Canada Student Visa with Scholarship 2025 for International Students

Canada continues to be one of the most popular destinations for international students in 2025. Its world-class universities, multicultural environment, and excellent post-study work opportunities make it a top choice for those pursuing higher education abroad. But one of the biggest concerns for students is managing the cost of tuition and living expenses. This is where scholarships play a vital role.

If you’re planning to study in Canada in 2025, you’ll need to understand two key things:

How to apply for a Canada student visa (Study Permit).
How to secure scholarships that reduce your financial burden.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Canada student visa with scholarships in 2025 — eligibility, requirements, application process, scholarship options, and frequently asked questions.

Why Study in Canada in 2025?

Canada is ranked among the top five study destinations in the world. More than 800,000 international students are enrolled in Canadian institutions, and the number keeps rising each year. Here’s why Canada remains a top destination:

High-quality education – Canadian universities rank globally, with institutions like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and University of British Columbia leading the charts.
Affordable tuition fees – Compared to the US, UK, or Australia, Canada offers relatively lower tuition costs.
Generous scholarships – Many scholarships are available for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) – Students can work in Canada after graduation, often leading to permanent residency.
Multicultural society – Canada is inclusive and welcomes people from all cultural backgrounds.

Understanding the Canada Student Visa (Study Permit)

A student visa for Canada is officially called a Study Permit. To study in Canada in 2025, you must obtain this permit unless your course duration is less than six months.

Eligibility for Canada Study Permit 2025

To apply for a Canada student visa, you must:

Have a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
Show proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
Have a clean criminal record (you may be asked for a police certificate).
Pass a medical exam, if required.
Prove your intention to leave Canada after your studies (unless you apply for permanent residency later).

Financial Requirements for 2025

To qualify for a study permit, you must demonstrate financial stability. According to the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) guidelines, you need:

Tuition fees (varies by institution).
Living expenses of at least CAD 10,000 per year (outside Quebec).
For Quebec, CAD 11,000 per year.
Additional funds for family members, if they accompany you.

This is where scholarships become important, as they help reduce these financial obligations significantly.

How Scholarships Help with Canada Student Visa

One of the most common questions students ask is: “Can I apply for a Canada student visa with a scholarship?”

The answer is YES. If you receive a scholarship, it:

Strengthens your student visa application because it proves financial capacity.
Reduces the proof of funds requirement, as the scholarship covers part or all of your tuition.
Makes studying in Canada more affordable and accessible.

Top Scholarships for International Students in Canada 2025

Scholarships in Canada are offered by universities, the government, and private organizations. Below is a list of the most popular ones in 2025:

1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (PhD Students)

Value: CAD 50,000 per year for three years.
Eligibility: PhD students with academic excellence, leadership skills, and research potential.

2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)

Value: Covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support.
Eligibility: Exceptional international students applying for undergraduate programs.

3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program

Value: Covers tuition and living expenses based on financial need.
Eligibility: Outstanding students with leadership potential.

4. McGill University Scholarships and Entrance Awards

Value: Partial to full tuition waivers.
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate international students.

5. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program

Value: Covers travel, tuition, and living allowance.
Eligibility: Students from Commonwealth countries pursuing master’s and PhD programs.

6. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

Value: CAD 15,000 per year.
Eligibility: Graduate students studying in Ontario.

7. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships

Value: CAD 14,000 (Master’s) and CAD 18,000 (PhD) annually.
Eligibility: International graduate students with strong academic performance.

8. Government of Canada International Scholarships

Includes programs like the Canada-ASEAN SEED and Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program.

9. York University International Student Scholarship Program

Value: Ranges from CAD 20,000 to CAD 35,000 per year.
Eligibility: Outstanding undergraduate students.

10. Concordia University International Excellence Tuition Award

Value: Covers tuition for outstanding international undergraduates.

Step-by-Step Guide: Applying for a Canada Student Visa with Scholarship 2025

Here’s the process simplified:

Step 1: Research and Apply for Scholarships

Identify scholarships that match your eligibility.
Apply early (deadlines are usually between October 2024 – March 2025).
Secure your scholarship offer letter.

Step 2: Apply for Admission to a Canadian University

Apply to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Receive a letter of acceptance.

Step 3: Prepare Financial Documents

Include your scholarship award letter.
Provide additional proof of funds if required.

Step 4: Apply for Study Permit (Student Visa)

Submit an online application through the IRCC portal.
Pay the application fee (CAD 150).
Provide biometrics and attend an interview, if requested.

Step 5: Receive Your Student Visa

If approved, you will get a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction and a study permit.

Work Opportunities for Students with Scholarships

Even if you have a scholarship, you may still want to work part-time in Canada. The good news is:

You can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions.
You can work full-time during scheduled breaks.
Post-graduation, you can apply for a PGWP (valid for up to 3 years).

This means you can support yourself financially while gaining valuable Canadian work experience.

Tips to Strengthen Your Canada Student Visa Application with a Scholarship

Apply early – Both scholarships and student visas take time.
Show strong academic records – Most scholarships are merit-based.
Demonstrate leadership and community involvement – Canadian scholarships value holistic achievements.
Prepare proof of funds even if you have a scholarship – Sometimes additional funds are required.
Write a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Highlight how studying in Canada aligns with your career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I get a student visa for Canada if I have a scholarship?

Yes. A scholarship strengthens your visa application by proving financial capacity.

2. Do Canadian scholarships cover living expenses?

Some do, like the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship, while others only cover tuition fees.

3. Do I still need to show proof of funds if I have a scholarship?

Yes. You may still need to provide proof of funds unless your scholarship covers all tuition and living costs.

4. How much bank balance is required for a Canada student visa in 2025?

At least CAD 10,000 per year for living expenses plus tuition fees. In Quebec, it’s CAD 11,000.

5. Can I apply for multiple scholarships in Canada?

Yes. You can apply to several scholarships simultaneously, but you can only accept one major award if it covers full tuition.

6. What is the processing time for a Canada student visa in 2025?

The average processing time is 7 to 12 weeks, depending on your country.

7. Can I work in Canada if I am on a scholarship?

Yes. Scholarships don’t affect your right to work part-time during studies and full-time during breaks.

8. Which is the best scholarship for international students in Canada?

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship for PhD students and the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship for undergraduates are among the most prestigious.

9. Do I need IELTS for a Canada student visa in 2025?

Most universities require IELTS or equivalent proof of English proficiency, but some institutions may waive it for eligible students.

10. Can I bring my family with me on a student visa?

Yes. You can bring your spouse or children, and your spouse may be eligible for an open work permit.

Conclusion

Studying in Canada in 2025 with a scholarship is not only possible but also highly rewarding. Scholarships reduce financial stress and make your study permit application stronger. By following the right process—securing admission, applying for scholarships, preparing financial proof, and submitting a strong visa application—you can achieve your dream of studying in Canada.