Best Canadian scholarships for Indian students 2025
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Dreaming of studying in Canada but worried about the cost? You’re not alone—and you’re definitely not out of options! Canada is one of the most welcoming and opportunity-filled study destinations for Indian students. And the best part? There are tons of scholarships—from government-funded programs to top university awards—that can help cover your tuition, living expenses, travel, and more.
Whether you’re a high school topper aiming for a fully funded undergrad degree or a PhD candidate ready to dive into research, this guide will walk you through the best Canadian scholarships for Indian students in 2025. We’ve broken it down into government schemes, prestigious fellowships, and university-specific scholarships to help you find the right fit—fast.
Government Scholarships for Indian Students in Canada (2025)
Studying in Canada is a dream for many Indian students, and the good news is — there’s financial support available beyond just university-specific aid. Canada’s government and institutional scholarships don’t just reward academics; they celebrate leadership, social impact, research innovation, and international collaboration. Below are some of the key details of Government Scholarships for Indian Students:
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan:
This prestigious scholarship is part of Canada’s effort to promote educational and cultural exchange with Commonwealth nations, including India. It’s designed to attract bright, motivated students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees at recognized Canadian universities.
The scholarship is funded by Global Affairs Canada (GAC) and administered by the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE). It helps cover all major costs, making it one of the most comprehensive scholarships available to Indian students. Below is the quick overview of Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility Criteria | What You Get (Benefits) |
| Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan | – Citizen of a Commonwealth country (India included) – Accepted or nominated by a Canadian institution – Strong academic record and research proposal – Must be applying for full-time master’s or PhD study | – Full tuition fee coverage – Return airfare (India–Canada) – Monthly living allowance (approx. CA$1,200–CA$1,600) – Research and book allowances – Medical insurance during stay in Canada |
| Duration | Up to 2 years for master’s and 4 years for doctoral studies | |
| Application Deadline | Varies each year; usually opens September–October and closes by December | |
| How to Apply | Apply through the Ministry of Education in India (MHRD/MEA) and CBIE Canada portal. A nomination by a Canadian university is essential. |
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
Recognized as one of Canada’s most prestigious doctoral awards, the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships aim to attract and retain world-class doctoral students. These scholarships support scholars who show exceptional academic excellence, leadership abilities, and strong research potential in their field. Below are the quick details of Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS):
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility Criteria | Benefits |
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) | – Open to international and Canadian PhD students – Enrolled in a full-time doctoral program at a Canadian university – Field of study must be in health, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, or humanities – Proven leadership skills, academic excellence, and strong research proposal | CA$50,000 per year for up to 3 years (total: CA$150,000) |
| How to Apply | Must be nominated by a Canadian university with a Vanier quota. Apply through the university’s graduate office and submit all required documents, including your research proposal and reference letters. |
Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Scholarships
The Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute (SICI) promotes educational and research collaboration between Indian and Canadian institutions. These scholarships are ideal for short-term exchanges, research fellowships, and internship opportunities at the undergraduate, graduate, and faculty level. Whether you’re an Indian student pursuing a joint research project or an Indian professor seeking an academic exchange, the Shastri programs open doors to cross-cultural academic growth. Below are the key details of Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute (SICI):
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility Criteria | Benefits |
| Shastri Research & Fellowship Programs | – Indian undergraduate/graduate students, postdocs, and faculty – Must be affiliated with an Indian institution – Involved in research collaborations or academic exchange with a Canadian institution | – Travel grants – Short-term research funding (1–6 months) – Living allowances – Access to academic resources in Canada |
| How to Apply | Submit an application through the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute website. Proposal must be co-developed with a Canadian university or research supervisor. |
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) Program
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) is one of the most well-known merit-based scholarships in Canada for students pursuing master’s and doctoral studies in the province of Ontario. It’s a competitive scholarship designed to reward academic excellence, and is open to both domestic and international students, including those from India. OGS funding is jointly provided by the Province of Ontario and the participating universities, with each school managing its own application process. Below are the key details of Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS):
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility Criteria | Benefits |
| Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) | – Enrolled in or accepted to a full-time master’s or doctoral program at an eligible Ontario university – Minimum 80% average in the last two academic years – Open to international students | CA$10,000 – CA$15,000/year (CA$5,000 per term; awarded for 2 or 3 consecutive terms) |
| Program Duration Supported | 1–2 years (master’s); up to 4 years (PhD with renewal) | |
| Eligible Universities | University of Toronto, McMaster University, Western University, Queen’s University, University of Waterloo, and others | |
| How to Apply | Apply through the graduate school of the Ontario university where you are enrolled or have received admission |
University-Specific Scholarships for Indian Students (2025)
In addition to national scholarships, many of Canada’s top universities offer exclusive scholarships for international students, including Indian applicants. These awards are highly competitive and often cover a significant portion—or even all—of your study expenses. Below are some of the key details of University-Specific Scholarships for Indian Students (2025):
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship – University of Toronto
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship is one of the most prestigious fully-funded scholarships in Canada for undergraduate international students. Offered by the University of Toronto, this scholarship recognizes students who show exceptional academic achievement, originality, and leadership qualities, and who make a positive impact in their community or school. Only 37 international students are selected each year, making this a highly competitive but life-changing opportunity. Below are the key details of Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility Criteria | Benefits |
| Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship | – International student (non-Canadian, including Indian students) – Final year of high school or graduated after June 2024 – Strong academics, creativity, and school/community leadership – Nominated by your school | – Full tuition coverage for 4 years – Cost of books & course materials – Incidental fees covered – On-campus residence support for the full undergraduate program |
| Duration | Covers entire undergraduate program (4 years) | |
| How to Apply | 1. Get nominated by your high school 2. Apply to the University of Toronto 3. Receive a personalized scholarship application link | |
| Application Deadlines | – School nomination deadline: Usually by November – U of T application deadline: Typically mid-December – Scholarship application deadline: Usually by early January |
University of British Columbia (UBC) – International Scholars Program
UBC’s International Scholars Program is one of the most generous financial aid opportunities for international undergraduate students. Designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership, and global impact, this program includes four distinct awards, each tailored to different student profiles. The program is need-and-merit-based, meaning it looks not only at your grades but also your financial circumstances and community impact. Following are the key details of UBC’s International Scholars Program:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility Criteria | Benefits |
| UBC International Scholars Program | – International student (including Indian students) – Entering a direct-entry undergraduate program at UBC – Demonstrated financial need – Exceptional academic performance and leadership potential | – Covers 100% of demonstrated financial need, including tuition, fees, and living expenses – Renewable annually based on academic performance |
| Award Types Under the Program | – Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award (ILOT) – Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award – International Impact Award – Vantage One Excellence Award | |
| Duration | Entire undergraduate degree (up to 4 years) | |
| How to Apply | 1. Submit an application to UBC by the December deadline 2. Complete the International Scholars Program application and provide a financial profile |
York University – President’s International Scholarship of Excellence
Offered by York University in Toronto, this is a merit-based scholarship that awards CA$35,000 per year for up to 4 years—a total value of CA$140,000. It’s designed for international undergraduate students who excel not only in academics but also in community leadership, volunteerism, and extracurriculars. Following are the key details of York University – President’s International Scholarship of Excellence:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility Criteria | Benefits |
| President’s International Scholarship of Excellence | – International high school student applying to the first year of a 4-year undergraduate program at York – Strong academic record (typically 90%+ or equivalent) – Leadership in community or school activities – Not receiving another full scholarship | – CA$35,000 per year for four years (Total: CA$140,000) – Applies toward tuition and may partially support living expenses |
| How to Apply | 1. Apply to York University 2. Submit the International Student Scholarship Application by February 1 (usually) |
University of Calgary – International Entrance Scholarship
The University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship is a prestigious merit-based award aimed at attracting high-achieving international students who are beginning their first year of undergraduate study. Valued at CA$20,000 annually and renewable for up to four years, it can significantly offset tuition costs, making education at this top-tier Canadian university more affordable. Below are the key details of University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility Criteria | Benefits |
| University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship | – International student entering first year of a full-time undergraduate degree – Minimum GPA equivalent to 85%+ (A average) – Must have satisfied the university’s English Language Proficiency requirement – Demonstrated leadership through school/community involvement | – CA$20,000 per year, renewable annually for up to 4 years – Total value: CA$80,000 for four-year degree |
| How to Apply | 1. Apply for an undergraduate program at the University of Calgary 2. Submit the online awards application through the university portal | |
| Renewal Requirements | Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.6/4.0 in a minimum of 24 units over the previous fall/winter terms | |
| Fields of Study | All undergraduate programs offered by the University of Calgary | |
| Application Deadline | Typically December 1 (for admission) and March 1 (for scholarships) |
Conclusion
With all these scholarship options—from the Lester B. Pearson at U of T to the Vanier CGS or UBC’s need-based awards—Canada truly opens its doors wide for talented Indian students like you.
Remember, the earlier you start, the better your chances. So:
- Shortlist the scholarships that match your goals.
- Check the deadlines (many close between November and March).
- Polish your application, gather strong references, and tell your story with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top scholarships available for Indian students to study in Canada?
- Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan: Supports master's and doctoral studies for students from Commonwealth countries, covering tuition, travel, and living expenses.
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: Provides CA$50,000 per year for up to three years to doctoral students demonstrating leadership and academic excellence.
- Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) Program: Offers CA$10,000 to CA$15,000 per year to graduate students in Ontario based on merit.
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto): Covers full tuition, books, and residence costs for four years for exceptional undergraduate students.
- University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program: Provides need-and-merit-based awards to international undergraduate students, covering a significant portion of educational expenses.
How can Indian students apply for top Canadian scholarships?
- Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship: Apply through the Ministry of Education in India and the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE). A nomination by a Canadian university is essential.
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: Candidates must be nominated by a Canadian university with a Vanier quota. Applications are submitted through the university’s graduate office.
- Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS): Apply through the graduate studies office of the Ontario university where you are enrolled or have received admission.
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship: Students must be nominated by their high school and then apply to the University of Toronto. Upon admission, they will receive a personalized scholarship application link.
Are there fully funded scholarships available for Indian students in Canada?
Yes, several scholarships offer full funding, including tuition, living expenses, and other costs. Notable examples are the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship at the University of Toronto and the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously in Canada?
Yes, students are encouraged to apply for multiple scholarships to increase their chances of securing financial aid. However, be mindful of each scholarship's specific eligibility criteria and application requirements.
What are the eligibility criteria for top scholarships in Canada?
- Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship: Citizens of Commonwealth countries with a strong academic record, accepted into a Canadian institution for full-time master's or PhD studies.
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: Doctoral students enrolled in a Canadian university, demonstrating leadership skills, academic excellence, and a strong research proposal.
- Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS): Students enrolled in or accepted to a full-time master's or doctoral program at an eligible Ontario university, with a minimum 80% average in the last two academic years.
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship: International students in their final year of high school or who graduated after June 2024, exhibit strong academics, creativity, and leadership qualities.
- UBC International Scholars Program: International students entering a direct-entry undergraduate program at UBC, demonstrating financial need, exceptional academic performance, and leadership potential.
