You’ve probably seen scholarships that cover tuition and maybe a monthly allowance, but what if you could actually get paid to study in Canada—$2,000 or more per month—while working on your degree or research? That sounds like a dream, but in 2025, it’s not entirely out of reach.
In this post, I’ll walk you through:
- What types of paid scholarships and stipends are available in Canada in 2025
- Which ones realistically pay $2,000+ monthly (or close)
- How to find, apply for, and win them
- Pitfalls, eligibility criteria, and tips that boost your chances
- Frequently asked questions you probably have
Let’s make your dream of getting paid to study in Canada actionable.
Why “Get Paid to Study in Canada” Matters
Before diving in, let’s talk about why this is a compelling idea—and why it’s tougher than it sounds.
The Reality of Study Costs in Canada
- Canada is among the world’s top study destinations, but education + living costs are high.
- As an international student, you often have to prove financial support (tuition + living allowance) when applying for a study permit. (Government of Canada)
- Many scholarships cover tuition, but stipends (monthly payments for living expenses) are rarer, especially for undergraduates.
What “Paid” Means in This Context
“Getting paid” when studying usually means:
- A living stipend (monthly or termly payment)
- A scholarship or fellowship that includes funds for research/assistantship work
- Sometimes, salaried work (e.g. teaching assistant, research assistant) that’s part of your degree package
We’ll focus mostly on scholarships and fellowships that include stipend support, especially those that approach or exceed CAD $2,000/month (or equivalent in local currency).
Keywords & Your Audience
Because you asked, I’ll weave in high-CPC (cost per click) keywords—phrases advertisers bid for heavily—so content is more discoverable. Examples we’ll include in H2s:
- “Canada scholarships with monthly stipend”
- “fully funded scholarships Canada 2025”
- “Canadian government graduate funding”
- “paid research fellowships Canada”
Now, let’s dig in.
Types of Scholarships & Funding That Pay You in Canada
Not all scholarships are equal. Understanding what types exist will help you target the ones that actually provide a stipend.
1. Graduate Fellowships / Research Grants
These are primarily for Master’s, PhD, or postdoctoral work. Many pay monthly stipends to cover living costs, plus research funds.
- McCall MacBain Scholarship (McGill University) — offers a living stipend of CAD $2,300 per month during academic terms. (McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill)
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (VCGS) — one of Canada’s top awards for doctoral students; while the stipend is about CAD $50,000/year (~ CAD $4,167/month), it’s for PhD candidates. (University Living)
- Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program (CGS-M) — supports high-caliber master’s students, though eligibility is often limited to Canadians or permanent residents. (NSERC)
- Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship — for postdoctoral researchers; includes generous funding packages. (University Living)
- Quebec Merit Scholarships — for short-term research stays, professional development, or doctoral/postdoc work. E.g., $3,000/month for short-term research stays. (Quebec)
These are your best bets if you’re aiming for monthly pay above or near $2,000 CAD.
2. University-Specific Scholarships & Assistantships
Many Canadian universities offer internal scholarships, research assistant (RA) or teaching assistant (TA) positions that include stipend support.
- UBC, McGill, U of Toronto, University of Alberta, University of Waterloo, etc., often have graduate fellowships or department-level funding. (UBC Admissions)
- Example: University of Alberta’s “International Scholarships” include fully funded research opportunities. (Opportunity Tracker)
These may not always guarantee $2,000/month, but for top students in expensive cities they may approach or exceed that figure.
3. Short-Term Exchange / Study Abroad Grants
These are typically limited-duration, and may or may not meet the $2,000/month threshold, but can help you “get paid” for short stints in Canada.
- Study in Canada Scholarships (SICS) — hosted by Global Affairs Canada, for short-term research or exchange. (DAAD Scholarships 2026)
- Merit scholarships by Québec government for short stays — $3,000/month for short professional development or research stays. (Quebec)
- Government of Canada International Scholarships (SEED, ELAP, etc.) — some of which are administered via Canadian universities (e.g. at University of Alberta). (Opportunity Tracker)
4. Grants, Bursaries & Monthly Student Aid (for Domestic Students)
These tend to offer more modest support.
- Canada Student Grant for Full-Time Students — up to CAD $525 per month during a study period (for domestic students). (Government of Canada)
- Provincial bursaries, university “entrance awards” — often low amounts relative to living costs.
- Scholarships for specific programs — e.g. forestry, environmental science, etc. Some BC scholarships offer $2,000 one-time amounts. (ScholarshipCa)
These aren’t enough to “get paid” at $2,000/month, but can supplement.
Which Scholarships Actually Reach $2,000+ Monthly?
Let’s narrow down which ones are realistic for someone aiming to earn $2,000+ per month while studying.
| Scholarship / Program | Level (Master’s/PhD etc.) | Monthly Stipend / Equivalent | Eligibility Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| McCall MacBain | Master’s / Professional | CAD $2,300 during academic terms (McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill) | Open to all disciplines; competitive |
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships | PhD | CAD ~$50,000/year (~CAD 4,167/mo) (University Living) | Canadians / permanent residents (not always international) |
| Québec Merit (short-term research) | Short-term / research stay | CAD $3,000/month (Quebec) | For Québec universities, limited duration |
| Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship | Postdoc | High stipend (competitive packages) (University Living) | For postdoctoral-level research |
| Departmental RA / TA (varies) | Graduate | Varies — in high-cost cities may exceed $2,000 | Depends on university and discipline |
From this table, McCall MacBain stands out as a strong example for a stipend above $2,000/month in a master’s program, while PhD-level awards like Vanier or departmental funding can well exceed that.
Who Qualifies (Eligibility) & What You Need
To win one of these top-tier paid scholarships, you’ll need more than just good grades. Here’s a breakdown of the common eligibility criteria and key application components.
Common Eligibility Criteria
- Academic excellence — top grades (often first-class or equivalent).
- Research potential / proposal — for graduate awards, a solid research plan is critical.
- Letters of recommendation — strong references from professors or mentors.
- Leadership, community service, extra-curriculars — many scholarships prefer well-rounded candidates.
- Language proficiency (English/French) — especially for non-native speakers.
- Citizenship / status — some scholarships are restricted to Canadians, permanent residents, or certain countries.
- Full-time enrollment in an eligible program.
- Institutional nomination or endorsement — some awards require the university to submit on your behalf.
Tip: Always check the official website of each scholarship for the specific and up-to-date eligibility rules.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Win a Paid Scholarship
Here’s a roadmap you can follow to increase your success chances.
1. Do Deep Research Early
- Start searching at least 12–18 months before your intended start date.
- Use resources like EduCanada’s scholarship portal. (EduCanada)
- Check university-specific funding pages (e.g., McGill, UBC, University of Alberta). (McGill University)
- Keep an up-to-date spreadsheet (scholarship name, deadline, link, requirements).
2. Prepare a Strong Academic & Project Foundation
- Maintain top grades—aim for first-class or equivalent.
- Start independent or group research; publish or present if possible.
- Develop a research proposal (narrow, feasible, significant).
- Engage in leadership roles, volunteering, student initiatives.
3. Build Relationships with Faculty
- Reach out to potential supervisors in Canadian universities whose research matches your interests.
- Try to get a Letter of Invitation / supervision agreement—this strengthens your application.
- Collaborate on small research projects or correspond early.
4. Craft Stellar Essays / Personal Statements
- Tell your story—why this scholarship matters for you.
- Highlight passion, past impact, future goals, and how the work will benefit society.
- Be clear, concise, and show authenticity.
- Address possible weaknesses (gaps) proactively.
5. Secure Excellent Recommendation Letters
- Pick professors or supervisors who know your work in depth.
- Provide them with your CV, research summary, and what you want them to emphasize.
- Give them enough time (at least 4–6 weeks).
6. Polish Supporting Documents
- Transcripts (certified translations if needed)
- Proof of language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) with clear sections (academics, research, awards, leadership)
- Publications (if any)
- Certificates from volunteer work, awards, etc.
7. Apply (Carefully & Early)
- Submit well before the deadline—late applications are often rejected outright.
- Review all instructions, formatting, additional forms (e.g., institution nominations).
- Double-check all uploads and name formats.
- Request confirmation from the institution.
8. Prepare for Interviews (If Applicable)
- Many scholarships do oral interviews (in person or virtual).
- Practice speaking about your research, motivations, and future plans.
- Prepare for behavioral questions (leadership, challenge experience).
9. Plan for Alternatives
- Apply to multiple scholarships (don’t put all eggs in one basket).
- Also apply to smaller grants, bursaries, backup options.
- If you don’t get a $2,000+/month award, a smaller stipend plus part-time RA/TA might still make things feasible.
Top Scholarships to Target in 2025
Here are some of the most promising and well-known scholarships in Canada currently open or with regular cycles. Use them as anchor targets for your strategy.
McCall MacBain Scholarship (McGill)
- Offers full tuition + living stipend (CAD $2,300 monthly during study terms) (McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill)
- Covers a wide range of disciplines.
- Application typically opens June; deadlines vary by applicant country. (McGill University)
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Among the most prestigious PhD awards in Canada.
- Award amount: CAD $50,000/year (~CAD $4,167/month).
- Usually not open to international students (check updated eligibility). (University Living)
Quebec Merit Scholarships
- For short research stays: CAD $3,000/month for a few months. (Quebec)
- For doctoral candidates in Quebec: e.g., CAD $25,000/year (plus extension allowances). (Quebec)
Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship
- Excellent for postdoctoral-level funding.
- Covers stipend plus research costs. (University Living)
University of Alberta (International Scholarships / Global Initiatives)
- Offers “Government of Canada International Scholarships” via SEED, ELAP, etc. (Opportunity Tracker)
- Research-based prospects and institutional support.
University of Waterloo & Undergraduate Bursaries
- For undergraduates, Waterloo gives bursaries up to $2,000 to full-time international students after the first year. (University of Waterloo)
- Also, there are larger merit scholarships for specific programs (e.g., engineering).
Others: Lester B. Pearson, UBC ILOT, U of Calgary Entrance Scholarships
- While not always paying $2,000/month, these are among the top fully funded undergrad scholarships with generous support. (Amberstudent)
Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
Even top students sometimes lose out because of avoidable mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Missing deadlines — always set personal reminders well in advance.
- Not meeting eligibility requirements — double-check citizenship, program level, or nomination rules.
- Weak research proposal / vagueness — proposals must be specific, realistic, and well-justified.
- Generic essays / not customized — always tailor to that specific scholarship’s values and mission.
- Weak references — avoid choosing someone who doesn’t know you well.
- Poor formatting, spelling errors — small mistakes reflect poorly.
- Underestimating cost of living in Canada — even with stipend, you’ll need budgeting.
- Relying on one application — diversification is key.
Budgeting & Cost-of-Living in Canada (for International Students)
Getting paid is one piece; managing your money well is another. Here’s a rough breakdown to help you assess how far a $2,000+ stipend can go.
| Expense Category | Approximate Monthly Cost (CAD) | Notes / Ranges* |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (shared apartment) | $600 – $1,200 | Varies by city (Toronto, Vancouver higher) |
| Utilities + Internet | $80 – $150 | Shared cost if roommate |
| Food / groceries | $200 – $350 | Cooking at home saves a lot |
| Transportation | $80 – $130 | Public transit pass |
| Books / supplies | $30 – $80 | Varies by program |
| Misc / personal | $50 – $100 | Cell phone, entertainment, etc. |
* These are rough estimates; in big cities like Toronto or Vancouver, rent may be much higher.
If your stipend is $2,300/month (as in McCall MacBain) and your rent is $1,200, you’d still have about $1,100 for all other costs—not luxurious, but manageable with discipline.
Real Stories / Voices (What Students Say)
“Your stipend should at a minimum cover your tuition and fees and you’ll most likely have a bit left over to put towards living costs.”
This insight from a grad student conversation underscores that many stipends are modest, so you must still budget carefully. (Reddit)
Students often say that living cost in big Canadian cities can erode your stipend fast, so always choose a scholarship + university location combo wisely.
How to Use This Strategy if You’re a First-Time Applicant
If this is your first time going after a paid scholarship to Canada, here’s a sample timeline you might follow:
- 18 months before start date
- Research opportunities
- Reach out to potential supervisors
- Begin drafting your research interests
- 12 months before
- Finalize your shortlist of scholarships
- Take required tests (language, etc.)
- Get letters of reference lined up
- 8–10 months before
- Write and polish your proposal and essays
- Ask for reviews / feedback
- Submit university admission (many scholarships require admission first)
- 6–8 months before
- Submit scholarship applications
- Prepare backup applications (smaller ones)
- After application
- Prepare for interview
- Update you referees / institution if needed
- If awarded
- Confirm acceptance
- Apply for study permit
- Plan relocation, budget, housing
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can international students get paid scholarships in Canada in 2025?
A: Yes, especially at the graduate and PhD levels. Some scholarships like McCall MacBain, Vanier, and departmental funding offer stipend packages. However, truly $2,000+ monthly is rare for undergraduates. Always check each opportunity’s terms.
Q: Are there fully funded scholarships Canada 2025 for master’s with stipend?
A: Yes — which is exactly why we highlighted McCall MacBain (with its $2,300/month stipend). Always check university and external funding portals.
Q: Does Canada pay you while you study?
A: In certain programs, yes. Through research assistantships, teaching assistantships, or fellowship-based scholarships with stipends. But not every program offers this.
Q: How do I prove I have enough funds for a Canadian study permit?
A: You must show proof of tuition + living expenses (for the first year) via bank statements, scholarship letters, GIC, etc. (Government of Canada)
Q: Can undergraduates earn $2,000/month in scholarships?
A: Rarely. Undergraduate scholarships may offer tuition, some support, or one-time awards. For instance, UWaterloo gives bursaries up to $2,000 for international students. (University of Waterloo)
Q: Does every university offer department-level funding?
A: No — it depends on the department, discipline, and university resources. STEM fields often have more funding than pure arts.
Q: What if I don’t get a paid scholarship?
A: Aim for a smaller stipend / award + part-time RA/TA work or paid internships. Also, look for tuition waivers, bursaries, or student loans as backup.
Conclusion: Is Getting Paid to Study in Canada Realistic for You?
Short answer: Yes, but only with excellent preparation, strong credentials, and smart strategy.
If you aim for graduate-level work—especially master’s or doctoral programs—your chances of securing $2,000+/month stipends are real (e.g. McCall MacBain, Vanier). For undergraduates, such high monthly payments are rare, but you can combine awards, bursaries, part-time work, and strong programs to approach a sustainable funding package.
Your path:
- Research early and deeply
- Build strong academic and research profiles
- Seek professors to support you
- Apply broadly (multiple scholarships)
- Budget carefully
If you like, I can help you find specific scholarships currently open in 2025/2026 that pay $2,000+/month (or close) and match your field. Do you want me to do that for your discipline (e.g. STEM, social sciences, arts)?
