Top Scholarships in Canada for International Students

Canada has solidified its reputation as one of the most welcoming and academically prestigious destinations for international students. In 2026, Canadian universities and government-backed programs continue to offer top scholarships that provide international students with generous funding opportunities. These scholarships are designed not only to make education affordable but also to encourage global talent to contribute to Canada’s innovative and multicultural academic environment. For many students, these opportunities represent a gateway to world-class education, future employment prospects, and long-term residency options.

For international learners, pursuing a Canadian degree can be costly without financial support. Fortunately, top scholarships in Canada for international students offer financial coverage that often includes full tuition, living stipends, travel support, and research funding. For example, the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships can provide recipients with $50,000 per year for 3 years, the Canada-ASEAN Scholarships offer up to CAD 40,000 for two years of study, and the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships can be valued at $40,000 annually for up to 3 years. With such significant financial backing, students can focus on academic excellence and professional growth rather than the burden of educational expenses.

What makes Canadian scholarships particularly appealing is the diversity of programs available — from government-funded research grants to university-specific awards and multinational partnerships. Whether you aim to study engineering, medical sciences, humanities, or business, there are robust funding avenues tailored to diverse academic interests. This guide will walk you through the top scholarships available for international students in Canada in 2026, including eligibility criteria, benefits, application steps, and other essential details to help strengthen your pathway to higher education.

Scholarship Summary

1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

Courses Offered and Their Advantages

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships support doctoral programs across disciplines such as Health Sciences, Natural Sciences, Engineering, Social Sciences, and Humanities.
Advantages:

• Encourages high-impact research contributions.

• Offers significant leadership and academic recognition.

• Increases competitiveness for future academic and industry positions.

Program Period – Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

• Up to 3 years of support during PhD studies in Canada.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits – Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

• $50,000 CAD per year for up to 3 years.

• Funding for tuition, research materials, and living expenses.

• Access to Canada’s top research facilities and mentorship networks.

Eligibility Criteria – Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

• International students enrolled in a PhD program at eligible Canadian universities.

• Excellent academic performance and research potential.

• Demonstrated leadership qualities and community involvement.

• Endorsement from participating Canadian institution.

How to Apply – Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

• Applicants must be nominated by an eligible Canadian university.

• Submit academic transcripts, research proposal, recommendation letters, and leadership essays.

• Follow institution-specific nomination deadlines and requirements.

Website for Apply – Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

👉 Official Website: https://vanier.gc.ca

2. Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)

Courses Offered and Their Advantages

This scholarship supports both undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on development, international relations, policy, and sustainable development.
Advantages:

• Promotes academic and cultural exchange between ASEAN and Canada.

• Strengthens expertise in global development issues.

• Enhances professional networks between participating nations.

Program Period – Canada-ASEAN Scholarships (SEED)

• 1–2 years of academic study or research in Canada.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits – Canada-ASEAN Scholarships (SEED)

• Funding up to CAD 40,000 per award.

• Partial tuition coverage.

• Living, transportation, and settling-in allowances.

• Opportunity to build international networks.

Eligibility Criteria – Canada-ASEAN Scholarships (SEED)

• Citizens from ASEAN member countries.

• Acceptance to a Canadian partner university.

• Strong academic records and motivation for development work.

How to Apply – Canada-ASEAN Scholarships (SEED)

• Apply via Canadian partner institutions or official SEED call for applications.

• Submit transcripts, study/research proposal, letters of recommendation.

Website for Apply – Canada-ASEAN Scholarships (SEED)

👉 Official Website: https://www.educanada.ca

3. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships

Courses Offered and Their Advantages

The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships support doctoral research in Social Sciences and Humanities. Areas include public policy, human rights, global governance, and Indigenous studies.
Advantages:

• Highly prestigious academic award.

• Leadership and mentoring programs.

• Access to exclusive research and public policy networks.

Program Period – Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships

• Up to 3 years while completing a doctoral degree in Canada.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits – Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships

• Up to $40,000 CAD per year.

• Annual travel, research, and conference funds.

• Mentorship and leadership development activities.

Eligibility Criteria – Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships

• Enrolled or planning to enroll in a doctoral program in Canada.

• Research focus on humanities and social sciences.

• Proven leadership and community engagement.

How to Apply – Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships

• Apply through the Foundation’s online portal.

• Submit research proposal, personal statement, writing sample, letters of recommendation.

Website for Apply – Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships

👉 Official Website: https://www.trudeaufoundation.ca

4. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award

Courses Offered and Their Advantages

The award supports undergraduate programs at UBC across all faculties — Arts, Science, Engineering, Business, and more.
Advantages:

• Recognizes academic excellence.

• Encourages diversity and inclusivity.

• Provides long-term funding throughout undergraduate study.

Program Period – UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award

• Up to 4 years of undergraduate study.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits – UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award

• Tuition, fees, and living costs.

• Annual awards adjusted based on financial need.

• Opportunity for mentoring and special recognition events.

Eligibility Criteria – UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award

• International student admitted to UBC undergraduate programs.

• Outstanding academic achievement.

• Financial need requirement.

How to Apply – UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award

• Apply through the UBC admissions and scholarship portal.

• Submit academic transcripts and financial documents.

Website for Apply – UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award

👉 Official Website: https://you.ubc.ca

5. York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Scholarships

Courses Offered and Their Advantages

This award includes undergraduate study across all disciplines such as business, science, arts, law, and technology.
Advantages:

• Offers strong academic recognition.

• Encourages global leadership and innovation.

• Access to career support services.

Program Period – York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Scholarships

• Up to 4 years of undergraduate study.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits – York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Scholarships

• Tuition and fees coverage.

• Annual stipend for living expenses.

• Recognition of global leadership and academic excellence.

Eligibility Criteria – York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Scholarships

• International student status.

• Exceptional academic achievements.

• Admission to York University undergraduate program.

How to Apply – York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Scholarships

• Apply via the York University admission portal.

• Submit required academic documents and personal statement.

Website for Apply – York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Scholarships

👉 Official Website: https://www.yorku.ca

Conclusion

Canada remains one of the most sought-after destinations for international students seeking quality education and global experience. In 2026, these top scholarships in Canada for international students offer exceptional opportunities to pursue undergraduate and graduate studies with full or substantial financial support.