1. The Vector Scholarship in Artificial Intelligence
This is the most relevant scholarship for your specific background. It is designed for students entering AI-related Master’s programs in Ontario.
- Value: $17,500 CAD for one year.
- Eligibility: Must be entering a full-time Master’s in an AI-related field (Data Science, Computer Science, etc.) at a participating Ontario university (e.g., UofT, Waterloo).
- AI Advantage: Your work with AI-powered marketing tools and your B.Tech in AI make you a high-priority candidate.
- Deadline: Internal university deadlines vary, but usually fall around February 25, 2026.
2. University of Toronto: Graduate Admission Awards
UofT is a global leader in AI (the birthplace of Deep Learning). While most international students are automatically considered for merit-based awards upon admission, some specific fully funded tracks exist.
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars: Primarily for students from Sub-Saharan Africa, but keep an eye on their Engineering International Scholarships.
- Departmental Funding: Most research-based (Thesis) Master’s in Computer Science or Engineering at UofT provide a Minimum Funding Guarantee (approx. $20,000 – $30,000 + tuition).
3. McCall MacBain Scholarships (McGill University)
This is one of Canada’s most prestigious leadership-based scholarships.
- Coverage: Full tuition and fees, a monthly living stipend of $2,000 CAD, and a relocation grant.
- Focus: They look for students who have a track record of leadership and community service. Your role in managing digital marketing teams at upGrad could be framed as a leadership accomplishment.
- Deadline: Applications for 2026 typically open in June 2025 and close in September 2025.
4. University of Saskatchewan Graduate Scholarships
A great option if you are looking for a fully funded research-based Master’s in a slightly more affordable province.
- Value: Up to $16,000 CAD for a Master’s degree.
- Criteria: Based purely on academic excellence and research potential.
5. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
If you apply to a university in Ontario (like Waterloo or McMaster), you can apply for the OGS.
- Value: $15,000 CAD per year.
- Note: A small number of these are reserved specifically for international students.
Comparison of Top Canadian Scholarships
| Scholarship | University/Region | Value (CAD) | Best For |
| Vector AI Scholarship | Ontario | $17,500 | AI/Data Science Students |
| McCall MacBain | McGill (Quebec) | Full Ride + $2k/mo | Leaders/Community Impact |
| UofT Dept. Funding | Toronto | Tuition + ~$25k | Research-based Master’s |
| U of Saskatchewan | Saskatchewan | $16,000 | Academic Excellence |
| OGS | Ontario Universities | $15,000 | General Excellence |
3 Killer Tips for Your Application
- Highlight the “AI + Marketing” Niche: In your Statement of Purpose (SOP), don’t just say you like AI. Explain how you used it at upGrad to analyze CTR and reach. Canadian universities love “Applied AI.”
- Focus on Thesis-Based Programs: Professional (Course-based) Master’s are rarely fully funded. Aim for MASc (Master of Applied Science) or MSc (Research) roles.
- Contact Supervisors Early: For many Canadian research scholarships, you need a professor to “nominate” you. Start emailing professors at UofT, Waterloo, and McGill now to discuss potential research collaborations.
Important 2026 Dates to Remember
- September – November 2025: Most Master’s application portals open.
- December 2025 – January 2026: Deadlines for most high-tier university funding.
- February 2026: Vector AI Scholarship deadline.
- April – May 2026: Offer letters and scholarship notifications are sent out.
This video provides a deep dive into the 2026 landscape of Canadian funding, specifically explaining the difference between university-specific awards and government-funded research grants.