If you want to study in Canada, getting a scholarship is one of the easiest ways to fund your academics, especially, fully funded scholarships.
Studying in Canada costs a lot of money, and without financial aid, it can be hard to cope with the financial demands.
However, if you get a scholarship, you’ve nothing to worry about any more. It is a great way to alleviate the financial burdens of being a student in Canada.
But, scholarships don’t come easy, getting them involves a series of competitive processes.
Also, read: How to convert a student visa to a work permit in Canada
Some scholarships are need-based while others are merit-based and in both categories, organizers consider your academic record, involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership skills, and level of financial needs (for need-based scholarships).
Other scholarships are only open to members of an agency or organization.
Also, read: Why is my UK student visa taking so long?
How hard or easy it is to get a scholarship depends on “how well you meet the scholarship qualifying requirements”.
Is it easy to get a scholarship in Canada?
It is hard to get a scholarship in Canada, but it’s not impossible, most scholarships in Canada are competitive and it’s not hard to see why, scholarship programs in Canada receive tons of applications, which leaves only the best with a chance to secure the scholarship.
Every scholarship has its requirements, and if you meet these requirements, you stand a great chance to get the scholarship.
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However, you should know that; meeting the requirements is not a guarantee that you will get the scholarship, it only puts you in a better position.
You can meet all the requirements for a scholarship and end up not getting it; because other applicants are more qualified than you.
Why is it so hard to get a scholarship in Canada?
Canada is a darling destination for students all over the world, and there is no better way to study in this country than on scholarship.
Many students want to study in Canada and to make their dream a reality, some need financial assistance which scholarships provide for them.
Even though there are many scholarship opportunities in Canada, the number of available scholarships is still not enough to meet the demand.
Additionally, scholarship committees often have strict eligibility criteria and high standards, requiring applicants to demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership skills, and many more.
Can I get a 100% scholarship to study in Canada?
You can get a 100% scholarship to study in Canada but it’s usually hard to come by, it is hard but not impossible, most scholarships in Canada cover a portion of your tuition fees or living expenses, rather than the full amount.
However, some scholarships cover the entire cost of tuition and living expenses, especially for highly competitive programs and fields of study.
What GPA is required for scholarships in Canada?
There is no set GPA requirement for scholarships in Canada. The GPA you need to get a scholarship in Canada differs for each scholarship opportunity.
However, a GPA of 3.0 or above (on a 4.0 format) is considered competitive for many scholarship opportunities in Canada.
Also, read: Can I get a work permit after completing a diploma in Canada?
Some scholarships require a higher GPA requirement, while others require less.
Some scholarships focus on factors like your leadership skills, and community involvement.
How to make getting a scholarship in Canada easy for yourself
Since you are interested in getting a scholarship in Canada, how about taking these steps to make it easier for you to get a scholarship in the country?
Getting a full scholarship to Canada is challenging, but you can do it – it’s not impossible after all.
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Start applying early
If you want to make getting a scholarship easy, start searching for a scholarship early.
Start a year or more before you plan to start your studies.
This gives you enough time to research different scholarships and know which one fits your needs.
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Search thoroughly
There are different categories of scholarships in Canada.
The more you search, the higher the number of available options you will discover.
Look for scholarship programs offered by Canadian universities, government agencies, and private organizations.
According to a report by Universities Canada, in the 2019-2020 academic year, Canadian universities awarded over $1.9 billion in scholarships and bursaries to domestic and international students.
You’ve options like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship, the Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships, and the Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED) program, among others.
In addition, Canadian universities also offer scholarship programs, both for domestic and international students.
For instance, the University of Toronto has the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, which covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years, while the University of British Columbia offers the International Major Entrance Scholarship, which covers up to CAD 40,000 per year for four years.
Some scholarships in Canada are for specific groups like Indigenous students, women, LGBTQ+ students, or students with disabilities.
Use Google, university websites, government websites, private organization websites, and other online resources to look for available scholarships.
Also, read: How to convert visitor visa to student visa in Australia
If you find a scholarship that suits your category, check the eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and the amount of funding offered.
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Ensure you are eligible before you apply
Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for the scholarship programs you’re interested in.
If you don’t, you’ll be wasting your time and effort applying.
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In your application, focus on your strengths
When applying, highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and leadership skills.
Be specific and provide evidence of your accomplishments.
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Maintain high academic performance
Scholarship committees often look for students who have achieved exceptional academic performance.
Maintain a high GPA and strive to excel in your courses.
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Build a strong extracurricular profile
Participate in extracurricular activities that align with your interests and demonstrate your leadership skills and community involvement.
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Write a strong personal statement
A well-written personal statement that highlights your academic achievements, career goals, and personal background can help you stand out from other applicants.
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Write a compelling essay
Many scholarships in Canada require applicants to submit essays.
Read: How to switch student visa to work visa in UK
Use this opportunity to showcase your writing skills and explain why you deserve the scholarship.
Make sure your essay is well-written, concise, and addresses the prompt.
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Always submit references
Most scholarship opportunities require applicants to submit references from teachers, employers, or community leaders.
Choose people who know you well and can speak to your strengths and potential.
Get reference letters from professors, employers, or other professionals, who can attest to your academic ability, character, and achievements.
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Always apply before the deadline
Another way to increase your chances of getting a scholarship in Canada is by applying early.
If you find a scholarship that you are interested in, ensure you submit your application on time.
Do not wait till the deadline.
Conclusion
Canada is a great place to study. If it is your dream to study in this country, getting a scholarship can help make this dream a reality.
Also, read: Can you transfer universities after one semester in Canada?
Unfortunately, it isn’t easy to get a scholarship in Canada, however, it is not impossible.
If you want to increase your chances of getting a scholarship in Canada, follow the steps listed above.