10 Fully Funded Canada Scholarships 2026

If you’ve ever dreamed of studying in Canada but the thought of how expensive it is keeps worrying you, then this fully funded canada scholarships guide is for you. Canada is one of the best places in the world to study. The universities are great, the people are friendly, and the environment is safe and clean. But there is one big problem that stops many Nigerians from going there, the cost.

School fees, accommodation, food, and flight tickets are all very expensive. So unless you come from a very rich home, you might start to think studying abroad is impossible. But what if I told you that there are many fully funded scholarships in Canada that pay for everything? Yes, everything. These scholarships can cover your school fees, accommodation, flight tickets, and sometimes even give you money every month for feeding and books.

In this guide, we will share 10 of the best fully funded scholarships in Canada for 2026. These are scholarships that have helped thousands of students from Africa and other countries study for free in Canada. If you are a Nigerian student who wants to study abroad, then keep reading carefully.

Why You Should Study In Canada

There are many countries where you can study abroad, but Canada is one of the best for international students. Here are some reasons:

• The universities are ranked among the best in the world
• Canada is a peaceful and friendly country
• The environment is clean and safe
• You can work part-time while studying
• Many scholarships are open to Nigerians
• After studying, you can apply for a work permit or even permanent residence

So yes, Canada is a great place for Nigerians who want quality education and better opportunities.

10 Fully Funded Canada Scholarships 2026

Now let’s look at the top 10 fully funded scholarships in Canada for 2026.

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

This is one of the biggest and most respected scholarships in Canada. It is mainly for students who want to do a PhD (Doctoral) program. It is also open to international students, including Nigerians.

The Vanier scholarship gives about 50,000 Canadian dollars every year for three years. That money covers your tuition, living cost, and other expenses. To apply, you must be nominated by a Canadian university that has the scholarship quota.

The main goal of this scholarship is to attract the best students from around the world who want to do research in areas like health, natural sciences, engineering, and social sciences.

Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships

If you have finished your PhD and want to continue doing research in Canada, then this one is perfect for you. The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship is for people who want to do postdoctoral studies. It gives about 70,000 Canadian dollars per year for two years.

You can apply from anywhere in the world, but you must be accepted by a Canadian institution. This scholarship is very competitive and mainly focuses on leadership and research quality.

If you are already into research or teaching, start building connections with Canadian universities now. That way, you’ll have a higher chance of getting nominated.

Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship

This scholarship is for undergraduate students who want to study at the University of Toronto. It is one of the most generous scholarships for international students. It covers full tuition, books, and accommodation for four years.

To apply, your secondary school must nominate you. This means your school has to be part of the process, so talk to your school counselor or principal about it early.

The scholarship looks for students with excellent academic results and leadership qualities. It’s perfect for young Nigerians who just finished secondary school or are about to finish.

Focus on your grades, join clubs or community projects, and show leadership. These will make your application stand out.

University of British Columbia International Leader of Tomorrow Award

This scholarship is also for undergraduate students who want to study at the University of British Columbia (UBC). It’s meant for students who have strong academic records but cannot afford the cost of studying abroad.

The amount you get depends on your financial need. The university calculates how much you and your family can afford and then covers the rest. It can pay for tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.

Be honest when showing your financial details. Also, show leadership and community service in your application. UBC loves students who want to make an impact.

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University

This is one of the best opportunities for African students. The Mastercard Foundation works with several top universities around the world, and McGill University in Canada is one of them.

The scholarship covers everything you can think of, tuition, accommodation, travel, feeding, books, and even mentorship and internships. It is mainly for students from Africa, especially those with good grades and a passion for helping their community.

Since it focuses on leadership and community service, talk about the things you’ve done to help people around you. That can be volunteer work, teaching, or any local project you’ve been part of.

Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships

If you are planning to do your PhD in the social sciences or humanities, then this scholarship is for you. It gives around 60,000 Canadian dollars every year for up to three years.

The Trudeau Foundation looks for students who are passionate about leadership, research, and social impact. It’s very good for Nigerians who want to study topics like politics, education, economics, or community development.

If you are interested in social change or leadership, make sure your personal statement reflects that clearly.

York University International Student Scholarship

This scholarship is open to undergraduate and graduate students. It is given to students who have excellent academic results and leadership qualities. Some students have received up to 140,000 Canadian dollars over four years from this program.

York University is located in Toronto, one of the most popular cities in Canada. The scholarship helps you pay your full tuition and other major expenses.

Add your volunteer experience and achievements when applying. The more active and responsible you appear, the better your chances.

University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship

If you plan to study at the University of Calgary, this scholarship is a good one to consider. It gives up to 60,000 Canadian dollars (15,000 each year for four years).

The university gives this award to students with high grades and strong community involvement. It is renewable every year if you maintain good results.

Focus on your WAEC or A-level grades, and make sure your personal statement shows what makes you unique.

University of Alberta Scholarships

The University of Alberta offers many scholarships to both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Some of these scholarships are fully funded, while others cover most of the fees.

They also have special scholarships for African students. You can even apply without IELTS in some programs if your previous education was in English.

Start by checking the University of Alberta website. Look for scholarships that fit your level and field. Make sure you meet all the deadlines.

Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

This scholarship is available for master’s and PhD students in Ontario universities. It gives about 5,000 Canadian dollars per term and can go up to three terms per year. Although it doesn’t always cover everything, many students combine it with other scholarships to make it fully funded.

It’s a great way to reduce your study cost if you’re already in Canada or plan to study there soon.

You can use this scholarship to support yourself while applying for bigger ones. It looks good on your record too.

How To Prepare For These Scholarships

Now that you know the top 10 scholarships, let’s talk about how to get ready to apply. Because knowing the names is not enough, what matters is getting selected.

Here are some things you should do:

• Most scholarship deadlines are many months before the school session starts.
• Make sure you have good grades. Your academic record is very important.
• Write a strong personal statement. This is your chance to talk about yourself, your goals, and how studying in Canada will help you.
• Get strong recommendation letters from teachers, lecturers, or employers who know you well.
• Prepare your documents like transcript, certificates, and passport on time.
• Take English tests like IELTS or TOEFL if required.
• Don’t copy other people’s essays. Write your story in your own words.
• Read the rules carefully. If you miss one requirement, your application might be rejected.
• Always submit your application before the deadline.

Why Nigerian Students Should Apply Early

Most fully funded scholarships receive thousands of applications from all over the world. To stand out, you must prepare early. When you start early, you have time to research, write, and review your essays. You also have time to ask for help from teachers or mentors.

Also, some scholarships like Lester B. Pearson or UBC need your school’s nomination, so you can’t rush that. Early planning helps you avoid stress and mistakes.

Conclusion

Studying in Canada is one of the best decisions you can make for your future. The country values education, diversity, and innovation. With the right scholarship, you can study without worrying about the cost.

These 10 fully funded scholarships for 2026 can change your life if you apply carefully and on time. Whether you are a secondary school leaver, a university graduate, or even someone with a PhD, there is something for you in this list.

If you’ve been thinking studying abroad is only for the rich, this is your chance to prove otherwise. Many Nigerians have done it before you, and you can too.