Top 15 Canadian Scholarships Without IELTS for African Students in 2025

Dreaming of studying in Canada but worried about IELTS? Good news—many top Canadian universities now accept alternatives like Duolingo or TOEFL, making it easier for African students to pursue higher education abroad. In this guide, we will explore fully funded scholarships in Canada for Africans, including those that don’t require IELTS, and share tips on how to apply for Canadian student visas with ease.

Whether you’re looking for cheap universities in Canada for African students or prestigious institutions offering online MBA programs, this list will help you find the perfect opportunity to study in Canada in 2025.

Why Choose Canada for Higher Education?

Canada consistently ranks among the most welcoming and diverse study destinations in the world. Its world-class institutions deliver research-led curricula, hands-on learning, and global networking opportunities. The country’s post-graduation work permit policies and pathways to permanent residence make it especially attractive for African graduates seeking international exposure and long-term career prospects.

Benefits of Scholarships Without IELTS for African Students

• Saves preparation time and exam fees associated with standardized English tests.
• Opens doors to institutions that accept alternative proof of proficiency, such as prior English-medium education.
• Allows focus on academic excellence, leadership achievements, and community impact.
• Reduces stress and financial barriers, ensuring more resources for living expenses and study materials.

Why Some Canadian Scholarships Don’t Require IELTS

Many Canadian universities now accept alternative proof of English proficiency, such as:

• A letter from your previous school stating English was the language of instruction (Medium of Instruction Letter).
• Other tests like TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, PTE, or CAEL.
• Proof that you completed a degree in an English-speaking country.

This change has made it much easier for African students to apply for fully funded opportunities.

How to Secure a Scholarship Without IELTS

1. Research Alternative Language Proof: Many Canadian universities accept Duolingo English Test, TOEFL, or previous instruction in English.

2. Build a Strong Academic Profile: Maintain a high GPA, secure glowing recommendation letters, and highlight extracurricular leadership.

3. Prepare a Persuasive Statement of Purpose: Align your research interests or career goals with the scholarship provider’s mission.

4. Gather Transcripts and Portfolios Early: Ensure official documents are translated, certified, and submitted by the deadline.

5. Network with Alumni and Faculty: Reach out to past recipients or professors to gain insights and strengthen your application narrative.

Top 15 Canadian Scholarships 2025/2026

1. University of Winnipeg Presidents Scholarship

• Funding: Up to $5,000
• IELTS Alternative: Duolingo English Test
• Ideal for: Undergraduate and graduate African applicants

2. Carleton University Entrance Awards

• Funding: Varies by academic performance
• IELTS Alternative: TOEFL or Duolingo
• Why It’s Valuable: Carleton is among the best universities in Canada for Africans.

3. University of Saskatchewan International Excellence Awards
Awards

• Funding: $10,000
• IELTS Alternative: Duolingo or PTE
• Highlight: One of the cheap universities in Canada for African students.

4. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

• Funding: $50,000/year for 3 years
• IELTS Alternative: TOEFL or institutional waiver
• Best For: PhD students from Africa seeking fully funded scholarships in Canada.

5. Concordia University International Scholars Program

• Funding: Full tuition + living expenses
• IELTS Alternative: Duolingo or internal English test
• Extra Insight: Concordia offers online MBA programs in Canada that are highly ranked globally.

6. University of Alberta International Admission Scholarship

• Funding: Up to $5,000
• IELTS Alternative: Duolingo, TOEFL, or CAEL
• Bonus: Alberta offers generous funding for African students in STEM fields.

7. McGill University Entrance Scholarships

• Funding: $3,000–$12,000
• IELTS Alternative: TOEFL or internal assessment
• Highlight: One of Canada’s top-ranked universities with strong research support.

8. University of Ottawa President’s Scholarship

• Funding: $30,000 over 4 years
• IELTS Alternative: Duolingo or TOEFL
• Ideal for: High-achieving African students in business and law.

9. Simon Fraser University International Excellence Award

• Funding: $10,000
• IELTS Alternative: Duolingo or PTE
• Why It’s Great: SFU is known for innovation and tech-focused programs.

10. York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Award

• Funding: $20,000/year for 4 years
• IELTS Alternative: Duolingo or TOEFL
• Best For: Students with leadership potential and community impact.

11. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship

• Funding: $15,000
• IELTS Alternative: Duolingo or TOEFL
• Highlight: Calgary offers strong support for African students in engineering.

12. Dalhousie University Entrance Awards

• Funding: Varies, up to $10,000
• IELTS Alternative: Duolingo or internal English test
• Ideal for: Students pursuing health sciences or marine studies.

13. Lakehead University International Entrance Scholarship

• Funding: Up to $40,000 over 4 years
• IELTS Alternative: Duolingo or TOEFL
• Bonus: Lakehead is one of the cheap universities in Canada with high scholarship value.

14. University of Regina International Entrance Scholarship

• Funding: $3,000
• IELTS Alternative: Duolingo or TOEFL
• Highlight: Great for students seeking affordable tuition and small class sizes.

15. Brandon University International Bursaries

• Funding: Varies
• IELTS Alternative: Duolingo or TOEFL
• Best For: Undergraduate students looking for a quiet, focused academic environment.

15 Best universities in Canada for international students

1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship

Offered by the University of Toronto, this scholarship covers full tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support. Priority is given to students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, creativity, and leadership in school or community activities. Applicants must be nominated by their high school and meet the general admissions requirements.

2. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

Funded by Canada’s federal government, Vanier awards CAD 50,000 annually for doctoral studies. Candidates are assessed on academic excellence, research potential, and leadership. Eligible African students must secure a nomination from a Canadian institution and submit a detailed research proposal.

3. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

Partnered with several Canadian universities, this program targets academically talented yet economically disadvantaged African youth. Scholars receive full tuition coverage, accommodation, and a living stipend. The selection emphasizes leadership potential and community commitment.

4. Schulich Leader Scholarships

Designed for high-achieving STEM students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees. Undergraduates may receive up to CAD 100,000, while graduate students can earn CAD 60,000. Selection criteria include demonstration of entrepreneurial mindset, academic achievement, and financial need.

5. University of Alberta International Distinction Award

This renewable scholarship offers up to CAD 50,000 over four years for exceptional undergraduate applicants. Requirements include a minimum high school average of 90 percent or equivalent. No IELTS is required if prior education was in English.

6. Ontario Trillium Scholarship

Available to international PhD students at Ontario universities, this award provides CAD 40,000 annually for two years. Candidates must hold an offer of admission and demonstrate outstanding academic achievement. Language requirements can be met through alternate tests or prior English instruction.

7. University of British Columbia

International Leader of Tomorrow Award
UBC offers renewable awards ranging from CAD 10,000 to 20,000 per year for undergraduate students with exceptional academic and leadership achievements. Applicants with prior English-medium instruction are exempt from IELTS.

8. Québec Merit Scholarship for Foreign Students

Administered by the Québec government for graduate studies, this scholarship provides CAD 5,000–15,000 per year. Eligibility hinges on academic excellence, research experience, and program fit. English requirements are satisfied by proof of instruction language.

9. York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Scholarship

York University grants CAD 50,000 over four years to undergraduates demonstrating strong leadership and community engagement. No IELTS required for students from English-taught backgrounds or with satisfactory alternate assessments.

10. Carleton University Entrance Scholarship

Carleton awards one-time scholarships between CAD 5,000 and 16,000 to new undergraduates based on academic achievement and supplemental essays. Alternative English proficiency proofs like Duolingo scores are accepted.

11. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships

This CAD 18,000 per year award supports master’s or doctoral research. Candidates must hold a strong academic record and secure supervisor support. English exemptions apply for students with previous English instruction.

12. Dalhousie University Scholarships

Dalhousie offers various awards for undergraduate and graduate levels, ranging from CAD 2,000 to 10,000 annually. Selection factors include GPA, references, and personal statements. Many scholarships waive IELTS when alternative proof is provided.

13. University of Saskatchewan Graduate Award

Graduate applicants can receive CAD 18,000 per year for up to two years. Criteria include research merit, academic standing, and departmental nomination. English language requirements are flexible for qualified candidates.

14. Queen’s University International Scholarships

Queen’s provides one-time CAD 10,000 awards to outstanding undergraduate applicants. Applicants demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. Prior English-medium education can replace IELTS.

15. Norman Eschmann Memorial & Global Science Scholars

The University of Calgary offers CAD 15,000–20,000 per year for STEM graduate research. Candidates are evaluated on academic records, publications, and research proposals. English proficiency is validated through alternate credentials.

Tips for a Standout Application

1. Start Early and Track Deadlines
Calendar-based planning prevents last-minute rushes and missed opportunities.

2. Craft a Compelling Personal Statement
Showcase how your experiences shaped your academic goals and align them with the scholarship mission.

3. Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation, Choose referees who can attest to your leadership, research ability, and resilience.

4. Highlight Community Impact
Demonstrate how you’ve contributed to your local or school community and your vision for future impact.

5. Proofread and Peer Review, Eliminate typos, clarify arguments, and gather feedback from mentors or writing centers.

Also Read: 2025 Fully Funded Scholarships for WAEC Graduates – Apply Now!

Conclusion

Securing a Canadian scholarship without IELTS in 2025 is entirely achievable with focused research, early preparation, and a standout application portfolio. The 15 opportunities listed here cover a range of disciplines and degree levels, ensuring there is a perfect fit for your goals. Start your applications today, and take the first step toward studying in Canada without language test hurdles.