Canada is home to world-class universities and colleges, and many of them offer partial scholarships to international students to help them finance their studies in Canada.

When applying to any of the partial scholarships in Canada, make sure you check the scholarship eligibility criteria carefully, and know all about the application process and closing date. You can also seek support from your IDP counsellor, who will guide you through your journey.

What are the eligibility criteria to apply for partial scholarships in Canada?

The most important criterion for most partial scholarships is a good academic score, however, it also depends on factors such as your chosen destination, subject and level. In some partial scholarships, factors like extracurricular activities, and volunteering can also be used to advantage. Keep in mind that every partial scholarship has its own eligibility criteria. In some, a mere application may be enough, while for others you may have to fulfil several other conditions. For instance, in research centric programs, you may have to submit written assignments. Do not hesitate to contact the university admission centre if you have any doubts.

Scholarships value – how much money is available?

The amount of money available and the type of award varies between institutions. Getting a scholarship is competitive and so it is important that you apply well ahead in time. We recommend you start with the procedure about 8-12 months before the preferred intake begins. If you get stuck anywhere, IDP counsellors will be more than happy to guide you through.

What are the documents required to apply for scholarships in Canada?

When you’re applying for a scholarship, you have to check the granting institution’s website to make sure you provide all the needed documents. However, there are common documents that most of the institutions require from scholarship applicants, such as:

  • Completed scholarship application form

  • Copy of your academic transcripts/diplomas

  • Copy of your passport/ID

  • Statement of purpose or letter of motivation

  • Recommendation letter

  • Test score (like SAT, ACT, GRE, GPA)

  • Proof of your language proficiency, like an IELTS test

  • Some institutions may also require some additional documents, such as an essay and medical report.

Top scholarships in Canada to apply for

We’ve listed here some of the top scholarships offered by leading Canadian universities to international students. Please note that this is an indicative list, and you need to speak with your IDP counsellor for details and best available options suited to your profile. Book an appointment today.

University

Scholarship

Scholarship value

Eligibility

University of Waterloo

University of Waterloo International Student Entrance Scholarship

20 scholarships valued at $10,000 each

Scholarships are awarded annually to outstanding international students admitted to Year One of an undergraduate degree program. International students admitted with an admission average of 90% or above will be considered. Selection will be based on academic achievement combined with any other Faculty-specific entrance scholarship criteria. An application isn't required.

University of Alberta

University of Alberta Centenary Scholarship

Variable from $20,000; payable over four years.

Awarded to students on a study permit with superior academic achievement entering the first year of an undergraduate degree program at the University of Alberta. Selection based on academic standing and demonstrated leadership qualities based on involvement in extracurricular and community activities. Documentation required for admission must be submitted for scholarship consideration by the scholarship deadline. This includes transcripts showing all completed courses, grades to date and proof of English Language Proficiency.

Cape Breton University

Entrance Scholarships

Major Entrance Scholarships (total value)

Chancellor’s: $30,000

President’s: $20,000

Deans’: $10,000

tzgerald: $20,000

Schwartz: $14,000

W.M. Reid: $11,500

Orpha Thayer-Scott: $10,000

All entering students who wish to be considered for entrance scholarships must submit an admission application, official transcript, financial need application for those interested in bursaries.Average for international students entering directly from high school will be determined by Cape Breton University.

Students must be currently enrolled in their program of transfer.

ESL conditional offers must attend a CBU English language partner school to have award honoured. Minimum 80% average as determined by CBU to be eligible with no failures.

University of Winnipeg

President’s Scholarship for World Leaders

Undergraduate - 6 awards of $5,000 each.

Graduate - 3 awards of $5,000 each.

Candidates must meet the following criteria:

Have a minimum 80% admission average or equivalent

Be an international student

Entering first year of any program/school at the University of Winnipeg

Demonstrate exceptional leadership qualities

Submit a complete application for admission by the scholarship deadline

University of Regina

Entrance Scholarship

$3,000

The scholarship is automatically awarded to undergraduate students on a study permit who are applying for admission directly from a secondary school (or equivalent) into a direct-entry undergraduate program. Students must have an early-conditional admission average of 85.00% or higher and be enrolled in nine credit hours in the semester the award is presented.