Canada is one of the most attractive destinations for international students seeking high-quality graduate education, but the cost of tuition and living expenses can make a Canadian master’s degree difficult to afford.
The good news is that international students can find a range of fully funded or substantially funded master’s opportunities in Canada, particularly through research-based master’s programs, university funding packages, graduate assistantships and competitive scholarships.
However, there is an important distinction that applicants need to understand: not every scholarship advertised as a “full scholarship” covers every expense. Some awards cover tuition only, while others combine scholarships, research assistantships, teaching assistantships and university funding to create a broader financial package.
This guide explains how fully funded master’s opportunities work in Canada, where to look for them and how international students can improve their chances of receiving funding in 2026.
What Is a Fully Funded Master’s Scholarship?
A fully funded master’s opportunity generally provides enough financial support to cover most or all of the major costs associated with completing a graduate degree.
Depending on the university and program, funding may include:
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses
- Monthly or annual stipend
- Health insurance
- Research expenses
- Teaching or research assistantship
- Travel or conference funding
- Accommodation or relocation support
The exact benefits vary significantly.
Some universities provide a formal scholarship, while others offer a funding package that combines several sources of financial support.
For example, UBC’s graduate awards include scholarships, tuition awards and multi-year funding packages, while some research programs provide a minimum funding package combining tuition support, research assistantships and other awards.
Therefore, when searching for a “fully funded master’s scholarship,” look beyond the word scholarship and investigate the complete funding package.
Can International Students Get Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships in Canada?
Yes.
International students can receive substantial graduate funding at Canadian universities, although opportunities vary considerably by institution, program and academic discipline.
Research-based master’s programs tend to offer more funding opportunities than many professional or course-based programs.
For example, UBC’s International Tuition Award supports eligible international students enrolled full-time in research-oriented master’s and doctoral programs, while certain departments provide additional funding through research assistantships and other awards.
This means that students searching for funding should pay particular attention to programs described as:
- Thesis-based master’s
- Research master’s
- MSc
- MA research
- MASc
- Research graduate programs
A professional master’s program may have fewer funding opportunities and significantly higher tuition.
1. McCall MacBain Scholarship at McGill University
The McCall MacBain Scholarship is one of Canada’s most prominent full scholarships for master’s and professional studies.
The scholarship covers tuition and fees for the normal duration of the program, provides a living stipend of $2,300 per month during academic terms, and includes a one-time relocation grant for students moving to Montréal. Scholars can also access French-language courses and mentorship opportunities.
The program is particularly attractive because it is based on more than academic performance. Leadership, character, community involvement and the ability to create positive change are important components of the selection process.
For the 2027 cohort, applications opened June 1, 2026. International applicants who are not graduates of Canadian or US universities generally have an earlier application deadline than Canadian applicants and graduates of Canadian or US universities.
Because this scholarship is extremely competitive, applicants should begin preparing months before the deadline.
2. University of British Columbia Graduate Funding
The University of British Columbia offers numerous funding opportunities for master’s students, including international students.
UBC’s Spring Graduate Awards Competition includes awards ranging from hundreds of dollars to awards worth as much as $25,000, with both master’s and doctoral students eligible for various awards. International students are included among the eligible citizenship categories for the competition.
UBC also operates its Graduate Support Initiative, which provides funding through entrance scholarships, multi-year funding packages, tuition awards and scholarship top-ups.
Approximately $6.5 million in GSI funding is awarded across UBC graduate programs each year, although eligibility varies by program.
International students should therefore research the funding page of their specific graduate program rather than assuming that every UBC master’s program has the same package.
3. UBC International Tuition Award
The International Tuition Award is another opportunity worth investigating if you are considering a research-based master’s program at UBC.
The award provides up to $3,200 per year toward tuition for eligible international graduate students in qualifying research-oriented master’s and doctoral programs.
This is not a fully funded scholarship by itself.
However, it can become part of a larger funding package alongside research assistantships, teaching assistantships, scholarships and other awards.
This illustrates an important point for international students:
A fully funded master’s degree may come from several sources rather than one scholarship.
4. UBC Research-Based Master’s Funding
Some individual UBC departments provide much more substantial funding.
For example, UBC’s Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries states that its minimum funding package for international MSc students for 2026–27 is $35,126.66 per year for each of the first two years.
The package can combine tuition support, graduate research assistantships, teaching-related work and internal or external awards.
This type of departmental funding is particularly valuable because it can combine support for tuition and living expenses.
However, students should not assume that every UBC MSc program offers the same level of funding.
Always check the specific department.
5. University of Toronto Graduate Funding
The University of Toronto has a number of graduate programs that provide funding packages to master’s students.
One example is the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE).
For 2026–27, OISE states that students in its funded cohort for eligible non-professional MA programs can expect a minimum funding package of at least $26,892.39 for the first year.
The package can include fellowships, grants, awards, scholarships and employment income. For international students, the funding package is increased to cover the mandatory University Health Insurance Plan.
This is an example of why students should research the funding structure of the individual graduate school or department.
6. University of Toronto Ontario Graduate Scholarship
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) is another important source of graduate funding in Ontario.
The scholarship provides $5,000 per session for two or three consecutive sessions, meaning an award can total $10,000 or $15,000 depending on the approved duration.
International students can be eligible for a limited number of OGS awards at participating universities, although the number available to international students is much smaller than the overall number of awards.
For example, the University of Toronto notes that international students can apply, but only a limited number of international awards are available.
OGS is therefore best viewed as a significant scholarship contribution rather than automatically assuming that it will cover the complete cost of a master’s degree.
7. Canada Graduate Research Scholarships – Master’s
The Canada Graduate Research Scholarships – Master’s (CGRS M) program provides $27,000 for one year to eligible high-calibre graduate students pursuing research-based master’s programs in Canada.
However, international applicants should pay close attention to the citizenship rules.
The CGRS M program is primarily intended for Canadian citizens and permanent residents, so international students should not assume that they qualify simply because they are enrolled at a Canadian university.
Always verify the current eligibility requirements before including a government scholarship in your funding plan.
8. McGill University Graduate Funding
McGill University also provides substantial funding in certain research-based graduate programs.
For example, McGill’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences publishes minimum funding packages for full-time MSc-thesis students.
For 2026–27, the published minimum funding for international MSc students in the relevant programs is $47,937 for the first year, including a living allowance and tuition, fees and insurance. The second-year minimum is listed at $39,031.
The exact funding structure varies by program.
This is another excellent example of why international students should search for funded research programs rather than only searching for standalone scholarships.
9. Search for Research Assistantships
A research assistantship can be an important part of a funded master’s package.
A professor or research group may have funding available through a research grant and provide financial support to a graduate student working on a research project.
This can potentially contribute toward:
- Tuition
- Living expenses
- Research expenses
- Monthly stipend
The availability of research assistantships depends heavily on your field and whether professors have active research funding.
If you are applying for a research-based master’s degree, investigate faculty members whose research matches your interests.
A strong email to a potential supervisor can sometimes lead you toward funding opportunities that are not widely advertised.
10. Teaching Assistantships
Teaching assistantships are another common form of graduate funding in Canada.
A teaching assistant may help with:
- Tutorials
- Laboratory sessions
- Grading
- Office hours
- Course preparation
- Student support
The financial value varies by university, department and workload.
Some graduate funding packages combine teaching assistantships with scholarships and other sources of financial support.
When evaluating an offer, determine whether the advertised funding is a scholarship, employment income or a combination of both.
11. University Entrance Scholarships
Some universities offer scholarships specifically to students entering graduate programs.
These can be:
- Merit-based
- Research-based
- Faculty-specific
- Program-specific
- International-student awards
The amount can range from relatively small awards to substantial multi-year funding.
Some are automatically considered during admission, while others require a separate application.
Always check the university’s graduate funding page before submitting your application.
12. Look for Scholarships Based on Leadership
If your academic record is strong but your profile includes significant leadership or community involvement, look for scholarships where these qualities are explicitly evaluated.
The McCall MacBain Scholarship is a strong example of a Canadian master’s scholarship that emphasizes leadership and positive community impact.
When preparing your application, do not simply list your activities.
Show measurable impact.
For example:
“I volunteered with a youth education organization.”
is weaker than:
“I coordinated a volunteer team that provided weekly academic support to 60 secondary-school students.”
Specific outcomes make your leadership experience more convincing.
13. Scholarships for African Students
International students from Africa should also search for scholarships based on nationality or regional eligibility.
However, be careful with articles and social media posts claiming that a particular Canadian scholarship is “for all African students.”
Eligibility can vary significantly.
For example, Canada’s Study in Canada Scholarships program includes several eligible countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, Senegal, Tanzania and Uganda, among others. However, the 2026–27 program is designed for short-term study or research exchanges, not a standard multi-year master’s degree. Canadian institutions select and submit eligible candidates rather than individuals applying directly.
The scholarship can provide $10,200 for a four-month graduate-level exchange or $14,000 for a five-to-six-month graduate-level exchange under the 2026–27 program.
Therefore, students should distinguish between:
A fully funded master’s degree
and
A funded short-term study opportunity.
They are not the same thing.
14. Scholarships for Nigerian Students
Nigerian students have access to some Canadian scholarship and exchange opportunities, but eligibility must be checked carefully.
For example, Nigeria is listed among the eligible Sub-Saharan African countries for the 2026–27 Study in Canada Scholarships program. However, applicants must be enrolled full-time at an eligible institution in their home country and the Canadian institution applies on their behalf.
For students seeking a full master’s degree, it is generally more useful to search:
- Canadian university graduate funding
- Research-based master’s programs
- Faculty scholarships
- Supervisor-funded positions
- Graduate assistantships
- External scholarships
- Government-sponsored programs
What Master’s Programs Are Most Likely to Offer Funding?
Funding availability varies, but research-intensive programs tend to provide more opportunities.
Potential areas include:
Engineering
- Civil engineering
- Mechanical engineering
- Electrical engineering
- Chemical engineering
- Environmental engineering
Computer Science
- Artificial intelligence
- Machine learning
- Data science
- Cybersecurity
- Computer systems
Health Sciences
- Public health
- Biomedical sciences
- Epidemiology
- Health research
Natural Sciences
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Environmental science
Social Sciences
- Economics
- Political science
- Sociology
- Education
- Psychology
Other Research Fields
- Agriculture
- Environmental studies
- Food science
- Materials science
- Energy research
This does not mean professional programs cannot offer scholarships. It simply means that students seeking comprehensive funding should investigate research-based options particularly carefully.
Do You Need a High GPA?
Many competitive scholarships require strong academic performance.
For example, the CGRS M program is designed to support students who demonstrate a high standard of achievement in undergraduate and early graduate studies.
However, GPA is not necessarily the only factor in every funding opportunity.
Depending on the scholarship or program, selection may also consider:
- Research experience
- Leadership
- Community involvement
- Publications
- Research proposal
- Professional experience
- Academic references
- Statement of purpose
- Alignment with the supervisor’s research
If your GPA is not outstanding, focus on programs where your complete profile can be evaluated.
Do You Need IELTS for a Funded Master’s in Canada?
There is no single IELTS requirement for every Canadian scholarship or master’s program.
English-language requirements are generally determined by the university and program.
Some institutions may accept alternatives such as:
- TOEFL
- PTE
- CAEL
- Duolingo English Test
- Previous education conducted in English
However, acceptance varies.
You should check the language requirements of the specific university and program before applying.
Do not assume that a scholarship being advertised as “without IELTS” means that the university has no English-language requirement.
How to Find Fully Funded Master’s Opportunities in Canada
Use the following strategy.
Step 1: Choose Your Field
Identify your intended master’s program.
Step 2: Prioritize Research-Based Programs
Search for thesis-based or research master’s programs where funding is more common.
Step 3: Identify Universities
Create a list of Canadian universities with strong programs in your field.
Step 4: Check Funding Pages
Search each university for:
- Graduate funding
- Scholarships
- Financial support
- Research assistantships
- Teaching assistantships
- Graduate awards
Step 5: Research Professors
Identify professors whose research matches your interests.
Step 6: Contact Potential Supervisors
Introduce yourself professionally and explain your research interests.
Step 7: Check External Scholarships
Search government and university scholarship databases.
Step 8: Compare the Complete Funding Package
Do not focus only on the headline scholarship amount.
Calculate:
Tuition + Fees + Housing + Food + Transportation + Insurance − Funding
This gives you a more realistic picture of the financial benefit.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Funding
Build a Strong Academic Profile
Maintain good grades, particularly in courses relevant to your intended research area.
Develop Research Experience
Research experience can significantly strengthen a thesis-based master’s application.
Prepare a Strong CV
Include:
- Education
- Research
- Publications
- Professional experience
- Projects
- Certifications
- Leadership
- Volunteer work
Write a Strong Statement of Purpose
Explain why you want to study the program, your research interests and your long-term career goals.
Get Strong Recommendation Letters
Choose professors or professionals who can provide specific examples of your academic and professional abilities.
Apply Early
Some scholarships have deadlines months before the university’s general admission deadline.
Missing the funding deadline can mean receiving admission without consideration for a particular award.
How to Avoid Scholarship Scams
International students should be particularly careful when searching for fully funded opportunities.
Be suspicious if someone promises:
- Guaranteed admission
- Guaranteed scholarship
- Guaranteed visa
- Guaranteed job
- A scholarship in exchange for money
Never send money to an individual who claims they can “secure” a Canadian scholarship.
Verify the scholarship through the official university or government website.
Canada’s official EduCanada platform provides scholarship information and a search tool for international students looking for opportunities to study or conduct research in Canada.
Final Thoughts
Fully funded master’s opportunities in Canada do exist, but they are often different from the traditional scholarship model many international students expect.
Instead of finding one award that covers every expense, you may receive a combination of scholarship funding, tuition support, research assistantship, teaching assistantship and university funding.
Universities such as UBC, the University of Toronto and McGill demonstrate how substantial graduate funding can be structured for eligible master’s students.
The McCall MacBain Scholarship is another major opportunity for students seeking comprehensive financial support for eligible master’s and professional programs at McGill.
For international students, the most effective strategy is to search beyond generic phrases such as “fully funded master’s scholarships in Canada.”
Instead, search for:
“funded master’s programs in Canada”
“thesis-based master’s funding Canada”
“research assistantship Canada master’s”
“international student graduate funding Canada”
and
“fully funded MSc Canada international students.”
Always verify the latest eligibility requirements, funding amounts and deadlines directly with the university or scholarship provider.
A fully funded master’s degree can significantly reduce the cost of studying in Canada, but the best opportunities are competitive. Start your research early, target programs that match your academic and research background, and apply broadly rather than depending on a single scholarship.
Most importantly, evaluate the entire funding package, not just the scholarship title. A combination of tuition coverage, stipend, health insurance and assistantship income can sometimes provide a much stronger financial outcome than a scholarship that simply advertises a large one-time award.