Apply for a Master’s Degree Scholarships in Canada

Scholarships in Canada is the top destination for international students, ensuring top-ranked universities, multicultural cities, and post-graduation opportunities.

However, studying for a master’s abroad might be expensive. But Canada has plenty of scholarship options that can provide a chance to turn your academic aspirations into a reality.

Why Study in Canada?

Key Benefits for Master’s Students

Prior to delving deep into scholarships, let’s find out why Canada is a perfect destination for postgraduate studies:

1. Internationally Recognized Degrees: Top Canadian universities, such as the University of Toronto, McGill, and UBC, are among the top 100 in the world ranking every year.

2. Affordable Tuition: The tuition in Canada is much cheaper compared to the US and UK; on average, CAD 20,000–20,000–35,000 per annum for different master’s programs.

3. Work While Studying: International students are allowed to work for 20 hours per week during semesters.

4. Post-Study Work Opportunities (PGWP): This allows graduates to stay and work in the country for up to 3 years, making the route to permanent residency smoother.

5. Safe and Inclusive Environment: Canada is well-recognized for its friendly policies towards international students in the country.

Types of Master’s Scholarships in Canada

There are four major categories of scholarships available in Canada, each for different eligibility criteria and fields of study:

1. Government-Funded Scholarships

• Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGS-M): 17,500 CAD for 12 months granted to students in the fields of STEM, health, and social sciences.
• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: 50,000 CAD per annum to students going for a doctoral program, while some universities extend the partial funding to master’s students.
• Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships: For transition from master’s to PhD students.

2. University-Specific Scholarships

• University of Toronto’s Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS): 10,000–15,000 per academic year.
• University of Alberta Graduate Entrance Scholarship: To up to $21,000 (thesis-based) master’s student.
• UBC Graduate Global Leadership Fellowship: Awarded to outstanding international students showing leadership ($18,200).

3. Privately Funded Awards

• Trudeau Foundation Scholarships: For students of humanities and social sciences, up to $40 000 per year.
• Anne Vallee Ecological Fund: Biol­ogy student doing research in Quebec or BC.

4. Country-Specific Scholarships

• Commonwealth Scholarships: Graduate students from countries that are members of the Commonwealth of Nations.
• OAS Scholarships: Organization of American States Scholarships for Latin American and Caribbean students.

Application for Master’s Scholarships in Canada: 6-Step Guide

Step 1: Research Scholarships Early

• Start your search 12–18 months before your intended start date.
• Access databases such as Scholarships Canada and Yconic.
• Use filters for field of study, nationality, and eligibility, including “scholarships for Indian students in Canada”.

Step 2: Meet Eligibility Requirements

• Academic Excellence: A minimum of 3.0/4.0 GPA or its equivalent is the general requirement for most scholarships.
• Language Proficiency: IELTS scores of 6.5+, TOEFL scores of 90+, or PTE scores.
• Admission Letter: Secure an admission letter to a Canadian university before applying.

Step 3: Create a Stellar Application

• Statement of Purpose: Mention your academic goals, research interests, and how the scholarship fits into your career plans.
• Letters of Recommendation: These should be requested from professors or employers who know your work.
• CV/Resume: Highlight academic merits, publications, internships, and volunteer activities.

Step 4: Submit Applications Strategically

• Apply to 5–8 scholarships to increase your chances of winning.
• Keep track of deadlines with a spreadsheet or a tool like Trello.

Step 5: Nail Interviews (If Required)

• Start practicing answers to questions like, “How will this scholarship impact your career?”
• Do your homework about the mission of the scholarship provider to inform your responses.

Step 6: Follow Up and Accept Offers

• Respond promptly to scholarship offers and inform other providers if you accept an award.

Top 5 Scholarships in Canada for International Master’s Students

1. IDRC Research Awards: For students from developing countries, up to $45,000.
2. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships: Open to master’s students moving into PhDs.
3. University of Waterloo International Master’s Awards of Excellence (IMAE): $2,500 per term.
4. HEC Montréal Scholarships: Merit-based awards covering 25–50% of tuition.
5. Ontario Trillium Scholarship (OTS): $40,000 per year for PhD-bound master’s students.

Tips to Win Scholarships in Canada

1. Apply Early: Many scholarships have rolling deadlines.
2. Tailor Each Application: Customize your SOP for each provider’s goals.
3. Leverage Leadership Experience: Highlight roles in clubs, NGOs, or community projects.
4. Proofread Thoroughly: Use tools like Grammarly to eliminate errors.

FAQs About Master’s Scholarships in Canada

1. Can I apply for scholarships in Canada before receiving a university admission letter?

Most require proof of admission, though a few allow applications conditionally. Check the requirements for each.

2. Are There Any Fully-Funded Scholarships in Canada for International Students?

Yes! The Vanier CGS and Trudeau Foundation fully cover tuition, living costs, and travel.

3. Do I Have to Repay the Scholarships in Canada?

No-scholarships are non-repayable, unlike student loans.

4. What If My GPA Is Below 3.0? Are There Other Options Available?

At some universities, entrance awards are available considering extracurricular activities or based on financial need.

5. How competitive are the scholarships in Canada?

Extremely competitive. Apply to multiple programs and mention unique achievements.

Conclusion:

Make Your Dream of Getting Educated in Canada a Reality

Getting a master’s degree scholarships in Canada demands articulation, but the process is rewarding.

Target high-value scholarships, develop compelling applications based on your unique strengths, and significantly reduce your financial barriers to enjoying a great academic environment in Canada.

Delve into this opportunity today and get connected with alumni: take the first step toward quality education in one of the world’s most accommodating countries.