Dreaming of studying in Canada? With its top-ranked universities, diverse academic programs, and welcoming culture, Canada remains one of the best destinations for international students. But while the experience is enriching, the costs can be steep, unless you secure a scholarship.
On the other hand, there’s a lot of good news, just like scholarships with exist to help you chase your dreams instead of giving up because of expenses.
But the question remains, how to apply for a scholarship to Canada?
First off, why choose Canada?
Canada offers a good opportunity to students by giving scholarships to multiple universities, among which are some top universities globally. Another attractive thing about Canada is that it has two national languages: English and French.
Canada offers diverse courses in the form of diplomas and short courses.
You also get the chance to work along with your studies.
Step-by- step guide to apply for Scholarships in Canada
This is a simple, step-by-step guide to applying for scholarships that will help you realize your goals.
- Fulfil the Requirements
The most important step before applying for any scholarship or any program. Check requirements and eligibility criteria.
The same goes for Canadian scholarships; some requirements are compulsory to avoid disqualification. Most scholarship applications require:
- Complete the application form
- Passport or ID
- Portfolio
- Academic transcript
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Statement of purpose or personal essay
- Proof of language proficiency (IELTS/ TOEFL scores)
- Go through scholarships and make your choice of school
There are many scholarships available for international students, so do your research before applying, as they come with different funding amounts. And to ensure selection, apply to as many as you can.
- Early application
This is a necessary step as one of the things that makes it difficult for the students to get a scholarship abroad is late application, as early risers will be given consideration.
Most universities open their intakes in Fall (September) and Winter (January), with scholarship deadlines usually 6-12 months before the program starts. So start the scholarship hunt early.
- Reference letter
This shouldn’t be taken for granted. Let it be written by someone who really knows you, but that someone shouldn’t be you relative or family member. The letter needs to be signed and on letterhead.
- Be creative, but not only academically
Scholarship isn’t based on academic merit; some come with sports, music, dance, and many other talents that talented people can take advantage of. So don’t procrastinate and thoroughly search and everything so you don’t miss out on an opportunity
Types of scholarship in Canada you must know
While you are focused on filling the application, just know that there are different types of scholarships. You must know which one suits you the best.
- Merit-Based Scholarships
These scholarships are given on the basis of academic performance and other co-curricular activities. The University of Niagara Falls, Laurentian University, Nipissing University, University of Canada West, University of Toronto, and McGill University are a few of the academic institutions that offer merit-based scholarships.
- Need-based Scholarships
The purpose of these scholarships is to help students who come from financially struggling families. This is done to provide a chance of receiving quality education to the students who can’t afford it.
- Government-Funded Scholarships
The government offers the scholarship to encourage students to pursue educational diversification and cross-border operations. Among the scholarships are the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships and the Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program (CGS-M).
- University-Specific Scholarships
Certain scholarships may vary depending on the academic field and university. For instance, international students with leadership abilities are eligible to apply for the University of Toronto’s Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship.
- Private or External Scholarship
International students can apply for scholarships from certain private organizations, such as Canadian foundations and NGOs.
- Country-Specific Scholarships
Only students from particular nations are eligible for this. For instance, students from developing nations can apply for IDRC Research Awards.
The best Canadian universities are as follows:
Here are some scholarships for international students:
- University of Alberta
International students have a fantastic opportunity to attend the esteemed university without worrying about money, thanks to the University of Alberta Scholarship.
Scholarship opportunities may cover living expenses, books, tuition, and lodging costs, among other expenses, depending on the scholarship type and the scholarship provider.
Eligibility:
Students can receive up to CAD 5,000 in scholarships for international admission, depending on their admission average.
- University of Toronto Scholarship for international students
This undergraduate scholarship pays for all of the expenses of tuition, books, and housing. Academic aptitude, inventiveness, and leadership are the main criteria used to select applicants.
- International Student Admission to the University of Waterloo
To exceptional international students accepted into Year One of an undergraduate degree program, twenty scholarships worth $10,000 each are given out each year. A 90% or higher admission average will be taken into consideration for international students.
The selection process will be based on academic performance, in addition to any additional entrance scholarship requirements specific to the faculty. You don’t need to apply.
Small Checklist For Applying To Canada
- Choose your desired course and university
- Review eligibility and prepare required documents
- Search and shortlist relevant scholarships
- Write a compelling personal statement
- Obtain strong reference letters
- Apply early and track deadlines
- Follow up on application status
Conclusion
Applying for a scholarship to study in Canada might look like a hectic process, but it doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
Through Canadian scholarships, international students can attend Canadian universities without having to worry about how they will pay for their education.
There are numerous options, including government-funded opportunities, merit-based scholarships, and scholarships based on need.
Thousands of students from around the world apply every year to try their luck, and you may come out to be that lucky person. And who knows that a year from now you could be sitting in Canada taking classes.
Always remember, the opportunity is out there, waiting for you to grab it.
