Are you planning to study in Canada in 2026 but worried about tuition fees and living expenses? Great news! Canada offers hundreds of fully funded and partially funded scholarships for international students pursuing undergraduate, master’s, PhD, diploma, and professional programs.
This article provides a complete guide on how to study in Canada with scholarships in 2026, including top scholarships, eligibility, application process, and tips to increase your chances of winning.
🇨🇦 Why Study in Canada?
Canada is one of the world’s most popular study destinations—and for good reason:
✅ High-quality education recognized globally
✅ Affordable tuition compared to the USA/UK
✅ Safe and multicultural environment
✅ Work while studying (20 hrs/week)
✅ Pathway to permanent residency (PGWP + Express Entry)
✅ Access to world-class universities like University of Toronto, McGill, UBC, and more
And the best part? Many scholarships are available to help you fund your studies!
Top Scholarships to Study in Canada – 2026
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships 2026
- Level: PhD or doctoral research
- Amount: $50,000 per year (for 3 years)
- Eligibility: Academic excellence, research potential, leadership
- Deadline: November 2025
- Apply at: vanier.gc.ca
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
- Institution: University of Toronto
- Level: Undergraduate
- Benefits: Full tuition, books, accommodation
- Eligibility: Exceptional academic and leadership achievements
- Deadline: January 2026
- Apply at: future.utoronto.ca
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) Scholarships
- Programs: Undergraduate & graduate
- Scholarships:
- International Major Entrance Scholarships (IMES)
- Outstanding International Student Award (OIS)
- Four-Year Doctoral Fellowship (4YF)
- Deadline: December 2025 – January 2026
- Apply at: you.ubc.ca
4. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships
- Level: Master’s and PhD
- Amount: $14,000/year (Master’s), $18,000/year (PhD)
- Deadline: February 2026
- Open to: All nationalities
- Apply at: umanitoba.ca
5. University of Alberta Scholarships
- Programs: Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD
- Types: Entrance scholarships, research awards, fully funded options
- No IELTS? Some programs accept MOI or Duolingo
- Apply at: ualberta.ca
6. Carleton University Entrance Awards for International Students
- Level: Undergraduate
- Amount: $4,000 – $16,000
- Eligibility: 80% average or higher
- Deadline: March 2026
- Apply at: carleton.ca
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7. University of Ottawa Scholarships
- Programs: Undergraduate & graduate
- Open to: All international students
- Scholarships Include: Differential Tuition Fee Exemption, Excellence Scholarships
- Deadline: Ongoing
- Apply at: uottawa.ca
8. McGill University Entrance Scholarships
- Level: Undergraduate
- Types: Merit-based and need-based awards
- Value: Up to $12,000 per year
- Deadline: January 2026
- Apply at: mcgill.ca
9. Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
- Level: Short-term studies
- Amount: Up to $10,200
- Eligible Countries: ASEAN member states
- Deadline: March 2026
- Apply at: educanada.ca
10. Humber College International Entrance Scholarships
- Level: Diploma and degree programs
- Amount: $2,000–$5,000
- Eligibility: Academic excellence
- Apply at: international.humber.ca
General Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for most Canadian scholarships in 2026, you’ll need to:
✅ Be an international student
✅ Have excellent academic performance
✅ Meet English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo)
✅ Demonstrate leadership, community service, or research potential
✅ Be admitted to a Canadian institution
🔑 Tip: Many Canadian scholarships automatically consider you when you apply for admission, so apply early!
How to Apply for Scholarships to Study in Canada (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Choose Your Program and University
Research universities that offer your desired program. Check their admission and scholarship pages.
Step 2: Check Scholarship Availability
Look for entrance awards, automatic consideration scholarships, or ones requiring separate applications.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
- Academic transcripts
- English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Resume or CV
- Personal statement or scholarship essay
- Reference letters
Step 4: Apply for Admission
Submit your application to the university. Some scholarships require you to be admitted before applying.
Step 5: Submit Scholarship Applications
If required, apply separately for scholarships. Follow instructions closely and meet deadlines.
USA Community College Scholarships for International Students – Low Tuition + Grants
Scholarship Deadlines – 2025/2026 Intake
| University / Program | Deadline |
|---|---|
| University of Toronto (Pearson) | January 2026 |
| UBC International Scholarships | December 2025 |
| Vanier Graduate Scholarships | November 2025 |
| University of Manitoba Fellowships | February 2026 |
| Carleton Entrance Awards | March 2026 |
| McGill Scholarships | January 2026 |
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Tips to Win a Canadian Scholarship in 2026
🌟 Start Early – Begin your application prep 8–12 months in advance
📝 Write a Powerful Essay – Highlight goals, leadership, and how you’ll contribute to Canada
🎓 Maintain High Grades – Academic performance is a key factor
🌍 Engage in Community Service – Shows initiative and social contribution
📢 Follow Instructions Exactly – Missing one document can disqualify your application
💡 Apply for Multiple Scholarships – Don’t limit yourself to just one option
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I study in Canada without IELTS?
Yes. Many Canadian institutions accept:
- Duolingo English Test
- TOEFL
- English proficiency letter from your previous institution (MOI)
Check the specific university’s language requirement page.
2. Are Canadian scholarships fully funded?
Yes. Programs like Vanier, Lester B. Pearson, and IDRC Research Awards offer full funding including tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
3. Can Nigerian and African students apply?
Absolutely! Canada actively invites applications from Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa, and other African countries.
4. Is there an age limit?
Most undergraduate and master’s scholarships do not have an official age limit. However, PhD awards may favor younger applicants (under 35).
Final Words
Canada is ready to welcome you in 2026 with generous scholarships and world-class education. Whether you’re a high school graduate, university student, or working professional, there’s a scholarship opportunity waiting for you.
🎯 Take Action Now:
✅ Choose your university
✅ Prepare your documents
✅ Apply early and apply smart
Study in Canada with scholarship in 2026 – turn your dreams into reality!