EDUCATION

Best Undergraduate Scholarships in Canada for International Students

Canada is home to some of the most respected universities in the world, and many of them are eager to attract top-performing international students. If you’re planning to pursue a bachelor’s degree but concerned about the cost, several scholarship opportunities can cover your tuition, accommodation, and even travel expenses. These undergraduate scholarships are not just about funding—they’re also recognition of academic talent, leadership potential, and community involvement.

Unlike general financial aid, undergraduate scholarships are highly competitive. You’ll need strong grades, an impressive profile, and timely applications. But if you get it right, these awards can cover your full stay in Canada without burdening your family with loans or out-of-pocket fees.

1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship – University of Toronto

This scholarship is one of the most prestigious options for international undergraduate students. It offers full funding for four years, covering tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support.

Applicants must be nominated by their high school and apply to undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto. Only students applying for the first time to U of T are eligible. Selection is based on academic performance, leadership potential, and community contributions.

Every year, about 37 international students are selected worldwide. It’s competitive, but if you’ve consistently been a top student in your class and have strong leadership qualities, it’s worth targeting.

2. UBC International Scholars Program

The University of British Columbia (UBC) runs multiple scholarships under this umbrella—Global Leader of Tomorrow, Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award, and International Impact Award.

These scholarships are renewable for up to four years and cover tuition and living costs, depending on demonstrated financial need.

To apply, students must first be nominated by their school and then submit an application to UBC. Strong academic results, extracurricular involvement, and leadership roles in your community will improve your chances. What makes this program stand out is the balance it strikes between need and merit. If your family can’t afford UBC’s costs but you have the grades and activities to stand out, you could get a full ride.

3. York University International Student Scholarships

York University in Toronto offers several awards for international undergraduate students. The Global Leader of Tomorrow Award and the International Entrance Scholarship of Distinction are the most notable.

The former provides $20,000 per year for up to four years, while the latter offers $35,000 annually, totaling $140,000 for a four-year degree.

Applicants must have an outstanding academic record (typically an A average), strong leadership qualities, and must have applied to a full-time undergraduate program at York. Scholarship application deadlines usually fall early in the year, often in February or March, for September entry. Applicants must also submit personal statements and reference letters.

4. Carleton University Entrance Scholarships for International Students

Carleton automatically considers international students with an admission average of 80% or higher for entrance scholarships. Awards range from $4,000 to $16,000 over four years.

While these are not fully funded scholarships, they offer good support and can be combined with other internal or external awards to reduce the financial burden significantly. Additionally, the Carleton University Prestige Scholarships offer full tuition for outstanding students, but you must have a 90% admission average or higher and a solid extracurricular record.

5. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarships

The University of Calgary awards several scholarships to incoming international undergraduates. The International Entrance Scholarship is valued at $20,000 and is renewable each year based on academic performance.

To be eligible, students must apply to an undergraduate program at the university and demonstrate strong academic and extracurricular records. Preference is given to students who show leadership, involvement in community service, or entrepreneurial flair. It’s one of the few scholarships that considers a balance of merit and personal development, making it a great option for well-rounded students.

6. Concordia University Entrance Scholarships

Located in Montreal, Concordia University offers a range of scholarships for new undergraduate students. International applicants are automatically considered for some entrance awards based on academic achievement.

The Presidential Scholarship is a standout, covering tuition and living expenses for up to four years. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to community development. Students are also encouraged to apply for faculty-based scholarships, which can provide partial funding depending on the program and year of study.

7. University of Saskatchewan International Excellence Awards

This scholarship awards $10,000 to international students with strong academic achievements who are entering undergraduate programs at the University of Saskatchewan.

No separate scholarship application is needed. Students are automatically considered when they apply for admission. The university also offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Excellence Award for students coming in with strong IB results. While the funding isn’t full, the ease of automatic consideration makes it an attractive option for students who want fewer application hurdles.

8. Humber College International Entrance Scholarships

Humber College in Toronto is a polytechnic institution offering undergraduate degrees in fields like business, IT, health sciences, and media studies. It provides partial tuition scholarships to new international students with high school academic averages.

Each year, a few full tuition scholarships are also offered, although they are highly competitive. Selection is based on grades, statement of interest, and reference letters. The application window opens early, and students must first gain admission into a full-time undergraduate program before applying.

9. Western University International President’s Entrance Scholarships

Western University, based in Ontario, offers a scholarship package of $50,000 to $100,000 for international students. These awards are given to those entering undergraduate programs with outstanding academic performance and leadership skills. Applicants must submit essays and reference letters, and may also go through an interview process. While fewer in number, these scholarships offer substantial support and open the door to one of Canada’s top institutions.

10. Dalhousie University Entrance Scholarships

Dalhousie University offers several entrance awards for international students applying for undergraduate degrees. Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership experience, and financial need.

Applicants must first apply for admission and then complete a scholarship application by the deadline. Awards range from $2,000 to $24,000 per year. It’s not always fully funded, but many students combine this support with on-campus jobs and external scholarships to fund their studies.

Undergraduate scholarships in Canada are competitive, but they’re not impossible to win. The earlier you begin preparing—polishing your grades, joining leadership programs, participating in community work—the stronger your profile will be. Scholarships in Canada aren’t just looking for smart students. They want contributors, thinkers, and change-makers.

Here are links to start applying today: