How to Study in Canada for Free

How to Study in Canada for Free: Scholarships, Bursaries and Financial Aid for International Students

Have you ever wanted to study in Canada, but thought it was too expensive? Do you want to live, study, and maybe work in Canada someday? Well, the good news is, you can!

If Europe isn’t your dream, Canada might be the right place for you. In this blog post, you will learn how to find scholarships, apply to top universities, and get financial help to study in Canada. Let’s begin your journey to Canada!

Why Choose Canada?

Canada is one of the best countries for international students. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Easy student visa process

  • Friendly and safe environment

  • Great universities

  • Financial aid and scholarships

  • Chance to work after you graduate

  • Pathway to become a permanent resident

Even if you don’t have a lot of money, you can still apply, study, and live your dream life in Canada.

Read on: Scholarships to Study in the United States: Everything you need to know to get one

Types of Student Support in Canada

If you want to study in Canada, but you’re worried about money, don’t worry! There are many ways to get financial support, such as:

Scholarships

Money that helps you pay for your education and you don’t have to pay it back.

Bursaries

Free financial help for students with low income. Also no repayment needed.

Student Loans

You borrow money and pay it back later, usually after you graduate.

These support options can cover:

  • Tuition fees

  • Books

  • Living expenses

  • Travel costs

How to Find Scholarships in Canada

The first step is to go to the official Canadian immigration website. It’s the best place to get real and updated information if you want to:

  • Study

  • Work

  • Visit

  • Or apply for a visa

Step-by-Step:

  1. Visit the official Canadian government website

  2. Go to the menu and select “Money and Finance”

  3. Click “Educational Funding”

You will find:

  • Scholarships

  • Bursaries

  • Student Loans

  • Budgeting Tools

Under scholarships, you’ll see:

Tip:

Use the scholarship tool:

  • Select your citizenship (e.g., Ghana, Nigeria, India)

  • Choose your profile (student)

  • The website will show scholarships available just for you

Then:

See more: Make the Most of Your Opportunity to Study and Work Abroad!

  • Read the criteria

  • Check the benefits

  • Start your application

Top Canadian Universities That Offer Scholarships

Many Canadian universities love to welcome international students and give financial support.

Here are three top universities you should check out:

1. University of Toronto

  • One of the top schools in the world

  • Offers many scholarships and bursaries

  • Has programs in almost every subject

2. University of British Columbia (UBC)

  • Offers the International Leader of Tomorrow Award

  • Great for students with strong academics and leadership skills

3. University of Alberta

  • Located in the beautiful province of Alberta

  • Offers scholarships, bursaries, and student packages

  • Helps you through the whole process, from application to settlement

Just go to Google and type the university name. Then click their official website.

What You’ll Find on the University Website

Each university’s website will show:

  • How to apply for courses

  • How to apply for scholarships

  • Tuition and fee details

  • Contacts for help

  • Financial aid options

  • Info about bursaries and student loans

Pro Tip: If you get stuck or don’t understand something, email the school’s support office. They will help you.

What Is a Bursary?

A bursary is free money given to students who:

  • Have low income

  • Need extra support

The best part? You do not have to pay it back.

That’s why bursaries are a great option if:

  • You don’t win a scholarship

  • You need more money for living costs

Along with bursaries, you can also apply for:

  • Student loans (pay back later)

  • Grants (free money for certain groups)

Read also: How to Get a Fully Funded Scholarship to Study at Oxford University (2025)

How to Apply for a Scholarship or Bursary

Let’s break it down into easy steps:

1. Research

  • Use the Canadian government site

  • Use university websites

  • Look for scholarships in your country of origin

2. Gather Your Documents

You’ll usually need:

  • Passport copy

  • School transcripts

  • Recommendation letters

  • Personal statement or essay

  • Proof of income (for bursaries)

3. Apply Online

Most applications are online. Follow instructions carefully and submit before the deadline.

4. Check Email Regularly

Universities will contact you by email if they need more information or if you’ve been selected.

What Happens After You Get Accepted?

If you win a scholarship and are accepted to a university:

  1. Apply for your student visa

  2. Use the university’s student support services to:

    • Plan your travel

    • Find housing

    • Get help with banking and health insurance

  3. Arrive in Canada and start your studies!

Many schools offer “student packages” to help you settle in easily.

Which Province Should You Choose?

Each Canadian province has its own charm. Some popular ones include:

  • Ontario (Toronto, Ottawa)

  • British Columbia (Vancouver)

  • Alberta (Edmonton, Calgary)

  • Quebec (Montreal)

Personal Favorite: Alberta
Alberta is beautiful, peaceful, and home to University of Alberta, which offers great support for international students.

Let us know in the comments, which province would you choose?

Benefits of Studying in Canada as an International Student

Here are some key benefits:

  • Affordable education with scholarships and bursaries

  • Work while you study (up to 20 hours per week)

  • Work permit after graduation

  • Easy path to permanent residency

  • Safe and diverse community

  • Top-quality education and degrees accepted worldwide

Final Words: Start Your Journey Today

Studying in Canada is more than just a dream, it can be your reality.

Here’s what to do next:

  • Visit official Canadian immigration and university websites

  • Use the tools to find scholarships and bursaries

  • Apply early and gather your documents

  • Choose a school that offers good support

  • Be prepared and stay motivated

Even though immigration rules change, Canada is still a great place to live, study, and grow.

Don’t wait. Start now.
Your future in Canada is just one application away.

Got Questions?

Drop your questions in the comment section or email for a 1-on-1 consultation. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.

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