Are you an international student with dreams of pursuing postgraduate studies in Canada, but limited financial resources or concerns about IELTS requirements are holding you back? The University of Alberta is offering a fully funded scholarship opportunity that could be your golden ticket. This program not only covers full tuition fees, accommodation, and other essential expenses, but also provides a guaranteed stipend of $26,400 per year for two years—and that’s just the beginning.
Here’s everything you need to know about this fully funded scholarship in Canada for international students in 2025, including benefits, eligibility, and how to apply.
🌍 Why Choose Canada for Postgraduate Study?
Canada continues to rank among the top destinations globally for international students due to its high academic standards, multicultural environment, and immigration-friendly policies. Studying in Canada not only gives you access to world-class education but also opens doors to permanent residency opportunities after graduation.
For students looking to study in Canada without IELTS or avoid high application costs, the University of Alberta’s scholarship program provides a truly unique and accessible option.
🎓 Scholarship Details at a Glance
🔹 Name: University of Alberta Fully Funded Postgraduate Scholarship
🔹 Level: Master’s/Postgraduate Programs
🔹 Duration: 2 years (with a guaranteed stipend for the entire period)
🔹 Coverage:
- Minimum $26,400/year guaranteed funding for international students
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Free accommodation or housing allowance
- Health insurance and other essential expenses covered
- No IELTS required
- No application fee
💼 Optional Teaching Assistant Work
In addition to the base scholarship, eligible students are also offered opportunities to work part-time as Teaching Assistants (TAs). This provides:
- Extra monthly income
- Hands-on teaching experience
- Enhanced CV/resume for future academic or professional roles
❌ No IELTS Required – Here’s Why
One of the most attractive features of this scholarship is the waiver of English language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL. This is possible because the University of Alberta accepts various other forms of proof of English proficiency such as:
- Previous education in English-speaking institutions
- Country-specific exemptions
- University-approved internal assessments
This means you can study in Canada without IELTS if you meet the alternative criteria.
🧾 No Application Fee – Start Your Journey Without Financial Burden
Application fees are often a major barrier for students applying to universities abroad. The University of Alberta waives the application fee for this scholarship program, making it completely free to apply.
This is ideal for students from low-income backgrounds or countries where the currency exchange rate makes international fees unaffordable.
🏫 Why Study at the University of Alberta?
Ranked among Canada’s top five universities and consistently placed in the top 100 globally for research output and innovation, the University of Alberta is renowned for:
✅ Academic Excellence
- Offers more than 500 graduate programs
- Strong emphasis on research and innovation
- Internationally recognized faculty and research centers
✅ Global Community
- Over 40,000 students, with nearly 9,000 international students from 150+ countries
- Rich multicultural campus experience
- Student associations, clubs, and international mentoring programs
✅ Student Support
- Dedicated International Student Services (ISS)
- Pre-arrival and orientation programs
- Mental health and academic counseling
- Career services and co-op job placement assistance
✅ Quality of Life in Edmonton
- Safe and welcoming city
- Affordable cost of living compared to cities like Toronto and Vancouver
- Access to outdoor parks, festivals, and a thriving tech scene
👨👩👧 Relocation With Family – A Major Advantage
Another huge plus? This scholarship allows recipients to relocate with their spouse and children to Canada. Canada’s immigration policies are family-friendly, and dependents of scholarship recipients can:
- Apply for open work permits (spouses)
- Attend Canadian public schools for free (children)
- Enjoy Canada’s healthcare and community support systems
For many families, this is not just a scholarship—it’s a chance to start a new life together in a welcoming, high-opportunity country.
📅 Application Deadline: April 15, 2024
To be considered for the scholarship, you must submit all required documents before April 15, 2024. While the application is straightforward, early preparation is key.
✅ Required Documents:
- Academic transcripts
- CV/resume
- Statement of purpose
- Recommendation letters
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable through alternative means)
🔗 How to Apply for the Fully Funded University of Alberta Scholarship
Step 1: Visit the Official Scholarship Page
Go to the official University of Alberta Graduate Admissions page and select your desired postgraduate program.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Ensure all academic and identification documents are updated and formatted according to university guidelines.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Follow the on-screen instructions to submit your application. Remember: no application fee is required, so don’t worry about making any payment.
Step 4: Await Contact
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for any additional information or interviews. Ensure your contact details are accurate and up to date.
Important: Double-check all details on the University of Alberta official website to avoid misinformation or third-party scams.
🧠 Pro Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Tailor your statement of purpose (SoP) to reflect not just academic goals, but your passion, research interest, and future contribution to Canada or your home country.
- Secure strong references from lecturers, supervisors, or employers who know your academic capabilities.
- Showcase your leadership, volunteering, or social impact work if applicable—Canadian universities value well-rounded applicants.
✈️ Final Thoughts – A Life-Changing Opportunity
If you’re asking yourself how to study in Canada without IELTS or upfront costs, this is your answer. The University of Alberta’s fully funded postgraduate scholarship for international students is more than just financial aid—it’s a pathway to global exposure, career development, and a better future for you and your family.
💥 Key Takeaways:
- Fully funded for two years
- Minimum $26,400 per year in support
- No IELTS required
- No application fee
- Family-friendly immigration
- Optional paid Teaching Assistant positions
Don’t let financial barriers or English test requirements stop you. Apply today and take the first step towards a brighter academic and professional journey in Canada.