By iQualify Abroad
For Pakistani students aiming for a fully funded Master’s program in Canada, the Ontario Graduate Scholarship is one of the most respected scholarships offered by the Government of Ontario.
It provides merit-based funding to international students pursuing graduate studies at eligible Ontario universities. iQualify Abroad has prepared this detailed SEO-optimized guide to help Pakistani students understand eligibility, benefits, criteria, and strategies to successfully secure this scholarship.
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) is a merit-based scholarship awarded to outstanding graduate students (Master’s or PhD) studying in Ontario.
For Pakistani students, this scholarship provides financial support for tuition and living expenses, allowing them to focus fully on their academic research and professional development.
✔ Minimum CAD 15,000 per year (can be higher depending on the program)
✔ Tuition and research-related expenses
✔ Renewable for up to two years (for Master’s programs)
✔ Recognition for academic merit and leadership potential
Although OGS does not always cover 100% of living costs, combining it with other university funding can make it fully funded.
Pakistani students can apply to Master’s programs in:
Arts and Humanities
Science
Engineering
Computer Science
Health Sciences
Business and Economics
All programs must be offered at OGS-eligible universities in Ontario.
Be a full-time graduate student (Master’s) at an eligible Ontario university
Demonstrate outstanding academic performance
Be nominated by your university department
Meet the English language proficiency requirement
Provide a statement of research objectives or professional goals
Minimum academic standing: generally a first-class average (80%+) at undergraduate level
Strong research potential for Master’s applicants
Participation in relevant extracurricular or professional activities is a plus
For Pakistani students:
IELTS Academic: minimum 6.5 overall
TOEFL iBT: minimum 90
Requirements may vary slightly depending on the host university.
Apply to a Master’s program at an OGS-eligible Ontario university.
Departments nominate top students to the scholarship committee.
Academic transcripts
Statement of purpose or research plan
Recommendation letters
Proof of English proficiency
Follow your university’s internal OGS application process.
Shortlisted candidates are evaluated based on academic merit, research potential, and professional goals.
Academic excellence
Research potential and professional goals
Leadership and extracurricular activities
Alignment with Ontario’s research priorities
Merit-based funding for Master’s studies in Ontario
Access to top-tier research facilities and faculty
Enhance global career opportunities
Recognition for academic and professional achievements
Maintain top undergraduate grades
Prepare a strong research plan or statement of purpose
Obtain high-quality letters of recommendation
Participate in relevant professional or community initiatives
Apply early and follow university deadlines
At iQualify Abroad, we help Pakistani students:
Identify OGS-eligible universities and programs
Strategize scholarship applications
Review and edit statements of purpose and essays
Prepare recommendation letters
Provide interview preparation and guidance
Assist with Canada study permit applications