Numerous Canadian scholarships cater to African students if you know where to search. Often referred to as the “Land of Lakes” and boasting ten provinces, Canada showcases breathtaking landscapes, including the iconic Niagara Falls, and treasures like Old Quebec, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Canada has become a favored destination for international students pursuing higher education, thanks to its welcoming atmosphere and an array of postgraduate employment opportunities.
In 2019, Canada issued an impressive 638,280 study permits to international students, according to Erudera. Furthermore, the cost of studying in Canada tends to be more budget-friendly than in the United States. On average, tuition fees for the 2019-20 academic year at Canadian universities were $4,000 less than those at U.S. institutions.
Additionally, many Canadian universities offer substantial financial aid packages, including tuition waivers, for international students.
Here are five Canadian scholarships designed for African students considering studying in Canada:
- TMU Postdoctoral Fellowships for Black Scholars: Toronto Metropolitan University offers the TMU Postdoctoral Fellowships for Black Scholars, aiming to address the underrepresentation of Black scholars and promote diversity in academic faculty. This program supports up to four Black scholars annually with a stipend of $70,000 per year for up to two years. Eligibility criteria apply, and the application deadline is April 1, 2023.
- Richard Van Loon Scholarship: The Richard J. Van Loon Scholarship, established in 2005, honors Carleton University’s 10th President. Valued at CA$5,000, it is awarded annually to an outstanding international student from an African country. Eligibility requirements include African citizenship, a valid Study Permit for Canada, full-time enrollment at Carleton University, and successful progress in the chosen program of study. Applications for this academic year are closed, but future opportunities may arise.
- International English Scholarship: Offered by the University of Ottawa, the International English Scholarship includes Entrance and Excellence scholarships for African students studying English. Eligibility and scholarship amounts vary based on the specific program. The Entrance Scholarship offers up to CA$80,000 over four years, while the Excellence Award provides CA$100,000 over four years. Scholarships are renewable and program-specific.
- Africa Continent Scholarship: Niagara College presents the Africa Continent Scholarship for international students enrolling in their first term at the college. Eligible applicants must be citizens of an African country and have been admitted to an academic program at Niagara College for the upcoming academic year. This scholarship is for one term only, and students can apply by downloading the application form.
- UdeM Exemption Scholarship for International Students: The University of Montreal offers the UdeM Exemption Scholarship for International Students. This credit-based scholarship aims to support international students by exempting them from the tuition fees typically charged to international students. Scholarships are available for the 2023 downtime, summer 2023, fall 2023, and 2024 downtime terms. Scholarship amounts vary based on your program and position. You can begin your application process here.
These Canadian scholarships provide valuable opportunities for African students seeking to pursue their education in Canada. Be sure to review the eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship to maximize your chances of securing funding for your studies.
Disclaimer