Canada’s greatness may not yet be considered a manifestation until education is accessible and affordable. When we look at Canada, we see one of the most civilized countries on earth. That’s mostly so given quality education.
Such quality education has resulted in highly advanced sectors which now hold much potential for foreign and local students. But as the value of the country expands so does the desire to get educated and with this comes the high tuition price; now access to education isn’t what it used to be.
University education is more costly in Canada today than let’s say five decades ago. But no one wants to be left behind, because the vast Canadian resources are allocated in a model that educated individuals are considered first in nearly everything, and with the majority now desiring a university education, without some support, several individuals will be denied that aspect that now qualifies people.
Why Study in Ontario?
Considered by region, while every part of Canada is important, we feel that Ontario is arguably the most crucial province. This is because the region hosts the capital Ottawa and Canada’s largest city Toronto.
The landmark implications of Ontario make University education there even more interesting and prestigious. The glory of Ontario isn’t limited to Ottawa and Toronto, the region also hosts some of Canada’s most prestigious institutions for higher learning. Notable among them are Ottawa University and the University of Ontario.
Apart from these two institutions, several other universities with groundbreaking accomplishments abound in the province.
Hosting Canada’s two prominent cities, industries, academic institutions, and other establishments makes Ontario a great place to live as it offers both academic and other opportunities necessary for life leveraging its diversity, strong economy, people-oriented government policies, and friendly society. It is a place where students experience life beyond learning.
Benefits of Studying in Canada
Learning can happen anywhere but to choose one institution or country of study over another, there must be benefits attached. Considering studying in Canada, these are some associated benefits for local and international students:
- Exceptional Education Standard
- Relatively affordable tuition that can get even lower with student aid or scholarship
- Environmental diversity regarding people, structures, and nature
- Increased chances of securing employment
- Improved chances of attaining permanent residency
- Access to a civilized, safe, and friendly society
- Opportunities to advance personal and institutional faculties given the presence of facilities to conduct advanced research
- Access to an advanced healthcare sector considered world-class
- Access to natural wonders in the form of beautiful arts of nature and serene environments
- Reputable qualification where most Canadian university degrees are globally acknowledged as standard
Common scholarships available to Students in the Ontario Area
For so many people, desiring the amazing benefits of studying in Canada may seem like wishful thinking as they lack the funds for a university education. If this is your case, then you must know that several universities in Ontario operate scholarship programs where partial or full tuition is provided to students.
Wealthy students can still benefit from scholarships as scholarships can sometimes be proof of intelligence. Now let’s continue with the type of scholarship common in most Ontario schools.
- Scholarships based on merit: To benefit from Ontario or Canadian scholarship in this category, the beneficiary must manifest an exceptional level of intelligence. Apart from academic intelligence, other positive qualities like leadership, community service, or exceptional talent may be of focus to programs that emphasize merit. Scholarships in the category include: The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (obtainable at the University of Toronto) and The Chancellor’s Scholarship of Queen’s University.
- Need-based Scholarships: Scholarships are important not just for the many intelligent individuals it assist but for the poor individuals it affords education. Programs that emphasize more of need include the Ontario Student Assistance Program and Institutional bursaries.
- Dedicated program scholarships: Not all programs are available to all student categories in a scholarship-awarding institution. For example, Schulich Leader Scholarships are dedicated to STEM students while Rotman School of Management Scholarships are dedicated to students in business.
- Scholarships and funding by the government: Where scholarship funds come from may also impact the objectives of such scholarships. Several Canadian scholarship funds come from the government and are designed to accomplish specific goals either for local or international students or both. Scholarships in this category include the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship and the Ontario Graduate School Scholarships.
- External support or scholarships: For several students, external scholarships are a viable source of educational funds. External scholarships refer to scholarships by private individuals, businesses, or other organizations. Note that criteria in this class of scholarship are often determined by scholarship sponsors as such are likely unique. Programs in this category include Scotiabank Scholarships and Canadian Commonwealth Scholarships.
Essential steps towards Securing an Ontario Scholarship
Step: Extensive Research
With Ontario scholarship programs, each scholarship has a unique purpose. You must identify such a program with an establishment purpose that aligns with your educational pursuit, program, and background. The research approach may take the form of:
- Visiting your target university website and checking on available financial aid and scholarships.
- Visiting associated government portals: The Ontario Ministry of Education’s website is a vital ground for gaining information about Scholarships. For foreign students, your immigration profile may impact your eligibility as such you may also find valuable information that may be helpful in your Scholarship pursuit on the immigration website.
- Check update on Scholarship systems: Several dedicated scholarship systems are available in Canada to help students learn about scholarship programs. Such platforms like the Scholarship Canada website and Yconic are great places to get valuable information regarding Canadian scholarships.
Step 2: Know eligibility criteria as they apply to you.
Each scholarship program in Ontario is designed with some objectives in mind. This makes Scholarships in several cases have varying eligibility. While some scholarships may be dedicated to international students, others may be for local students. Applicants are advised to discover and ensure to meet the eligibility criteria for each Scholarship before applying. Common Ontario Scholarship eligibility criteria include:
- Attain the GPA performance requirements for your target scholarship as proof of academic excellence
- Be a citizen of the target scholarship country or geography. If the Scholarship is for Ontario residents or Canadian citizens then the applicant must be a Canadian citizen or resident of Ontario whereas if the Scholarship is for international students then the applicant must be a foreign student from the target country.
- Indicate excellent leadership: Ontario scholarships are designed to raise the next breed of amazing leaders. Leadership and community service is a factor of consideration for several Scholarships.
- Examine and meet the unique requirements or eligibility criteria of your target Scholarship program.
- In a need-based scenario then present proof of why you need a Scholarship. Such proof must indicate your funding lacks.
Is a separate application required for your scholarships?
For some scholarships, your student profile is all you need. In such cases, information supplied during enrollment could be all that’s required; however, in some other cases, a separate scholarship application may be required. In such case, you may be required to provide the following:
- Write a compelling personal and informative statement or essay
- Present your academic transcript for grade assessment
- Tender recommendation letters from astute individuals from the academic space or authorities in other critical fields
- Presents proof of accomplishments in other fields critical to scholarship such as leadership, community services, etc.
- In some cases, international students in Ontario may be required to be effective in the use of French or English. This can be assessed through excellent IELTS, TEF, and TOEFL performance.
Tips for Successful Application
- Timely application: With scholarships, deadlines may apply. Early application will enable an applicant ample time to source for application requirements without being under pressure.
- Take advantage of financial Aid if it applies in your case: Financial AID is a series of government funding for citizens’ university education. It is a part of the US and Canadian educational system. There’s the Ontario Financial AID for citizens and residents of Ontario. Other countries may have support packages for their citizens. Discover such financial Aid that apply to you and learn more about how you can benefit from their portal or website.
- Learn from and with others: You are not the first person nor the only person seeking for scholarship. Connecting with alumni and fellow students may improve your knowledge and chances. Such places to connect are on social media, online campus forums, and social events.
International Student
International students may be eligible for several Scholarships by Ontario schools. Apart from such international scholarships, several institutions in Ontario collaborate with international student fund bodies like the US Financial AID. International students applying for any Ontario university scholarship must ensure that they meet the eligibility criteria and provide all required information.
Funding limitations for international students: The majority of Ontario University’s scholarships and support are for residents or citizens. International students are therefore encouraged to explore programs likely dedicated to students from certain geography. Such dedicated scholarships are designed to prepare students for future or present challenges of their indigenous society.
Leading Universities in Ontario and their scholarships
- University of Toronto: One of the most prestigious universities in Canada also doubles as one of the most benevolent. The University of Toronto operates several scholarship programs for local and international students. Notable scholarship programs include Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship and the University of Toronto Scholarship. You Can access the university website here.
- University of Ottawa: Each University of Ottawa scholarship program is focused on impacting students and readying beneficiaries for societal roles. Popular scholarship programs of the institution include President Scholarships and financial aid Bursaries. Access the University Portal here.
- McMaster University: Offers a variety of scholarships tailored to meet specific academic and societal objectives. Significant scholarships include Provost Entrance Scholarships for exceptionally intelligent international students and In-Course Awards for enrolled students with vibrant academic performance. Learn more about the institution on their website here.
Other Forms of Student support
Although a Scholarship may seem the most viable form of support for students as it provides non-refundable support, often the requirements for attaining and retaining a scholarship can be complex. This is why we explore other fund sources for students. Common alternatives to scholarships include:
Ontario Student Assistance Program: This is a loan and grant scheme for students of Ontario origin or resident. The OSAP program doesn’t apply to international students.
Work and Study programs: Education prepares students for an eventful future. This can also start in the universities. Several Ontario schools integrate work and study programs into their curriculum. This ensures practical experience and additional income.
Part-time jobs: For international students, a study permit can enable one to work on a part-time basis while studying in Canada. Such part-time jobs can enable one to raise tuition and other funds.
Scholarship Benefits
- Positive competition
- Helps in Adaptation, especially for international students
- Improves networking chances with other beneficiaries and students
- Additional educational benefits in the form of Co-OP programs and internships
- A route to permanent residency
- Financial rewards (partial or full tuition)
- Additional allowances
Canadian education and scholarships as a route to permanent residency
Canada is a nice country and several individuals who have been there have come to love the places that they seek legitimate means to expand their stays. Permanent residency remains the most viable route to a prolonged stay in the country and your education and Scholarships can pave the way for that to happen. If you desire to attain a permanent residence status after your studies in Canada, you may access detailed information on permanent residency here.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Canadian Universities and Scholarships
Are there Canadian Universities that give full scholarships for international students?
Yes, when it comes to scholarships, Canadian institutions deploy support schemes as a means of global integration. For this reason, several Canadian schools offer scholarships with full tuition coverage to some international students. Such Canadian school that considers international students for full scholarship benefits include McGill University and The University of Alberta.
What new rules apply to international students in Canada?
Canada is scaling down the number of students on study permits. The country is heading towards cutting down the number even further by 2025. Currently, there’s a two-cap limit on study permits. This represents a 35% decrease, and in the coming year, it is expected to reduce further by 10%.
Do Canadian universities accept a 2.5 CGPA?
Grades are not the only criteria for assessing intelligence. Several Canadian universities accept students with low grades especially if they exhibit other essential potential. The primary objective of schools is to brighten individuals.
Conclusion
If you only study at a university but don’t learn from the surroundings, you have wasted 50% of your education.
Studying at an Ontario university on scholarship offers one an opportunity to study in one of the best environments in the world with a shared tuition burden. This gives one enough peace to study not just in a great university but in an exceptional environment.