Canada offers world-class education, a multicultural environment , and post-graduation work opportunities (with a PGWP). All of these make Canada one of the most desirable study destinations for international students. However, for a lot of students, the costs associated with studying in Canada can be daunting. The good news is that scholarships can make studying in Canada much more feasible.
Once you learn how to integrate scholarships and the PGWP post-graduation work opportunity, you will be able to streamline your study and work life in Canada. This applies to you whether you are in the application process or are already in the country. This is your complete guide for attaining scholarships and using the PGWP to achieve your career aspirations.
Understanding the PGWP
The Post-Graduation Work Permit allows students who graduate from particular Canadian institutions to work in Canada for a certain period of time. The PGWP allows graduates to accumulate Canadian work experience, which is a requirement for applying for Canadian permanent residence.
The PGWP is issued for a period of a maximum of three years, which depends on the duration of the academic program studied. For instance, students who have study programs that are at least two years in duration can expect to receive a three-year open work permit. Students who complete programs of shorter duration will have a work permit issued for the same duration as their study program.
To be eligible, you must apply for the work permit after 180 days of receiving your final documents, and have completed an eight-month, full-time, and designated learning program (DLI). Once you have applied for the work permit, you cannot apply for another PGWP after the work permit has expired.
Why Combine Scholarships with the PGWP Path
There are financial and career advantages to applying for scholarships while planning for or holding a PGWP. While the PGWP allows you to work in Canada for gainful employment after you graduate, scholarships cover tuition, living expenses, and research funding. This facilitates your long-term settlement and strengthens your application for permanent residency via the Canadian Experience Class or the Provincial Nominee Programs.
For prospective students, scholarships enable you to afford a Canadian education and increase your chances of acceptance into competitive programs. For current students or recent graduates, awarded scholarships or fellowships that correspond to your PGWP can assist your research, postgraduate training, or professional development.
Types of Scholarships Available
In Canada, there are different types of scholarships available for prospective and current students. These can be sorted into a number of categories.
- Government-Funded Scholarships
The Government of Canada supports international students through a range of scholarship programs. Examples include:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships for doctoral studies based on academic excellence and leadership.
- Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED) for students from ASEAN member countries.
- Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships for research graduates seeking advanced training in Canadian institutions.
- University-Specific Scholarships
Every Canadian university provides its own university-specific scholarships, which can be based on academic merit, research potential, or financial need. For instance, the University of Toronto offer some combination of entrance scholarships and graduate-level accolades. For the most part, these scholarships do not require any special application and will be considered once you submit your admission application.
- Private and Non-Governmental Scholarships
To attract international talent, several organizations, companies, and foundations sponsor scholarships. A few examples are the Trudeau Foundation Scholarships, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, and rewards offered by Canadian banks or sponsored by professional associations.
- Research and Graduate Assistantships
Graduate students pursuing research have an opportunity to secure assistantships, which provide funding in exchange for teaching or research service. Having an assistantship not only helps reduce your tuition costs, but the work also constitutes valuable experience, which can be helpful for your PGWP eligibility in the future.
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How to Apply for Canada Scholarship with PGWP
Applying for scholarships while planning for or holding a Post-Graduation Work Permit requires strategy and proper timing. The process depends on whether you are applying before your studies, during your program, or after graduation.
- Choose an Eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
Start by applying to a college or university that is recognized by the Canadian government. Only graduates from DLIs are eligible for the PGWP. Before you apply, confirm that the school and program qualify on the official list of DLIs.
- Research Scholarships Early
Visit the official websites of your chosen schools and explore both internal and external scholarship options. Pay attention to eligibility criteria such as nationality, academic performance, research field, and financial need. Many scholarships require you to apply months before classes begin.
- Prepare Your Required Documents
Most scholarships require similar materials:
- Transcripts or academic records
- Language test results (IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo)
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose or personal essay
- Admission or offer letter (for some programs)
Gather these documents early and ensure they meet the institution’s formatting and certification requirements.
- Submit Your Admission and Scholarship Applications
In many universities, you can apply for scholarships alongside your admission application. For others, you may need to submit a separate application through a scholarship portal or via email. Make sure your forms are complete and submitted before the deadline.
If you are already studying, apply for in-course or continuing scholarships through your school’s student portal or financial aid office.
- Wait for Results and Accept Your Offer
Once reviewed, successful applicants receive a scholarship offer, which can come before or after their admission letter. If awarded, follow all instructions for accepting the scholarship, including signing funding agreements or submitting updated transcripts.
- Apply for Your Study Permit and Later for the PGWP
After receiving your admission and scholarship confirmation, apply for your study permit through the IRCC website. Once you complete your studies, you can then apply for your Post-Graduation Work Permit in 180 days of receiving your completion letter.
If you are already a graduate with a PGWP, you can apply for new scholarships or research grants through universities, provincial programs, or organizations that fund professional development or postgraduate research.
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Applying for Scholarships While Studying
As soon as you commence your studies in Canada, you can start applying for continuing scholarships from your university or other organizations. Numerous scholarships are aimed at students who maintain good grades or engage in leadership and community activities.
At certain times of the year, universities will publish information about in-course scholarships and other scholarships they manage. Be sure to keep an eye on your school’s student site and financial aid office. Some scholarships are based on grades and are awarded automatically, while others will require you to apply and submit an entire application.
At the graduate level, you will also be able to access research grants, travel scholarships, and conference awards for your department as well. These provide funding for research activities and help with professional development in a way that is aligned with your career and PGWP plans after you graduate.
Scholarships for PGWP Holders
After completing your studies and receiving a PGWP, you can still access scholarships or funding if you plan to pursue further studies or professional training in Canada. For instance:
- Postgraduate fellowships and research grants are open to PGWP holders who enroll in short-term courses, diplomas, or research programs.
- Provincial funding programs may support continuing education or skill development in areas such as technology or healthcare.
- Employer-sponsored scholarships can be available through Canadian companies that fund further training or certifications for their international employees.
How to Strengthen Your Scholarship Application
- Standing out in a competitive scholarship process needs careful consideration and effort. Below are actionable suggestions that could help improve your chances:
- Keep your marks and academic performance in a competitive field. Grades and academic performance are some of the first details that reviewers look at.
- Participate in diverse extracurricular activities. Active participation in leadership and community service positions demonstrates initiative and involvement in your community.
- Prepare strong recommendation letters. Pick referees who are able to write and speak about your academic and personal strengths.
- Write with clarity and a passion. Describe how and why your personal history and future aspirations align with the scholarship’s objective.
- Be systematic. Remember the critical details like the deadlines, the documents needed, and the submission portals.
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How the PGWP Complements Your Scholarship Journey
After graduation, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows you to stay in Canada and work. This time allows you to develop your work skills, earn money, and even acquire new credentials. Many students take up jobs directly aligned with their studies, and this work experience helps them apply for permanent residency via Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs.
The work experience you acquire through the PGWP also enhances your chances of obtaining research scholarships and funding for higher studies. When awarding funding for master’s or PhD programs, some Canadian universities favour applicants with Canadian work experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Some applicants miss out on scholarships or PGWP opportunities because of simple mistakes. Here’s how to avoid these errors:
- Failure to submit required or accurate documents.
- Not meeting deadlines for scholarships or permits.
- Submitting to non-designated learning institutions (and hence, expecting to receive PGWP).
- Not meeting program-specific requirements or score expectations on the language tests.
- Assuming one scholarship will work for all programs without checking program-specific eligibility requirements.
Conclusion
One of the best options for international students is to apply for a scholarship in Canada while also aiming to obtain the PGWP. It helps in costs, helps in academic development, and provides a pathway to long-term residency and success professionally in Canada.
For prospective students, the best approach is to begin early, apply for a designated institution, and seek scholarships aligned with their program of study. For current students and holders of a PGWP, further opportunities to research are development grants for your career, aligned with your work experience and aspirations. You can study, work, and build a bright future in Canada with the support of scholarships and the Post-Graduation Work Permit.