Study in Canada Without Paying Tuition or Fees
Fully Funded Master’s Programs in Canada for African Students 2025. Canada is quickly becoming one of the most popular study destinations for international students — especially those from Africa. Its reputation for academic excellence, inclusive policies, and multicultural campuses make it a top choice. The best part? You don’t have to pay a fortune. There are multiple fully funded Master’s programs in Canada specifically open to African students in 2025.
These scholarships cover full tuition, monthly living allowance, accommodation, books, and even airfare in some cases. If you’re seeking a high-quality education with financial support, this guide is for you.
Why Study a Master’s in Canada?
- Strong global rankings of Canadian universities
- Research-driven, practical curriculum
- Post-graduation work permits and immigration pathways
- Safe and multicultural cities
- Government and university scholarships for international students
Top Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships in Canada for African Students
Each program listed below offers full or near-full funding and is open to applicants from African countries.
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
- Coverage: $50,000 per year for up to 3 years
- Eligible Degrees: Master’s leading to PhD or direct-entry PhD
- Eligible Fields: Health research, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities
- Eligibility: Excellent academic standing, leadership skills, research potential
- Website: vanier.gc.ca
Although primarily for PhD, many programs accept students transitioning from Master’s directly into PhD streams with full funding.
2. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (Canada Universities)
- Coverage: Tuition, accommodation, stipend, travel
- Partner Universities in Canada: University of Toronto, McGill University, University of British Columbia
- Eligibility: African students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds
- Focus Areas: Leadership, community engagement, sustainable development
- Website: mastercardfoundation.org
Highly competitive and well-supported with academic, financial, and emotional support systems.
3. University of Ottawa Entrance Scholarships (African Students)
- Coverage: Full tuition waiver and living stipend for Master’s programs
- Eligibility: African nationals applying to English-language graduate programs
- Deadline: Opens in Fall 2024 for 2025 intake
- Website: uottawa.ca
The University of Ottawa launched a specific funding program targeting African students in STEM and social science disciplines.
4. Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
- Coverage: Tuition, books, living allowance, travel, and visa support
- Eligibility: Citizens from developing countries including several African nations under special partnerships
- Fields: Development-focused subjects (public health, environment, gender equality, etc.)
Website: cbie.ca
While the program title includes ASEAN, some editions include partnerships and fellowships that extend to African applicants via development agencies.
5. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (via Partnered Master’s Pathways)
- Coverage: Full tuition, accommodation, books
- Eligibility: Outstanding academic achievers and community leaders
- University: University of Toronto (mostly undergrad but connects with grad funding)
- Pathway: Transition from undergrad to funded graduate degrees
- Website: future.utoronto.ca/pearson
This is a longer route but provides a full academic journey from undergrad to Master’s.
Other Canadian Universities That Offer Funding to African Master’s Students
- Simon Fraser University – Graduate Fellowships and TA-ships
- University of Alberta – International Admission Scholarship
- McGill University – African Students Fellowship Program
- University of Waterloo – Master’s International Funding Packages
- University of Manitoba – International Graduate Fellowships
How to Apply
- Choose a university and eligible program
- Prepare academic transcripts, CV, passport, and language test scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Write a personal statement highlighting leadership and community impact
- Apply directly through the university portal
- Submit scholarship application separately if required (some are automatic)
Application Timeline for 2025
| Program/University | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|
| Mastercard Foundation (UBC, McGill, etc.) | Aug–Oct 2024 | Nov–Dec 2024 |
| Vanier Scholarships | June 2024 | Nov 2024 |
| uOttawa Africa Scholarships | Oct 2024 | Jan 2025 |
| University of Manitoba Fellowships | Ongoing | Varies by dept. |
Always confirm dates with the official program websites.
Final Thoughts
Canada offers world-class education with strong scholarship backing, and African students are increasingly being prioritized in global funding programs. If you’re determined, academically strong, and committed to contributing to your community, your dream of studying in Canada for free is absolutely within reach.
Start preparing now — deadlines approach fast.
Ready to begin your scholarship application journey? Visit ApplyScholarshipHub.com for more detailed guides, application templates, and personalized assistance with your scholarship applications.
