Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 (BCDI) – Fully Funded Study in Canada Application Guide

The Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 (BCDI 2030) has now made studying in Canada fully funded possible.

The BCDI 2030 program provides talented students from 26 eligible countries with a rare opportunity to pursue higher education and professional training in Canada without worrying about tuition, living expenses, or travel costs.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the program, including eligibility requirements, degree levels, scholarship streams, benefits, and tips to improve your chances of being selected.

What is the BCDI 2030 Program?

The Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 (commonly called BCDI 2030) is an eight-year program funded by Global Affairs Canada. With a budget of over CAD 80 million, it aims to strengthen education and professional training in 26 eligible countries, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, the Caribbean, and some Asian states.

The program runs from 2022 to 2030 and is coordinated by Canadian higher education institutions (HEIs) in partnership with universities and training organizations in eligible countries. Its ultimate goal is to support inclusive development, gender equality, and long-term capacity building through education.

Benefits and Support

The Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 (BCDI) program provides a fully funded package designed to remove financial barriers for international students. Successful applicants receive:

• Tuition coverage at Canadian universities.
  
• Monthly living stipend to support accommodation, meals, and daily expenses.
  
• Round-trip airfare between the home country and Canada.
  
• Comprehensive health insurance throughout the period of study.
  
• Research and training support, tailored to the field of study.
  
• Opportunities for both short-term and long-term training programs.
  
• Networking with fellow international students and collaborating with Canadian institutions.

These benefits make BCDI 2030 one of the most competitive and attractive fully funded scholarships available in Canada.

Key Areas of Study

The program focuses on development priorities that align with Canada’s global strategy. Students are encouraged to apply in the following fields:

• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
  
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Innovation
  
• Climate Change, Green Economy, and Blue Economy
  
• Public Health and Medical Sciences
  
• Governance, Leadership, and Administration
  
• Inclusive Education and Gender Studies
  

By targeting these key thematic areas, the scholarship ensures that recipients not only build personal careers but also contribute to sustainable development in their home countries.

Eligible Countries

The Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 (BCDI) program is open to students from 26 eligible countries. These countries are: 

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, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Togo, and Tunisia.

Who Can Apply? – Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the BCDI 2030, applicants must meet specific requirements.

General Eligibility:

1. Must be a citizen of one of the 26 eligible countries.
   
2. Must apply through a partner institution (you cannot apply directly to the central BCDI office).
   
3. Academic excellence with a strong academic record in previous studies.
   
4. Demonstrated commitment to community development and leadership potential.
   
5. Gender equity: at least 51% of selected scholars will be women, in line with the program’s goal to promote gender equality.

Degree Levels Supported

The BCDI 2030 program supports the following levels of study:

• Bachelor’s Degree
  
• Master’s Degree
  
• Doctorate (PhD)
  
• Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)
  
• Microprograms (short-term, specialized training)
  

These programs are offered through Canadian Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in partnership with institutions in eligible countries. 

BCDI 2030 Scholarship Streams

The BCDI 2030 program operates through two main streams:

1. Stream 1: Scholarships for Studies in Canada
   This stream provides scholarships for individuals from partner countries to pursue studies and training in Canada. Approximately 600 scholars are expected to participate, gaining skills and knowledge to become agents of change in their communities upon returning home.
   
2. Stream 2: Institutional Partnerships
   Stream 2 focuses on capacity building through partnerships between Canadian and partner country higher education institutions. It delivers customized training opportunities that meet the unique needs of partner countries, promoting sustainable development and addressing regional challenges.

How to Apply for the BCDI 2030 Scholarship

Unlike other scholarships, where you apply directly to a single website, the BCDI 2030 requires applicants to follow these steps:

Step 1 – Identify Eligible Institutions

• Check if your university or local higher education institution is a partner institution with a Canadian university under BCDI 2030.
  
• Each partner institution will announce calls for applications and provide specific guidelines.
  

Step 2 – Prepare Your Documents

Commonly required documents include:

• Academic transcripts and certificates
  
• Passport or national ID
  
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  
• Statement of Purpose or Motivation Letter
  
• Research proposal (for postgraduate programs)
  
• Two or more recommendation letters
  

Step 3 – Apply Through the Partner Institution

• Submit your application to your home institution, which then forwards it to the Canadian partner university.
  
• Some institutions may also require online submissions through their official portals.
  

Step 4 – Selection and Nomination

• Your institution will review applications and nominate successful candidates.
  
• Final decisions are made jointly by the Canadian and partner institutions.
  

Step 5 – Admission and Visa Process

• Once selected, you will receive an admission letter and funding confirmation.
  
• Next, apply for a Canadian study permit (student visa) with full financial support documentation.

Learn more about the BCDI 2030 program and official updates on the BCDI 2030 website.

Important Tips for Applicants

1. Start early – Calls for applications may vary by country, so check regularly with your institution.
   
2. Focus your essay on development impact – Show how your studies in Canada will help solve real challenges in your country.
   
3. Highlight leadership and volunteer work – BCDI values applicants who are active in community service.
   
4. Polish your English or French proficiency – Strong communication skills give you an edge.
   
5. Network with alumni – Many previous recipients share tips on LinkedIn or university websites.
   

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I apply directly to BCDI 2030?
No. Applications must be submitted through a Canadian HEI in partnership with an institution in one of the 26 eligible countries.

2. Do I need to pay any fees?
No. The scholarship is fully funded, and any request for payment is a scam.

3. Which Canadian institutions can participate?
Eligible institutions are those approved by Canadian authorities and members of Colleges and Institutes Canada or Universities Canada.

4. Who recruits scholarship candidates?
Partner institutions in eligible countries handle recruitment and selection, not the central BCDI office.

5. How do I verify a scholarship offer is legitimate?
Ensure it comes from a listed partner institution; no money is requested.

For the full list of FAQs and official guidance, visit the BCDI 2030 official FAQ page.

Final Thoughts

The Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 (BCDI 2030) is more than a scholarship—it’s a chance to grow professionally, build leadership skills, and make a meaningful impact in your community. With full financial coverage and opportunities in high-demand fields, it stands out as one of the best fully funded ways to study in Canada.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, start preparing now: gather your documents, stay updated on announcements from your partner institutions, and don’t miss any deadlines.