Canada is one of the most sought-after study destinations for international students due to its world-class education system, multicultural environment, and numerous scholarship opportunities. For students looking to study in Canada without financial burdens, fully funded scholarships in Canada 2026 present an excellent opportunity. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and sometimes even additional stipends.
This comprehensive guide explores the top Canadian universities offering fully funded scholarships in Canada 2026, eligibility criteria, application processes, and tips to maximize your chances of securing one. Whether you’re pursuing undergraduate, master’s, or PhD studies, this article will help you find the best financial aid options.
Top Canadian Universities Offering Fully Funded Scholarships in 2026
Below is a detailed list of Canadian universities that provide fully funded scholarships in Canada 2026 for international students:
1. University of Toronto
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Scholarship Name: Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
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Coverage: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence support
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Eligibility: Exceptional academic achievement & leadership skills
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Deadline: November 30, 2025
2. University of British Columbia (UBC)
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Scholarship Name: International Leader of Tomorrow Award
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Coverage: Tuition, living expenses, and travel costs
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Eligibility: Academic excellence + financial need
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Deadline: December 1, 2025
3. McGill University
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Scholarship Name: McCall MacBain Scholarships
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Coverage: Full tuition + $2,000 monthly stipend
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Eligibility: Leadership, academic strength, and community involvement
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Deadline: September 25, 2025
4. University of Alberta
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Scholarship Name: President’s International Distinction Scholarship
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Coverage: Up to $120,000 (undergraduate)
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Eligibility: Minimum 90% average in previous studies
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Deadline: January 10, 2026
5. University of Waterloo
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Scholarship Name: International Master’s & Doctoral Awards
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Coverage: $2,500/month (PhD), $1,600/month (Master’s)
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Eligibility: Enrolled in a research-based graduate program
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Deadline: Varies by program
Comparison Table of Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada 2026
| University | Scholarship Name | Coverage | Deadline | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto | Lester B. Pearson Scholarship | Full tuition + living expenses | Nov 30, 2025 | Apply |
| UBC | International Leader of Tomorrow Award | Tuition + living costs | Dec 1, 2025 | Apply |
| McGill University | McCall MacBain Scholarships | Full tuition + $2,000/month | Sep 25, 2025 | Apply |
| University of Alberta | President’s International Scholarship | Up to $120,000 | Jan 10, 2026 | Apply |
| University of Waterloo | Graduate Research Awards | $1,600-$2,500/month | Varies | Apply |
How to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Fully Funded Scholarship in Canada 2026
Securing a fully funded scholarship in Canada 2026 is highly competitive. Here’s how you can stand out:
1. Start Early
Most scholarships have deadlines a year before the intake. Begin researching at least 12-18 months in advance.
2. Maintain a Strong Academic Record
Most scholarships require a minimum GPA of 3.7/4.0 or equivalent.
3. Craft a Winning Personal Statement
Your essay should highlight:
✔ Academic achievements
✔ Leadership experience
✔ Career goals
✔ Why you deserve the scholarship
4. Secure Strong Recommendation Letters
Choose professors or employers who can vouch for your abilities.
5. Apply to Multiple Scholarships
Don’t rely on just one—apply to at least 5-10 scholarships to increase your odds.
Why Choose Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada?
Before diving into the list of universities, let’s understand why fully funded scholarships in Canada 2026 are highly competitive and beneficial:
✅ Tuition Fee Coverage – No need to worry about expensive tuition costs.
✅ Living Stipends – Monthly allowances for accommodation, food, and other expenses.
✅ Travel Grants – Some scholarships include flight tickets.
✅ Research Funding – Additional support for PhD and research-based students.
✅ Work Opportunities – Many scholarships allow part-time work alongside studies.
With rising education costs, securing a fully funded scholarship in Canada 2026 can be a game-changer for your academic and professional future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does a fully funded scholarship in Canada cover?
A fully funded scholarship in Canada 2026 typically includes:
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Tuition fees
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Living allowance
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Health insurance
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Travel expenses (sometimes)
2. Can I work while on a fully funded scholarship?
Yes, most Canadian student visas allow 20 hours/week of part-time work.
3. Do I need IELTS/TOEFL for these scholarships?
Most universities require proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+).
4. Are there age limits for these scholarships?
Most scholarships have no strict age limits, but some may prefer younger applicants.
5. How competitive are fully funded scholarships in Canada?
Extremely competitive—only the top 1-5% of applicants receive them.
Securing a fully funded scholarship in Canada 2026 can transform your academic journey without financial stress. By targeting top universities like UofT, UBC, McGill, and Waterloo, preparing strong applications, and applying early, you can maximize your chances of success.
Start your application today and take the first step toward studying in Canada with a fully funded scholarship in 2026!
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