Dreaming of moving to Canada but worried about the costs? What if you could cut your expenses by $20,000 or more while boosting your chances of permanent residency?
The secret? Combining Canada’s Express Entry system with a high-value scholarship for international students. This powerful strategy helps you:
- Save thousands on tuition
- Earn extra immigration points
- Gain Canadian work experience
- Fast-track your PR application
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make it happen—step by step.
Why Scholarships Make Canadian Immigration Easier
Canada’s Express Entry system ranks candidates based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills. But here’s the game-changer: studying in Canada gives you a major advantage because:
- Extra CRS Points – A Canadian degree or diploma adds up to 30 points to your Express Entry score.
- Work While Studying – You can work 20 hours/week during school and full-time during breaks.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) – After graduation, you get 1-3 years to work in Canada, making you a stronger PR candidate.
- Provincial Nomination Opportunities – Many provinces prioritize graduates for PNP streams, which can fast-track your PR.
A $20K+ scholarship makes this path more affordable—so you can focus on building your future in Canada.
Top $20K+ Scholarships for Future Canadian Immigrants
These scholarships can dramatically reduce your costs while helping you qualify for Express Entry:
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Value: $50,000 per year (for 3 years)
- For: PhD students with top grades and leadership skills
- Why It’s Great: Covers tuition + living expenses while boosting your profile for Express Entry.
2. University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
- Value: Full tuition + living costs for 4 years
- For: Exceptional undergrads with leadership experience
- Bonus: U of T is a top-ranked school—great for networking and job opportunities.
3. UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award
- Value: Up to full tuition + living expenses
- For: High-achieving students with financial need
- Why It Helps: UBC graduates have strong job prospects, making PR easier.
4. Humber College International Entrance Scholarships
- Value: Up to $20,000
- For: New international students in diploma/certificate programs
- Key Benefit: Humber’s career-focused programs align with Canada’s job market needs.
5. York University Global Leader Scholarships
- Value: $20,000–$80,000 (over 4 years)
- For: High-performing undergrads
- Immigration Perk: York’s co-op programs help you gain Canadian work experience.
How to Win a Scholarship & Boost Your Express Entry Chances
Step 1: Choose the Right Program
Pick a PGWP-eligible program (check IRCC’s list) so you can work after graduation. STEM, healthcare, and skilled trades often have more scholarships.
Step 2: Apply Early
Many scholarships have deadlines 10–12 months before the program starts. Don’t wait!
Step 3: Write a Winning Application
- Personal Statement: Explain why you deserve the scholarship and how you’ll contribute to Canada.
- Strong References: Get recommendation letters from professors or employers who know your work.
- Proof of Leadership: Highlight volunteer work, awards, or extracurriculars.
Step 4: Apply for Multiple Scholarships
Don’t rely on just one—increase your odds by applying to at least 5–10 funding opportunities.
From Scholarship to Permanent Residency: Your Roadmap
- Get Accepted + Secure Funding – Land a scholarship and study permit.
- Work Part-Time – Earn money and gain Canadian experience while studying.
- Graduate & Get a PGWP – Work full-time for up to 3 years.
- Boost Your CRS Score – Use your Canadian education + work experience to rank higher in Express Entry.
- Apply for PR – Qualify through Express Entry, PNP, or Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
What If You Don’t Get a Scholarship?
No scholarship? No problem! You can still:
- Apply for cheaper colleges (some diplomas cost under $15,000/year).
- Use student loans or part-time work to cover costs.
- Enter Express Entry directly if you have strong work experience and language scores.
But if you can secure a $20K+ scholarship, it’s the smartest way to save money and speed up your Canadian immigration journey.
Final Tip: Start Now!
Scholarships are competitive, and Express Entry pools fill up fast. The sooner you apply, the better your chances.
Ready to begin?
✅ Research scholarships today
✅ Contact schools for application details
✅ Prepare a standout submission
Frequently Asked Questions: Canada Immigration via Express Entry + Scholarships
1. Can a scholarship really help me immigrate to Canada?
Absolutely! A scholarship makes studying in Canada more affordable, and Canadian education gives you extra CRS points for Express Entry. Plus, you’ll qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), helping you gain valuable Canadian work experience.
2. Do I have to repay these scholarships?
Most major scholarships (like Vanier or Lester B. Pearson) are non-repayable grants. However, always check the terms—some may require you to maintain certain grades or return to your home country after studies (though this is rare for Canadian immigration-focused scholarships).
3. How competitive are $20K+ scholarships?
Very competitive, but not impossible. Strong grades, leadership experience, and a well-written application significantly boost your chances. Applying to multiple scholarships increases your odds of success.
4. Can I work while studying in Canada?
Yes! International students can work up to 20 hours per week during school terms and full-time during scheduled breaks. This helps cover living costs and builds Canadian work experience.
5. What if I don’t get a scholarship? Can I still immigrate?
Definitely. Many students self-fund or take loans, work part-time, and still qualify for PR through Express Entry. A scholarship just makes the process easier and cheaper.
6. Do diploma programs qualify for scholarships too?
Yes! Colleges like Humber, Seneca, and Conestoga offer scholarships for diploma/certificate programs. Just ensure your program is PGWP-eligible so you can work after graduation.
7. Can my spouse come with me if I get a scholarship?
Yes! Your spouse can get an open work permit, allowing them to work full-time in Canada while you study.