Scholarships in Canada you can still apply for before 2021 ends

If you’ve watched the Netflix series “Kim’s Convenience,” you’ve probably seen scenes of a diverse city with pretty awesome people — with scholarships at University of Toronto, University of British Columbia and the University of Calgary, you can be there too.

Canada is home to world-class universities, multicultural communities and untouched natural wonders. In this bilingual nation — Canada and French are its two official languages— international students can earn more than just a degree. Welcoming immigration policies allow international students to stay on to work, which earns them points towards their PR and citizenship application. 

Money shouldn’t be a hurdle to anyone seeking a degree and a better life — you, included. Check out these scholarships at University of Toronto, University of British Columbia and the University of Calgary to kickstart your Canadian adventure now:

Is poutine — French fries slobbered with cheddar cheese curds and gravy — Quebecois or Canadian? Win one of these scholarships at University of Toronto and you’re in for a tasty quest for answers. Source: Andrej Ivanov/AFP

Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award

Deadline: Dec. 1, 2021

Every year, the University of British Columbia awards around 50 scholarships based on need (whether you can afford) or merit (whether you deserve it). The Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award is one of the four types of scholarship categories offered. 

It’s open to undergraduate applicants from poor or war-torn countries “who have achieved academic excellence under challenging circumstances, and who would be unable to attend university without significant financial assistance.” Scholars will have their living Spenser and tuition fees covered. 

Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award

Deadline: Dec. 1, 2021

Offered by UBC as well, the Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award recognises achievements in academic performance, leadership, student affairs, community service and more. It covers living expenses and tuition fees. 

Scholars will also join an annual workshop (with leadership and networking opportunities), events to celebrate scholars’ achievements, and exchange programmes to emerging countries where you’ll take part in projects related to health, agriculture, social infrastructure, education, and sustainable development.

Zendaya Coleman and Timothee Chalamet wouldn’t be 2021’s biggest stars had it not been for film director extraordinaire, Denis Villeneuve, a Canadian university graduate. Source: Christophe Archambault/AFP

Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships

Deadline: Nov. 30, 2021

Offered by the University of Toronto, the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships are some of the most generous scholarships in Canada for international students, covering tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years. 

It is open to applicants with “exceptional academic achievement and creativity and who are recognised as leaders within their school.”

Every year, 37 awards are given to applicants who have shown impact in their school and community and has the “future potential to contribute positively to the global community.” You must apply university’s website — if recruitment agents or agencies email you, ignore them as the university does not have work with third-party agents.

University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship

Deadline: Dec. 1, 2021

If you are an international student entering the first year of any undergraduate degree at the University of Calgary — and you have great grades — you’ll be eligible for this International Entrance Scholarship. Only two awards of 15,000 Canadian dollars are awarded annually. You can renew your award each year if you score a GPA higher than 2.60 over a minimum of 24.00 units in the previous fall and winter terms.