Why Study in Canada?
Canada is known for its high-quality education, diverse culture, and welcoming environment. With world-class universities and a strong emphasis on research and innovation, Canada attracts thousands of international students each year. Moreover, the Canadian government and various institutions offer scholarships to support international students financially, often including visa sponsorship as part of the package.
Top Scholarships in Canada with Visa Sponsorship
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
- Level: Doctoral (PhD)
- Amount: CAD $50,000 per year for three years
- Eligibility:
- Open to Canadian and international students
- Must be nominated by a Canadian institution with a Vanier CGS quota
- Demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership abilities
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes, through the host institution’s support for study permits
- Fields: Health research, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
- Level: Undergraduate
- Institution: University of Toronto
- Coverage:
- Full tuition
- Books
- Incidental fees
- Full residence support for four years.
- Eligibility:
- International students with exceptional academic achievement and leadership qualities
- Nominated by their high school
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes, assistance provided by the University of Toronto
3. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
- Level: Master’s and Doctoral
- Amount: CAD $15,000 per year
- Eligibility:
- International students studying in Ontario
- Enrolled in a full-time graduate program
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes, through the host institution’s support
4. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award
- Level: Undergraduate
- Coverage:
- Tuition
- Living expenses based on financial need
- Eligibility:
- International students demonstrating superior academic achievement and leadership skills.
- Financial need that would otherwise prevent them from pursuing a UBC degree
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes, assistance provided by UBC.
5. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
- Level: Undergraduate
- Amount: CAD $15,000, renewable annually
- Eligibility:
- International students entering their first year in any undergraduate degree program
- Academic excellence and extracurricular achievements.
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes, support provided by the University of Calgary.
6. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
- Level: Doctoral
- Amount: Up to CAD $60,000 per year for three years
- Eligibility:
- International students pursuing doctoral studies in social sciences and humanities
- Demonstrate leadership and engagement in their communities
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes, through the host institution’s support
- More Info:
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7. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)
- Level: Master’s and Doctoral
- Amount:
- Master’s: CAD $14,000 per year
- Doctoral: CAD $18,000 per year
- Eligibility:
- International students with a minimum GPA of 3.0
- Enrolled in full-time graduate studies at the University of Manitoba
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes, support provided by the University of Manitoba
Tips for Applying to Scholarships with Visa Sponsorship
- Start Early: Application deadlines can be several months before the academic year begins.
- Prepare Required Documents:
Tips for Applying to Scholarships with Visa Sponsorship (continued)
- Prepare Required Documents:
Always have these ready:- Academic transcripts
- Statement of purpose or personal essay
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL)
- Valid international passport
- Customize Each Application:
Don’t copy and paste.
Tailor your essays and documents to reflect the mission of each scholarship. - Highlight Your Uniqueness:
Your background, leadership, community work, and personal goals matter.
Tell a story. Make it emotional and real. - Get References Early:
Inform your referees on time.
Let them understand what the scholarship is about.
A strong recommendation can be your game-changer. - Double-Check Everything:
A single error might cost you a chance.
Proofread or ask someone else to go over your application.
How Visa Sponsorship Works With Scholarships in Canada
Most Canadian universities and government-funded scholarships don’t call it “visa sponsorship” directly.
But what they do is even better.
They:
- Issue official acceptance letters, which are crucial for getting a study permit (student visa).
- Provide support letters, sometimes required by the Canadian High Commission.
- Have international student departments to guide you through your visa application.
This indirect sponsorship is just as powerful.
Common Requirements for Scholarship + Visa Applicants
Before applying, ensure you meet these common expectations:
- Minimum GPA (often 3.0/4.0 or equivalent)
- Proof of English or French proficiency
- Commitment to return to your home country (for some scholarships)
- Admission into a Canadian institution
- Strong motivation and personal story
- In some cases, work or volunteer experience
How to Find and Apply for These Scholarships (Actionable Steps)
Step 1: Pick a Course and School
- Start with what you want to study.
- Choose universities offering your course.
- Example: Interested in Engineering? Look into UBC, University of Toronto, or McGill.
Step 2: Check Their Scholarship Page
- Go directly to the Financial Aid or Scholarships section on the university website.
- Look for terms like:
- “International Awards”
- “Entrance Scholarships”
- “Graduate Fellowships”
Step 3: Look for Visa Support Info
- Search for “International Students Office.”
- They usually explain visa processes, timelines, and support services.
Step 4: Apply for the Course First
- Some scholarships require an offer of admission before applying.
Step 5: Apply for the Scholarship
- Follow instructions carefully.
- Submit before the deadline.
Example Scenario: Ada’s Story – From Lagos to Canada
Ada was a brilliant student in Nigeria.
She found the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship online.
Her school nominated her.
She wrote a heartfelt personal essay about overcoming challenges.
UBC accepted her.
The scholarship covered tuition, accommodation, and even helped with visa paperwork.
Now, Ada is in her third year in Toronto, studying Political Science.
You can be like Ada.
Additional Resources for You
- Scholarship portals:
- ScholarshipsCanada.com
- Yconic.com
- ScholarshipPositions.com
- Consultancy support (if needed):
- Local verified student travel consultants
- International offices in Nigerian universities
- Online webinars hosted by Canadian universities
Budgeting Tip: Scholarships vs. Full Sponsorship
Know the difference:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Full Scholarship | Covers tuition + sometimes accommodation |
| Partial Scholarship | Covers tuition only |
| Sponsorship | May cover visa, tuition, accommodation, stipends |
Always read the fine print.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is visa sponsorship guaranteed with every scholarship?
No. But many top Canadian scholarships help with documentation for study permits.
Can I apply without IELTS?
Sometimes, yes. Some universities accept alternatives or waive it if you studied in English.
Do I need to pay money to apply for these scholarships?
No. Real scholarships do not ask for payment. Be careful of scams.
What if I get rejected?
Don’t give up.
Apply to multiple scholarships.
Consider less competitive universities.
What to Do Now (Call to Action)
You’ve read the guide. Now what?
- ✅ Choose your course
- ✅ Find matching scholarships
- ✅ Prepare your documents
- ✅ Apply before the deadline
- ✅ Use resources on intertransport.com.ng to help plan your journey
Don’t just dream about Canada — act now.
Timeline Example: From Application to Arrival in Canada
| Timeline | Task |
|---|---|
| August – October | Research and shortlist universities |
| November – January | Prepare documents and apply |
| February – March | Receive admission offers |
| April – May | Apply for visa |
| June – July | Prepare for travel |
| August – September | Arrive and start classes |
Planning early = less stress.
Final Thoughts
A scholarship in Canada that also covers visa sponsorship is real.
It’s not just a fairytale.
Thousands of students get it every year — and you can too.
But don’t wait until the last minute.
Plan.
Research.
Apply.
Take that leap.
And remember — intertransport.com.ng is here to guide you all the way.
Also check
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Make $2,000/Month Helping Canadian Women Online
Leave Nigeria Behind! These Canadian Companies Are Offering Visa-Sponsored Jobs Today!
Get Paid Up to $120/Day Helping USA, Canada and Australian Citizens Online
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