The Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 (BCDI 2030) is a fully funded programme that offers high-quality education and training opportunities in Canada for students from developing countries. Funded by Global Affairs Canada, this eight-year initiative (2022–2030) focuses on increasing access to higher education, vocational, and technical training. It aims to strengthen social and economic development in partner countries, reduce inequalities, and align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The programme supports approximately 600 scholars from eligible countries to study or train in Canada, with at least 51% being women. Scholars gain valuable skills, knowledge, and experience to thrive in the job market, drive positive change in their communities, and contribute to national development upon returning home.
Key Objectives
- Boost access to inclusive and equitable higher education and training.
- Build skills for employment and community impact.
- Support social and economic progress in partner countries, with a strong emphasis on empowering women and reducing inequalities.
Eligible Countries
Citizens from the following 26 countries are eligible (primarily Francophone and Commonwealth nations in Africa, plus select Small Island Developing States):
- Benin
- Burkina Faso
- Cameroon
- Central African Republic
- Chad
- Congo
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Egypt
- Gabon
- Ghana
- Guinea-Bissau
- Haiti
- Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire)
- Kenya
- Madagascar
- Mali
- Mauritania
- Morocco
- Niger
- Rwanda
- Sao Tome and Principe
- Senegal
- South Africa
- Tanzania
- Togo
- Tunisia
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility is not handled on an individual basis. Scholarships are awarded through established project partnerships between a Canadian higher education institution (HEI) (such as universities or colleges) and an HEI from one of the 26 eligible countries.
To qualify as a potential scholar, you must:
- Be a citizen of one of the 26 eligible countries.
- Meet the admission and selection requirements set by the participating Canadian HEI and its partner institution.
- Align with the project’s focus areas (often linked to SDGs, such as health, climate action, employability, or other development priorities).
Benefits
- Full or substantial funding for tuition, living expenses, travel, health insurance, and other costs (varies by project).
- Opportunities for higher education, vocational, or technical training in Canada.
- Development of employability skills and international experience.
- Contribution to personal growth and long-term impact in your home country.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
Important: Individuals cannot apply directly to the BCDI 2030 programme or Global Affairs Canada. Applications go through approved projects and partner institutions.
- Confirm your eligibility — Check that you are a citizen of one of the 26 eligible countries listed above.
- Explore available projects — Visit the official BCDI 2030 projects page for Stream 1 (Scholarships for Studies in Canada): Here. This lists funded or active scholarship projects, including details on partner institutions and focus areas.
- Identify and contact the resource person — Each project lists a contact or resource person (often at the partner HEI in your country or the Canadian institution). Reach out to them directly for current application calls, deadlines, and requirements.
- Apply through the partner institution — Submit your application to the international partner HEI (in your country) or as directed by the project. This may involve:
- Completing an application form.
- Providing academic transcripts, CV, motivation letter, proof of citizenship, recommendation letters, and language proficiency evidence (if required).
- Meeting any project-specific criteria (e.g., gender equity priorities or field of study alignment).
- Await selection — The Canadian HEI and partner institution handle selection based on their criteria, BCDI 2030 guidelines, and programme admission standards. Deadlines and processes vary by project.