Canada Scholarships 2026 | Quebec Government & York University Scholarships for International Students

Canada Scholarships 2026: Quebec Government Merit Awards and York University Scholarships for International Students

Canada continues to strengthen its position as a top global education destination by offering generous scholarship opportunities for international students. For the 2026 academic intake, two major funding options stand out: the Quebec Government Merit Scholarships for Technical and Vocational Training and a wide range of high-value entrance and premier scholarships at York University in Toronto. These programs aim to attract talented students, reduce financial barriers, and support workforce development in key academic and technical fields.

With award values ranging from $14,000 per year to $180,000 over four years, these scholarships provide substantial financial relief for students planning to study in Canada.

Quebec Government Merit Scholarships for International Students

The Quebec Government Merit Scholarship Program is designed to support international students enrolled in technical and vocational education programs. These scholarships focus on skill-based training aligned with labor market needs in Quebec, helping students gain practical qualifications while contributing to the province’s economic development.

Technical Training (Diploma of College Studies – DCS)

International students pursuing technical training leading to a Diploma of College Studies (DCS) are eligible for scholarships valued at $14,000 CAD per year. The funding is available for up to three years, provided students remain enrolled full-time and meet academic performance requirements.

These programs are typically offered through CEGEPs (public colleges) and selected private institutions across Quebec, covering fields such as health technologies, engineering technologies, IT, and applied sciences.

Vocational Training Programs

For vocational training programs, scholarship amounts range between $14,000 and $26,600 CAD, depending on the duration of the program. These programs are shorter and highly practical, making them attractive for students seeking job-ready skills in areas like construction, manufacturing, hospitality, and technical trades.

Application Process for Quebec Scholarships

Unlike centralized scholarship systems, applicants must contact the specific CEGEP or private college directly to apply. Institutions handle nominations and submissions to the Quebec government. It is important to note that the scholarship is not automatically renewable; students must reapply each year to continue receiving funding.

York University Scholarships for 2026 Intake

Located in Toronto, Ontario, York University is one of Canada’s largest and most diverse institutions. For the Fall 2025 and Winter 2026 intakes, York is offering a broad range of entrance, merit-based, and premier scholarships for both international and domestic undergraduate students.

International Automatic Entrance Scholarships

York University offers automatic entrance scholarships for international students based on final admission averages. These awards range from $2,500 to $37,500 CAD, depending on academic performance. Eligible students are considered automatically once they receive an offer of admission, with no separate scholarship application required.

York University Presidential Scholarship

The Presidential Scholarship is York’s most prestigious award for international students. Valued at approximately $180,000 CAD over four years (around $45,000 per year), this scholarship recognizes students with exceptional academic achievement, leadership skills, and community involvement.

Applicants must complete a competitive application process and meet strict eligibility requirements, including nomination and supplemental documentation.

Schulich Leader Scholarships

The Schulich Leader Scholarships are among Canada’s most competitive undergraduate awards for students pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs. These scholarships are valued between $100,000 and $120,000 CAD, depending on the program.

• Nomination deadline: January 28, 2026
• Application deadline: February 18, 2026

Students must be nominated by their high school or educational institution, making early preparation essential.

Other Major York University Scholarships

York also offers several additional merit-based awards, including the Governors’ Awards of Distinction, valued at $32,000 CAD or more, along with faculty-specific and program-specific scholarships. Many of these awards share a February 15, 2026 deadline.

Application Process via MyFile

For most competitive York University scholarships, applicants must submit a “Scholarships, Awards and Bursaries” application through MyFile, York’s official applicant portal. This platform allows students to:

• Apply for multiple scholarships using a single profile
• Upload required documents
• Track deadlines and application status

Failure to apply through MyFile may result in ineligibility for major awards.

Key Deadlines to Remember

• February 15–18, 2026: Deadline for many York University scholarships
• January 28, 2026: Nomination deadline for Schulich Leader Scholarships
• Quebec scholarships: Deadlines vary by institution and program

Students are advised to confirm exact dates directly with universities and colleges.

Conclusion

The Quebec Government Merit Scholarships and York University Scholarships for 2026 offer outstanding funding opportunities for international students seeking education in Canada. Whether pursuing technical and vocational training or undergraduate academic programs, these scholarships significantly reduce financial burdens while opening doors to high-quality education and global career prospects.

Early preparation, strong academic records, and timely applications are essential for students hoping to secure these competitive awards and begin their academic journey in Canada.