Often times, students are faced with the challenge of having to pay through their university or college education. For this reason, many have forfeited their education dreams and goals. One vital way both international and domestic students can pay through their higher education study is via scholarships – financial awards made available to students which are not to be repaid. The impact of scholarships in the lives of its recipients cannot be overlooked or overemphasized. For each scholarship, there are certain requirements attached to it. An applicant will only be successful upon meeting these requirements.

In this article, we have disclosed how international and domestic students can both get a scholarship to study in Canada.

Do not be surprised we said “…international and domestic students can both get a scholarship to study in Canada”. Although the nationality of a student can play an important role in securing a scholarship, nevertheless, non-citizens of Canada (international students) can receive scholarships as well.

I have often wondered why majority of students are sceptical about applying for a scholarship to study in Canada. I can only think of two reasons to justify this scepticism. The first is the lack of knowledge on how to apply and get the scholarship. The second reason, which is almost like the first, is the notion in the minds of the students that it is impossible to earn a scholarship to study abroad.

What Is the Basis For Awarding Scholarships?

Scholarships are awarded to international and domestic students based on merit, demography, extracurricular activities such as sports, creativity or specific skill such music or playing an instrument, etc.

Learn More: How Can I Get Scholarship in Canada

Which Schools Offer Scholarships in Canada?

Below are some of the top colleges and universities in Canada offering scholarships to both international and domestic students:

• University of British Columbia
• Alexander College
• Western University
• Columbian College
• University of Alberta
• Loyalist College
• University of Waterloo
• Douglas College
• University of Toronto
• Gransville College
• Queen’s University

What Are The Major Scholarship Opportunities Available in Canada?

Numerous scholarships, offered at different levels, are available to both domestic and foreign students. Some of these scholarships are enlisted below:

• AAR Aircraft Service Awards for International Students at Fanshawe College, Canada
• Canada-China Scholars Exchange Program
• Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
• Canada-Brazil Awards
• KDS International Scholarship Competition
• Study in Canada Scholarships
• Canada-CARICOM Faculty Leadership Program
• United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement Bursary at Yorkville University
• Emerging Leaders in Americas Program

What Are The Eligibility Requirements For Scholarships in Canada?

Every scholarship offered in Canada, either by government, organization or individual, has its unique eligibility requirements. However, there are general eligibility requirements for all scholarships offered. They include:

• Candidate must be a citizen of any of these countries: Bangladesh, Turkey, Egypt, Nepal, Tunisia, Libya, Taiwan, Ukraine, Senegal, Algeria, Nigeria, Tanzania, Jordan, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda and Morocco.
• Candidate must hold Canadian citizenship or permanent residency.
• At the time of applying to any Canadian scholarship, candidate must not be participating in any exchange scholarship program funded by the Canadian government.

How to Win Scholarships in Canada

Below is a step-by-step guide to get a scholarship is Canada.

• Prepare Ahead of Time

This statement cannot be overstressed. Most times, students are unable to secure scholarships to study in Canadian institutions because they do not apply on time. It is overly vital to search for, and apply for scholarships early. Doing so will increase your chance of being shortlisted for the scholarship.

• Research More on the Scholarship

This is another important tip on how to secure scholarships in Canada. It is necessary you carry out a personal research about the scholarship opportunities so as to apply appropriately.

• Pay Close Attention to the Requirements

Every scholarship offered in Canada has its eligibility requirements which must be met, else you will be disqualified from winning the scholarship. Again, understanding the eligibility requirements of any scholarship saves you ample time from applying to awards you are not eligible for. Do well to read the eligibility requirements over and over again.

Learn More: How To Apply For University In Canada Step by Step Guide

• Apply to Smaller Awards Too

Obviously, many students will opt for scholarships worth $10,000 than $2,000. However, you must understand that awards with very high value are competitive. The reason being that many persons also want to get a piece of the cake. And because many persons are applying for these scholarships, your chances of getting the scholarship is slim. Thus, it becomes sensible and necessary to also go for the smaller awards.

• Read and Understand the Terms and Conditions

Within the terms and conditions, or rules and regulations as the case may be, you are most likely to find out what the judges will be looking out for. Hence, you must pay close attention to the details of the terms and conditions.

• Get a Reference Letter

Your reference letter must be properly written. First, ensure it has a letterhead. This is to ensure that the letter was not written by you, your friend or close relative. Also, the reference letter must be signed by your referee. I would suggest you make it official. Finally, you must ensure that your referee has a means through which he or she can be easily contacted to avoid you being disqualified.

Listed above is a simple guide on how you can get scholarships in Canada. Do not spend your time applying to scholarships you are not eligible for. Ensure you carefully study the eligibility requirement for the scholarships. I suggest you apply to as many scholarships, you are eligible for, as possible. Also, remember that you have a better shot at scholarships with smaller value than higher value.

We trust this article provided you with satisfactory information on how to get a scholarship in Canada for both international and domestic students. If you have further questions, leave a comment in the comment box and we will get back to you as soon as possible.