Canada is one of the most popular study‑abroad destinations in the world—thanks to its excellent education system, multicultural society, and generous scholarship opportunities. The good news for many international students is that you can study in Canada without IELTS if you meet alternative English proficiency criteria like a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate, Duolingo, or other accepted proofs.
This comprehensive guide covers top Scholarships, official apply links, eligibility, financial coverage, the application process, required documents, and the Canada student visa process.
🎓 Scholarship Overview
Host Country: Canada
Academic Year: 2026–2027
Available For: International students from all countries
Program Levels:
- Undergraduate
- Master’s
- PhD / Doctoral
Language Requirement: IELTS not mandatory if alternatives are accepted (MOI, Duolingo, TOEFL, etc.)
🎯 Top Fully Funded Scholarships (No IELTS Required)
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
One of Canada’s most prestigious fully funded Scholarships for Master’s and PhD students.
🔗 Apply Here: https://vanier.gc.ca/en/home-accueil.html
✔ Up to CAD 50,000 per year for 3 years
✔ IELTS may be waived with university approval
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship — University of Toronto
Fully funded for outstanding undergraduate students, including tuition, books, and residence.
🔗 Apply Here: https://future.utoronto.ca/pearson/about/
✔ Excellent for global academic achievers
✔ IELTS alternatives often accepted
3. UBC International Scholarships — University of British Columbia
Scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students with strong academic records.
🔗 Apply Here: https://you.ubc.ca/financial-planning/scholarships/international-scholarships/
✔ Covers tuition and living costs
✔ Many programs accept English proficiency alternatives
4. McGill University Scholarships
Scholarships and funding packages for international Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students.
🔗 Apply Here: https://www.mcgill.ca/studentaid/scholarships-aid/future-undergrads
✔ Merit‑based awards
✔ IELTS optional with alternative proof
5. University of Alberta Scholarships
Funding and entrance awards for international students across all levels.
🔗 Apply Here: https://www.ualberta.ca/graduate-studies/funding/index.html
✔ IELTS waiver via MOI or alternate tests
6. University of Ottawa International Scholarships
Scholarships for undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD students with flexible language requirements.
🔗 Apply Here: https://www.uottawa.ca/en/study/fees-financial-support/international-students
✔ Duolingo and MOI accepted
7. University of Saskatchewan Scholarships
Awards for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students with alternatives to IELTS.
🔗 Apply Here: https://grad.usask.ca/funding/scholarships.php
✔ Scholarships based on merit and academic performance
8. Concordia University Scholarships
Undergraduate and postgraduate awards with flexible English proof options.
🔗 Apply Here: https://www.concordia.ca/admissions/undergraduate/tuition-and-funding/scholarships/presidential.html
✔ Duolingo and MOI accepted
💰 Financial Coverage (Typical Fully Funded Benefits)
Most fully funded scholarships in Canada include some or all of the following benefits:
- 🎓 Tuition fee coverage
- 💸 Monthly living stipend
- 🏠 Accommodation or housing support
- 🩺 Health insurance (UHIP)
- ✈️ Travel allowance / relocation support (in some cases)
- 📚 Research/academic grants
📜 Eligibility Criteria
Academic Requirements
- Strong academic transcripts
- Relevant prior degree (for Master’s/PhD)
- Research proposal for some graduate programs
Nationality
- Open to international students from around the world
Language Requirements
IELTS is not mandatory if you provide one of the following:
- Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate
- Duolingo English Test
- TOEFL / PTE
- Internal university language assessment
Other Requirements
- Age limits may vary (often no strict limits)
- Some scholarships require leadership or extra‑curricular achievements
📄 Required Documents for International Applicants
Prepare the following when applying:
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Valid passport copy
- CV / Resume
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- English proficiency proof (MOI/Duolingo/TOEFL)
- Research proposal (for graduate programs)
📝 Application Process (Step‑by‑Step)
- Research Scholarships & Universities
Identify scholarships that match your degree level and profile. - Check Eligibility & Language Policies
Confirm whether your university accepts IELTS alternatives. - Prepare Document Package
SOP, LORs, transcripts, CV, language proofs. - Apply for University Admission
Some scholarships require admission first. - Submit Scholarship Application
Use official university or scholarship portals. - Attend Interview (if required)
Some programs may include an interview stage. - Receive Award & Accept Offer
Confirm admission and scholarship, then begin visa steps.
✈️ Canada Student Visa Process (Study Permit Steps)
After accepting an offer:
1. Get Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
Required from your Canadian university.
2. Prepare Visa Documents
- LOA
- Proof of funds or scholarship award
- Valid passport
- Medical exam results
- Police clearance (if required)
3. Apply Online
Use the IRCC official student permit portal.
4. Biometrics & Medical
Attend biometric collection and required medical tests.
5. Visa Decision
Processing time typically ranges from several weeks to a few months.
6. Travel to Canada
Arrive before semester start date and attend orientation.
💡 Always follow the official Canadian immigration website for up‑to‑date requirements.
🌍 Why Choose Canada for Your Studies
- 🎓 High‑quality global education
- 🌐 Multicultural and welcoming society
- 💼 Work opportunities during and after studies
- 🧠 Strong research and innovation focus
- 🏙️ High quality of life and safety
- 🇨🇦 Immigration pathways post‑graduation
Canada also allows international students to work part‑time during studies and offers options like the Post‑Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I study in Canada without IELTS?
✔ Yes! Many universities accept alternatives such as MOI or Duolingo.
Q: Are there fully funded scholarships for Canada 2026–27?
✔ Yes — including Vanier, Pearson, and university scholarships.
Q: Who can apply?
🌍 International students worldwide are eligible.
Q: Do scholarships cover living expenses?
✔ Many fully funded awards include living stipends.
Q: When are deadlines?
🗓️ Most deadlines fall between late 2025 and early 2026 — confirm with each university.
📌 Conclusion
Canada offers excellent study opportunities for international students without IELTS. With a range of fully funded scholarships across top universities, strong financial support, and pathways to immigration, Canada is an ideal destination for global learners seeking quality education. Start your application early, prepare strong documents, and use the official apply links above to kick‑start your Canada journey!
