5 Universities in Canada, Easy to Get In & Offer Scholarships to International Students

Discover 5 easy-to-get-into universities in Canada that offer scholarships for international students—plus 10 bonus options with direct links.

If you’re dreaming of studying abroad but worried about entry hurdles and tuition costs, you’ll be glad you’re reading this. Canada is a fantastic destination for international students — strong education, multicultural campuses, and increasing scholarship opportunities. In this article we’ll look at five Canadian universities that are relatively easier to get into for international students and offer solid scholarship support. I’ll break down each institution, why it’s “easier”, what scholarships are available, and how to apply. Sound good? Let’s jump in.

Why “easy-to-get-in” matters (and what it really means)

Before we list universities, a quick note: “easy to get in” doesn’t mean no requirements. It means more accessible admission criteria, higher acceptance rates, fewer hoops, and greater openness to international students. Admission still requires you to meet minimum standards: high school transcripts, English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), etc. But your odds improve.

Why this matters: If you go for super-competitive institutions (like the top tier in Canada), the admission bar is very high, and scholarships are fewer. Choosing universities with more accessible admissions can reduce stress — and still get you into a great degree.

Also: scholarships matter. The cost of studying in Canada as an international student can be steep. But many universities and external bodies provide merit-based or need-based scholarships. See e.g. the national portal of EduCanada which lists scholarship opportunities for international applicants. EduCanada+1

So: let’s dive into the list.

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1. University of Winnipeg (Manitoba)

Why it’s more accessible

• According to an admissions guide, UWinnipeg has a relatively generous estimated acceptance rate around 75%. BeMo®

• International students are explicitly welcome, with dedicated “International Undergraduate Admissions” information. University of Winnipeg+1

• Flexible intake: international applicants may start in Fall (September), Winter (January) or Spring (May) terms.

• Application process is clear and manageable.

Scholarship/financial-aid opportunities

• The University distributes over CAD 6 million in scholarships, awards and bursaries annually.

• Although many awards are automatic/merit based, the fact that international students are considered means you have a chance.

Admission/important details

• Application deadlines: for Fall, by ~June 1 for international students.

• Minimum high-school average: e.g., one source states ~65% for general admission, though individual programs may require more.

• English language proficiency and any program-specific prerequisites still apply.

Bottom line: For an international student looking for a Canadian university with decent chances of admission and scholarship possibilities, Winnipeg is a very strong candidate.

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2. Cape Breton University (Nova Scotia)

Why it’s more accessible

• CBU’s international admissions page states that students from around 70 countries are part of the campus, indicating a strong international student presence. Cape Breton University

• Admission requirements are straightforward (e.g., minimum age 16 for undergraduate international applicants).

• The tuition and cost-of-living information is clearly published, making financial planning easier.

Scholarship/financial-aid opportunities

• Entrance scholarships and bursaries are available, including for international students. For example, “Entrance Scholarships for International Students” up to CAD 30,000 have been listed. Mina7 Portal

• Ongoing “In-Course Scholarships & Bursaries” for enrolled students, easing financial burden during the program.

Admission/important details

• You’ll still need to satisfy English proficiency and provide transcripts, but the process is transparent.

• Average required: one listing mentions that for certain scholarships an ~80% average is needed. Opportunities Info

• Location: Nova Scotia, Canada — more affordable than many major metro areas.

Bottom line: CBU offers a friendly entry path for international students and has scholarship options worth exploring. This makes it an appealing choice for budget-conscious students.

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3. Lakehead University (Ontario)

Why it’s more accessible

• Though not as widely referenced as some universities, Lakehead has been listed among Canadian universities with “more welcoming” admission criteria for international students in online forums. GD CONNECT

• It offers a full range of undergraduate programs and is known for supportive student services.

Scholarship/financial-aid opportunities

• While specific international scholarship details for Lakehead weren’t as prominent in our search, many Canadian universities offer entrance scholarships. As a strategy, contacting Lakehead’s international student office directly is recommended.

Admission/important details

• Because Lakehead is less competitive than Canada’s top tier (e.g., U Toronto or U British Columbia), students with solid but not perfect grades may still stand a good chance.

• International students should check program-specific requirements, English proficiency, and deadlines as usual.

Bottom line: If you’re looking for a lesser-known institution with good quality and more accessible admission, Lakehead is worth serious consideration.

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4. University of Regina (Saskatchewan)

Why it’s more accessible

• The University of Regina has been cited in student forum listings as one of the Canadian universities with higher acceptance rates (e.g., ~85%). GD CONNECT

• It offers a variety of programs and welcomes international applicants with manageable entry criteria.

Scholarship/financial-aid opportunities

• Like many mid-tier Canadian universities, University of Regina offers entrance awards and international student scholarships. (While exact data didn’t show up in our quick search, the pattern exists across many Canadian universities.)

• For international students, being proactive and applying early improves your scholarship chances.

Admission/important details

• You’ll need to meet program prerequisites, submit high-school transcripts, and demonstrate English proficiency as applicable.

• It may not have the “brand name” of Canada’s top universities, but the quality is credible and it may offer better value.

Bottom line: For international students wanting a solid Canadian degree experience with more relaxed admission barriers and opportunities to secure scholarships, University of Regina is a strong pick.

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5. Université de Saint‑Boniface (Manitoba)

Why it’s more accessible

• Located in Winnipeg (Manitoba), USB has been identified as one of the Canadian universities with “relatively lower admission requirements” for international students. CollegeVine

• It is French-language (or bilingual) institution, which may open additional opportunities depending on your language skills.

Scholarship/financial-aid opportunities

• While specific international scholarships weren’t highlighted in our search for USB, many smaller institutions still offer entrance awards and bursaries — you’ll want to contact the university’s international office for up-to-date details.

• Because the institution is smaller, competition for scholarships might be less fierce compared to larger universities.

Admission/important details

• If you’re comfortable with a French-language or bilingual environment, this may be a niche advantage.

• Ensure you meet language requirements (French and/or English) and minimum academic criteria.

Bottom line: USB offers another accessible route to a Canadian degree, especially if you are open to a less mainstream university environment and perhaps bilingual studies.

Here are 10 additional Canadian universities whose international student-scholarship offerings are worth your attention — each comes with a link so you can explore the details yourself.

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📝 Tips for Using This List

• Click through each university’s “Scholarships” / “Awards” / “Financial Aid” section to see eligibility, deadlines, and coverage.

• Note the level of study (undergraduate vs graduate) and whether the scholarship is automatic or requires a separate application.

• Check whether the reward covers full tuition, or just part of it, and whether it includes living expenses.

• Monitor deadlines and apply early—many major awards are competitive and time-sensitive.

What to check before applying

When you’re comparing “easier admission + scholarship” options, here’s your checklist:

1. Minimum academic entry requirement – What grade average, high school subjects, etc are required?

2. English (or French) proficiency tests – IELTS, TOEFL, etc.

3. Scholarship details & eligibility – Is the scholarship automatic when you apply, or do you need a separate application? What amount? Is it renewable?

   • For example, the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship at University of Toronto covers full tuition, books, and residence for 4 years for outstanding international students. Future U of T+1

4. Tuition + living cost – Even “affordable” in Canada is relative; factor in cost of living, residence, and other fees.

5. Campus support for international students – Orientation, housing, student visa support, etc.

6. Program fit & reputation – Ensure the degree you want is offered, and the university has good value.

7. Application deadlines – Many have early deadlines; missing them can cost you a year.

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Tips to boost your chances

• Apply early: Many awards are first-come, first-served.

• Write a strong personal statement: Highlight leadership, community involvement, global perspective.

• Meet scholarship criteria: If a scholarship asks for minimum 80% average, aim higher.

• Gather good references: Especially for scholarships and special awards.

• Ensure your English (or French) test is valid and sufficiently high.

• Consider less competitive programs within a university (sometimes easier admission).

• Explore bursaries and student jobs: Scholarships aren’t always enough—on-campus jobs help.

• Monitor scholarship pages: Universities regularly update new awards. For example, CBU lists scholarship & bursary updates on its site. Cape Breton University

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Final thoughts

Choosing a Canadian university with both accessible admission and scholarship support is absolutely achievable — you just need to do your homework, be proactive, and pick wisely. While the “top few” universities get the headlines, many slightly less competitive institutions offer excellent value and better chances. The five universities we’ve covered are strong options.

You’ll still need to do your part: make sure your transcripts are ready, your English (or French) proficiency is proven, you meet deadlines, and you submit standout applications. If you do, you could be studying in Canada sooner than you think — with financial support.

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FAQs

Q1: What GPA or grade average do international students need to enter Canadian universities?
A: It varies by university and program. Some “easier admission” universities may accept grade averages in the 60s-70s % (or equivalent) for international students. For example, the University of Winnipeg suggests ~65% for general admission. Always check the program-specific requirement on the university’s official website.

Q2: Do international students get scholarships automatically or do they need to apply separately?
A: It depends. Some scholarships are automatic when you apply for admission (entrance scholarships based on grades), while others require a separate application (essay, references, etc.). For example, CBU notes that some entrance scholarships are automatic, others require separate submission. Always check the “Scholarships & Awards” page of the university.

Q3: Are there universities in Canada where international students have very high acceptance rates?
A: Yes — some universities are known to be more accessible. For example, the University of Winnipeg is cited as having an estimated 75% acceptance rate. But even at accessible schools, you still need to meet minimum criteria and submit a solid application.

Q4: Is studying in Canada as an international student expensive even with scholarships?
A: Tuition + living costs can still add up, but scholarships significantly help. Also, studying in less expensive cities/campuses (versus major metro areas) can reduce costs. For example, Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton University offers scholarships and the cost of living is more moderate. The key is to budget for both tuition and living expenses—and factor scholarship offsets.

Q5: What else should international students do besides apply for admission and scholarships?
A: Good question. Besides admission and scholarships, you should:

• Secure your student study permit / visa.

• Arrange accommodation (on-campus or off-campus).

• Prepare for English/French language requirements.

• Set up health insurance (often required).

• Explore student support services (international office).

• Plan finances (bank account, living costs).

• Think about arrival logistics (travel, orientation).