Financial support for international students in Canada

International students in Canada can access a range of financial support options to help them meet the cost of tuition and living expenses in Canada.

Overview

Although international students in Canada do not have access to the same scholarships and bursaries as students who are citizens or permanent residents, they can still access a range of financial support options to help meet the cost of studying in Canada.

Scholarships

Financial support awarded on the basis of academic achievement or extracurricular activity is known as a scholarship, or sometimes a bursary. International students in Canada who receive a scholarship do not have to repay the money. Scholarships may be offered by institutions, agencies, governments or individuals.

Many scholarships require an application process. Because there are many different types of scholarship available in Canada or in a prospective international student’s home country, it is important to research each one individually. Eligibility criteria and application processes can differ considerably — for example, some scholarships may require an essay or a letter of recommendation from a teacher or employer. Others may be based solely on grades, sporting achievement or other extracurricular activities.

Prospective international students in Canada are encouraged to contact institutions directly to find out more about the options available.

Find information about scholarships for international students on the Government of Canada websitehere.

Bursaries

Financial support awarded on the basis of financial need is known as a bursary. As with scholarships, international students in Canada who receive a bursary do not have to repay the money. Universities and colleges may offer bursaries to students who meet certain requirements. Students applying for a bursary are usually required to undergo a needs assessment and may have to provide information about their income or that of their parents. Applications may also be reviewed by a committee.

Loans

Depending on whether they are eligible for a scholarship or bursary, international students in Canada may choose to take out a private student loan from a Canadian bank. As the name suggests, these loan agreements involve a specific interest rate and repayment schedule, which students should follow closely to avoid accumulating unnecessary debt.

Canadian banks generally offer these loans at student-friendly rates and on student-friendly schedules, making them a viable option for international students who cannot pursue a scholarship or bursary.

Read more about loans on the government websitehere.

Other options

Individual organisations may offer further financial advice and resources to international students. Prospective international students in Canada are encouraged to contact universities and colleges directly to find out more about the options available.

Most international students in Canada holding a valid study permit may also work up to 20 hours per week off campus during term time, and full time during scheduled breaks. Read more aboutworking while studying in Canada.