Earn up to CAD 140,000: Fully Funded Study Opportunities in Canada for International Students 2026

If you have interest in gaining a fully funded route to study in Canada, then this is the best guide you need to achieve this great aim in 2026. Canada continues to rank among the top global destinations for higher education because of its quality universities, multicultural environment, strong post-graduation career prospects, and generous scholarship opportunities.

For the 2026 academic year, numerous Canadian institutions and government bodies are offering fully funded study pathways that are valued at up to CAD 140,000. These opportunities cover tuition, accommodation, stipends, living expenses, books, travel allowances, and in many cases, health insurance.

For international students seeking a stress-free academic journey, access to world-class education, and a route to long-term residency, fully funded scholarships in Canada provide an excellent foundation. 

This guide offers a complete breakdown of the best funding routes, eligibility criteria, top Canadian universities, application strategies, and how fully funded study packages often reach the equivalent of CAD 140,000 or even more.

Why Fully Funded Programs in Canada Can Be Worth CAD 140,000

When calculating the real value of a fully funded scholarship in Canada, you must consider the total cost of studying within the country. These cost of studies includes:

• Tuition fees: CAD 18,000–CAD 60,000 per year
• Accommodation: CAD 9,000–CAD 18,000 per year
• Food and living costs: CAD 12,000–CAD 20,000 per year
• Textbooks and research materials: CAD 1,000–CAD 4,000 per year
• Insurance fees: CAD 600–CAD 1,500 per year
• Travel expenses: CAD 1,500–CAD 3,000
• Conference and research allowances
• Graduate assistantships and paid research positions

When these expenses are combined for a program that lasts 2–4 years, the total financial requirement can easily exceed CAD 140,000, which is why fully funded scholarships of this magnitude are so valuable.

Major Benefits of Fully Funded Study Opportunities in Canada

Below are the major benefits of the fully funded study opportunities in Canada”

1. Zero Tuition Fees

Full grants completely eliminate academic expenses.

2. Monthly Stipends

Master’s and PhD students often receive:

• CAD 12,000–CAD 40,000 annually for upkeep
• Additional funding for travel and research

3. Paid Research and Teaching Assistantships

Graduate students can earn additional income through:

• Laboratory work
• Teaching roles
• Faculty research projects

4. Health and Travel Insurance

Most fully funded awards include full student medical coverage.

5. Access to Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

After graduation, students can work for up to three years, gaining valuable Canadian work experience.

6. Pathway to Permanent Residency

The Canadian Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allow many international graduates to qualify for PR quickly.

Types of Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada in 2026

Canada offers a wide array of scholarship opportunities for international students. Below are the most valuable and competitive options available for you to select and apply:

1. Government-Funded Scholarships

a. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)

One of Canada’s most prestigious awards for doctoral students.

Offers:

• CAD 50,000 per year for 3 years
• Research support
• Travel benefits

Perfect for students in:

• Engineering
• Health sciences
• Natural sciences
• Social sciences
• Humanities

b. Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships

For advanced researchers conducting postdoctoral studies.

c. Canada-ASEAN Scholarships

Supports students from ASEAN countries in short-term study.

d. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarships

Funds master’s and PhD students from participating Commonwealth countries.

2. Fully Funded University Scholarships

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

This strictly covers:

• Full tuition
• Books
• Incidental fees
• Full residence support for 4 years

Value: Up to CAD 140,000+, depending on program

b. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program

This program includes:

• Tuition
• Living allowances
• Accommodation

c. McGill University Entrance Scholarships and Graduate Funding

McGill offers numerous merit-based and research funding opportunities.

d. University of Alberta International Scholarships

Includes generous funding for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students.

e. University of Waterloo International Master’s and PhD Awards

Ideal for STEM and technology-based programs.

f. Dalhousie University Master’s and PhD Scholarships

Covers research, living costs, and full tuition.

3. Fully Funded Private Foundation Scholarships

a. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (Canada Stream)

This program is Hosted at UBC, Toronto, and McGill and it provides the following:

• Full academic funding
• Monthly stipends
• Travel expenses
• Laptop and textbook support
• Housing

b. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships

For doctoral students committed to social innovation.

c. Mitacs Globalink Graduate Fellowship

Supports undergraduate and master’s students entering Canadian research programs.

4. Fully Funded Research Scholarships and Fellowships

These focus on STEM, innovation, medical sciences, environmental sciences, AI, and technology.

Common Benefits:

• High-value stipends
• Full research funding
• Travel grants
• Access to high-tech laboratories

These awards often exceed CAD 140,000 in combined funding and benefits across the duration of the program.

Major Fields with the Most Fully Funded Opportunities in Canada

Here are the major fields that offer fully funded study opportunities in Canada that you should know and match with your career path:

1. Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence

Canada is a global leader in AI research.

2. Engineering (All Branches)

Mechanical, chemical, civil, biomedical, and electrical.

3. Public Health & Nursing

Huge demand for researchers and professionals.

4. Environmental and Climate Science

Canada invests heavily in sustainability research.

5. Business & Finance

MBA and research-driven business programs have high funding potential.

6. Education and Social Sciences

Well-funded through provincial and federal initiatives.

Eligibility Criteria for Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada

The following are the various eligibility criteria for applicants to meet while applying for any of the available fully funded study programs in Canada:

1. Academic Requirements

• High academic performance
• Transcripts and degree certificates
• Strong GPA

2. Language Requirements

Most programs require:

• IELTS
• TOEFL

Some universities offer English test waivers for specific countries.

3. Supporting Documents

• Statement of purpose
• Academic CV
• Letters of recommendation
• Portfolio (for arts programs)
• Research proposal (for graduate programs)

4. Additional Criteria

• Leadership achievements
• Community service
• Research experience
• Professional accomplishments

How to Apply for Fully Funded Study Programs in Canada In 2026 Entry

Follow this comprehensive step-by-step strategy to apply for the fully funded study programs available in Canada for international students:

Step 1: Choose Your Preferred Scholarship Program

Identify the right funding based on:

• Level of study
• Academic background
• Research interests

Step 2: Prepare Academic Documents

Ensure your certificates and transcripts are properly arranged and formatted.

Step 3: Write a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)

Your SOP must clearly present:

• Goals
• Research interests
• Academic achievements
• Why you chose Canada

Step 4: Obtain Strong Letters of Recommendation

Professors and employers must speak confidently about your abilities.

Step 5: Take English Language Tests (If Required)

Aim for:

• IELTS: 6.5–8.0
• TOEFL: 90–110

Step 6: Apply Directly on the University or Scholarship Portal

Fill out the online application carefully.

Step 7: Attend Interviews (If Invited)

Many competitive programs conduct virtual interviews.

Step 8: Receive Your Scholarship Decision

Successful applicants receive official funding letters.

Step 9: Apply for a Canadian Study Permit (Student Visa)

Documents include:

• Acceptance letter
• Proof of funds
• Passport
• Study plan

Step 10: Travel to Canada and Begin Your Program

Most universities offer orientation programs for new students.

Top Canadian Universities Offering Fully Funded Scholarships in 2026

1. University of Toronto

One of the highest-ranked universities globally.

2. University of British Columbia (UBC)

Known for international research excellence.

3. McGill University

World-renowned for research and innovation.

4. University of Alberta

Strong funding for STEM fields.

5. University of Waterloo

Specializes in tech, engineering, and co-op programs.

6. Western University

Offers generous graduate research scholarships.

7. Queen’s University

Provides fully funded awards for both domestic and international students.

How Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada Add Up to CAD 140,000+

Below is a typical funding breakdown for a 4-year undergraduate or 2-year graduate program:

• Tuition: CAD 20,000–CAD 60,000 per year
• Living costs: CAD 12,000–CAD 20,000 per year
• Residence: CAD 9,000–CAD 15,000 per year
• Stipends: CAD 15,000–CAD 40,000 yearly for graduate programs
• Travel and insurance: CAD 2,000–CAD 5,000
• Books and research: CAD 1,000–CAD 4,000

When combined, the total reaches or surpasses CAD 140,000, depending on the duration and institution.

How to Increase Your Chances of Being Selected in 2026

Here are some few tips for you to note while pursuing a chance in the fully funded study programs in Canada for international students:

1. Apply Early: Most fully funded programs fill up within weeks of opening.
2. Target Multiple Programs: Apply to several universities and funding bodies.
3. Write an Exceptional Personal Statement: Make your story memorable.
4. Highlight Leadership or Volunteer Activities: Selectors prefer students who demonstrate initiative.
5. Build a Strong Academic CV: Include:

• Research projects
• Internships
• Awards
• Conferences

• Contact Professors (For Research Programs): A professor’s endorsement strengthens your application.

FAQs

1. What do fully funded study pathways in Canada typically cover?

Fully funded opportunities in Canada often include tuition fees, on-campus accommodation, health insurance, academic materials, and generous monthly stipends ranging from CAD 1,000 to CAD 3,000 depending on the program. 

Many scholarships also cover research funding, conference travel, and in some cases, round-trip flight tickets for international students.

2. How competitive are fully funded study opportunities in Canada?

Canada’s fully funded programs are highly competitive due to limited slots and increasing global demand. However, programs such as the Vanier Scholarship, Trudeau Foundation Scholarship, University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Award, and various provincial programs consider academic excellence, leadership potential, community involvement, and personal achievements and not just grades.

3. Do fully funded Canadian scholarships include visa sponsorship?

Yes. Once you are accepted into a funded program, the university provides an acceptance letter that enables you to apply for a Canadian Study Permit, which functions as your visa. In several cases, graduate programs may also issue documents needed for a work permit extension after graduation.

4. Can international students work in Canada while studying?

Yes. Canada is one of the most flexible countries for international students. You can work:

• Up to 20 hours weekly during the academic term
• Up to 40 hours weekly during holidays

In some provinces and under certain pilot programs, students may be allowed to work full-time during studies if eligible.

5. Is IELTS mandatory for Canadian scholarship applications?

Most Canadian universities require an English proficiency test. Commonly accepted tests include:

• IELTS
• TOEFL
• Duolingo English Test
• PTE Academic

Some institutions offer English test waivers if the applicant studied in English or can present strong proof of English proficiency.

6. Can I get a Canadian fully funded scholarship without a high GPA?

Yes, depending on the scholarship. While academic excellence awards require high GPAs, many Canadian programs consider:

• Volunteer experience
• Leadership roles
• Community contributions
• Research potential
• Exceptional talent in sports, arts, or innovation

Some provincial scholarships also focus on diversity and equal opportunity rather than grades alone.

7. What documents do I need to apply for Canadian fully funded programs?

Common requirements include:

• Academic transcripts
• International passport
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Recommendation letters
• English proficiency test results
• CV/Resume
• Research proposal (for postgraduate programs)
• Portfolio (for professional or creative fields)

Some scholarships may also require online interviews.

8. Can I stay in Canada after completing my studies?

Yes. Canada offers one of the easiest post-study residency pathways through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). After completing your studies, you may qualify for:

• 1–3 years open work permit
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Express Entry immigration pathway

Many students transition to permanent residency (PR) within 1–3 years after graduation.

9. Are there age limits for applying to Canadian fully funded scholarships?

Most programs have no age restrictions. Both undergraduate and postgraduate pathways welcome applicants of all ages as long as eligibility requirements are met. Certain leadership or fellowship programs may target age ranges, but academic scholarships seldom do.

10. Can I bring my spouse and children while studying in Canada?

Yes. Canada’s immigration system allows:

• Spouses to apply for an Open Work Permit
• Children to attend school from kindergarten to grade 12

This makes Canada one of the most family-friendly destinations for international students.

11. What fields of study get the highest funding opportunities in Canada?

Canada prioritizes funding in areas such as:

• Health sciences
• Data science and AI
• Engineering
• Environmental sustainability
• Agriculture and food sciences
• Education
• Social sciences
• Research-intensive fields

STEM-related programs receive the most substantial funding due to national labor shortages.

12. How early should I apply for fully funded Canadian opportunities?

The best time to apply is 6–12 months before the academic year. Deadlines for major scholarships typically fall between September and December for the next academic intake. Early preparation increases your chances of selection.

Final Thoughts

Canada offers some of the most generous and accessible fully funded study opportunities in the world. With scholarships and assistantships worth up to CAD 140,000 or more, international students can pursue their academic goals without financial barriers.

These programs not only cover the full cost of study but also provide monthly stipends, research funding, and access to world-class Canadian institutions. So, if you aim for a fully funded study program, we hope you can now apply for the right one that match your future career path.