Are there scholarships for international students in Canada?

I'm planning to apply to Canadian universities as an international student and am trying to find out more about scholarship opportunities. Do Canadian universities offer a lot of financial aid for international students, and what should I keep in mind when applying?

Yes, several Canadian universities offer scholarships specifically for international students. Let's break this down by area.

1. University-specific scholarships: Many Canadian universities reserve specific scholarships for international students. For example, the University of British Columbia offers the International Major Entrance Scholarship and the Outstanding International Student Award to high-achieving international students. Similarly, the University of Toronto has the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program that covers tuition, housing, books, and more for international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement. Keep in mind that these scholarships are quite competitive.

2. External Scholarships: Outside university-specific funding, there are a few external scholarships to consider. The Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program, for example, is funded by Global Affairs Canada and offers funding to students from other Commonwealth countries.

3. Work-Study/Co-op Programs: Many Canadian universities offer work-study or co-op programs that allow students to gain practical experience while earning money that can directly support their studies.

When applying for scholarships, it is important to start early and pay close attention to deadlines. Ensure you carefully review the eligibility and application requirements, and don't forget to highlight your achievements and how you could contribute to the university community. Moreover, many scholarships require separate applications, so make sure you have all the required documents ready in time.

And finally, while scholarships can be a great source of funding, they are often not enough to cover all expenses. So consider other sources of funding as well, such as personal savings, external funding sources, and potential on-campus employment opportunities. Good luck with your endeavors!