Dreaming of studying in Canada while boosting your Express Entry profile? Fully funded scholarships can make it happen. These golden opportunities don’t just cover tuition—they handle living expenses, travel costs, and even health insurance. Better yet, winning one strengthens your permanent residency application by proving your academic excellence and financial stability.
This guide reveals the top fully funded Canadian scholarships tied to Express Entry, who qualifies, and how to craft a winning application.
Why Fully Funded Scholarships Matter for Express Entry
Canada’s Express Entry system rewards candidates with higher education, language skills, and professional experience. A fully funded scholarship gives you three key advantages:
- Financial Proof – Shows you can support yourself (reducing concerns about settlement funds)
- Academic Credibility – Validates your qualifications for Canadian employers
- Integration Potential – Demonstrates your commitment to contributing to Canada’s economy
Top Fully Funded Canadian Scholarships for Future PR Applicants
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
If you’re pursuing a PhD, this is one of Canada’s most prestigious awards. It provides $50,000 per year for three years and is open to both domestic and international students.
Why It’s Great for Express Entry:
- Automatically boosts your CRS score through higher education
- Gives access to Canada’s top research networks
- No repayment required
Eligibility:
- Must be nominated by a Canadian university
- Strong academic record and research potential
University of Waterloo Master’s Awards of Excellence
Waterloo offers $2,500 per term for master’s students across all disciplines. While not a full ride, it significantly reduces costs when combined with other funding.
Express Entry Advantage:
- Waterloo’s co-op programs help you gain Canadian work experience
- Strong industry connections for post-graduation employment
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
The University of Toronto’s premier scholarship covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years.
Why It’s Perfect for PR:
- Includes mentorship opportunities with Canadian leaders
- Priority access to internships and networking events
Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
This $40,000 per year scholarship (for three years) targets PhD students in social sciences and humanities.
Unique Perks:
- Leadership training aligned with Canada’s multicultural values
- Networking with policymakers and business leaders
How to Find More Hidden Gems
- Check Provincial Programs – Some provinces (like BC and Ontario) offer exclusive scholarships for international students.
- Ask Your Department – Many faculties have undisclosed funding for top applicants.
- Industry-Specific Awards – Professional associations often sponsor students in high-demand fields like nursing or engineering.
Crafting a Winning Application
- Start Early – Some scholarships require nominations from professors 6+ months in advance.
- Align with Canada’s Priorities – Emphasize skills in tech, healthcare, or trades if applicable.
- Show Community Impact – Canadian institutions value applicants who’ll contribute to society.
Final Tip: The Scholarship-Express Entry Connection
Winning a fully funded scholarship does more than pay your bills—it positions you as an ideal future permanent resident. Immigration officers recognize recipients of competitive awards as highly likely to succeed in Canada’s labor market.
Next Steps:
- Bookmark this page for reference
- Set up alerts on university financial aid pages
- Draft a reusable scholarship application template
Frequently Asked Questions About Fully Funded Canadian Scholarships and Express Entry
Can a scholarship help me qualify for Express Entry?
Absolutely! While scholarships themselves don’t directly give you CRS points, they provide two major advantages:
- They demonstrate strong academic achievement (which can help with Canadian job prospects)
- They reduce the funds you need to show for settlement (currently $13,757+ for a single applicant)
Do I need to pay tax on my scholarship money in Canada?
Most full-tuition scholarships are tax-free, but living stipends may be taxable if they exceed your education costs. Always check with the scholarship provider and consult a Canadian tax professional.
Can I work while on a fully funded scholarship?
Yes! Your study permit allows you to:
- Work up to 20 hours per week during school terms
- Work full-time during scheduled breaks
Just ensure your scholarship doesn’t have specific restrictions.
What happens if I get PR status while on scholarship?
This is actually great news! Many scholarships continue even after you get PR status. Some may even convert you to domestic tuition rates, saving you thousands more.
Are there age limits for these scholarships?
Most don’t have strict age limits, but some (like the Vanier Scholarship) prioritize early-career researchers. Mature students often qualify for different awards based on work experience.