Canada is among the most popular destinations for higher education for Indian students looking to study abroad. But one of the primary concerns for many prospective students is financing their education.

Fortunately, Canada offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities tailored for Indian students to reduce their financial burden and make studying in Canada more accessible. These scholarships generally cover various academic disciplines and levels of study and have different eligibility criteria, empowering Indian students to pursue their educational aspirations in Canada.

If you want more details about the scholarship options available to help study in Canada, keep reading ahead to find all the relevant information.

Types of Scholarships in Canada for Indian Students

Understanding the types of scholarships and financial aid options is crucial for Indian students seeking financial help to pursue their academic goals in Canada. Following are some of the major types of scholarships in Canada for Indian students:

Governmental Scholarships

Government-sponsored scholarships are often part of bilateral agreements between Canada and India or may be available as initiatives to promote academic exchange and collaboration. These scholarships may cover a wide range of academic disciplines and levels of study, providing financial support to Indian students pursuing education in Canada.

Non-Governmental Scholarships

Non-governmental organizations, foundations, and corporations also offer scholarships to Indian students interested in studying in Canada. These scholarships are often merit-based or need-based and may be targeted toward specific fields of study, demographic groups, or social causes.

Institutional Scholarships

Most Canadian universities and colleges provide scholarships specifically designed for international students, including those from India. These institutional scholarships may be based on academic excellence, extracurricular achievements, or other criteria the institution determines, offering financial assistance to deserving students across various disciplines and academic levels.

Popular Scholarships to Study in Canada for Indian Students

From the major categories of scholarships for Indian students discussed above, we have found some of the most popular scholarships. These financial aid opportunities encompass a range of options, each offering financial assistance and support for pursuing higher education in Canada. Some of the widely recognized scholarships include:

• Canada-India Research Centre of Excellence (CIRCE) Scholarships: This initiative, funded by the Canadian government, promotes research collaboration between Canadian and Indian institutions. It provides scholarships for Indian students pursuing research-oriented programs in Canada.
• Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Scholarships: The Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute offers various scholarships for Indian students, including research grants, travel grants, and fellowships to study in Canada. These scholarships aim to strengthen academic ties between India and Canada.
• Tata Scholarship: The Tata Group, a leading Indian conglomerate, offers scholarships for Indian students to pursue higher education abroad, including in Canada. These merit-based scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
• Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships: The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation provides scholarships to Indian students for postgraduate studies at top universities worldwide, including in Canada. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
• Government of Canada Scholarships: Various scholarships are available to Indian students through the Canadian government's initiatives, such as the Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program and provincial government scholarships. These scholarships support students pursuing master's or doctoral studies in Canada.

Government-Funded Canada Scholarships for International Students

Government-funded Canada scholarships for international students offer invaluable opportunities for academics and research to international students. Some of the most prestigious scholarships are:

• Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships: The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships program aims to attract top-tier postdoctoral talent to Canada's research institutions. It is open to Canadian and international postdoctoral researchers and financially supports candidates pursuing postdoctoral studies in health, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities.
• IDRC Research Awards: The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) offers research awards to graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and established professionals from developing countries. These awards support research initiatives that address critical global development challenges, such as food security, climate change, and healthcare access.
• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: This scholarship program recognizes outstanding doctoral students who portray leadership skills and research excellence. It financially supports students pursuing doctoral studies in the natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities.
• Dick Martin Scholarship Award: The award is dedicated to supporting international students pursuing studies in Canada's public post-secondary institutions. This scholarship is administered by the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) and aims to promote international understanding and collaboration through educational exchange.
• Canada-ASEAN SEED: The Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED) program offers scholarships to students from ASEAN member states for short-term exchange programs and full-degree studies in Canada. This initiative strengthens ties between Canada and ASEAN countries by supporting educational opportunities that contribute to sustainable development and mutual understanding.

Canada University Scholarships for Indian Students

All the major universities in Canada offer scholarship opportunities to international students, including those coming from India, to help them ease their financial burden. The most popular scholarships available are:

• Lester B. Pearson International Students Scholarships: Offered by the University of Toronto, this scholarship recognizes exceptional students worldwide with outstanding academic achievements, leadership qualities, and community involvement.
• UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award: The University of British Columbia offers the International Leader of Tomorrow Award to outstanding international students who showcase exceptional academic results, leadership potential, and a commitment to positively impacting their communities.
• McGill University Scholarships: McGill University offers several scholarships to support international students. Many of these are awarded based on academic excellence, the candidate's financial need, leadership potential, and extracurricular activities. Eligible students may receive partial or full tuition coverage and additional financial support for living expenses.
• University of Alberta International Scholarship: The University of Alberta provides various international scholarships to support exceptional students from India and other countries in pursuing undergraduate and graduate studies. These scholarships are generally awarded to students based on their academic merit, leadership achievements, and contributions to the community.
• Western University Scholarship: Western University offers a diverse range of scholarships to international students, including those from India, to recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement. These financial aid options may cover partial or full tuition fees and additional financial support for living expenses and research opportunities.

Scholarship for Master's in Canada for Indian Students

Many students take master’s courses in Canada, which allows them to delve deeper into specific knowledge and gain valuable skills. These courses are generally expensive, making the scholarships an even more important for students with financial issues. Some of the major scholarships for masters courses are:

• Richard A. Freund International Scholarship: The Richard A. Freund International Scholarship, offered by the University of Manitoba, supports international students in pursuing graduate studies in any field. This scholarship recognizes academic excellence, leadership qualities, and a commitment to community service. Recipients can receive financial assistance to cover tuition fees and living expenses during their studies.
• Ontario Graduate Scholarship: The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) is awarded by the Government of Ontario to outstanding graduate students, including Indian students, enrolled in master's or doctoral programs at eligible Ontario universities. This merit-based scholarship recognizes academic achievement and research potential.
• International Peace Scholarship for Women: The International Peace Scholarship for Women is offered by the P.E.O. Sisterhood, a philanthropic organization based in the United States and Canada. This scholarship supports women from India and other countries pursuing graduate studies in Canada. Recipients are generally selected based on academic excellence, financial need, and commitment to advancing peace and understanding.
• Conestoga College International Degree Entrance Scholarship: Conestoga College offers the International Degree Entrance Scholarship to outstanding international students, including Indian students, enrolling in graduate degree programs. Students can receive financial assistance to help cover their tuition fees and other educational expenses.
• Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarship: It is a scholarship program in India that provides financial assistance to outstanding Indian students pursuing higher education abroad. The scholarship is open to Indian citizens under 30 who plan to pursue postgraduate studies at top universities, including those in Canada. The scholarship recipients receive financial support covering many of their tuition fees and living expenses for their studies.

Scholarships for Undergraduate Courses in Canada for Indian Students

The undergraduate programs generally run for 3-4 years in Canada, increasing the overall budget of students. They can find scholarships for undergraduate courses to receive financial assistance while pursuing higher education in Canada. Some of the most notable scholarships are:

• Ambedkar Overseas Vidyanidhi Scholarship: The Ambedkar Overseas Vidyanidhi Scholarship is provided by the Government of India and supports students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in pursuing undergraduate studies abroad, including in Canada.
• BeArt Presets Academic Scholarship: The BeArt Presets Academic Scholarship is awarded to undergraduate students, including Indian students, who showcase exceptional academic achievement and a passion for creativity and innovation. This scholarship recognizes students pursuing photography, graphic design, and visual arts degrees.
• ASM Materials Education Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship: The ASM Materials Education Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in materials science, engineering, or other fields. This scholarship, open to international students, including those from India, recognizes academic excellence, research potential, and a commitment to advancing materials science and engineering.
• Scotiabank International Partner Entrance Scholarships: Scotiabank International Partner Entrance Scholarships are awarded to meritorious international students, including Indian students, who are enrolling in undergraduate programs at Canadian universities partnered with Scotiabank. Recipients receive financial support to help cover tuition fees and other educational expenses.
• Global Citizen Scholarship: The Global Citizen Scholarship, offered by various organizations and institutions in Canada, supports undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds, including Indian students, who demonstrate a commitment to global citizenship, social responsibility, and community engagement. This scholarship recognizes international students who have significantly contributed to their communities and aspire to create positive change in the world.

Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students Applying for Canadian Scholarships

The eligibility criteria for different scholarships generally vary depending on the scholarship provider, type of scholarship, and specific program requirements. However, there are some common eligibility criteria that Indian students should consider when applying for scholarships, some of which are discussed below:

• Academic excellence: Many scholarships require applicants to demonstrate outstanding academic performance, which is demonstrated by maintaining a high GPA or achieving top scores in standardized tests needed for admission to higher educational institutions, such as the GRE, GMAT, or SAT.
• Language proficiency: Most universities in Canada use English and French as mediums of instruction. Indian students are generally more comfortable speaking English, so they must provide proficiency test scores in the English language.
• Admission to a Canadian institution: Most scholarships require applicants to have secured admission to a recognized Canadian university, college, or institution for the program they wish to pursue. Some scholarships may also have specific requirements regarding the level of study (undergraduate, graduate, doctoral) or field of study.
• Residency status: Some scholarships may require residency, such as being a citizen of India or a resident of a particular region or state within India. Others may be open to Indian citizens residing anywhere in the world.
• Financial need: While not all scholarships are need-based, some can require applicants to demonstrate financial need as part of the application process. This could involve submitting financial statements, income tax returns, or other documentation to prove financial circumstances.
• Research experience: If you are applying for research-oriented scholarships, having prior research experience, publications, or participation in research projects may be advantageous. You may need to submit a research proposal or outline your research interests as part of the application process.
• Letters of recommendation: Some scholarships may also require letters of recommendation from your professors, teachers, employers, or others who can genuinely attest to your academic abilities, character, and potential for success after receiving financial aid.

How to Apply for Scholarships to Study in Canada for Indian Students

Applying for scholarships to study in Canada as an Indian student involves several steps, which are essential to take your admission process with financial aid ahead. The major steps that you need to take are:

• Research scholarship opportunities: Begin by researching scholarship opportunities available to Indian students studying in Canada. Explore governmental, non-governmental, and institutional scholarships to identify programs that align with your academic goals, field of study, and financial needs.
• Review eligibility criteria: You must carefully review all the eligibility criteria for each scholarship you're interested in. Ensure that you meet all the qualifications before proceeding with the application process.
• Prepare application materials: Gather all the required application materials as needed by the scholarship organization. These may include academic transcripts, standardized test scores (such as TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, and GMAT), letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a resume, proof of admission to a Canadian institution, and other supplementary documents specified by the scholarship provider.
• Submit the application form: Fill out the scholarship application form accurately and completely, following the instructions provided by the scholarship provider. You must pay close attention to formatting guidelines, word limits, and specific questions or prompts. Double-check that all required documents and materials have been included and that the application is free from errors or omissions before submitting the application form.
• Prepare for Interviews (if applicable): If the scholarship includes an interview component, prepare thoroughly by researching common interview questions, practising responses, and showcasing your enthusiasm and suitability for the scholarship.
• Follow-up: After submitting your application form, you must monitor your email or scholarship portal for any communication from the scholarship provider. Respond promptly to any other requests for additional information or clarification.

Study in Canada

If you want to study in Canada and need detailed information on the various scholarships, consider booking a free consultation with SI-Canada today.