If you’re interested in studying in Canada, here’s a post on how to get a scholarship in Canada. The Canadian government alongside some higher institutions in the country offer scholarships and grants, bursaries and awards to foreign students in order to assist with the cost of their education.
TYPES OF CANADIAN SCHOLARSHIPS
Outlined below are details for some scholarships in Canada that international students can gain access to.
- Canadian Government Scholarships
- Non-Government Scholarships
- Institutional Scholarships
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR CANADIAN SCHOLARSHIPS
Below are some of the general requirements that international students must keep in mind:
Academic excellence
Most of the scholarships in Canada are offered on the basis of merit, which implies that financial support will only be given to students who merit such awards.
So, if you’re applying for scholarships to study in Canada, ensure that you have good academic records.
Language Proficiency
Some international students do not speak English as a first language, which can become a barrier to learning.
Thus, to qualify for a Canadian scholarship, you must have great language skills. Proficiency scores on exams like IELTS/TOEFL will also enhance your chance of getting a scholarship to study in Canada.
Extracurricular participation
Extracurricular and volunteer activities involvement is one of the things some scholarships consider, mostly with stream-specific scholarships ( eg. programs like social work, etc.)
Work experience in this aspect is a criterion you must meet.
HOW TO GET A CANADIAN SCHOLARSHIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Plan ahead
Do not wait until there’s little time left before you start; one of the keys to success is starting out early enough. To increase your chances of getting considered, you should start even while still in high school.
Research about scholarship opportunities
Find out as much as you can about what scholarship opportunities you like and which you qualify for. Gather as much information as possible.
Understand the requirements
Each scholarship program has specific requirements. Ensure to understand each of them and do your best to meet those requirements or choose scholarships that fit you.
Get your reference letter ready
You must have this letter written and addressed to who you must, specifically. Do not address it ‘to whom it may concern’, that’s not a smart move at all.
Understand the ‘Terms and Conditions’ of the scholarships
Pay attention to the terms and conditions associated with some of the scholarship programs you wish to apply to and adhere to them accordingly.
Passion and Personality
To stand out among thousands of other students applying for the scholarship, you must tell of your passion and personality. So while writing your application, don’t just sound like everyone else. Do it with some ‘soul’ in it.
Go the extra mile
If there’s anything that seems extra that you need to do, ensure that you do it. It might look like extra stress/work, but it might just be what will get your foot in the door. Don’t joke with it.
Be truthful
Whatever information you’re providing during the application process, ensure it’s true and verifiable. If you try to play around with data or something else and get found out, you might lose your spot and even get blacklisted.
