Canada has become one of the most preferred study destinations in the world — and for good reason. With globally ranked universities, high-quality education, post-study work opportunities, and a strong job market, thousands of international students choose Canada every year.
However, studying in Canada is not cheap. International students often pay between $20,000 and $60,000 per year for tuition alone, not including accommodation, food, books, transportation, and other expenses.
The good news? You don’t have to pay anything if you secure a fully funded scholarship.
Fully funded scholarships in Canada cover all or nearly all your costs, including tuition, living expenses, health insurance, books, research funding, and sometimes even airfare.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about studying in Canada for free, including:
- The top fully funded scholarships in Canada (2025 update)
- Eligibility requirements
- How to apply
- Required documents
- Expert tips to improve your chances
- Frequently asked questions
Let’s get started.
What Is a Fully Funded Scholarship?
A fully funded scholarship is a financial award that covers all major educational and living expenses, allowing you to study without paying out of pocket.
Most fully funded scholarships provide:
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly living stipend
- Accommodation or housing allowance
- Books and research materials
- Health insurance
- Visa fees
- Travel or airfare
- Research or conference funding
Some Canadian scholarships even provide additional funding for dependents (spouse and children).
These scholarships are extremely competitive but absolutely achievable with the right preparation.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada (2025)
Below are the most prestigious and generous scholarships currently available for international students who want to study in Canada.
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
Degree Level: PhD
Funding: Fully funded (worth $50,000 per year for 3 years)
The Vanier Scholarship is one of the most prestigious PhD scholarships in the world. It aims to attract top-tier doctoral students who demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership abilities.
What It Covers
- Tuition fees
- Living allowance
- Research support
- Additional academic benefits
Who Can Apply
- PhD students
- Outstanding academic performance
- Strong research background
- Leadership experience
Why It’s Famous
Vanier Scholars often become global leaders in research, science, health, engineering, and more.
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
Degree Level: Undergraduate
Funding: Fully funded
This scholarship is offered to exceptional international students with strong academic performance and leadership potential.
What It Covers
- Full tuition
- Books
- Incidental fees
- Full residence support for 4 years
Eligibility
- Outstanding high school grades
- Leadership and community involvement
- Admission to the University of Toronto
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
Degree Level: Undergraduate
Funding: Fully funded
UBC provides four major fully funded scholarships:
- Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award
- International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES)
- Outstanding International Student Award
- Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award
What They Cover
- Full tuition
- Housing
- Living stipend
- Books and supplies
Who Can Apply
- International students with excellent grades
- Students with leadership or humanitarian experience
4. McGill University Scholarships (Master’s & PhD)
Degree Level: Graduate
Funding: Fully funded (for many programs)
McGill offers several fully funded scholarships and assistantships, especially for graduate studies.
Coverage
- Tuition
- Monthly stipend
- Research funding
- Teaching assistantships
- Travel grants
Eligibility
- Strong academic background
- Graduate program admission
- Research experience (for PhD)
5. University of Alberta Graduate Scholarships
Degree Level: Master’s and PhD
Funding: Fully funded
The University of Alberta offers over $30 million in scholarships yearly. Many international PhD students receive full funding automatically.
What’s Included
- Full tuition
- Research assistantship
- Teaching assistantship
- Monthly allowance