Tips for applying for scholarships in Canada as an international student?

I'm considering studying in Canada for college, and I'm an international student. Does anyone have tips or experiences to share about applying for scholarships there? Are there any specific scholarships that are easier to get?

Sure, here are some essential steps you should consider for applying for scholarships in Canada as an international student:

1. Understand the Criteria: It's essential to know that scholarships in Canada are often merit-based, meaning they are awarded to students with exceptional academic, athletic, artistic, or other abilities. Some scholarships,on the other hand, are need-based and are given to students based on demonstrated financial need. Make sure you understand the criteria for each scholarship you apply to.

2. Start Early: Start your research early, as many scholarships have deadlines in the early stages of the year. You can use this time to prepare well-written applications and gather all necessary documents.

3. Use Scholarship Search Tools: Use scholarship search platforms like ScholarshipsCanada, Yconic, and Appily to find scholarships. These platforms allow international students to filter and find scholarships best suited to them, making the search much more manageable.

4. Apply for University-specific Scholarships: Many Canadian universities offer entrance scholarships to international students based on their academic performance. Be sure to check if your intended university has these and how to apply. For example, the University of British Columbia provides an "International Major Entrance Scholarship" for exceptional international students, which can be worth up to CAD $40,000.

5. Leverage Your Unique Perspective: As an international student, you bring a unique perspective that can be very valuable. Highlight this in your applications to stand out. For example, you might have had unique cultural experiences or tackled educational challenges your domestic counterparts haven't dealt with.

6. Proofread and Review: Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, always proofread your applications. Be sure to answer the prompts thoroughly, check for grammatical errors, and ensure you've included all required documentation.

Remember, while some scholarships may seem more "competitive" than others, I would encourage you to apply regardless if you meet the criteria. Every bit helps when funding your education, and you never know what might catch a scholarship committee's attention. Best of luck!