Does Canada have any universities with 100 percent scholarships in 2026? 

Time is running out! Secure your spot for the upcoming intake—apply today!

If you’re wondering whether any Canadian universities offer 100% scholarships or fully funded opportunities for international students in 2026, the answer is: yes but with important conditions. While only a few institutions offer “full-ride” undergraduate funding, many Canadian universities provide fully funded postgraduate scholarships, research studentships, and funding packages that cover tuition, living expenses, and more.

This guide breaks down which universities offer full scholarships, what “100% funding” really means in Canada, who qualifies for them, and how to begin your application.

What does a 100% scholarship mean in Canada?

In Canada, a “100% scholarship” can mean one of three things:

1. Full tuition waiver 
2. Fully funded scholarship (tuition + living expenses)
3. Funding package (research assistantships, teaching assistantships, stipends)

Most full-ride offerings are available at the postgraduate (Master’s & PhD) level, while undergraduate full scholarships exist but are extremely competitive.

Understanding this difference helps you identify the right type of scholarship and university for your needs.

Which universities in Canada offer 100% scholarships?

Several Canadian universities provide fully funded scholarships or 100% tuition coverage for outstanding students. These awards are usually based on academic excellence, leadership, community service, or research potential.

Here are some of the top universities offering significant full scholarships in 2026:

1. University of Toronto

Offers:

• Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (full tuition + books + living expenses)
• Graduate funding packages for research programs

2. University of British Columbia (UBC)

Offers:

• International Scholars Program (full funding for exceptional undergraduates)
• Four Year Doctoral Fellowship (4YF) for PhD students

3. McGill University

Offers:

• Major Entrance Scholarships
• Fully funded graduate studentships for research programs

4. University of Alberta

Offers:

• International Graduate Student Scholarships 
• Graduate Entrance Scholarships
• Funding packages for thesis-based programs

5. University of Waterloo

Offers:

• International Master’s & PhD Awards 
• President’s Scholarship of Distinction (for top achievers)

6. University of Calgary

Offers:

• International Entrance Scholarships 
• Graduate Award competitions for funded research programs

7. Queen’s University

Offers:

• Principal’s International Scholarships
• Doctoral funding packages with teaching assistantships

8. Western University

Offers: 

• International President’s Entrance Scholarships 
• Graduate funding packages for research programs

Time is running out! Secure your spot for the upcoming intake—apply today!

Eligibility for 100% scholarships in Canada

Eligibility varies by scholarship, but most universities look for:

• Outstanding academic performance
• Strong extracurricular or leadership profile
• High school or bachelor’s GPA above the required minimum
• English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
• A strong statement of purpose or essay
• Exceptional research potential (for postgraduate applicants)

Highly competitive scholarships may require higher GPAs, portfolios, interviews, or reference letters.

Are full scholarships hard to get in Canada?

Yes, full scholarships in Canada are extremely competitive, especially at the top universities. Undergraduate full rides are rare, but postgraduate fully funded opportunities are more widely available through:

• Research grants 
• Assistantships (TA/RA) 
• Faculty funding 
• Government-funded programs

Applicants with exceptional academic records and achievements have a much stronger chance of securing a full scholarship.

Types of fully funded scholarships in Canada

1. University-funded scholarships
2. Government scholarships (Vanier, Trudeau, Banting)
3. Provincial scholarships (OGS, BC Graduate Scholarships)
4. Research council funding (SSHRC, CIHR, NSERC)
5. Faculty-funded assistantships (TA/RA roles)

Step-by-step: How to apply for 100% scholarships in Canada

1. Shortlist universities with full funding options
2. Check eligibility and required documents
3. Prepare your personal essay or statement
4. Secure strong recommendation letters
5. Complete your admissions application
6. Submit your scholarship application (if separate)
7. Track deadlines — some close early (Dec–Feb for Fall intake)

Which Canadian university gives full 100% scholarships?

The University of Toronto, UBC, McGill, University of Alberta, and Waterloo offer competitive fully funded scholarships for outstanding international students in 2025.

Can international students get fully funded scholarships in Canada?

Yes. Several universities and external bodies offer fully funded scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, stipends, and research funding, especially at the postgraduate level.

Is Canada affordable for international students with scholarships?

With a full scholarship or funding package, students can significantly reduce or eliminate tuition and living expenses, making Canada one of the most affordable destinations.

What GPA do I need for a full scholarship in Canada?

Most full scholarships require strong academic grades — typically above 80–90% (or a GPA of 3.7+ on a 4.0 scale). Competitive programs may require even higher.

Which courses get the most funding in Canada?

STEM fields (engineering, computer science, health sciences), research-based programs, and doctoral studies tend to receive more fully funded opportunities.