Study and Work in Canada: Programs That Cover Tuition and Living Expenses – Study in CANADA
Introduction
Canada has become a top destination for international students, offering high-quality education, a diverse cultural experience, and abundant career opportunities. However, studying abroad can often come with a heavy financial burden, especially when it comes to tuition and living expenses. To ease this challenge, many Canadian universities and government programs offer funding options, including scholarships, work-study opportunities, and bursaries, that help cover both tuition fees and living costs.
In this guide, we will explore some of the best programs that allow international students to study and work in Canada while covering tuition and living expenses. Whether you are looking for fully funded scholarships or opportunities to gain work experience while studying, this list will provide you with the most valuable options to make your Canadian education more affordable.
1. Canadian Government Scholarships
Funding Opportunities:
The Canadian government offers several scholarships and funding opportunities to international students through the following programs:
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The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: This is one of Canada’s most prestigious scholarships for international students pursuing doctoral programs. The scholarship provides a generous financial package, covering both tuition fees and living expenses.
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The Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program (CGS-M): Designed to assist graduate students pursuing master’s degrees, this fully funded scholarship covers tuition fees and living expenses.
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Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships: For postdoctoral students, the Banting Fellowships provide funding to help them pursue research while covering both tuition and living expenses.
How to Apply:
These scholarships require candidates to be nominated by their respective institutions. To apply, you must first meet the eligibility criteria and submit an application through the university’s international office or the official Canadian scholarship portals.
2. University-Specific Scholarships
Several top Canadian universities offer their own funding opportunities for international students, which may cover both tuition and living expenses.
University of Toronto:
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The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program: This prestigious, fully funded scholarship is aimed at international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and leadership abilities. The award covers tuition fees, books, incidental fees, and full living expenses for four years.
How to Apply:
To be considered for the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship, students must first be nominated by their high school and apply to the University of Toronto.
McGill University:
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McGill Entrance Scholarships: McGill offers various entrance scholarships for international students, which can significantly reduce the cost of tuition and living expenses. The awards vary depending on the student’s academic achievements.
How to Apply:
International students must apply for admission to McGill University, and those who meet the eligibility criteria will be automatically considered for scholarships.
University of British Columbia (UBC):
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The International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES): UBC offers this award to international students who demonstrate high academic achievements. This scholarship can cover the full cost of tuition, making it an excellent option for students from countries with high tuition fees.
How to Apply:
You must first be admitted to UBC before applying for the scholarship. Ensure that you submit all required documentation, including proof of academic excellence.
3. Work-Study Opportunities in Canada
Canada’s Work-Study Program:
Canada offers several work-study opportunities for international students, allowing them to gain valuable work experience while earning money to cover their living expenses.
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On-Campus Employment: Most international students in Canada are eligible to work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks. This provides students with the chance to support themselves financially while gaining professional experience.
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Co-op and Internship Programs: Many Canadian universities offer co-op and internship programs that allow students to gain work experience in their field of study. These programs not only provide a source of income but also enhance students’ resumes for future employment.
How to Apply:
To access on-campus work opportunities or apply for co-op programs, students should check with their respective university’s career services or student employment office.
4. Provincial and Regional Scholarships
Each Canadian province has its own set of funding programs for international students. These scholarships can vary from partial funding to fully funded programs covering both tuition and living expenses.
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS):
This award provides funding to graduate students in Ontario. Although it does not cover the entire cost of tuition, it significantly reduces financial barriers for international students.
How to Apply:
To apply, students must be enrolled in a graduate program in Ontario and apply through their university’s graduate office.
Quebec Merit Scholarships:
Quebec offers merit-based scholarships to international students, with a focus on those attending universities in Montreal. These scholarships help to reduce tuition fees and offer additional funding for living expenses.
How to Apply:
The Quebec government offers information on the application process through its official website, and eligibility criteria vary based on the program of study.
5. Fully Funded Exchange Programs
Canada also participates in exchange programs that provide fully funded opportunities for international students to study while gaining cultural experience.
The Canada World Youth Program (CWY):
This government-funded initiative allows young people from around the world to engage in educational and cultural exchange programs, with full funding for travel, tuition, and living expenses.
How to Apply:
Interested students must apply through their home country’s CWY program portal. Eligibility criteria include age restrictions and academic requirements.
6. Employer-Sponsored Funding Programs
Some Canadian employers offer funding for international students as part of their employee development programs. These programs typically cover tuition fees and may provide additional financial support for living expenses.
How to Apply:
To access employer-sponsored funding, students must be employed or have secured a job with companies offering such benefits. It’s advisable to check with the employer about eligibility and funding details.
Conclusion
Studying and working in Canada offers international students the opportunity to receive a world-class education while gaining valuable work experience and financial support. Whether you are looking for fully funded scholarships, work-study programs, or employer-sponsored opportunities, there are various programs designed to cover both tuition and living expenses.
By taking advantage of these financial opportunities, students can focus more on their academic and professional development and less on the financial burdens of studying abroad. To maximize your chances of securing funding, be sure to explore the application processes and eligibility requirements for each program thoroughly.