The Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 (BCDI 2030) is an exceptional fully funded scholarship program aimed at empowering students from 26 eligible developing countries through higher education and professional training in Canada. Funded by Global Affairs Canada, this eight-year program (2022-2030) run and focuses on fostering social and economic development aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). BCDI 2030 prioritizes inclusive access, with at least 51% of scholarships awarded to women, targeting fields that address critical development needs globally.
Basic Information about the Scholarships
- Program Name: Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 (BCDI 2030)
- Funded by: Global Affairs Canada
- Duration: 2022 to 2030
- 7,000+ scholars will benefit (51% women) from 26 partner countries
- $80M CAD funding from Global Affairs Canada
- 75% of funding → Francophonie countries
- 25% of funding → Commonwealth & Small Island Developing States
- 90% of funding → Sub-Saharan Africa
- Application Deadline: Varies by partner institution project calls; no fixed global deadline
- Website: Official BCDI 2030 sites and partner institution portals for application details
University/Institution Details
The Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 operates through partnerships between Canadian higher education institutions (HEIs) and HEIs in the eligible countries. These partnerships jointly create scholarship projects and call for applications. Scholarships are awarded for study or training at Canadian HEIs which offer programs leading to diplomas, certificates, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees. Examples include universities like the University of Alberta and several others collaborating on BCDI 2030 projects.
Study Areas and Available Programs
BCDI 2030 offers scholarships across various academic and training levels, including:
- Vocational and Technical Training
- Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Programs
- Graduate Studies (Master’s and PhD)
- Short-Term Professional Development and Custom-Made Training Programs
Thematic priority areas include:
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
- Artificial Intelligence
- Green and Blue Economy
- Climate Action and Environmental Sustainability
- Health Sciences
- Governance, Administration, and Public Policy
These fields reflect the needs of partner countries for sustainable development and capacity building.
Eligible 26 Partner Countries
- Benin Burkina Faso Cameroon Central African Republic Chad Congo Democratic Republic of the Congo Egypt Gabon Ghana Guinea-Bissau Haiti Ivory Coast Kenya Madagascar Mali Mauritania Morocco Niger Rwanda Sao Tome and Principe Senegal South Africa Tanzania Togo Tunisia
Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 Benefits
Selected scholars receive comprehensive support including:
- Beyond a degree: Focuses on leadership, development, equity, and inclusivity.
- Opportunities: Fully funded study and training in Canada (universities, vocational, and technical fields).
- Exposure: Access to top Canadian universities in SDG-related subjects.
- Skills: Practical knowledge for evolving job markets.
- Impact: About 600 scholars supported until 2030, expected to return as change-makers.
- Access to skills training, mentorship, and networking opportunities with Canadian institutions and industries
Graduates are encouraged to return to their home countries as agents of socioeconomic change.
Benefits Not Included
The scholarship may not cover:
- Personal expenses beyond the stipend
- Additional travel or relocation costs outside official airfare
- Permanent residence or immigration fees in Canada
- Virtual-only training programs (programs must involve study in Canada or hybrid models)
Eligibility Criteria for the Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030
- Applicants must be citizens of one of the 26 eligible partner countries
- Must apply through a partner HEI or local institution participating in a BCDI 2030 project (no direct individual applications)
- Must meet the admission requirements of the Canadian host institution and the scholar selection criteria of the project
- At least 51% of scholarship recipients must be women, emphasizing gender equity
- Candidates should commit to returning to their home countries after completing their studies or training
- No individual applications—students apply through their partner university.
- Partner institutions set project-specific admission and selection criteria.
Required Documents for the Application
Though specific document requirements vary by project, commonly required documents include:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of citizenship
- Statement of purpose aligned with national development goals
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé
- Letters of recommendation
- Any additional documents specified by the partner institution
Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Check for Available Projects: Visit BCDI 2030 official site or local partner HEIs to find active calls for applications.
- Apply Through Local Partner Institution: Submit required documents and application materials as per the project guidelines.
- Selection and Shortlisting: Partner institutions conduct shortlisting based on program criteria.
- Notification of Award: Selected scholars are informed via their partner institution.
- Preparation: Scholars arrange for visas, travel, and other logistics.
- Begin Academic Program in Canada: Scholars commence their study or training.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Carefully review eligibility and instructions of the local call for applications
- Tailor your statement of purpose to align with your country’s development priorities and SDGs
- Obtain strong recommendation letters highlighting your leadership and commitment to social impact
- Prepare clear and complete academic transcripts and documents
- Apply early once the call is announced to meet deadlines
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Canada (in USD)
International students in Canada typically spend between $1,900 to $2,200 USD per month on living expenses. This includes:
- Accommodation: $650 – $850
- Food and groceries: $500 – $700
- Transportation: $75 – $100
- Health insurance: Included in scholarship but generally around $60 monthly if independent
- Miscellaneous (clothing, entertainment, supplies): $150 – $200
Expenses vary by city and lifestyle but the scholarship stipend aims to cover essential costs comfortably.
Why Choose This Scholarship?
- Fully Funded: Covers tuition, living costs, insurance, and travel, reducing financial barriers.
- Diverse Program Options: From vocational training to PhD research, allowing flexibility in study level and discipline.
- Focus on Social Impact: Scholarships linked to UN SDGs, fostering development and leadership in home countries.
- Gender Equity: Minimum 51% of scholarships awarded to women, supporting female empowerment.
- International Exposure: Opportunity to study in world-class Canadian institutions, gaining global perspectives and networks.
The program ensures that scholars return as changemakers contributing to sustainable development in their communities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply directly to the BCDI 2030 program?
A1: No, applications must be submitted through local partner institutions involved in scholarship projects.
Q2: Which countries are eligible?
A2: 26 partner countries mainly from Sub-Saharan Africa, Francophonie, Commonwealth, and Small Island Developing States.
Q3: What study levels are supported?
A3: Vocational training, undergraduate, graduate (Master’s/PhD), and short professional development programs are supported.
Q4: Are scholarships renewable?
A4: Scholarship duration depends on the specific project, typically up to four years; renewal depends on the project terms.
Q5: What happens after completing the scholarship?
A5: Scholars are expected to return home to apply their skills for social and economic development.
Official Link:
This Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 is an unparalleled opportunity for eligible developing country students to access quality education in Canada with strong social impact investment, fully funded support, and a global network to foster lasting positive change. Applicants are encouraged to stay updated on project calls via official BCDI 2030 and partner institution channels to seize this transformative opportunity.