Top 10 Canadian Universities Offering Master’s Scholarships

Canada is a premier destination for international students looking for high-quality education and ample scholarship options. If you are looking to obtain a master’s degree in Canada but are concerned about financial aspects, numerous universities provide scholarships to help alleviate the burden.

This article will examine the top 10 Canadian universities offering master’s scholarships, including information on eligibility requirements and application advice.

Why Study for a Master’s Degree in Canada?

Before diving into the list, let’s quickly highlight why Canada is a great choice:

• High-quality education – Canadian universities rank among the best globally.
• Affordable tuition – Compared to the US and UK, Canada offers competitive tuition fees.
• Work opportunities – Students can work part-time during studies and apply for post-graduation work permits.
• Multicultural environment – Canada welcomes students from all over the world.

Now, let’s look at the universities offering scholarships for master’s students.

1. University of Toronto

The University of Toronto (UofT) is Canada’s top-ranked university and offers several funding options for master’s students.

Available Scholarships:

• Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) – For domestic and international students, worth $10,000 to $15,000.
• Connaught International Scholarship – Covers tuition for outstanding international students.

Eligibility:

• Strong academic record.
• Research potential (for thesis-based programs).

2. University of British Columbia (UBC)

UBC is known for its research excellence and provides various scholarships for graduate students.

Available Scholarships:

• Graduate Global Leadership Fellowship – Up to $16,000 for international students.
• Killam Doctoral Scholarships – For high-achieving master’s and PhD students.

Eligibility:

• Minimum GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent).
• Demonstrated leadership skills.

3. McGill University

Located in Montreal, McGill University offers several funding opportunities for master’s students.

Available Scholarships:

• McGill Entrance Scholarships – Merit-based awards for new students.
• Quebec Provincial Scholarships – For students studying in Quebec.

Eligibility:

• Outstanding academic performance.
• Some scholarships require separate applications.

4. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta supports graduate students through scholarships and assistantships.

Available Scholarships:

• Alberta Graduate Excellence Scholarship (AGES) – $15,000 for top applicants.
• Graduate Teaching/Research Assistantships – Provides stipends and tuition coverage.

Eligibility:

• Minimum GPA of 3.5.
• Admission into a full-time master’s program.

5. University of Waterloo

Waterloo is famous for its co-op programs and research funding.

Available Scholarships:

• Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) – $10,000 per year.
• President’s Graduate Scholarship – $10,000 for top applicants.

Eligibility:

• Strong academic background.
• Some programs require research experience.

6. Western University

Western University in Ontario provides financial aid to attract top talent.

Available Scholarships:

• Western Graduate Research Scholarship – Up to $10,000.
• Ontario Trillium Scholarship – For international PhD and master’s students.

Eligibility:

• Minimum 80% average in previous studies.
• Some awards are program-specific.

7. Queen’s University

Queen’s University in Kingston offers competitive funding packages.

Available Scholarships:

• Queen’s Graduate Awards – Merit-based funding.
• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships – For doctoral students (some master’s students may qualify).

Eligibility:

• High academic standing.
• Research potential for thesis-based programs.

8. University of Calgary

The University of Calgary supports graduate students through scholarships and grants.

Available Scholarships:

• Graduate Award Competition – Up to $18,000.
• Eyes High Doctoral Scholarship – Some master’s students may qualify.

Eligibility:

• Minimum GPA of 3.7.
• Full-time enrollment in a graduate program.

9. Simon Fraser University (SFU)

SFU in British Columbia offers funding for research-based master’s programs.

Available Scholarships:

• Graduate Fellowships – Up to $14,000 per year.
• Special Graduate Entrance Scholarship – For outstanding applicants.

Eligibility:

• Strong academic record.
• Admission into a thesis-based program.

10. Dalhousie University

Located in Halifax, Dalhousie University provides scholarships for domestic and international students.

Available Scholarships:

• Killam Predoctoral Scholarships – For high-achieving master’s students.
• Faculty of Graduate Studies Scholarships – Various awards based on merit.

Eligibility:

• Minimum A- average.
• Some scholarships require a separate application.

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting a Scholarship

Now that you know where to apply, here are some tips to increase your chances of securing a scholarship:

• Start early – Many scholarships have early deadlines.
• Maintain high grades – Most scholarships are merit-based.
• Write a strong statement of purpose – Highlight your achievements and goals.
• Secure strong recommendation letters – Choose professors who know your work well.
• Apply to multiple scholarships – Don’t rely on just one opportunity.

Why Pursue a Master’s Degree with Scholarships in Canada?

Canada has emerged as one of the most desirable destinations for international students, and there are valid reasons for this. If you’re thinking about pursuing a master’s degree, obtaining a scholarship can enhance the value of your education in Canada. Here’s the reason:

1. Financial Relief – Study Without Heavy Debt

• Scholarships reduce or eliminate tuition fees, making education more affordable.
• Many awards also include living stipends, helping cover housing, food, and other expenses.
• Unlike student loans, scholarships don’t need to be repaid, easing financial stress.

2. Access to World-Class Education

• Canadian universities like UofT, UBC, and McGill rank among the top 100 globally.
• Scholarships often go to high-achieving students, meaning you’ll learn alongside top talent.
• Many funded programs include research opportunities with leading experts.

3. Better Career Opportunities

• Graduating from a prestigious Canadian university boosts your resume.
• Many scholarships include internships, networking events, and mentorship programs.
• Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) lets you work for up to 3 years after studies.

4. Increased Chances of Permanent Residency

• Studying in Canada gives you Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for Express Entry.
• Scholarship recipients are often viewed favorably in immigration applications.
• Many provinces have fast-track immigration for international graduates.

5. Exposure to a Multicultural Environment

• Canada welcomes students from over 200 countries, offering a diverse learning experience.
• Networking with peers worldwide opens doors to global career opportunities.
• Universities provide cultural support services to help international students adjust.

6. Research and Innovation Opportunities

• Many scholarships (especially for STEM fields) fund cutting-edge research projects.
• Canada invests heavily in AI, healthcare, and sustainability—great fields for research.
• Scholarship holders often get access to exclusive conferences and industry partnerships.

How to Secure a Scholarship for a Master’s in Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide

Canada provides amazing scholarship opportunities for master’s students, but the competition is intense. Use this effective tactic to boost your chances of achieving success.

1. Start Early (12-18 Months Before Application)

• Scholarship deadlines often fall 6-12 months before programs start
• Create a timeline for standardized tests, applications, and recommendation letters
• Many top scholarships (like Vanier, Trudeau) have early cutoff dates

Pro Tip: Set calendar reminders for each university’s scholarship deadlines

2. Research Your Options Thoroughly

A. University-Specific Scholarships

• Check the “Funding” or “Financial Aid” section of your target university’s graduate studies website
• Look for:
  • Entrance scholarships (automatic consideration)
  • Departmental awards
  • Research assistantships

B. External Funding

• Government scholarships (Canada Graduate Scholarships, NSERC)
• International awards (Fulbright, Chevening, Commonwealth)
• Industry-sponsored awards (especially for STEM fields)

Key Resource: Use ScholarshipsCanada database

3. Build a Strong Academic Profile

Most scholarships prioritize:

• GPA requirements (usually minimum 3.3/4.0 or 80%+)
• Research experience (for thesis-based programs)
• Publications/presentations (big boost for research scholarships)

If your GPA is low:
✔ Highlight upward grade trends
✔ Showcase relevant work experience
✔ Consider taking additional courses to improve your profile

4. Craft Outstanding Application Materials

A. Statement of Purpose (SOP)

• Clearly explain your research interests and career goals
• Demonstrate how you align with the university’s strengths
• Keep it concise (1-2 pages) and error-free

B. Letters of Recommendation

• Choose professors who can speak specifically about your abilities
• Provide them with your CV, SOP draft, and key points to highlight
• Ensure they submit before deadlines

7 Expert Tips to Strengthen Your Master’s Scholarship Application in Canada

Competition for Canadian scholarships is intense, but these proven strategies can help your application rise to the top:

1. Tailor Each Application Strategically

• Research each scholarship’s mission and align your application accordingly
• For research-based awards: emphasize publications and lab experience
• For leadership scholarships: highlight community impact and initiatives
• Never reuse identical materials – admission committees spot generic applications

2. Showcase Your Unique Value Proposition

• Create a compelling narrative about what makes you different
• Combine academic achievements with unusual experiences (e.g., “My engineering degree plus refugee volunteer work drives my passion for humanitarian tech”)
• Include quantifiable impacts (e.g., “My undergrad research improved solar cell efficiency by 12%”)

3. Secure Knockout Recommendation Letters

• Choose recommenders who can speak in detail about your abilities
• Provide them with:
  • Your transcript and CV
  • Specific talking points relevant to the scholarship
  • A draft summary of key strengths they might highlight
• Follow up politely but persistently to ensure timely submission

4. Perfect Your Writing Samples

• For research scholarships: submit your strongest academic paper
• Edit meticulously for:
  • Clear thesis statements
  • Logical flow
  • Proper citations
• Include a 1-paragraph abstract explaining its significance

5. Demonstrate Long-Term Commitment

• Show continuity in your interests (e.g., climate change research since undergrad)
• Highlight progression in responsibilities (e.g., lab assistant → lead researcher)
• Connect past work to future goals explicitly

External Scholarship Opportunities for Studying in Canada: Funding Beyond University Awards

While Canadian universities offer excellent funding packages, these external scholarships can significantly boost your financial support. Here’s your guide to the most prestigious opportunities:

Government-Funded International Scholarships

1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
   • Value: $50,000/year for 3 years
   • For: PhD students (some master’s-to-PhD candidates eligible)
   • Focus: Academic excellence, research potential, leadership
2. Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
   • Value: $70,000/year for 2 years
   • For: Postdoctoral researchers in health, natural sciences, or social sciences
3. Canada-ASEAN Scholarships
   • Value: Up to $15,000
   • For: Students from Southeast Asian nations

Country-Specific Awards

4. Commonwealth Scholarships
   • For: Citizens of Commonwealth countries
   • Includes: Full tuition, living allowance, travel costs
5. Organization of American States (OAS) Scholarships
   • Value: Up to $30,000
   • For: Latin American and Caribbean students
6. EduCanada Scholarships (by Global Affairs Canada)
   • Value: $10,200-$12,700
   • For: Students from specific partner countries

Field-Specific Funding

7. NSERC Postgraduate Scholarships
   • For: Natural sciences and engineering research
   • Value: $17,500 (master’s), $21,000 (PhD)
8. CIHR Fellowships
   • For: Health research students
   • Value: Up to $35,000/year
9. SSHRC Fellowships
   • For: Social sciences and humanities
   • Value: $17,500 (master’s), $20,000 (PhD)

Corporate & Non-Profit Scholarships

10. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
    • Value: Up to $60,000 over 3 years
    • Focus: Leadership in humanities and social sciences
11. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships
    • For: Exceptional international students at University of Toronto
    • Covers: Tuition, books, full residence support
12. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
    • For: African students with leadership potential
    • Covers: Full tuition, living expenses, travel

Application Pro Tips

• Start early: Many deadlines are 10-12 months before studies begin
• Check eligibility carefully: Some require nomination by your university
• Highlight unique aspects: Many value community leadership as much as academics
• Prepare supplemental materials: Some require video submissions or portfolios

Final Thoughts

Across its leading universities, Canada provides excellent scholarship opportunities for master’s students. No matter if your goal is the University of Toronto, UBC, or McGill, there are funding opportunities to assist you in realizing your academic aspirations.

Commence your research early, ready a robust application, and utilize these financial assistance options. Wishing you luck with your studies in Canada!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Master’s Scholarships in Canada

Here are some common questions students ask about scholarships for master’s programs in Canada:

1. Can international students get scholarships for master’s programs in Canada?

Yes! Many Canadian universities offer scholarships specifically for international students. Some popular options include the Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS), University of Toronto’s Connaught Scholarship, and UBC’s Graduate Global Leadership Fellowship.

2. Do I need to apply separately for scholarships?

It depends on the scholarship. Some are automatically awarded based on your admission application, while others require a separate application. Always check the university’s financial aid page for details.

3. What is the minimum GPA required for master’s scholarships in Canada?

Most scholarships require at least a 3.0 GPA (or equivalent), but competitive awards may demand 3.5 or higher. Some scholarships also consider research experience, leadership, and extracurricular activities.

4. Are there fully funded scholarships for master’s students in Canada?

Yes, but they are highly competitive. Some options include:

• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (for PhD students, but some master’s students may qualify)
• Trudeau Foundation Scholarships (for social sciences and humanities)
• University-specific entrance scholarships (e.g., U of T’s Lester B. Pearson Scholarship)