Canadian Scholarship Requirements for International Students

I'm thinking about applying to schools in Canada, and I'm trying to figure out what scholarships I might be eligible for as an international student. What are the general requirements to qualify for these scholarships?

Most Canadian universities offer a variety of scholarships for both domestic and international students. The requirements vary widely and can depend on many factors, such as the scholarship type (merit-based, need-based, athletic, etc.), the specific school, and the student's academic performance.

For most merit-based scholarships, the university will often look at factors such as your GPA, standardized test scores, and any significant extracurricular achievements. For instance, the University of Toronto offers the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship program, which recognizes international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and creativity.

Need-based scholarships usually require students to demonstrate financial need. This might involve providing financial statements or filling out forms that detail your parents' income. An example is McGill University's Entrance Bursary Program for international students.

Finally, there are also specific scholarships, aimed at certain categories of students - for instance, those pursuing a specific field of study, or those from a specific country. The University of British Columbia, for example, offers the Outstanding International Student (OIS) Award, which is awarded to international students based on their all-rounded strength, including academic performance and extracurricular involvement.

However, remember that competition for international scholarships can be fierce, and simply meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee that you will receive a scholarship. It's also important to apply as early as possible, as many scholarships have early deadlines, and some are given out on a first-come, first-served basis. Make sure to check the specific requirements for each scholarship and each university you're interested in.