Introduction
Canada is globally recognized for its innovation-driven economy and commitment to research, science, and technology. As demand for skilled professionals in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) continues to grow, numerous scholarships have been introduced to encourage both local and international students to pursue STEM education. The year 2025 presents a variety of opportunities for students seeking financial aid to study STEM in Canada, offered by government bodies, universities, and private institutions. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the top STEM scholarships available in Canada, including eligibility requirements, benefits, how to apply, and helpful tips to improve your chances of selection.
Why STEM Scholarships Matter in 2025
STEM fields are the backbone of modern economies, driving advancements in medicine, energy, information technology, and environmental sustainability. By supporting students through STEM scholarships, Canada aims to fill critical skill gaps, foster diversity, and support research and innovation. These scholarships also serve as incentives for underrepresented groups—including women, Indigenous students, and international scholars—to enter and thrive in technical careers.
Who Can Apply for STEM Scholarships in Canada?
Most STEM scholarships in Canada target undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing degrees in disciplines such as:
- Computer Science and Information Technology
- Engineering (civil, mechanical, electrical, etc.)
- Mathematics and Statistics
- Physical and Biological Sciences
- Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Health Sciences and Biomedical Engineering
Eligibility typically varies by program and may be based on academic performance, research interests, citizenship, financial need, or representation in a minority or underserved group.
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
This is one of Canada’s most prestigious scholarships for doctoral students in STEM and other research fields. It aims to attract world-class PhD candidates with leadership potential.
Key Features
- Value: $50,000 per year for up to 3 years
- Open to: Canadian and international PhD students
- Fields: Natural sciences, engineering, health, and social sciences
- Requirements: High academic standing, research proposal, letters of reference
Applications are made through the university where the student intends to study. Deadlines typically fall between September and November each year.
NSERC Postgraduate Scholarships (PGS)
Offered by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, this scholarship supports graduate students in STEM fields.
Key Features
- Value: $17,500 to $21,000 per year
- Duration: 1–3 years
- Open to: Canadian citizens and permanent residents enrolled in MSc or PhD programs
- Fields: Engineering, mathematics, computer science, biology, physics, and chemistry
NSERC also funds undergraduate students through the Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRA) program.
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
This is a merit-based scholarship for students pursuing master’s or doctoral studies at participating Ontario universities.
Key Features
- Value: $15,000 per year ($5,000 per academic term)
- Duration: 1–2 years
- Open to: Domestic and international students
- Fields: All disciplines including STEM
Each university sets its own internal deadlines and application process. Applicants must have an average of at least A– in their previous two years of study.
Mitacs Globalink Research Internship
This competitive program offers research internships for international undergraduate students in STEM fields.
Key Features
- Value: Fully funded research internship
- Duration: 12 weeks (summer term)
- Host: Over 70 Canadian universities
- Open to: International students from partner countries like India, Brazil, China, and Germany
Participants work with Canadian faculty on cutting-edge research projects and gain global academic exposure.
Schulich Leader Scholarships
This scholarship targets high school graduates entering undergraduate STEM programs at designated Canadian universities.
Key Features
- Value: $100,000 for engineering or $80,000 for science/math degrees
- Open to: Canadian high school students
- Focus: Leadership, academic excellence, and entrepreneurial spirit
- Eligibility: Nomination by school principal
Each participating university receives a set number of Schulich scholars per year.
Loran Scholars Foundation Award (STEM-inclusive)
Though not exclusive to STEM, this award supports outstanding Canadian students with leadership potential across all fields, including science and engineering.
Key Features
- Value: Up to $100,000 over four years (tuition, stipend, enrichment)
- Open to: Canadian high school or CEGEP students
- Includes: Summer internship funding, mentorship, and retreats
Ideal for students who combine academic excellence with strong community engagement.
TD Scholarships for Community Leadership (STEM-Eligible)
TD Bank Group awards scholarships to students who demonstrate leadership in improving their communities—STEM students are highly encouraged to apply.
Key Features
- Value: Up to $70,000 (tuition + living expenses)
- Open to: Canadian citizens and permanent residents
- Fields: All, including engineering, IT, and science
Applicants must show a strong record of volunteerism and leadership in social change initiatives.
The Canadian Engineering Memorial Foundation Scholarships
These scholarships specifically support women pursuing engineering in Canada.
Key Features
- Value: Up to $5,000
- Open to: Female undergraduate and graduate students
- Eligibility: Academic excellence and community leadership
They aim to honor the memory of the 14 women killed at École Polytechnique and promote women in engineering.
University-Specific STEM Scholarships in Canada
University of Toronto – U of T Engineering Admission Scholarships
The University of Toronto offers various entrance scholarships to engineering and science students based on merit.
McGill University – Faculty of Science Entrance Scholarships
McGill provides automatic and application-based scholarships to STEM students entering undergraduate programs.
University of British Columbia (UBC) – Science and Engineering Awards
UBC offers merit and need-based awards including the International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES) and Outstanding International Student Award.
University of Waterloo – Faculty of Mathematics and Engineering Scholarships
Waterloo is renowned for its STEM excellence and provides several merit-based entrance awards, including co-op funding for students in computer science and data-related fields.
Western University – Natural Sciences and Engineering Scholarships
Western offers entrance and in-program awards for domestic and international students across a variety of STEM disciplines.
STEM Scholarships for International Students in Canada
While some major scholarships (like Vanier or NSERC) are open only to Canadian citizens and permanent residents, many STEM scholarships are open to international students.
Examples include:
- UBC International Scholars Program
- York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Award
- Concordia Presidential Scholarships
- University of Ottawa Entrance Scholarships for International Students
- Carleton University STEM Excellence Awards
These awards help cover tuition, living costs, and sometimes flight expenses. Many are renewable for multiple years.
Scholarships for Women in STEM
Canada supports increasing female participation in science and technology through targeted scholarships, such as:
- Women in Engineering & Computer Science Scholarships (University of Ottawa)
- Canadian Federation of University Women Fellowships
- Women in STEM Awards from Ontario Tech University
- Women in Technology Scholarships by Microsoft and Google Canada
These aim to remove financial barriers and promote gender diversity in technical careers.
Indigenous Scholarships for STEM in Canada
Indigenous students interested in STEM can apply to scholarships such as:
- Indspire’s Building Brighter Futures Program (STEM Stream)
- Johnson Scholarship Foundation – Indigenous STEM Scholarships
- First Nations STEM Scholarships through Band or Tribal Council funding
- UBC’s Indigenous Scholars Awards in Science
These programs often provide mentorship and support systems in addition to funding.
STEM Scholarships for Black and Underrepresented Students
Equity-focused scholarships include:
- Black Students in Tech Bursary
- University of Toronto – Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (diversity-focused)
- Afro-Caribbean Mentorship Program STEM Fund
- NSERC Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Scholarships
These scholarships help remove systemic barriers to academic achievement.
Application Tips for STEM Scholarships
- Start early and keep track of deadlines
- Customize your personal statement to each scholarship’s goals
- Highlight leadership, innovation, and community work
- Provide strong academic references from professors or teachers
- Demonstrate passion for STEM through past projects, internships, or research
- Double-check eligibility criteria before applying
- Prepare documentation early, including transcripts and test scores
Can You Combine Multiple STEM Scholarships?
Yes, many STEM scholarships in Canada are stackable, especially university-specific and merit-based awards. However, some may limit combined funding to avoid double-dipping. Always read the terms and consult your university’s financial aid office to confirm compatibility.
What Expenses Do STEM Scholarships Cover?
Depending on the program, scholarships may cover:
- Full or partial tuition fees
- Textbooks and course materials
- Research project expenses
- Living expenses such as housing and meals
- Travel and relocation costs
- Internships or cooperative education terms
Some prestigious programs even offer international conference funding and mentorship.
Future Prospects for STEM Scholarship Recipients
Graduates of Canadian STEM scholarship programs often go on to careers in:
- Tech startups and innovation labs
- Government and public research agencies
- Healthcare and biotech companies
- Aerospace and environmental engineering
- Artificial Intelligence and cybersecurity
- Higher education and academic research
Many recipients also pursue graduate studies or postdoctoral research in Canada or internationally.
What Makes Canadian STEM Scholarships Globally Competitive?
Canadian institutions are globally ranked for their STEM research and academic environments. Coupled with scholarships that offer generous financial aid and access to research facilities, these awards make Canada one of the best destinations for aspiring scientists and engineers.
Conclusion
STEM scholarships in Canada 2025 offer a wide range of opportunities for students passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Whether you’re a high school graduate entering your first year, an international student looking for a global education, or a PhD candidate focusing on cutting-edge research, there’s a scholarship tailored for your needs. By taking advantage of these funding programs, students not only reduce the financial burden of education but also gain access to mentorship, research facilities, and career-building networks. Begin preparing your application today and take a confident step toward shaping the future of STEM in Canada and beyond.