Scholarships in Canada for International Students to Study Nursing

Studying nursing in Canada is a dream for many international students. With a globally respected healthcare system, top-tier educational institutions, and a multicultural society, Canada stands out as one of the most attractive destinations for pursuing a career in nursing. However, the high cost of tuition and living expenses can make this dream challenging for many students. Fortunately, scholarships can play a transformative role by easing the financial burden and making higher education in Canada more accessible.

Canada offers a wide range of scholarships specifically tailored for international students. These scholarships vary in scope, eligibility, and financial value but share a common goal: to promote academic excellence and encourage global talent in the field of healthcare. For nursing students, in particular, this financial support is critical not only for funding education but also for encouraging more students to enter a profession that is in high demand across the country.

This guide is designed to be a comprehensive roadmap for international students who wish to study nursing in Canada through scholarship opportunities. It explores the types of scholarships available, eligibility criteria, how to apply, and tips for winning competitive awards. Additionally, it covers specific scholarships offered by Canadian universities, government programs, and private organizations.

One key reason Canada is a favored destination for nursing students is its balanced blend of academic rigor and practical training. Nursing programs in Canada are known for their clinical excellence, advanced simulation labs, and partnerships with hospitals and healthcare facilities. This results in a well-rounded education that prepares students not just for local healthcare challenges but also for global medical environments. Moreover, a Canadian nursing qualification opens doors to employment and further study opportunities across the world.

Another advantage is Canada’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Institutions across the country actively recruit and support students from diverse backgrounds. Many scholarships reflect this ethos by prioritizing applicants from underrepresented countries, disadvantaged communities, or those who demonstrate resilience in the face of adversity. This means that deserving students, regardless of their financial circumstances, can find avenues to support their education if they know where to look and how to apply.

In this guide, we’ll also explore how to create strong scholarship applications, from writing compelling personal statements to gathering the right recommendation letters. Many students miss out on scholarships simply because they fail to present their strengths effectively or do not understand the application process. With the right guidance, you can avoid these common mistakes and maximize your chances of receiving financial aid.

Furthermore, the guide highlights post-graduation benefits of studying nursing in Canada, including opportunities for permanent residency, job placement support, and pathways to advanced nursing roles

Types of Scholarships Available for Nursing Students in Canada

Canada offers a variety of scholarships tailored for international students pursuing nursing degrees. These scholarships come from diverse sources—universities, government agencies, private foundations, and non-governmental organizations. Understanding the types of scholarships available will help you identify the ones that best suit your needs, qualifications, and future goals.

University-Based Scholarships

Most Canadian universities provide merit-based and need-based scholarships specifically for international students enrolling in nursing programs. These are often funded by the university and aim to attract high-performing candidates.

Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded to students with outstanding academic performance, leadership qualities, or extracurricular achievements.
Need-Based Scholarships: Designed for students with demonstrated financial need, especially those from low-income backgrounds or developing countries.

Example:

University of Toronto International Scholar Award
McGill University Entrance Scholarships

Government-Funded Scholarships

The Canadian government provides scholarships to promote international education and encourage global talent. These are highly competitive and often include additional benefits such as living expenses and travel allowances.

Examples:

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) – For PhD-level nursing students.
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program – For students from Commonwealth countries pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees.

Provincial Scholarships

Each Canadian province may have its own scholarship programs to attract international nursing students, especially where there is a shortage of healthcare professionals.

Examples:

Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
British Columbia International Student Scholarship

These scholarships often support studies in priority areas like healthcare, including nursing.

College-Specific Scholarships

Apart from universities, Canadian colleges also offer scholarships to diploma or associate degree nursing students. These are ideal for those pursuing shorter, career-oriented nursing programs.

Examples:

Centennial College International Student Scholarships
George Brown College International Awards

Scholarships by Nursing Associations

Nursing associations in Canada frequently sponsor scholarships to promote the nursing profession and support talented individuals in healthcare education.

Examples:

Canadian Nurses Foundation (CNF) Scholarships
Registered Nurses’ Foundation of Ontario (RNFOO) Awards

These scholarships are available for students in diploma, undergraduate, and graduate programs and may include mentorship opportunities.

Private and NGO-Funded Scholarships

Numerous private organizations, philanthropic foundations, and NGOs support international nursing students in Canada by offering scholarship programs. These scholarships are often open to students from specific regions, underrepresented communities, or marginalized groups.

Examples:

The Aga Khan Foundation Canada Scholarships
World Bank Scholarships for Health Professionals

Country-Specific Scholarships

Some scholarships are designed specifically for students from certain countries. These help build bilateral relationships between Canada and the applicant’s home country.

Examples:

Canadian Francophonie Scholarship Program (CFSP) – For students from francophone developing countries.
Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP) – For students from Latin America and the Caribbean.

Program-Specific Scholarships

Some scholarships are tied to specific nursing programs or specializations, such as psychiatric nursing, public health, geriatric care, or pediatric nursing.

These scholarships encourage students to pursue in-demand nursing specializations that align with Canada’s healthcare priorities.

Research Scholarships

If you’re enrolling in graduate-level nursing programs with a focus on research, you may qualify for research assistantships or fellowships. These cover tuition and often provide a stipend.

Examples:

CIHR Nursing Research Awards
NSERC Graduate Scholarships (For students in health sciences research)

Full-Ride vs. Partial Scholarships

Full-Ride Scholarships: Cover tuition, living expenses, books, and sometimes travel costs. These are rare and highly competitive.
Partial Scholarships: May cover only tuition or a percentage of it. Some also offer a living allowance or one-time stipend.

Top Universities in Canada Offering Nursing Scholarships

Canada is home to several world-class universities that not only offer exceptional nursing education but also provide generous scholarships to attract and support international students. Below are some of the top institutions known for their nursing programs and scholarship opportunities for international students in 2025:

University of Toronto

The University of Toronto’s Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing is ranked among the best globally. It offers cutting-edge research facilities and comprehensive clinical training.

Scholarship Highlights:

International Scholar Award
President’s Scholars of Excellence Program
Faculty-specific bursaries and awards

U of T values academic excellence and diversity, making it a top choice for global nursing students.

McGill University

Located in Montreal, McGill University offers strong undergraduate and graduate nursing programs through its Ingram School of Nursing. The university emphasizes evidence-based learning and multicultural healthcare delivery.

Scholarship Highlights:

Entrance Scholarships for International Students
Major Scholarships (renewable based on performance)
Ingram School of Nursing Awards

McGill’s multicultural setting provides an ideal atmosphere for international students to thrive.

University of British Columbia (UBC)

UBC’s School of Nursing is internationally recognized for innovation in nursing education, especially in areas like community health, leadership, and research.

Scholarship Highlights:

International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES)
Outstanding International Student Award (OIS)
School of Nursing Awards and Fellowships

UBC combines academic rigor with supportive resources to ensure student success.

University of Alberta

The Faculty of Nursing at UAlberta is one of Canada’s largest and offers a wide range of programs, from bachelor’s degrees to doctoral studies.

Scholarship Highlights:

International Student Scholarships
President’s International Distinction Scholarship
Faculty-specific awards for nursing students

Its strong focus on research and innovation makes it a hub for future nurse leaders.

McMaster University

Known for its problem-based learning model, McMaster’s School of Nursing provides students with early clinical exposure and interdisciplinary learning.

Scholarship Highlights:

Global Experience Award
Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships
Faculty of Health Sciences Nursing Bursaries

McMaster’s inclusive campus culture makes it appealing to students from diverse backgrounds.

Western University (University of Western Ontario)

Western’s Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing has a history of excellence in education, research, and community service.

Scholarship Highlights:

Western International Admission Scholarships
Nursing-specific entrance awards
Research assistantship opportunities for graduate students

Western encourages student leadership and engagement through its scholarship offerings.

Dalhousie University

Dalhousie, located in Nova Scotia, provides students with access to a unique coastal learning environment and a well-respected nursing program.

Scholarship Highlights:

Dalhousie Entrance Awards
Health Sciences-specific bursaries
International student tuition waivers (based on need and merit)

Dalhousie is known for personalized support and experiential learning.

University of Ottawa

As a bilingual institution, uOttawa’s School of Nursing offers programs in both English and French and focuses on integrating technology with nursing education.

Scholarship Highlights:

President’s Scholarship for International Students
Faculty of Health Sciences Nursing Awards
Student Mobility Bursaries (for international placements)

It’s a good fit for students interested in bilingual healthcare environments.

Queen’s University

Queen’s University’s School of Nursing in Kingston, Ontario, emphasizes holistic, patient-centered care and leadership training.

Scholarship Highlights:

Principal’s International Scholarship
Nursing-specific graduate awards
Merit-based entrance scholarships

Queen’s provides a well-rounded education with generous financial support.

York University

York’s School of Nursing is known for addressing healthcare equity, community involvement, and practice-based learning.

Scholarship Highlights:

Global Leader of Tomorrow Award
International Circle of Scholars Scholarships
Faculty of Health awards

York combines academic quality with community focus, preparing students for impactful careers.

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process for Nursing Scholarships in Canada

Getting a nursing scholarship in Canada as an international student involves understanding the eligibility requirements and following the right application procedures. While each scholarship or university may have unique criteria, there are some common elements across most programs.

Eligibility Criteria for Nursing Scholarships in Canada

Academic Excellence: Most scholarships require a strong academic record. Applicants often need a minimum GPA (usually 3.0 or higher) or equivalent grades in their previous studies.
Proof of English or French Proficiency: For English-taught programs, tests like IELTS (usually 6.5 or above) or TOEFL (around 90+) are typically required. For French programs, DELF/DALF may be needed.
Admission to a Canadian Nursing Program: Applicants must be accepted into or enrolled in a recognized nursing program at a Canadian university to qualify for most scholarships.
Relevant Educational Background: You must have a background in science, biology, health, or a related field—especially for graduate-level scholarships.
Demonstrated Financial Need (Optional): Some scholarships consider financial hardship. You may need to provide income statements, financial affidavits, or letters explaining your situation.
Leadership or Community Service: Scholarships like the Global Leader of Tomorrow recognize students who show leadership through volunteer work, activism, or school/community involvement.
Nationality/Residency Status: Many scholarships are specifically for international students. Some may be restricted by nationality (e.g., students from developing countries).
Research Proposal or Personal Statement: Graduate-level applicants may need to submit a research proposal or a personal essay highlighting their goals and how the scholarship would help.
References or Recommendation Letters: Typically, at least one or two reference letters from teachers or mentors are required to validate your academic and personal achievements.
Meeting University-Specific Requirements: Each university has unique scholarship conditions. Always read the individual guidelines provided by the institution before applying.

Application Process for Nursing Scholarships in Canada

Research Scholarships and Universities:Start by identifying universities with strong nursing programs and available scholarships for international students. Visit their official websites and make a list.
Check Deadlines and Requirements: Each scholarship has its own deadline—some as early as six months before the course starts. Mark important dates and gather required documents early.
Prepare Academic Transcripts and Certificates: You’ll need copies of your secondary school certificates, bachelor’s degree (for graduate programs), transcripts, and official translations if not in English/French.
Take Required Language Proficiency Tests: Plan ahead to take IELTS, TOEFL, or other required tests. Make sure you achieve the minimum score required by your target program.
Write a Strong Personal Statement: This essay should highlight your background, motivation to study nursing, career goals, and why you need financial assistance. Tailor it to each scholarship.
Obtain Letters of Recommendation: Ask teachers, employers, or mentors for recommendation letters. These should emphasize your academic ability, character, and suitability for the program.
Submit the University Application: Apply to the nursing program of your chosen university first. Scholarships often require proof of admission before you can apply.
Apply for the Scholarship: Complete the scholarship application—either through the university’s portal or a separate application system. Attach all documents and double-check your submission.
Prepare for an Interview (if needed): Some prestigious scholarships require interviews via Zoom or phone. Be prepared to discuss your background, goals, and reasons for applying.
Track Application Status and Follow Up: Keep track of your application status through the portal or email. If shortlisted, respond promptly to requests for further documentation or interviews.

How to Improve Your Chances of Winning a Nursing Scholarship in Canada

Winning a nursing scholarship as an international student in Canada can be competitive, but it’s absolutely possible with the right strategy. This section provides detailed guidance on how to make your scholarship application stand out and significantly improve your chances of being selected.

Maintain Excellent Academic Performance

Scholarship committees prioritize candidates with strong academic backgrounds. Aim for high GPAs and strive to perform well in science-related subjects such as biology and chemistry. Academic excellence demonstrates dedication and the capacity to handle the demanding nursing curriculum.

Tips:

Participate in honors or advanced-level coursework.
Take standardized exams seriously (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
Provide official transcripts with certified translations if needed.

Gain Relevant Experience in Healthcare

Many scholarship programs value applicants with real-world experience in healthcare environments. Whether through internships, volunteering, or part-time jobs, relevant experience shows your passion for nursing.

Ideas to Consider:

Volunteer at hospitals, clinics, or elderly care homes.
Shadow a nurse or healthcare professional in your community.
Participate in health awareness campaigns or community outreach programs.

Craft a Compelling Personal Statement

A strong personal statement can make your application stand out. This essay should highlight your passion for nursing, your long-term goals, and how the scholarship will help you succeed.

What to Include:

Your reason for choosing nursing.
Specific career aspirations (e.g., pediatric nurse, nurse educator).
Personal challenges overcome and how they shaped your motivation.
How studying in Canada aligns with your goals.

Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation

Good recommendation letters provide a detailed, third-party endorsement of your character, work ethic, and academic potential. Choose people who know you well, like teachers, mentors, or supervisors in healthcare-related fields.

Tips:

Ask early to give them enough time.
Provide them with your resume and details about the scholarship.
Request a personalized letter rather than a generic one.

Target the Right Scholarships

Don’t waste time applying for scholarships you’re not eligible for. Focus your efforts on those tailored to international students, nursing, or your region of origin.

Suggestions:

Use databases like ScholarshipsCanada.com or EduCanada.
Visit the websites of specific universities you’re applying to.
Look for government, private, and institutional scholarships.

Apply Early and Meet All Deadlines

Many scholarships have early deadlines, and late applications are usually not considered. Always submit your documents on time and check if the deadline is based on your time zone or the institution’s.

To Stay Ahead:

Create a timeline of all deadlines.
Set reminders at least a week before each due date.
Submit at least one or two days early to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Follow Application Instructions Carefully

Each scholarship may have different requirements. Carefully read all instructions regarding format, document types, word limits, and eligibility.

Checklist Before Submission:

Are all documents uploaded correctly?
Is your essay within the word limit?
Have you filled all mandatory fields?

Showcase Leadership and Extracurricular Involvement

Scholarships often reward well-rounded individuals who contribute to their community. Highlight your participation in extracurriculars, student clubs, or leadership roles that reflect your initiative.

Examples to Highlight:

Led a health awareness event or school project.
Organized fundraising for medical supplies.
Active member of a Red Cross youth group or nursing club.

Emphasize Financial Need (If Applicable)

If the scholarship considers financial need, be transparent and thorough when explaining your situation. Provide documentation where required, such as income statements or affidavits.

Key Points to Include:

Household income and financial responsibilities.
Any special circumstances (medical expenses, family obligations).
How funding will affect your ability to study in Canada.

Polish Your Application

A well-written and error-free application reflects professionalism and care. Proofread multiple times, and if possible, get feedback from a mentor or advisor.

Things to Check:

Spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
Consistency in formatting and tone.
Clear, concise, and persuasive writing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Nursing Scholarships in Canada

Missing Deadlines: Many students miss out due to late submissions. Always submit early.
Ignoring Eligibility Criteria: Applying without checking if you meet the academic, language, or nationality requirements wastes time.
Generic Personal Statements: Submitting the same essay to multiple scholarships weakens your application. Always tailor it.
Poor Grammar or Typos: Spelling errors or poor formatting show a lack of professionalism.
Submitting Incomplete Applications: Missing documents or fields can disqualify you automatically.
Weak Recommendation Letters: Choosing people who don’t know you well results in vague references.
Lying About Achievements: Fabricated information may lead to disqualification or loss of the scholarship later.
Not Following Instructions: Always follow formatting, file size, or naming conventions as required.
Overlooking Small Awards: Smaller scholarships may be easier to win and can add up over time.
Failing to Explore All Funding Options: Don’t rely solely on one or two scholarships; apply to as many as you’re eligible for.

Success Stories of International Nursing Students in Canada

Maria from the Philippines – UBC Full-Ride Nursing Scholarship: Maria’s personal story of caring for her sick grandmother helped her win a full scholarship at the University of British Columbia.
Samuel from Ghana – Government of Canada Scholarship Recipient: With a 4.0 GPA and hospital volunteer experience, Samuel received a government scholarship and is now training in geriatric nursing.
Trang from Vietnam – Humber College Nursing Bursary: Trang impressed the committee with her essay about promoting rural healthcare access. She now works part-time in a Toronto care center.
Ali from Pakistan – McGill University Need-Based Grant: Ali’s academic achievements and demonstrated financial need earned him a partial scholarship at McGill, covering tuition and books.
Natasha from Jamaica – Canadian Nurses Foundation Award: Natasha’s leadership in youth health campaigns helped her secure a competitive award from the CNF for excellence in community nursing.

These examples show that dedication, good preparation, and a genuine story can go a long way in winning scholarships.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply for scholarships before getting a Canadian study permit?
Yes, most scholarships require university admission first, which you can use to apply for a study permit later.
Do I need to have work experience to apply?
Not necessarily, but volunteer or clinical experience can strengthen your application.
Can I apply for more than one scholarship at a time?
Absolutely. Applying for multiple scholarships improves your chances of receiving financial aid.
What if I don’t meet the language test requirement?
Some institutions offer conditional admission with English prep courses. You can re-take IELTS or TOEFL too.
Do scholarships cover living expenses?
Some do, especially full-ride or government scholarships. Others only cover tuition or a portion of fees.
Are scholarships available for diploma programs in nursing?
Yes, several Canadian colleges offer nursing-related scholarships for diploma and certificate programs.
Is a gap year a problem in my application?
It depends on how you spent the gap year. Explain it clearly in your personal statement or resume.
Are online nursing programs eligible for scholarships?
Some scholarships apply to hybrid or online programs, but many prioritize in-person, full-time students.
Will I get a job after graduation in Canada?
Canada allows post-graduation work permits, and nursing is in high demand. Many students do get jobs after finishing their degree.
Can I apply for permanent residency after studying nursing in Canada?
Yes, nursing is a high-demand field in Canada, and many graduates qualify for immigration pathways like the Canadian Experience Class.

Conclusion

Studying nursing in Canada offers international students not just a world-class education but also pathways to career success, financial independence, and immigration opportunities. While tuition and living costs can be high, scholarships help reduce this burden significantly. Whether funded by Canadian universities, government initiatives, or private organizations, scholarships are within reach for students who are passionate, prepared, and persistent.

By following this comprehensive guide, you can increase your chances of winning a nursing scholarship in Canada. From understanding eligibility to crafting compelling essays and preparing strong applications, each step brings you closer to your dream. With demand for nurses growing globally, now is the perfect time to invest in your education and career in Canada.