How to Get a Fully Funded Scholarship in Canada

01. August 2025 Admin

How to Get a Fully Funded Scholarship in Canada

Canada is one of the top study destinations for Nigerian students, offering high-quality education and countless opportunities for international growth. But the real question is: how can you study in Canada without spending millions? The answer lies in fully funded scholarships—and yes, they’re real, competitive, and achievable if you follow the right steps.

Quick Insight: Fully funded scholarships in Canada cover tuition, accommodation, monthly stipends, and sometimes even travel expenses.

1. Understand What a “Fully Funded” Scholarship Means

This type of scholarship pays for everything: tuition, living costs, books, health insurance, and sometimes flights. Programs like Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships or Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships are perfect examples.

2. Start Preparing Early (At Least 12 Months Ahead)

Scholarship applications are usually open a year in advance. Start by researching universities and their scholarship deadlines. You’ll also need to begin preparing documents like academic transcripts, personal statements, and recommendation letters early.

3. Choose the Right Universities Offering Scholarships

Not all schools offer fully funded scholarships. Focus on top Canadian universities known for international support, such as:

University of Toronto
University of British Columbia
McGill University
University of Alberta
University of Waterloo

4. Prepare a Strong Personal Statement

This is one of the most important documents in your application. It should clearly explain why you deserve the scholarship, your academic goals, your achievements, and how studying in Canada fits your future plans.

5. Get Strong Recommendation Letters

Choose mentors or teachers who know your academic abilities well. Give them time and context to write something powerful. A weak reference letter can kill your chances.

6. Maintain an Excellent Academic Record

Most fully funded scholarships are competitive and require a minimum GPA or academic standard. Some expect first-class honors or at least a second upper (2:1).

7. Prove Your English Proficiency

Unless you studied in English all your life, you'll need to write IELTS or TOEFL. Some universities accept alternatives or waive it for Nigerian students, so always check specific requirements.

8. Search on Trusted Scholarship Portals

Websites like the Canadian government scholarship portal, EduCanada, or each university’s official financial aid page list available opportunities. Beware of scammers who promise scholarships for a fee.

9. Apply for Multiple Scholarships

Don’t put all your hopes in one scholarship. Apply for as many as possible. Some may partially fund you; others may offer full funding. Combining smaller awards can also help cover costs.

10. Be Ready for Interview and Documentation

Some scholarships involve interviews, online assessments, or document verification. Practice possible interview questions and keep your documents (passport, transcripts, references) ready in both hard and soft copy formats.

Final Thoughts

Getting a fully funded scholarship to study in Canada is possible, but it requires dedication, strategy, and the right information. Start early, organize your documents, research thoroughly, and never stop applying. If thousands of other Nigerian students have done it, so can you.

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