Discover the best scholarships in Canada for Indian students in 2025. Learn about eligibility, application tips, deadlines, and how to study in Canada with financial support.
Top Scholarships in Canada for Indian Students (2025 Guide)
Canada is one of the top destinations for Indian students, but tuition and living costs can add up quickly. The good news? There are many scholarships available in Canada for Indian students, ranging from university-based awards to government and external funding options.
In this post, we’ll cover:
- Best scholarships for Indian students (2025)
- Eligibility & how to apply
- Tips to increase your chances of getting one
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
For: PhD students
Amount: C$50,000/year for 3 years
Eligibility: Excellent academic record, leadership, research potential
Apply via: University nomination
More info
2. University of Toronto – Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
For: Undergraduate international students
Covers: Tuition, books, residence, incidental fees
Eligibility: Exceptional academics and leadership
Apply by: Nov 2024 (for 2025 intake)
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
For: High-achieving international undergrads
Types:
- International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES)
- Outstanding International Student (OIS) Award
Eligibility: Strong academics + extracurriculars
Apply by: Jan 2025
4. Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Scholarships
For: UG, PG, and research students
Covers: Research support, short-term exchanges, e-courses
Eligibility: Enrolled in Indian university, academic merit
shastriinstitute.org
5. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
For: Master’s and PhD programs in Ontario
Amount: C$15,000/year
Eligibility: Academic excellence, full-time program
Universities Covered: U of T, York, Carleton, etc.
6. Humber College Entrance Scholarships
For: Diploma & UG programs
Amount: Partial tuition waivers
Eligibility: High academic record
Apply: Automatically considered during admission
7. Graduate Entrance Scholarships – University of Waterloo
For: Master’s and Doctoral programs
Amount: C$2,500 to C$10,000+
Eligibility: Strong GPA, department nomination
Additional Options:
Scholarship Name | Level | Benefit | Apply Through |
York University Global Leader Scholarship | Undergraduate | C$20,000/year | Direct at York |
Dalhousie University Scholarships | PG/PhD | Variable | Via faculty/department |
Concordia International Tuition Award | UG & PG | Partial tuition fee | Direct at Concordia |
Brock International Award | Undergraduate | Up to C$4,000 | Automatic consideration |
How to Improve Your Scholarship Chances
Apply early – Many scholarships close 6–8 months before intake
Write a powerful SOP or essay
Get strong letters of recommendation
Maintain academic excellence (above 80%)
Highlight leadership or community work
Bonus Download: Scholarship Tracker Sheet for 2025
Plan and apply with confidence!
Download Free Excel Tracker – Scholarships for Indian Students (Lead magnet idea)
Related Articles:
- Step-by-Step Guide to Canada Study Permit
- Top Colleges in Canada for Indian Students
- How to Write a Perfect SOP for Canadian Universities
Featured Image Idea:
A collage of smiling international students holding scholarships or graduation scrolls, with a Canadian flag in the background.
Final Thoughts
If you plan wisely and apply on time, scholarships in Canada can help you significantly lower your education costs. Many Indian students miss out just because they don’t apply — don’t be one of them.
Take the time to shortlist, prepare strong documents, and submit before deadlines. Your Canadian education could be more affordable than you think!