Canada has become one of the most attractive study destinations for Brazilian students, offering world-class education, a welcoming multicultural environment, and excellent post-graduation work opportunities. However, studying abroad can be expensive, which is why scholarships play a crucial role in making Canadian education more accessible.
If you’re a Brazilian student dreaming of studying in Canada but worried about costs, this guide covers the best scholarships available for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs.
Why Study in Canada?
Before diving into scholarships, let’s look at why Canada is a great choice for Brazilian students:
- High-quality education – Canadian universities rank among the best globally.
- Affordable tuition compared to the US or UK.
- Work opportunities – Students can work part-time and stay after graduation.
- Safe and diverse – Canada is known for its welcoming culture.
- Permanent residency pathways for international graduates.
Now, let’s explore the best scholarships to help fund your studies.
Top Scholarships for Brazilian Students in Canada
1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
- Coverage: Full tuition, books, and living expenses for four years.
- Eligibility: Exceptional academic record + leadership.
- Deadline: November (for nomination) / January (final application).
2. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (PhD Students)
- Value: $50,000 per year for three years.
- For: Doctoral students in health, engineering, social sciences.
- Deadline: November.
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholarships
- Options:
- International Leader of Tomorrow Award (need + merit-based).
- Outstanding International Student Award (merit-based).
- Amount: Up to full tuition coverage.
4. Humber College International Entrance Scholarships
- Value: $1,000–$5,000.
- For: New diploma/degree students.
- Deadline: Varies by intake.
5. York University International Student Scholarships
- Award: $80,000–$180,000 over four years.
- Automatic consideration for admitted students.
6. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
- For: Master’s and PhD students from Commonwealth countries (Brazil is eligible).
- Coverage: Full tuition, living allowance, airfare.
7. Ontario Trillium Scholarship (PhD Students in Ontario)
- Value: $40,000 per year (renewable for four years).
- For: International PhD candidates.
8. Seneca College International Student Scholarships
- Range: $500–$3,000.
- For: Diploma and certificate programs.
9. University of Alberta International Country-Specific Awards
- For Brazilian students: $5,000–$10,000.
- Based on: Academic excellence.
10. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship
- For: Outstanding Master’s/PhD students with financial need.
- Requires: Return commitment to Brazil after studies.
How to Win a Scholarship (Tips for Brazilian Students)
Competition is tough, so follow these strategies to improve your chances:
✅ Start early – Many deadlines are 8–12 months before your program starts.
✅ Apply to multiple scholarships – Don’t rely on just one.
✅ Write a compelling personal statement – Show your passion, goals, and why you deserve funding.
✅ Get strong recommendation letters – Choose teachers/professors who know you well.
✅ Highlight leadership & extracurriculars – Canadian universities value well-rounded students.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Missing deadlines – Mark them on your calendar!
❌ Submitting generic applications – Tailor each one.
❌ Ignoring smaller scholarships – Even $2,000–$5,000 helps.
❌ Poor English in essays – Proofread carefully or get help.
Alternative Funding Options
If scholarships don’t cover all costs, consider:
- Part-time jobs (students can work 20 hrs/week).
- Teaching/research assistantships (for graduate students).
- Education loans (some Brazilian banks support study abroad).
- Family support + savings (combine funding sources).
Final Thoughts
Studying in Canada is an incredible opportunity, and scholarships make it more affordable. Whether you’re aiming for undergraduate, master’s, or PhD studies, there are funding options available.
Start researching early, apply strategically, and don’t give up—your Canadian education dream is within reach!
Frequently Asked Questions About Canadian Scholarships for Brazilian Students
General Scholarship Information
What types of scholarships are available for Brazilian students in Canada?
Brazilian students can access several scholarship types:
- Merit-based awards for academic excellence
- Need-based financial aid for students requiring support
- University-specific scholarships offered by individual institutions
- Government-funded programs from Canada and Brazil
- Private/industry scholarships from corporations and organizations
Can I get a full scholarship to study in Canada?
Yes! Top fully-funded options include:
- Lester B. Pearson Scholarship (University of Toronto)
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (for PhD students)
- Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships