Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in Canada 2025
Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in Canada 2025! Canada is rapidly becoming one of the most sought-after study destinations for international students, thanks to its high-quality education, multicultural society, and generous scholarship opportunities. For students dreaming of pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Canada without the financial burden, fully funded undergraduate scholarships offer a golden opportunity.
In this in-depth guide, we cover everything you need to know about fully funded undergraduate scholarships in Canada for 2025, including top programs, application tips, and how to make your application stand out.
🌍 Why Study in Canada in 2025?
Canada is home to some of the world’s leading universities, including the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia. Here’s why thousands of students flock to Canada every year:
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Globally Ranked Institutions: Canadian universities consistently rank high in QS and Times Higher Education rankings.
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Diverse and Inclusive Culture: Multicultural cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal offer inclusive environments for international students.
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Post-Graduation Work Opportunities: The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows students to work in Canada after finishing their degrees.
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Pathway to Permanent Residency: Canada offers a clear pathway for international students to transition into permanent residents.
🎓 What Does “Fully Funded” Mean?
A fully funded undergraduate scholarship in Canada typically includes:
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Full Tuition Fees Coverage
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Living Allowance / Monthly Stipend
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Health Insurance
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Travel Costs (including airfare)
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Books and Supplies
Some scholarships even offer mentorship programs, internship opportunities, and leadership training.
🏆 Top Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in Canada 2025
Below are the top fully funded scholarships for international undergraduate students in Canada:
1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship – University of Toronto
Value: Covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support
Eligibility:
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International student (non-Canadian requiring a study permit)
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Currently in final year of secondary school
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Demonstrated academic excellence and leadership
Application Deadline: November 2024 (School nomination deadline: October)
👉 Pro Tip: You must be nominated by your high school to apply for this scholarship. Start early by notifying your school.
2. UBC International Scholars Program
Scholarships Under This Program:
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International Leader of Tomorrow (ILOT) Award
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Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award
Value: Fully covers tuition and living expenses
Eligibility:
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Must be an international student entering UBC directly from secondary school
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Outstanding academic achievement and leadership skills
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Financial need
Application Deadline: December 1, 2024
3. York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Award
Value: $80,000 – $180,000 CAD (over 4 years)
Eligibility:
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International students with excellent academic records
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Involvement in community service and extracurriculars
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Financial need
Application Deadline: February 1, 2025
4. Carleton University Entrance Awards for International Students
Value: Varies, up to full tuition
Eligibility:
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International students admitted with an admission average of 90%+
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Automatic consideration; no separate application needed for some awards
Deadline: March 1, 2025 (for admission)
5. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
Value: $60,000 CAD over 4 years
Eligibility:
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High academic achievement
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Non-Canadian citizens or Permanent Residents
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Extra-curricular activities and leadership considered
Deadline: December 1, 2024
6. University of Alberta International Admission Scholarships
Value: Up to CAD $120,000
Eligibility:
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Excellent academic performance
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Leadership qualities
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International student status
Deadline: January 10, 2025 (for Fall intake)
7. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Honorable Mention)
Although primarily for graduate students, some universities provide undergraduate-to-graduate pathways tied to this scholarship.
📋 General Eligibility Criteria
While each scholarship has unique criteria, here are some general eligibility benchmarks:
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Non-Canadian citizenship
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Excellent academic record (usually top 5-10% of class)
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Proof of financial need
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Leadership and community engagement
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English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL if applicable)
🛠️ How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada
Here’s a step-by-step approach:
✅ 1. Research Early
Start your research at least 12-18 months in advance. Check individual university websites for scholarship-specific deadlines.
✅ 2. Secure School Nomination (if required)
Some scholarships like Lester B. Pearson require you to be nominated by your high school. Discuss this with your school counselor.
✅ 3. Prepare Your Documents
You will typically need:
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Transcripts
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Letter(s) of recommendation
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Personal statement or essay
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Financial documents
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Proof of English language proficiency
✅ 4. Apply for Admission
Many scholarships are tied to your university admission. Submit your application before the admission deadline.
✅ 5. Complete Scholarship Applications
This may include additional essays, portfolios, or interviews. Make sure to customize your application for each award.
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🧠 Tips to Strengthen Your Scholarship Application
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Highlight your impact: Showcase how you’ve contributed to your community or school.
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Customize essays: Don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach. Tailor your personal statement to each scholarship’s values.
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Choose strong referees: Select people who know you well and can speak to your strengths beyond grades.
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Demonstrate need clearly: Be honest and specific when describing your financial situation.
🗓️ Scholarship Application Timeline: Canada 2025
Month | Task |
---|---|
May – August | Research and shortlist scholarships |
September | Begin application prep (essays, documents, IELTS) |
October | School nomination deadlines (e.g., Pearson) |
Nov – Jan | Submit university and scholarship applications |
March – May | Await results and apply for a study permit |
June – August | Plan travel and accommodation in Canada |
🇨🇦 How to Get a Canadian Study Permit After Scholarship
Once awarded a scholarship, your next step is applying for a Canadian study permit. Here’s what you need:
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Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
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Proof of scholarship funding
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Passport
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Police certificate & medical exam (in some countries)
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Biometrics
Apply online via the official IRCC website.
🧳 Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Effort?
Absolutely! Fully funded undergraduate scholarships in Canada not only cover your expenses but also open doors to world-class education, professional opportunities, and potential immigration pathways. With Canada’s growing focus on attracting global talent, now is the best time to start your scholarship journey.
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✅ Added Sections to Expand Article:
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Overview of Top Universities Offering Scholarships
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Scholarships by Canadian Provinces
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Tips for Writing a Winning Scholarship Essay
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Mistakes to Avoid During Scholarship Applications
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Life in Canada as a Scholarship Student
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FAQs on Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in Canada
🔝 Top Canadian Universities Offering Fully Funded Scholarships
These prestigious institutions offer a variety of fully funded scholarships for undergraduate students:
🎓 University of Toronto
Home to the world-renowned Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, U of T offers dozens of other funding options for high-achieving international students.
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Top Program Areas: Engineering, Life Sciences, Computer Science, Commerce
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Location: Toronto, Ontario
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Why U of T: Access to major employers, global recognition, cutting-edge research
🎓 University of British Columbia (UBC)
UBC is known for its commitment to global citizenship and leadership development, making it a top destination for scholarship students.
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Campus Locations: Vancouver & Okanagan
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Highlight: UBC’s International Scholars Program is among the most generous in Canada.
🎓 McGill University
Often referred to as the “Harvard of the North,” McGill combines elite academics with strong scholarship offerings.
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Location: Montreal, Quebec
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Language: English (but French helps socially)
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Scholarship Example: Entrance Scholarships + Faculty-specific Awards
🎓 University of Alberta
UAlberta offers multiple scholarships worth over $34 million annually to both domestic and international students.
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Location: Edmonton, Alberta
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Top Programs: Petroleum Engineering, Health Sciences, Business
🎓 University of Waterloo
Famous for its co-op programs and innovation, Waterloo offers competitive scholarships in tech-related fields.
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Location: Waterloo, Ontario
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Top Fields: Software Engineering, AI, Mathematics, Finance
🌐 Scholarships by Province in Canada
📍 Ontario
Ontario universities like U of T, Waterloo, and York dominate in both funding and global rankings. The Ontario Trillium Scholarships (primarily for grads) inspire many institutions to offer competitive undergrad packages too.
📍 British Columbia
UBC and Simon Fraser University are popular choices. British Columbia has a strong tech and green economy which aligns with scholarship investments.
📍 Alberta
Universities here offer some of the most generous entrance awards for high achievers. The province also boasts a lower cost of living compared to Ontario and BC.
📍 Quebec
McGill and Concordia University offer strong scholarships, and the cost of education and living is often lower due to provincial subsidies.
✍️ Tips for Writing a Winning Scholarship Essay
Your scholarship essay could be the difference between a rejection and a fully funded offer. Here’s how to make yours compelling:
1. Start With a Powerful Hook
Open with a story or bold statement that grabs attention in the first two sentences.
2. Show Impact Over Intent
Rather than saying you want to “make a difference,” show how you already are—through projects, volunteering, or leadership roles.
3. Address Financial Need with Honesty
Be transparent. Include specific examples like income bracket, challenges, or number of dependents in your family.
4. Align With Scholarship Values
Read the scholarship’s mission. Tailor your message to reflect shared values—leadership, innovation, diversity, etc.
5. Use Clear, Concise Language
Don’t try to sound overly academic. Use a personal and confident tone.
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
Many applicants lose out due to avoidable errors. Make sure you avoid these pitfalls:
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❌ Missing deadlines: Set calendar alerts for each scholarship.
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❌ Using the same essay everywhere: Always personalize.
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❌ Failing to provide financial documents: Proof of income or need is crucial.
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❌ Weak recommendation letters: Choose people who know your character, not just your grades.
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❌ Ignoring instructions: Follow formatting and word limits precisely.
🧳 What’s Life Like as a Scholarship Student in Canada?
Being a scholarship recipient means more than just financial support—it’s a unique experience. Here’s what to expect:
🏡 Accommodation
Most fully funded students live in on-campus housing during their first year, which is covered by their scholarship. Options include shared dorms, single rooms, and apartment-style living.
🍽️ Cost of Living
While tuition and housing may be covered, budgeting for food, travel, and personal expenses is still essential. Average monthly expenses range from CAD $600–$1,000 depending on the city.
🌤️ Weather
From snowy winters in Alberta to milder ones in BC, prepare for seasonal changes. International offices often help students get winter-ready with gear and tips.
🤝 Student Support
Universities offer:
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Mentorship programs
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Career services
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Mental health resources
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International student clubs
💼 Part-Time Jobs
Though fully funded, many students take up on-campus part-time jobs (up to 20 hours/week) for extra income and experience.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for more than one scholarship at a time?
Yes! In fact, it’s encouraged. However, some universities allow only one major entrance scholarship per student.
2. Do I need IELTS/TOEFL for scholarships in Canada?
Yes, unless you’re from an English-speaking country or studied in English previously. A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 – 7.0 is often required.
3. What if I lose my scholarship due to grades?
Most scholarships have a minimum GPA requirement (e.g., 3.0 or 3.5). Dropping below it may result in losing funding. Academic advisors can help you stay on track.
4. Are there scholarships that don’t require financial need?
Yes. Some are based solely on merit, leadership, or extracurricular excellence.
5. How early should I start applying?
Start 12-18 months before your intended start date. Many scholarships have Fall deadlines for the next academic year.
🚀 Final Words: Your Dream of Studying in Canada is Possible
Fully funded undergraduate scholarships in Canada for 2025 offer a transformative opportunity. Whether your dream is to study computer science at UBC, business at Toronto, or engineering at Alberta, there is a scholarship waiting for you.
With rising tuition costs globally, these scholarships don’t just save money—they unlock world-class education, global careers, and immigration pathways.
If you’re willing to research, plan, and apply strategically, your journey from an international applicant to a Canadian university student can begin today.
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[ Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in the UK for International Student]
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[Cheapest Universities in Canada for International Students 2025]
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[Canada PR After Graduation: A Step-by-Step Guide]