Not only is Canada home to some of the world’s top universities, but it also offers a variety of scholarships for international students. These scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden, making your dream of studying in Canada more achievable.
Thinking about studying for your master’s degree abroad? Canada might be the perfect destination for you. Not only is Canada home to some of the world’s top universities, but it also offers a variety of scholarships for international students. These scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden, making your dream of studying in Canada more achievable. Yes! You can study Masters in Canada with scholarship.
In this blog post, we’ll explore why studying for a master’s in Canada is a great choice, the types of scholarships available, eligibility criteria, and how to apply. We’ll also look at some popular master’s programs and give you an idea of the cost of living and tuition fees. Let’s dive in and get you one step closer to studying in the Great White North!
Why Study Masters in Canada?
Canada has quietly become one of the most trusted study destinations on earth. When international students talk about studying abroad, many people immediately think of the United States or the United Kingdom. But in recent years, Canada has built a powerful reputation for offering world-class education, practical learning, and a welcoming environment for international students.
1) Canada’s Universities Are Globally Respected
Canada is known for its high-quality education system and is home to many world-renowned universities. Institutions like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia consistently rank among the top in the world. These universities offer diverse programs that are recognized globally, ensuring that your degree holds value wherever you go.
But beyond big names, Canada has something that matters just as much: consistent educational quality across institutions. That means even if you don’t attend the “top three,” you can still earn a highly respected master’s degree from strong universities across the provinces.
2) Study in a Safe, Multicultural, International-Friendly Country
Another reason to consider Canada is its welcoming and inclusive environment. Canada is known for its multicultural society, where people from various backgrounds live harmoniously. This diversity extends to its campuses, where international students are warmly welcomed and supported.
You’ll find student associations, cultural groups, and support services dedicated to helping international students adjust and thrive. Many schools have international student offices that offer help with:
- Immigration support and study permit guidance
- Housing advice and settlement support
- Career services and job search training
- Academic support, tutoring, and writing centers
- Mental health and wellness services
This matters more than people realize. A new country can feel overwhelming at first. Being in an environment that is built to support newcomers makes a huge difference.
3) Post-Graduation Work Opportunity
Canada also offers a post-graduation work permit program, which allows international students to stay and work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies. This opportunity can be invaluable for gaining work experience and potentially applying for permanent residency.
This is one of the biggest reasons Canada stands out. Many countries make it difficult for international students to gain real work experience after graduation. Canada, in many cases, makes it part of the journey.
4) Canada’s Master’s Degrees Can Be Practical and Career-Focused
A master’s degree in Canada is not only about textbooks and theories. Many programs are designed to connect learning with real-world outcomes; through:
- Co-op placements (in some universities/programs)
- Internships and practicum experiences
- Research assistant roles
- Industry partnerships
- Capstone projects solving real business or community problems
This makes Canadian master’s degrees valuable not just academically, but professionally.
5) Scholarships Make the Dream More Realistic
Let’s be real: studying abroad can be expensive. Tuition, accommodation, health insurance, food, and transportation can add up quickly. Scholarships are a major reason many international students can actually afford to study.
That’s why the big focus of this guide is simple: Study Masters In Canada With Scholarship For International Students and do it strategically.
Study Masters In Canada With Scholarship: Types of Scholarships Available
image of a female student in the library | Study Masters In Canada With Scholarship For International Students
There are several types of scholarships available for international students wanting to study in Canada. These scholarships can be broadly categorized into government-funded scholarships, university-specific scholarships, and private sector scholarships.
Let’s break them down clearly because knowing the difference helps you apply smarter.
1) Government-Funded Scholarships
Government-funded scholarships are offered by the Canadian government to attract top international talent. They are often highly competitive, but when you get them, they can be life-changing.
Examples typically include major national awards that are designed for outstanding students with strong academic and leadership records. Some programs may be aimed more toward doctoral studies, but there are also opportunities that master’s students can qualify for, depending on the award structure and your university.
What government scholarships usually look for:
- Exceptional academic performance
- Strong research potential (especially for thesis programs)
- Leadership and community impact
- Clear career goals and long-term contribution to society
Why they matter:
Government scholarships often offer larger funding amounts and carry prestige, which can boost your career profile.
2) University-Specific Scholarships
University-specific scholarships are provided by individual universities to attract international students. These can be:
- Merit-based (given to high-performing students)
- Need-based (given to students with financial need)
- Program-specific (for certain departments or courses)
- Entrance scholarships (for newly admitted students)
- Continuing scholarships (for students already in the program)
For instance, some universities offer awards that recognize academic excellence and leadership skills. Others provide graduate entrance scholarships automatically if you meet certain standards.
What makes university scholarships powerful:
- Some are automatic (no separate application)
- Some are easier to access than government awards
- Many departments also have hidden internal awards that you only discover after admission
3) Private Sector Scholarships
Private sector scholarships are funded by corporations, foundations, and non-profit organizations. These scholarships often focus on specific fields of study or target students from particular regions.
Private scholarships are sometimes overlooked because they don’t always appear on university pages. But they can be extremely useful, especially for students in fields like:
- Business and entrepreneurship
- Engineering and technology
- Health and public policy
- Social sciences, education, and development studies
- Environment and sustainability
Why private scholarships can be easier:
Some have fewer applicants than government programs because many students don’t know they exist.
4) Country-Specific Scholarships
Additionally, there are country-specific scholarships offered by Canadian embassies or consulates in various countries. These scholarships are tailored to students from specific regions, making it easier for them to access financial support.
This is a smart area to explore because the competition may be limited to applicants from your country or region.
5) Research Funding and Assistantships (A Hidden Goldmine)
This is very important: many international students fund their master’s degree through:
- Research assistant (RA) roles
- Teaching assistant (TA) roles
- Graduate assistantships
- Faculty grants and lab funding
If you are entering a thesis-based program, your supervisor may have research funding available, meaning part of your tuition or living costs could be covered through your role in the research project.
This is why some students pay much less than others, even in the same university. They got into the program with funding.
Study Masters In Canada With Scholarship: Eligibility Criteria
image of a male student in class | Study Masters In Canada With Scholarship For International Students
Each scholarship comes with its own set of eligibility criteria, but there are common requirements you can expect. Understanding these criteria early helps you avoid wasting time on scholarships you don’t qualify for—and helps you focus strongly on the ones you do.
1) Strong Academic Record
Firstly, most scholarships require a strong academic record. Universities and scholarship providers often look for students who have consistently performed well in their previous studies.
This usually means:
- Good undergraduate grades
- Strong performance in major-related courses
- Academic awards, publications, or research experience (if applicable)
Even if your grades are not “perfect,” you can still win scholarships by strengthening other parts of your application, especially leadership, research potential, and a powerful statement of purpose.
2) Language Proficiency
Language proficiency is another key criterion. Since most programs in Canada are taught in English or French, you’ll need to demonstrate proficiency in one of these languages.
This usually means providing scores from tests like:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- DELF (for French programs)
The good news is: strong language scores can sometimes compensate for other weaknesses. If your English score is excellent, it signals readiness and reduces the university’s risk.
3) Leadership and Extracurricular Strength
Extracurricular involvement and leadership skills are also highly valued. Scholarships that target leadership look for students who have demonstrated impact in their community or university.
This could include:
- Student leadership roles
- Volunteer work
- Community projects
- NGO participation
- Professional leadership at work
- Mentoring programs
- Public speaking or event organization
Leadership scholarships do not only mean “student president.” It means you influenced people, improved something, solved a problem, or led a meaningful initiative.
4) Financial Need (For Need-Based Scholarships)
Financial need can be a factor for some scholarships, especially those that are need-based. You’ll need to provide evidence of your financial situation, which can include bank statements, proof of income, and other documentation.
Need-based awards don’t mean you are “poor.” It simply means your financial capacity may not fully cover the cost of study, and you can show why support is necessary.
5) Field of Study and Country of Origin Requirements
Lastly, some scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria related to the field of study or country of origin.
Always check the specific requirements for each scholarship you are interested in to ensure you qualify. Don’t assume you qualify—confirm it and apply strategically.
Study Masters In Canada With Scholarship: Application Process
Applying for a master’s program and scholarships in Canada requires careful planning and attention to detail.
And honestly? This is where most people fail—not because they aren’t smart, but because they start too late, rush, or don’t understand how admissions and scholarships work together.
Let’s make it simple and step-by-step.
Step 1: Choose Your Program and University Carefully
The first step is to research the programs and universities that interest you. Make a list of your top choices and note their application deadlines and requirements.
When choosing a master’s program, don’t just look at the university name. Look at:
- Program structure (thesis vs course-based)
- Funding opportunities
- Graduate employment outcomes
- Faculty research areas (especially for thesis programs)
- Location and cost of living
- Entry requirements (GPA, language, prerequisites)
Smart strategy: apply to a mix of:
- 1–2 “dream” universities
- 2–3 “realistic” universities
- 1–2 “safe” universities (where your profile clearly meets requirements)
Step 2: Prepare Your Application Documents
Once you have your list, start preparing your application materials. This typically includes:
- Academic transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Resume or CV
Be sure to highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and any relevant work experience.
Important tip: Don’t copy generic templates online. Canadian universities can smell generic statements easily. Your documents must sound like a real human with clear goals.
Step 3: Prepare Scholarship Materials Separately
For scholarships, you may need to write additional essays or provide specific documentation.
For instance:
- Need-based scholarships will require financial documents
- Merit-based scholarships may require essays on goals and achievements
- Leadership scholarships may require proof of impact, awards, or references
Pay close attention to each scholarship’s requirements and tailor your application accordingly.
Step 4: Submit Early (Seriously)
Submit your applications well before the deadlines. Canadian universities and scholarship programs are known for strict adherence to deadlines, so don’t leave anything to the last minute.
Submitting early has advantages:
- Gives you time to fix issues if something goes wrong
- Allows time for scholarship matching
- Helps you avoid last-minute panic mistakes
Step 5: Prepare for Interviews
Finally, prepare for the possibility of interviews. Some scholarships and programs may require an interview as part of the selection process.
Practice common interview questions and be ready to discuss:
- Your academic and career goals
- Why you chose Canada
- Why you chose that university and program
- Your leadership or research interests
- How you’ll contribute to the university community
A calm, confident interview can separate you from candidates with similar grades.
Popular Master’s Programs in Canada
image of a student with books in her hand | Study Masters In Canada With Scholarship For International Students
Canada offers a wide range of master’s programs across various disciplines. Some of the most popular fields of study include business, engineering, computer science, health sciences, and social sciences.
Below is a deeper look at what makes these programs popular and what to expect.
1) Business (MBA and Other Business Master’s)
In the field of business, MBA programs in Canada are highly regarded. Institutions such as the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto and the Sauder School of Business at the University of British Columbia attract students from around the world.
Business programs are popular because they can lead to careers in:
- Consulting
- Banking and finance
- Marketing and brand strategy
- Operations and supply chain
- Entrepreneurship and startups
- Project management
Scholarship note: MBA scholarships exist, but they can be competitive. Strong work experience, leadership, and clear goals matter a lot.
2) Engineering
Engineering is another popular choice, with universities offering specialized programs in:
- Civil engineering
- Mechanical engineering
- Electrical engineering
- Software engineering
- Environmental engineering
- Biomedical engineering
The University of Waterloo is widely known for its strong engineering culture and practical focus.
Engineering programs are attractive because Canada invests heavily in infrastructure, technology, and sustainable development—meaning engineers remain valuable across provinces.
3) Computer Science and Tech
Computer science programs in Canada are also in high demand, particularly in:
- Artificial intelligence
- Data science
- Cybersecurity
- Machine learning
- Software systems
- Cloud and network engineering
Universities such as the University of Toronto and McGill University offer programs that prepare students for strong careers in tech.
Good news: tech scholarships and funding are often available, especially when programs connect with research labs.
4) Health Sciences
Health sciences include public health, nursing, biomedical sciences, and related fields.
Universities such as the University of British Columbia and McMaster University are known for strong health science programs that combine:
- Research
- Practical training
- Policy and public health perspectives
Health programs are popular because healthcare remains a stable and respected career field.
5) Social Sciences and Humanities
Social sciences and humanities programs such as psychology, sociology, political science, education, and development studies remain popular among international students.
Many Canadian programs emphasize:
- Research skills
- Interdisciplinary learning
- Critical thinking
- Community impact
Scholarships in these fields often focus on leadership, social change, and research relevance.
Study Masters In Canada With Scholarship: Cost of Living and Tuition Fees
UWM Scholarships For International Students
The cost of living and tuition fees in Canada can vary depending on the city and institution. Generally, larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver have higher living costs compared to smaller cities or towns.
Let’s break this down clearly, so you can plan realistically.
Tuition Fees (Master’s Programs)
Tuition fees for master’s programs in Canada range from CAD 7,000 to CAD 29,000 per year, depending on the program and university.
- Programs in business and engineering often cost more
- Humanities and social sciences are often cheaper
- Some professional programs (like specialized business or healthcare tracks) can be higher
Important: some universities charge different tuition rates for international students, so always confirm the exact amount for your program.
Living Expenses
In addition to tuition, you’ll need to budget for living expenses such as:
- Accommodation
- Food
- Transportation
- Health insurance
- Utilities and internet
- Books, supplies, and personal expenses
On average, international students can expect to spend between CAD 15,000 to CAD 30,000 per year on living expenses.
Accommodation Costs
Accommodation costs will vary depending on whether you choose to live on-campus or off-campus.
- On-campus housing can range from CAD 3,000 to CAD 7,500 per year
- Off-campus housing can vary widely based on city and accommodation type
Tip: Many students reduce costs by sharing apartments with roommates.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for international students in Canada.
Some provinces provide coverage, while others require private insurance. Costs commonly range from CAD 600 to CAD 900 per year.
Transportation
Public transportation is widely available in many cities and is often the most cost-effective option. Monthly passes can range from CAD 80 to CAD 150, depending on location.
Extra Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Scholarships
If your goal is truly to Study Masters In Canada With Scholarship For International Students, you need to approach it like a strategy, not like luck.
Here are practical ways to boost your chance:
1) Apply Early and Apply Broadly
Do not apply to only one scholarship and hope it works. Apply to multiple scholarships where you qualify.
2) Build a Powerful Statement of Purpose
Your statement should clearly show:
- Why this program
- Why this university
- Your academic strengths
- Your career plan
- How the program fits your future goals
- What impact you want to create
3) Get Strong Recommendation Letters
Choose referees who can speak specifically about:
- Your abilities
- Your work ethic
- Your research or leadership
- Your growth and potential
A generic “he is hardworking” letter is weak. Specific examples are powerful.
4) Highlight Leadership and Impact
Even if your GPA is not perfect, leadership can move you forward. Show what you did, how you did it, and what results came out of it.
5) Consider Thesis-Based Programs for Funding
Thesis programs often have more funding opportunities through labs and supervisor grants.
Common Mistakes International Students Make (Avoid These)
- Waiting too late to apply
- Applying without tailoring documents
- Ignoring scholarship requirements
- Submitting weak or generic essays
- Using referees who don’t know them well
- Choosing programs without checking funding options
- Picking a city without understanding cost of living
Avoiding these mistakes alone can improve your outcome massively.
Conclusion
Studying for a master’s in Canada can be a rewarding and life-changing experience. With high-quality education, diverse cultural experiences, and a range of scholarships available, Canada offers a compelling option for international students.
By understanding the types of scholarships, eligibility criteria, and application process, you can increase your chances of securing financial support for your studies.
Whether you’re interested in business, engineering, health sciences, or social sciences, Canada has a program that can help you achieve your academic and career goals. So start your research, prepare your applications, and get ready to embark on an exciting journey in one of the world’s most welcoming and beautiful countries.