Canada remains one of the most attractive study destinations in the world due to its high-quality education system, multicultural environment, and strong post-study work opportunities. However, tuition and living costs can be high, which is why scholarships play a crucial role for international students planning to study in Canada in 2027.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best scholarships in Canada for international students in 2027, including fully funded options, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.
🇨🇦 Why Study in Canada in 2027?
Canada continues to rank among the top global education destinations due to:
- World-class universities (University of Toronto, UBC, McGill, etc.)
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) opportunities
- Pathway to permanent residency
- High research funding and innovation support
- Multicultural and safe environment
But costs can range from CAD $15,000 to $60,000 per year depending on the program—making scholarships essential.
🎓 Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada (2027)
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
The Vanier CGS is one of Canada’s most prestigious doctoral funding programs for international students.
- 💰 Funding: CAD $50,000 per year for 3 years
- 🎓 Level: PhD (Doctoral programs only)
- 🌍 Eligibility: International students nominated by Canadian universities
- 🧠 Fields: Health, engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, humanities
This scholarship is highly competitive and requires strong academic performance, leadership potential, and research excellence. Universities must nominate candidates, so direct application is not possible.
🔗 Official reference: Vanier CGS Program
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
A top-tier undergraduate scholarship for outstanding international students.
- 💰 Covers: Tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support
- 🎓 Level: Undergraduate
- 🏫 Institution: University of Toronto
- 🌍 Eligibility: International students nominated by their school
This scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership skills, and creativity.
🔗 Learn more: University of Toronto Scholarships
3. Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGS-M)
A major funding opportunity for international master’s students.
- 💰 Funding: Around CAD $17,500 for 12 months
- 🎓 Level: Master’s programs
- 🧪 Fields: Science, engineering, health, social sciences, humanities
- 🏫 Institutions: Canadian universities
This scholarship is merit-based and supports high-achieving students in research-based programs.
🔗 More details: Canada Graduate Scholarships Program
4. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
A province-level scholarship supporting graduate students in Ontario.
- 💰 Funding: Up to CAD $15,000 per year
- 🎓 Level: Master’s and PhD
- 📍 Location: Ontario universities
- 🌍 Eligibility: Domestic and international students
OGS is highly competitive and based on academic excellence.
5. Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
Designed for postdoctoral researchers who want to build strong academic or research careers in Canada.
- 💰 Funding: CAD $70,000 per year for 2 years
- 🎓 Level: Postdoctoral studies
- 🧠 Fields: All major research disciplines
It is one of Canada’s most prestigious research fellowships.
🔗 Official info: Banting Fellowships
6. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholarships
UBC offers multiple awards for international students.
- 💰 Funding: Partial to fully funded
- 🎓 Level: Undergraduate and graduate
- 🌍 Eligibility: Academic excellence + financial need
Key programs include:
- International Leader of Tomorrow Award
- Outstanding International Student Award
🔗 Explore UBC funding: UBC Scholarships
7. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship
A highly competitive doctoral scholarship focusing on leadership and social impact.
- 💰 Funding: Up to CAD $60,000 per year
- 🎓 Level: PhD
- 🌍 Focus: Social sciences and humanities
It supports future leaders working on societal challenges.
🔗 Learn more: Trudeau Foundation
📊 Summary Table of Top Scholarships in Canada (2027)
| Scholarship | Level | Funding | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vanier CGS | PhD | CAD $50,000/year | Fully funded |
| Lester B. Pearson | Undergraduate | Full coverage | Fully funded |
| CGS-M | Master’s | CAD $17,500 | Merit-based |
| OGS | Master’s/PhD | Up to $15,000 | Partial funding |
| Banting Fellowship | Postdoc | CAD $70,000/year | Research funding |
| Trudeau Scholarship | PhD | CAD $60,000/year | Leadership award |
🧾 General Eligibility Requirements (Most Scholarships)
Most Canadian scholarships require:
- Strong academic record (GPA 3.0+ or equivalent)
- English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Admission into a Canadian institution
- Recommendation letters
- Statement of purpose or research proposal
- Leadership or extracurricular involvement (for competitive awards)
📝 How to Apply for Scholarships in Canada (Step-by-Step)
- Choose your program and university
- Check scholarship eligibility requirements
- Prepare academic documents (transcripts, CV, SOP)
- Take English proficiency tests (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Apply for admission to Canadian universities
- Submit scholarship applications (some are automatic, others separate)
- Follow deadlines strictly (most fall between Oct–March)
📅 Expected Scholarship Deadlines for 2027 Intake
- Undergraduate scholarships: Oct 2026 – Feb 2027
- Master’s scholarships: Nov 2026 – March 2027
- PhD scholarships: Aug 2026 – Nov 2026 (nomination-based programs like Vanier)
🔗 Helpful External Resources
- Canada Scholarships Portal: Government of Canada Scholarships
- Study in Canada official guide: Study in Canada
- University admissions portal: Apply to Canadian Universities
🎯 Final Thoughts
Scholarships in Canada for 2027 remain highly competitive but very rewarding. Fully funded programs like Vanier CGS, Pearson Scholarship, and Trudeau Foundation Scholarships offer life-changing opportunities for international students.
The key to success is early preparation—strong academics, leadership experience, and early application to universities significantly increase your chances.