Canada is one of the fastest-growing destinations for Indian students due to its high-quality education, multicultural environment, and post-study work opportunities. Studying in Canada, however, can be expensive. To support international students, especially from India, numerous scholarships in Canada are available in 2025. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and sometimes research grants, making it more affordable for students to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs.
Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Article Title | Top 15 Scholarships in Canada for Indian Students 2025 |
| Eligible For | Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Doctoral Students |
| Coverage | Full or partial tuition, living allowance, research grants, and travel support |
| Application Mode | Online via university or official scholarship portals |
| Purpose | To promote international education and support meritorious Indian students financially |
Purpose of Canadian Scholarships
Canadian scholarships aim to:
- Facilitate access to high-quality education for international students.
- Reward academic excellence and leadership potential.
- Support research, innovation, and global skill development.
- Encourage cultural exchange and collaboration between Canada and India.
Top 15 Scholarships in Canada 2025
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship
- Coverage: CAD 50,000 per year for up to three years
- Eligible For: Doctoral students demonstrating leadership and research excellence
- Application Timeline: November 2024 – January 2025
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
- Coverage: Full tuition, books, and living expenses
- Eligible For: Undergraduate students with exceptional academic and leadership achievements
- Application Timeline: November – January
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award
- Coverage: Partial to full tuition and living allowance
- Eligible For: Outstanding international undergraduate students
- Application Timeline: December – February
4. York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Scholarship
- Coverage: Partial to full tuition fees
- Eligible For: Undergraduate international students with strong academic records
- Application Timeline: January – March
5. Humber College International Entrance Scholarships
- Coverage: CAD 2,500–5,000 tuition reduction
- Eligible For: Undergraduate students demonstrating merit
- Application Timeline: Rolling admissions
6. Carleton University Entrance Scholarships
- Coverage: CAD 1,000–20,000 tuition waiver depending on merit
- Eligible For: Undergraduate students
- Application Timeline: December – March
7. Simon Fraser University International Undergraduate Scholarships
- Coverage: CAD 5,000–16,000 per year
- Eligible For: High-achieving international students
- Application Timeline: December – February
8. McGill University Scholarships for International Students
- Coverage: Full tuition or partial tuition depending on merit
- Eligible For: Undergraduate and postgraduate students
- Application Timeline: January – March
9. University of Alberta International Scholarships
- Coverage: CAD 5,000–10,000 per year
- Eligible For: Undergraduate students with excellent academic performance
- Application Timeline: February – May
10. University of Manitoba International Undergraduate Scholarships
- Coverage: CAD 4,000–10,000 per year
- Eligible For: Merit-based international students
- Application Timeline: January – April
11. Dalhousie University Entrance Scholarships
- Coverage: CAD 1,000–10,000 tuition support
- Eligible For: International undergraduate students
- Application Timeline: December – March
12. Queen’s University International Scholarships
- Coverage: Partial tuition scholarships and awards up to CAD 20,000
- Eligible For: Undergraduate and postgraduate students
- Application Timeline: January – March
13. Concordia University International Tuition Award of Excellence
- Coverage: CAD 2,000–16,000 per year
- Eligible For: Outstanding undergraduate and graduate international students
- Application Timeline: January – March
14. University of Ottawa Excellence Scholarships
- Coverage: CAD 4,000–16,000 per year
- Eligible For: Undergraduate international students
- Application Timeline: January – April
15. Alberta Innovates Graduate Student Scholarships
- Coverage: Tuition plus stipend for research-based master’s or doctoral students
- Eligible For: Graduate students in science, technology, and research programs
- Application Timeline: January – March
Eligibility Criteria (General)
| Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Indian citizen |
| Academic Performance | High merit, usually 70–80% or GPA equivalent |
| Language Proficiency | IELTS / TOEFL or equivalent |
| Field of Study | Varies by scholarship; includes STEM, arts, business, social sciences |
| Additional Skills | Leadership, research, and community engagement may be considered |
| Documents Required | SOP, LORs, transcripts, passport copy, and resume |
Benefits of Studying in Canada with Scholarships
- Access to world-class education and research facilities
- Reduced financial burden for tuition and living costs
- Opportunities for international networking and internships
- Exposure to multicultural environments and global perspectives
- Increased career prospects and post-study work options
Application Process
- Identify suitable scholarships based on academic level and university.
- Check eligibility and deadlines for each scholarship.
- Prepare required documents including transcripts, SOP, LORs, and proof of English proficiency.
- Submit online applications through university or scholarship portals.
- Attend interviews if required and track application status.
- Finalize visa and travel arrangements once selected.
Final Takeaway
Canada offers Indian students a wide range of scholarships to pursue world-class education in 2025. From undergraduate merit-based awards to research-focused fellowships like Vanier, these scholarships reduce financial barriers and provide access to high-quality education, global exposure, and career opportunities. Early preparation and strong academic credentials significantly increase the chances of selection.
FAQs
1. Are Canadian scholarships fully funded?
Many scholarships provide full tuition and living expenses, while some offer partial funding.
2. Can students apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously?
Yes, Indian students can apply for multiple scholarships but may accept only one award once selected.
3. Do scholarships include health insurance and travel costs?
Most fully-funded scholarships include health coverage and travel allowances.