Canada has become one of the top study destinations for Vietnamese 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 Vietnamese 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 Vietnamese 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 Vietnamese Students in Canada
1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
- Coverage: Full tuition, books, 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 (including Vietnam).
- 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 Vietnamese 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 Vietnam after studies.
How to Win a Scholarship (Tips for Vietnamese 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 Vietnamese 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: Scholarships in Canada for Vietnamese Students
General Scholarship Questions
1. What types of scholarships are available for Vietnamese students in Canada?
Vietnamese students can apply for:
- Merit-based scholarships (for academic excellence)
- Need-based scholarships (for financial support)
- University-specific awards (from individual Canadian schools)
- Government-funded programs (Canadian and Vietnamese)
- Private/Corporate scholarships (from organizations)
2. Can I get a fully funded scholarship to study in Canada?
Yes! Some top fully funded options include:
- Lester B. Pearson Scholarship (University of Toronto)
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (PhD students)
- Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
3. What grades do I need to qualify for scholarships?
Requirements vary, but generally:
- Undergraduate: Minimum 8.0+ GPA (or equivalent)
- Master’s/PhD: Strong bachelor’s grades (3.5/4.0 GPA or higher)
- Some scholarships also consider extracurriculars and leadership.