Undergraduate: apply early, with your school's help
Canada's biggest undergraduate awards need your secondary school's involvement and deadlines far earlier than normal admissions. The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship at the University of Toronto requires a school nomination by 9 October 2026. UBC's International Scholars Program needs a nominator and an application by 15 November 2026.
Master's: Mastercard Foundation at McGill
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill funds master's degrees for citizens living in African countries who have not yet started a master's. The autumn 2027 cohort has closed; the next cycle is expected to be announced in spring 2027.
Doctoral: the end of Vanier
The Vanier scholarship has been folded into the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Doctoral, worth $40,000 a year for three years. International students can compete, but only once they are enrolled in a PhD at a Canadian university.
Study permits and proof of funds
Canada caps the number of study permits it issues. For applications from 1 September 2026, a single applicant must show CAD 23,448 for living costs, in addition to tuition and travel. Master's and doctoral students at public institutions no longer need a provincial attestation letter. Rules change often — check Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada before you apply.