Canada is quickly becoming one of the most preferred destinations for Pakistani students seeking quality education abroad. With its world-class universities, welcoming environment, and promising post-study opportunities, it’s no wonder thousands of students dream of studying in Canada every year. However, the high cost of international education can be a major barrier. Fortunately, there are several fully funded and partially funded scholarships available specifically for Pakistani students. In this blog, we cover the top 10 scholarships for Pakistani students to study in Canada in 2025 and how you can apply for them.
Why Choose Canada for Higher Education?
- Globally Recognized Universities: Institutions like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia consistently rank among the top universities worldwide.
- Multicultural Environment: Canada is home to a large Pakistani community and offers a safe, inclusive atmosphere for international students.
- Post-Graduation Opportunities: After completing your degree, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and even transition to permanent residency.
- Affordable Compared to Other Countries: Studying in Canada is generally more cost-effective than in the UK or the USA.
Eligibility Criteria for Canadian Scholarships (2025)
Before applying, it’s important to understand the general eligibility criteria:
- Academic Excellence: Most scholarships require a strong academic record (usually GPA above 3.0/4.0).
- English Proficiency: A valid IELTS or TOEFL score is often mandatory.
- Extracurricular Activities: Leadership qualities and community service can enhance your profile.
- Level of Study: Some scholarships are for undergraduates, while others are for Master’s or PhD programs.
Top 10 Scholarships for Pakistani Students to Study in Canada (2025)
1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
The University of Toronto is one of Canada’s leading universities and is ranked consistently among the top institutions globally. Located in Canada’s largest city, Toronto, it offers a vibrant and diverse student community.
- University: University of Toronto
- Level: Undergraduate
- Coverage: Tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years
2. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships program is a Canadian government initiative that aims to attract world-class PhD students to Canadian universities. These scholarships are highly competitive and target international students with outstanding research potential and academic excellence.
- Level: PhD
- Amount: CAD $50,000 per year for three years
- Focus: Academic excellence, research potential, leadership
3. UBC International Scholars Program
UBC is one of Canada’s oldest and most prestigious institutions. Located in Vancouver, it consistently ranks among the world’s top 40 universities. UBC offers a unique and dynamic student experience, with extensive research opportunities and a global student body.
- University: University of British Columbia
- Level: Undergraduate
- Coverage: Fully funded (four categories including International Leader of Tomorrow)
4. McGill University Scholarships
Located in Montreal, McGill is one of Canada’s oldest universities and is internationally renowned for its research excellence, particularly in medicine, law, and the sciences. It is a member of the prestigious “Ivy League” of Canadian universities.
- Level: Undergraduate and Graduate
- Type: Merit-based entrance awards and need-based financial aid
5. University of Alberta International Admission Scholarship
The University of Alberta, located in Edmonton, is recognized for its cutting-edge research and high academic standards. It offers more than 200 undergraduate programs and boasts a diverse student population.
- Level: Undergraduate
- Amount: CAD $5,000 based on academic achievements
6. York University International Student Scholarship
York University, located in Toronto, is a major public research university in Canada, offering more than 50,000 students diverse academic programs. York is known for its progressive curriculum and commitment to social justice, inclusion, and sustainability.
- Level: Undergraduate
- Coverage: Up to CAD $80,000 over four years
- Award Type: Global Leader of Tomorrow Scholarship
7. Concordia Presidential Scholarship
Located in Montreal, Concordia University is a well-regarded institution known for its diverse academic programs, especially in business, arts, and engineering. Concordia has a strong commitment to teaching excellence and community engagement.
- University: Concordia University
- Level: Undergraduate
- Coverage: Full tuition, books, and living costs
8. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF)
The University of Manitoba is the largest university in Manitoba and offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It is known for its excellent research opportunities, particularly in the fields of agriculture, health, and education.
- Level: Master’s and PhD
- Amount: Up to CAD $18,000 per year for PhD and CAD $14,000 for Master’s
9. Ontario Trillium Scholarship
The Ontario Trillium Scholarship is a prestigious award that targets international students who want to pursue doctoral studies in Ontario, Canada. The program is designed to make Ontario a more attractive destination for global talent.
- Level: PhD
- Amount: CAD $40,000 per year
- Eligibility: Must be applying to Ontario-based universities
10. Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
The Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED) program supports student exchanges between Canada and Southeast Asia. Pakistani students who are part of the ASEAN community or those pursuing a Canadian graduate program may be eligible to apply.
- Level: Short-term Exchange (Grad students)
- Coverage: Tuition, travel, living expenses
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How to Apply for These Scholarships
- Research Deadlines: Visit the official websites of the universities offering these scholarships.
- Prepare Documents: Academic transcripts, English proficiency scores, Statement of Purpose (SOP), and recommendation letters.
- Online Applications: Most scholarships have dedicated online portals for applications.
- Tailor Your Application: Highlight achievements relevant to each scholarship’s goals.
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Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship
- Start Early: Begin preparing at least 6-8 months in advance.
- Academic Consistency: Maintain a strong GPA throughout your studies.
- Strong SOP: Tell a compelling story about your ambitions and need.
- Letters of Recommendation: Choose recommenders who truly know your capabilities.
- Apply to Multiple Scholarships: Don’t rely on just one opportunity.
FAQs – Scholarships for Pakistani Students in Canada (2025)
Q: Can I get a fully funded scholarship in Canada from Pakistan?
A: Yes, many universities like UBC, University of Toronto, and Concordia offer fully funded scholarships for international students, including those from Pakistan.
Q: Is IELTS mandatory for scholarship applications?
A: In most cases, yes. A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent in TOEFL is typically required.
Q: Are undergraduate or graduate scholarships easier to get?
A: Graduate scholarships usually have more funding opportunities, but competition is tough for both.
Q: When should I apply for 2025 intake?
A: Most scholarships open between September and December 2024. It’s best to check specific university timelines.
Conclusion
Studying in Canada is a life-changing opportunity, and with the right scholarship, it can also be financially manageable. Start your preparations early, focus on your academic and extracurricular profile, and apply to multiple programs to maximize your chances. Whether you’re aiming for a fully funded undergraduate degree or a prestigious PhD fellowship, these scholarships for Pakistani students to study in Canada in 2025 can help you achieve your dreams.
Ready to apply? Start shortlisting universities and preparing your application today!
