Canada is a popular destination for international students who want to pursue master’s degrees, doctoral programmes and advanced research opportunities. Its universities are known for quality education, modern research facilities and internationally recognised qualifications.
However, graduate education in Canada can be expensive, particularly for students coming from countries outside Canada. Tuition fees, accommodation, feeding, transportation and research expenses can create financial challenges.
Fortunately, Canadian universities, government organisations and international foundations offer scholarships and funding opportunities to graduate students. Some awards cover full tuition fees, while others provide monthly stipends, research funding and living allowances.
This guide highlights some of the best graduate scholarship opportunities in Canada and explains how international students can apply.
1. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program supports talented young Africans who face financial barriers to higher education.
Through selected partner universities, the programme provides opportunities for eligible students to pursue postgraduate education and develop leadership skills.
Depending on the participating institution and programme, benefits may include:
- Tuition fees.
- Accommodation and meals.
- Living expenses.
- Learning materials.
- Travel support.
- Mentorship and career development.
Not every Canadian university offers this programme, and available graduate courses and eligibility requirements vary.
Official website: https://mastercardfdn.org/
2. McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill University
The McCall MacBain Scholarships offer outstanding students an opportunity to pursue eligible master’s and professional programmes at McGill University in Canada.
The scholarship is open to applicants from different countries, including Nigeria and other African nations.
Benefits generally include:
- Tuition and fees.
- Monthly living stipend during academic terms.
- Relocation support.
- Leadership development and mentorship.
Applicants are assessed on academic strength, leadership potential, community involvement and entrepreneurial spirit.
Official website: https://mccallmacbainscholars.org/
3. University of Waterloo Graduate Scholarships
The University of Waterloo provides different funding opportunities for international graduate students.
Students applying for master’s and doctoral programmes can explore university scholarships, departmental awards, research assistantships and teaching assistantships.
Depending on the programme and funding arrangement, support may contribute towards tuition fees and living expenses.
Some research-based graduate students receive financial packages through their academic departments or supervisors.
Official website: https://uwaterloo.ca/graduate-studies-postdoctoral-affairs/
4. University of British Columbia Graduate Scholarships
The University of British Columbia (UBC) offers several scholarships and funding opportunities for international graduate students.
Funding may be available through university-wide awards, faculty scholarships, research grants and departmental support.
Doctoral students may also qualify for funding packages that combine scholarships, research assistantships and teaching assistantships.
The availability and value of funding depend on the programme, academic department and admission conditions.
Official website: https://www.grad.ubc.ca/awards
5. University of Toronto Graduate Funding
The University of Toronto offers financial support to eligible graduate students through university awards, departmental scholarships and research funding.
Students pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees can explore funding opportunities within their chosen faculties.
Some research-based programmes provide funding packages that may include tuition support, stipends and research or teaching assistantships.
Applicants should contact their intended department to understand the funding available for international students.
Official website: https://www.sgs.utoronto.ca/awards/
6. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship: Check Current Replacement Funding
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships were historically a major funding opportunity for doctoral students in Canada.
However, applicants should not assume that the former Vanier programme is accepting new applications. Canada’s federal graduate scholarship system has undergone changes, including the introduction of the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Doctoral programme.
International students should check the latest federal eligibility rules and university-specific funding arrangements before applying.
Official website: https://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/
7. University of Alberta Graduate Scholarships
The University of Alberta offers several awards and funding opportunities for international graduate students.
Available support may include entrance scholarships, departmental awards, research assistantships and teaching assistantships.
Students pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral programmes should contact their departments to learn about available funding and supervisor-supported opportunities.
Scholarship amounts and eligibility conditions vary according to the programme and academic year.
Official website: https://www.ualberta.ca/en/graduate-studies/awards-and-funding/index.html
Types of Graduate Scholarships in Canada
International students can explore several types of graduate funding.
1. Merit-based scholarships: These awards recognise students with excellent academic records and outstanding achievements.
2. Need-based scholarships: These provide financial assistance to students who demonstrate financial need.
3. Research scholarships: These support students conducting academic research in specific fields.
4. Teaching assistantships: Graduate students receive financial support in exchange for assisting with undergraduate teaching activities.
5. Research assistantships: Students receive funding for helping professors or research teams with academic projects.
Eligibility Requirements
Although requirements differ, international graduate scholarship applicants commonly need:
- A recognised bachelor’s degree for master’s programmes.
- A master’s degree for many doctoral programmes.
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- A valid international passport.
- Recommendation letters.
- A statement of purpose.
- A curriculum vitae.
- English-language proficiency results, where required.
- A research proposal for selected programmes.
Some scholarships also require leadership experience, professional achievements or evidence of financial need.
How to Apply for Graduate Scholarships in Canada
Step 1: Choose your graduate programme.
Identify the master’s or doctoral course that matches your academic background and career goals.
Step 2: Research university funding.
Visit the official websites of Canadian universities and explore their graduate scholarship pages.
Step 3: Contact potential supervisors.
For research-based programmes, contacting a professor whose research interests match yours can help you understand admission and funding opportunities.
Step 4: Prepare your documents.
Arrange your academic transcripts, CV, recommendation letters, statement of purpose and research proposal, where required.
Step 5: Apply for admission and funding.
Some scholarships require separate applications, while others automatically consider eligible students during admission.
Step 6: Monitor your application.
Regularly check your email and university application portal for updates and additional requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students get fully funded graduate scholarships in Canada?
Yes. Some Canadian universities and international organisations provide comprehensive funding packages covering tuition and living expenses. However, coverage varies by programme.
Can Nigerian students apply for graduate scholarships in Canada?
Yes. Nigerian students can apply for scholarships that accept international applicants, provided they meet the academic and other eligibility requirements.
Can I get a scholarship for a master’s degree in Canada?
Yes. Opportunities such as the McCall MacBain Scholarships and selected university awards support eligible master’s students.
Do Canadian graduate scholarships provide monthly stipends?
Some scholarships and research funding packages provide regular stipends to help students pay for accommodation, feeding and other living expenses.
Conclusion
Graduate scholarships in Canada provide valuable opportunities for international students who want to pursue master’s and doctoral education without carrying the entire financial burden.
Programmes and funding opportunities at McGill, Waterloo, UBC, the University of Toronto and the University of Alberta are worth researching.
The best approach is to identify suitable graduate programmes, contact relevant departments, prepare strong application documents and apply early. Always confirm current scholarship availability, funding amounts and eligibility requirements through official university websites.