Master’s Scholarships in Canada: Types, Top Scholarships, Eligibility & How to Apply

Not all scholarships work the same way. In Canada, there are different types of scholarships depending on who gives them and what they cover. Understanding the categories will help you figure out which ones suit your profile best.

Here are the main types of scholarships for master’s students in Canada:

• Government-Funded Scholarships: These are offered by the Canadian government or provincial governments. They are usually merit-based and can fully or partially cover your tuition and living costs.

• University-Specific Scholarships: Many universities have their own scholarships for international students. Some are automatic based on academic scores, while others need a separate application.

• Privately Funded Scholarships: These come from companies, NGOs, or individuals. They are usually smaller in amount but easier to apply for. Some are based on need, others on merit or extracurriculars.

• Research-Based Scholarships: These are mostly for research-heavy master’s programmes. Professors or departments often fund students through assistantships or project-based scholarships.

• Need-Based Financial Aid: Some universities offer aid based on your financial background. You may need to submit income proof or a statement explaining your situation.

The amount of money you can receive through scholarships in Canada really depends on the type of scholarship and who is offering it.

Some scholarships offer just a small reduction in your tuition fees, say around INR 1–2 lakhs (CAD 2,000-3,500), which still helps reduce your financial burden. These are common in entrance or merit-based scholarships from colleges.

On the higher end, prestigious scholarships like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships offer up to INR 30 lakhs (CAD 50,000) per year, which can cover both your tuition and a big chunk of your living expenses. University-specific awards at places like UBC, University of Toronto, or McGill can also go up to INR 20–35 lakhs (CAD 35,000-60,000) depending on the course and your profile.

In general:

• Smaller scholarships: INR 1-5 lakhs (CAD 2,000-8,000)
• Mid-range: INR 6-15 lakhs (CAD 10,000-25,000)
• High-value or full scholarships: INR 20-35 lakhs (CAD 35,000-60,000)

Many students combine two or more smaller scholarships or pair them with a part-time job to manage their costs better. The key is to apply early and apply to multiple scholarships even the smaller ones can add up and make a big difference.

If you're planning to study a master's in Canada and worried about the cost, scholarships can take a huge load off your back. There are government-funded, university-specific, and privately-funded scholarships that Indian students can apply for.

Here are some of the most well-known master’s scholarships in Canada in 2024:

1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

Funded by the Canadian government, this is one of the most generous scholarships for postgraduate students. It’s meant for students with strong academic scores and leadership skills.

• Amount: INR 30 lakhs per year (CAD 50,000)

• Duration: Up to 3 years

• Offered by: Canadian government

• Eligibility: Academic excellence + research potential

2. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

This is available at most universities in Ontario. It's a merit-based scholarship and open to international students, including Indian applicants.

• Amount: INR 6 - 9 lakhs per year (CAD 10,000 - 15,000)

• Duration: 1 year (can be renewed)

• Offered by: Province of Ontario

• Eligibility: Based on GPA, university nomination required

3. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships

One of the most accessible master’s scholarships in Canada for international students with good academic records.

• Amount: INR 11 lakhs per year (CAD 18,000 for master's)

• Duration: Renewable annually

• Offered by: University of Manitoba

• Eligibility: 3.75 GPA or above in the last 60 credit hours

4. Humber International Entrance Scholarships

Humber College offers entrance scholarships for new international students. This is not a full scholarship, but it helps reduce tuition in the first year.

• Amount: Up to INR 1.2 lakhs (CAD 2,000)

• Offered by: Humber College

• Eligibility: Academic performance + application letter

• Note: Can be renewed if GPA stays above 75%

5. University of Calgary Graduate Awards

The University of Calgary has a mix of full and partial scholarships for postgraduate international students.

• Amount: Ranges from INR 7 lakhs to INR 12 lakhs (CAD 12,000 - 20,000)

• Offered by: University of Calgary

• Eligibility: Varies by programme

6. UBC International Graduate Scholarships

The University of British Columbia offers merit-based awards to international master’s students, including full and partial tuition waivers.

• Amount: Varies, up to full tuition (INR 20 - 35 lakhs)

• Offered by: UBC

• Eligibility: Academic excellence, research interest, supervisor support

Many Canadian universities offer scholarships to international students to study for a Masters degree. Here is a list of some of the most popular universities:

• University of Toronto
• University of British Columbia
• McGill University
• McMaster University
• University of Waterloo
• Queen's University
• University of Calgary
• University of Alberta
• University of Manitoba
• Dalhousie University
• Université de Montréal
• Université Laval

Before you apply for any master’s scholarship in Canada, make sure you meet the basic eligibility rules. These can slightly vary depending on the university or scholarship provider, but most of them follow a similar pattern.

Here’s what Indian students usually need to be eligible:

• Academic Performance: Most scholarships expect a minimum of 70-80% in your undergraduate degree. Competitive ones like Vanier may need even higher grades.

• English Language Proficiency: You’ll need valid IELTS or TOEFL scores. Generally, an IELTS score of 6.5 or above is expected.

• Offer Letter from a Canadian university: You must already have an admission offer or be in the process of applying to a recognised Canadian university or college.

• Statement of Purpose (SOP): Some scholarships require a clear and honest SOP explaining your academic goals, financial need, and why you deserve the scholarship.

• Letters of Recommendation: Academic or professional references are sometimes required, especially for merit-based awards.

• Research Proposal (for research-based scholarships): If you’re applying for a thesis-based or research-heavy programme, you might need to submit a basic research plan.

• Financial Documents (for need-based scholarships): Some universities ask for proof of family income or a written declaration if you’re applying for financial aid.

Applying for a scholarship in Canada is not as complicated as it seems. But you do need to follow each step carefully to make sure you don’t miss out.

Here’s a simple guide to help you apply:

Step 1: Choose your university and programme

First, shortlist the universities you want to apply to and check if they offer any scholarships for international students.

Step 2: Check eligibility and deadlines

Go to the university’s official website and read the eligibility criteria, scholarship deadlines, and required documents.

Step 3: Prepare all required documents

Keep your transcripts, IELTS/TOEFL scorecard, SOP, LORs, and CV ready. If the scholarship is need-based, you may also need income proof.

Step 4: Apply for the programme first

Most scholarships are only available if you’ve already applied for a master’s degree. So complete your university application first.

Step 5: Submit the scholarship application

Some universities consider you automatically. Others need a separate form. Follow the exact instructions on their website.

Step 6: Track your application status

Keep checking your email or student portal for updates. If selected, you’ll be notified before or around the admission decision.

Quick tip: Government scholarships like Vanier CGS or Ontario Graduate Scholarship may need you to apply through a central portal or be nominated by your university. Make sure you follow their specific process.

Getting a scholarship isn’t just about saving money. It also gives you more breathing space while studying abroad, and can even improve your chances of landing internships, jobs, and research roles.

Here’s why a master’s scholarship in Canada can be a game-changer for Indian students:

• Reduces your tuition fee: Some scholarships cover your full tuition. Others offer partial waivers that can bring your fee down by INR  - 5 lakhs (CAD 2,000-8,000) or more.

• Covers living expenses: Fully-funded scholarships may also include monthly stipends that help with rent, groceries, books, and other daily costs.

• Less dependency on loans: With a good scholarship, you might not need to take an education loan at all, or at least borrow a lot less.

• Boosts your profile: Being awarded a scholarship looks great on your CV. It shows you're competitive and committed, which helps in job placements and future applications.

• Access to better opportunities: Many scholarships connect you with networks, research opportunities, and mentorship programmes offered by the university or sponsoring organisation.

Now that you know the available scholarships and the procedure to apply for the same, enlisted below are a few important tips that will help you stand out from the crowd of thousands of scholarship applicants!

• Review The Eligibility Criteria: This is the first step to ensure that your application is processed for the scholarship. You must fulfill all the eligibility criteria specified for the same. This increases the chances of acceptance of your application.

• Apply Early: Check the date of application acceptance based on the intake you wish to study for your MS. Apply as soon as possible for the scholarship. This is due to the limited number of scholarship spots available. You will lose the chance if they are awarded to qualified students who have applied earlier.

• Look Into Scholarships: Indian students can apply for an array of master's scholarships in Canada. Check out every scholarship the university accepts for your program. Apply for all the scholarships after confirming your eligibility for each.

• Submit The Necessary Paperwork: Scholarships are awarded based on a range of factors. The required documentation is listed by the governing body with the scholarship application. Academic credentials, a current CV, a statement of purpose, and an income statement are some of the commonly needed documents.

• Community-Based Financial Aid: International students can study in Canada on a few community-based scholarships. Mention this in your resume if you have demonstrated great extracurricular abilities in the activities of your previous educational institution. Possess the necessary documentation to apply for these scholarships.

We know that applying to an abroad university takes a lot of planning, funds, and patience. However, you do not have to do this alone. You can book a call with our expert counselors and resolve all your queries about scholarships and more!

You now have all the knowledge necessary to apply for a scholarship to pursue a master's degree in Canada. The only and best option to lower the cost of studying abroad is through scholarships. You will gain a great deal from doing this. Before applying for a scholarship, it is essential to select the appropriate course of study and institution.

Shortlisting universities, knowing the application process, being aware of all the scholarships that the abroad universities offer, and getting a visa in time can all be a tiresome process. However, if you need assistance with everything related to studying abroad, Yocket is here to help. Avail the several services it has to offer, and sit back and relax.

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