

1. Nomination: You must first be nominated by your school.

2. Apply to U of T: Complete your application for admission to the University of Toronto.

3. Scholarship Application: Once nominated, you will receive a personalized link to the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship application form.

4. Submit Documents: Provide essays, references, and transcripts as required.

5. Await Results: Shortlisted candidates are contacted by the university’s admissions team.

This program is ideal for ambitious students who want to begin their international education journey in Canada under full sponsorship.

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship (Vanier CGS) is a flagship government program that supports world-class researchers pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees in Canada.

Overview

Named after former Governor General Georges P. Vanier, the scholarship aims to attract and retain top academic talent while positioning Canada as a global hub for research and innovation.

The Vanier CGS funds up to 166 new scholars each year, making it one of the most competitive postgraduate programs in the world.

Eligible Fields of Study

• Health Research

• Natural Sciences and Engineering

• Social Sciences and Humanities

Benefits

• $50,000 per year for three years (non-renewable).

• Covers tuition fees, living allowances, accommodation, and other research-related expenses.

• Provides access to cutting-edge labs, mentorship opportunities, and professional networks across Canadian institutions.

Eligibility Requirements

• Applicants must be international students pursuing a full-time master’s or Ph.D. in a Canadian university with a Vanier quota.

• Must demonstrate academic excellence, strong research potential, and leadership ability.

• Applicants must have completed language proficiency tests (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).

• Prior research experience is an advantage.

Application Process

1. Be nominated by a Canadian institution with a Vanier CGS quota.

2. Prepare a research proposal and submit transcripts, references, and leadership statements.

3. Complete the Canadian Common CV (CCV) and upload to ResearchNet.

4. Submit your full application before the institution’s internal deadline.

Vanier Scholars become part of an elite academic community that contributes to Canada’s global research leadership.

McCall MacBain Scholarships (McGill University)

The McCall MacBain Scholarship is one of Canada’s newest yet most transformative scholarship programs. Offered by McGill University in Montréal, it supports exceptional students entering master’s or professional programs.

Overview

The scholarship was founded by John and Marcy McCall MacBain to identify and nurture future leaders who demonstrate integrity, curiosity, and a passion for service.

McGill University, ranked among the top 30 globally, offers this fully funded program to students with exceptional character, community involvement, and leadership potential.

Benefits

• Full tuition coverage for the duration of the program.

• A living stipend of $2,000 per month.

• A one-time relocation grant to help with moving to Montréal.

• Access to mentorship programs, leadership training, and networking opportunities with global changemakers.

Eligibility

• Open to international students from any nationality.

• Applicants must have completed or be in the final year of their first bachelor’s degree.

• Must be under 30 years old at the time of application.

• Must meet McGill’s admission requirements for graduate or professional programs.

Application Process

1. Apply for admission to an eligible master’s or professional program at McGill.

2. Create an account on the McCall MacBain Scholarship portal.

3. Submit personal essays, recommendation letters, and evidence of leadership experience.

4. Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews.

The McCall MacBain program is not only about academic success — it’s about developing compassionate, responsible leaders who create positive social impact.

University of Alberta Scholarships for International Students

The University of Alberta (U of A) is one of Canada’s oldest and most respected institutions, established in 1908. It ranks among the top 5 universities in the country and top 120 globally. The university offers a wide range of government-supported scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students.

Overview

U of A scholarships are designed to make world-class education accessible to talented students from over 150 countries. The awards include merit-based and need-based options for students at all levels.

Programs Covered

• 200+ undergraduate degree programs

• 500+ graduate programs

• 250+ research areas

Benefits

Recipients of the University of Alberta scholarships receive:

• Full tuition coverage for the entire study period.

• Monthly living allowance for accommodation and meals.

• Access to career development workshops and internship opportunities.

• Inclusion in the university’s international leadership network.

Eligibility

• Open to students of all nationalities.

• Undergraduate applicants must have a high school diploma.

• Graduate applicants must hold a recognized bachelor’s degree.

• Must demonstrate strong academic records or financial need.

Application Process

1. Apply for admission to the University of Alberta.

2. Once admitted, you will automatically be considered for available scholarships — no separate form is needed.

3. Competitive scholarships may require essays or additional documents.

The University of Alberta offers an ideal environment for international students seeking a mix of academic excellence, research innovation, and affordability.

Canadian Government International Scholarships (Global Affairs Canada)

In addition to university-specific programs, Global Affairs Canada administers a range of national scholarships aimed at strengthening international partnerships and academic mobility.

Key Programs Include:

• Study in Canada Scholarships: For students from postsecondary institutions worldwide to pursue short-term study or research in Canadian universities.

• Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED): Targets students from ASEAN member countries pursuing short-term study or research.

• Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP): For students from Latin America and the Caribbean to study or conduct research in Canada.

• Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program: For citizens of Commonwealth countries pursuing master’s and doctoral studies in Canada.

Benefits

These government-funded programs may include:

• Full tuition coverage during the study period.

• Airfare and travel costs.

• Living allowance (CAD 1,200–2,000 monthly).

• Health insurance and research support.

Eligibility

• Applicants must be citizens of eligible countries listed under each program.

• Must meet the academic and language requirements of the hosting institution.

• Must not hold another Canadian government scholarship at the same time.

How to Apply

1. Visit the official Global Affairs Canada scholarships portal.

2. Review eligibility for the specific program you want.

3. Prepare academic transcripts, proof of enrollment, and letters of recommendation.

4. Apply online before the deadline stated for your country or region.

These programs reflect Canada’s global commitment to education, cooperation, and sustainable development.

Conclusion

Applying for a Government of Canada scholarship is one of the smartest moves any international student can make. These scholarships offer full financial coverage, global networking opportunities, and the chance to study in one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the world.

Whether you aim to pursue undergraduate studies through the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship, postgraduate research under the Vanier CGS, or leadership training with McCall MacBain, each program provides life-changing opportunities.

Take time to prepare your documents, meet deadlines, and tailor each application to the scholarship’s specific goals. Persistence and preparation are key — and your dream of studying in Canada can become reality.