phd grant in canada

The University of Manitoba campuses are located on original lands of Anishinaabeg, Ininew, Anisininew, Dakota and Dene peoples, and on the National Homeland of the Red River Métis. More

Faculty of Graduate Studies

University of manitoba.

University of Manitoba Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada, R3T 2N2

Funding, awards and financial aid

We want you to succeed as a graduate student. Find out how you can access funding so you can focus on your studies. 

• Upcoming deadlines
• Awards winners

Award opportunities

Research funding, financial aid, award winners.

UM Vanier Scholars

UM students from the Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, and Faculty of Science have been awarded the prestigious Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship. 

Vanier Scholars are Canada’s top graduate students, chosen for their academic excellence, research potential, and leadership – united by a passion to create a better world. They will receive $150,000 over three years towards their research.

• Learn more about each PhD student
• Learn more about the Vanier Scholarships

PhD student Joshua Okyere named Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholar

Joshua Okyere, a PhD student in the Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS) program, qualified as a finalist for the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship and Engaged Leadership program. After a rigorous selection process and competing with 102 semi-finalists, he has now been named one of this year’s 15 Scholars across Canada.

• Read Joshua's story
• Learn more about Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships

Nahlah Ayed Prize for Student Leadership and Global Citizenship

2021 recipients of the Nahlah Ayed Prize for student leadership and global citizenship are Anthony Huynh and Ha (Cassie) Dong. They demonstrate strong commitment to leadership through advocacy and continue to impact the world in a positive way through their tireless work.

• Read Anthony and Cassie's story here
• Information on the Nahlah Ayed Prize

Distinguished Dissertation Award Winners

University of Manitoba Distinguished Dissertation Awards are given to graduating doctoral students who have been nominated by their faculty/college/school for a dissertation that represents a ground-breaking piece of original work. Each year, one award is offered in each of the following categories: applied sciences, health sciences, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. Awardees receive a $3,000 prize.

2023 Winners

William Bugg

Williams research investigated the effects of changing temperatures on the physiology of developing lake sturgeon.

• Learn about Williams research here

Cameron Verwey

Cameron's research looks at how droplets of fuel evaporate in an engine to reduce emissions.

• Learn about Cameron's research here.

Iloradanon Efimoff

Iloradanon's research is about education reducing racism towards Indigenous people in Canada.

• Learn about Iloradanon's research here

Laura Forsythe

Laura's research is about Métis women in academia.

• Learn about Laura's research here

Previous Distinguished Dissertation Award Winners

Wanda philips-beck.

For her doctoral dissertation in the UM Faculty of Graduate Studies, Wanda studied the experiences of women who left their homes to give birth away from their communities.

Learn about Wanda's research here

Jose Sanchez

Jose's findings represent a major methodological contribution to the areas of archeology and anthropology which can help us better understand the lives of those who came before us.

Learn about Jose's research here

Wesley Silva

For his doctoral research, Wesley studied a series of molecules using a specialized technique called microwave spectroscopy to examine the rotation of the molecules for the first time in a laboratory setting.

Learn about Wesley's research here

Anne Lindsay

Anne Lindsay wrote her doctoral thesis for UM’s department of history on how the Canadian fur trade reflected the violence of the French and British empires and was not as passive or innocuous as it is painted in most accounts.

Learn about Anne's research here

Hongwei Lui

Hongwei has worked with Drs. Pooneh Maghoul, Ahmed Shalaby and others at UM to develop a device that uses ultrasonic waves that can be used in a lab or taken to a remote site to evaluate permafrost without disturbing the permafrost itself and possibly lead to structural problems.

Learn about Hongwei's research here

These are a sampling of the many awards available to UM graduate students.  

Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) Statement on Transcripts for Tri-Agency Award Competitions at the University of Manitoba

Students are responsible for obtaining official, up-to-date, and complete transcripts and for ensuring transcripts for all post-secondary institutions attended are included in their application(s).

FGS does not provide students with copies of transcripts from student records or copies of previously submitted transcripts. This includes transcripts from other Canadian or international post-secondary institutions, UManitoba, and transcripts submitted as part of previous or current admission or award applications.

Missing, unofficial, illegible, or untranslated transcripts may deem students’ applications incomplete or ineligible and will not be reviewed.

University of manitoba graduate fellowships (umgf).

For: Master’s and doctoral students 

The UMGF Fellowships are valued for a 12-month period at $14,000 for Master's students and $18,000 for PhD students. Please check with your department for how to be considered for a UM Graduate Fellowship. 

Application deadline: Please contact your department. 

G. Clarence Elliott Fellowship

For : Master’s and doctoral students 

Established in honour of a former Winnipeg vice-president and treasurer of The Great-West Life Assurance Company, the fellowship is awarded to a maximum of $10,000.  

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

For: Doctoral students 

These scholarships help Canadian institutions attract highly qualified doctoral students. They are valued at $50,000 per year for three years during doctoral studies. 

• Vanier website  
• Vanier Workshop Recording 2023

Departmental awards

Many University of Manitoba departments have internal awards based on academic merit, the values of which vary by department. Please check with your department for deadlines and details . 

Browse the FGS Award Database

Upcoming award information sessions, there are currently no scheduled information sessions.

Future information sessions will be updated as they become available.

Find available research funding for master’s and doctoral students.

• Research Manitoba

You can apply directly to Research Manitoba, which provides funds for research in the health sciences through a number of grants and awards programs.

Mitacs  is a national research network and funding agency that supports collaborative industrial-academic research projects and the training of highly qualified personnel.

Tri-Council awards (federal funding)

Explore the three major government funding bodies that provide funding for scholarly research in Canada.

• Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC)
• Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC)
• Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)

There are a number of funding opportunities available specifically for Indigenous and international students. 

Indigenous graduate student awards

Master’s award for indigenous students.

In years when funds are available, this merit-based award is open to Indigenous students who are enrolled full-time in a master’s program at the University of Manitoba.

Doctoral Award for Indigenous Students

This merit-based award is open to Indigenous students who are enrolled full-time in a PhD program at the University of Manitoba.

Browse Indigenous student awards

International graduate student awards, international graduate student entrance scholarships.

These scholarships reward the excellence of incoming international graduate students. The scholarship value is equivalent to the international student differential tuition fee.

International Graduate Student Scholarships

These scholarships reward the excellence of international graduate students enrolled full-time in master’s or doctoral programs at UM. Their value is equivalent to the amount of the international differential tuition fee.

Browse international awards

Upcoming award deadlines, may 8, 2024 - sixth prairie conservation and endangered species conference fellowship.

Value: Variable Fellowships, total value $1,850

For: Full-time Master's and PhD students

Details:  For full-time students at the University of Manitoba who are conducting or have proposed to conduct research in the area of prairie conservation and/or prairie endangered species management in Canada

Research field(s): Prairie Conservation and/or Prairie Endangered Species Management

May 9, 2024 - The Azrieli International Postdoctoral Fellowship

Value: (24) Fellowships for 2–3-year term

For: PhD & Postdoctoral Fellows

Details:  Candidates must secure an academic sponsor before applying

Research field(s): Research in any academic discipline at eligible institutions in Israel

May 14, 2024 - Alzheimer Society of Manitoba Graduate Student Fellowships

Value: (2) Scholarships valued at $4,000

For: Full-Time Master's & PhD students

Details:  Enhance knowledge about the cause, treatment, cure and effects of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias in the biomedical and psychosocial domains

Research field(s): Focuses on Alzheimer disease and related dementias

May 14, 2024 - Centre on Aging Betty Havens Memorial Graduate Fellowship

Value: (1) Scholarship valued at $2,000

Details:  Has demonstrated outstanding interest or commitment to research in aging and is not a recipient of a major award valued at $10,000 or greater in the year in which the award is tenable

Research field(s): The research should focus on some aspect of the aging process or study of older participants/subjects

May 14, 2024 - Dr. Barbara Payne Scholarship

Value: (1) Scholarship valued at $800

Details:  Full-time students conducting or will conduct thesis research in the area of social gerontology

May 14, 2024 - Esther and Samuel Milmot Scholarship

Value: (1) Scholarship valued at $1,000

Details:  Full-time students pursuing a program which bears on gerontology in the Faculty of Arts

May 14, 2024 - Jack Macdonell Scholarship for Research on Aging

Value: (1) Scholarship valued at $4,000

May 14, 2024 - University of Manitoba Retirees Association Scholarship

Details:  Canadian citizen or Permanent resident undertaking thesis research focused on human aging

Research field(s): Pursuing research focused on human aging that has the potential to enhance the lives of the aging population

May 15, 2024 - Eirikur and Thorbjorg Stephanson Scholarship

Value: (1) Award, variable value

For: PhD students

Details:  Those who apply for this fellowship will be considered for the McCrorie-West Family Fellowship in Alzheimer’s Research

Research field(s): Conducting research directly related to finding a treatment or cure for Alzheimer’s disease in the Province of Manitoba

May 15, 2024 - Mccrorie-West Family Fellowship for Alzheimer’s Research

Value: (1) Award (1) Renewable award, variable value

Details:  Those who apply for this fellowship will be considered for the Eirikur & Thorbjorg Stephanson Scholarship

May 23, 2024 - Canada Graduate Scholarship - Michael Smith Foreign Study Supplement (CGS-MSFSS)

Value: Foreign study supplement valued at up to $6,000

For: Master's & PhD students

Details:  Open to Canadian Citizens or Permanent Residents who hold an active Canada Graduate Scholarship (including Vanier), are registered at a Canadian institution, and will be temporarily conducting research outside of Canada

Research field(s): Health, Science, Engineering, Social Sciences, Humanities

June 30, 2024 - John W. Davies Memorial Award

Value: $3,000

Details:  Open to full-time graduate students at a recognized University in Canada

Research field(s): Solutions to problems encountered in marine cold regions

June 30, 2024 - Kathryn Huget Leadership Award

Value: $1,000

Details:  Applicants must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or on a Canadian student visa

Research field(s): Supports students who are working to improve the role of leadership in business and the advancement of women in leadership roles

September 30, 2024 - Savvy New Canadians Financial Literacy Scholarship

Value: (2) scholarships valued at $1,000

Details:  Open to Canadian, permanent residents and international students at accredited Canadian universities and colleges

Research field(s): Any field of study increasing and improving financial literacy and awareness among students in Canada

Mitacs Globalink Research Award

Value:  $6,000

For:  Master's, PhD and postdoctoral students

Research field(s):    Unrestricted

Recommended to apply 16 weeks in advance of planned start date

NSERC Student Ambassadors

For:  Master's and PhD students

Research field(s):    Science, Engineering

Applications must be submitted at least two months before the start of a proposed outreach activity.

University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF)

Value: Master's scholarship valued at $14,000; Doctoral scholarship valued at $18,000

Details:  en to Canadian and International students who have demonstrated superior intellectual ability and academic accomplishment. Applications are submitted to students’ home department/unit. Contact your home department for deadline and application details

Research field(s): Research-based program that is eligible for tri-council graduate student awards

If you're facing financial hardship, or need support to pay your expenses as a student, there are programs available to help you. Apply for a loan, find on-campus employment or use our on-campus food bank.

Teaching and research assistantships 

Contact your department regarding teaching assistantships, where you help conduct undergraduate classes and laboratories, and research assistantships, where you may be able to use the research undertaken for your thesis. 

Work-study program

The Work–study program at UM provides supplementary financial assistance for students who are currently receiving government student loans.

Government student loans

If you are a full-time Canadian or permanent resident you can apply for student loans from the federal and provincial governments to support your studies.

Emergency loans

The University offers short-term loans to students facing unanticipated living costs and unexpected delays in government loans or other award funding.

U.S. student loans

Learn about financial aid available to U.S. students, including government student loans.

The University of Manitoba offers a wide range of bursaries ranging from $100 to $1,000 to support students with financial need. Complete the University of Manitoba General Bursary application to be considered.

UM food bank

Students can use the food bank to help offset the costs of groceries during times of financial distress.

Award application

Read tips for submitting your application and learn more about how funding works.

Download PDF forms for funding, awards and financial aid.

Contact an awards assistant (PDF)

For help with your award questions and award applications.

Faculty of Graduate Studies 500 University Centre 65 Chancellors Circle University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus) Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canada

PhD programs

Take a deep dive into the topic you love with a phd, at the university of ottawa, you can:.

• Join a select community of researchers and work in state-of-the-art labs – uOttawa is ranked among the top 10 research universities in Canada.
• Study in the heart of the nation’s capital, a bilingual and multicultural setting where networks of senior stakeholders take action on major issues and influence decisions.
• Receive considerable financial support.

“One of the reasons I chose the University of Ottawa is for its multidisciplinary or multi-university thesis committees available to students in their first year of doctoral studies.”

Valérie Costanzo, LL.B., LL.M., lawyer, PhD candidate

Explore ways to finance your doctoral studies

The University of Ottawa has many scholarships or financial support options available to you. As a doctoral candidate, there is also the option to earn money while gaining valuable experience through teaching and research assistantships.

“Supervising doctoral students is a privilege: it allows for the discovery of new research challenges and for the development of sustainable relationships.”

Emmanuelle Bernheim, LL.D., PhD, Full professor, Faculty of Law, Civil Law Section

Take the next step

Check admission requirements

Apply for admission

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• 17 April 2024

Canadian science gets biggest boost to PhD and postdoc pay in 20 years

• Brian Owens

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

You have full access to this article via your institution.

Canada’s prime minister Justin Trudeau and finance minister Chrystia Freeland hold copies of the 2024 federal budget. Credit: David Kawai/Bloomberg via Getty

Researchers in Canada got most of what they were hoping for in the country’s 2024 federal budget, with a big boost in postgraduate pay and more funding for research and scientific infrastructure.

“We are investing over Can$5 billion in Canadian brainpower,” said finance minister Chrystia Freeland in her budget speech on 16 April. “More funding for research and scholarships will help Canada attract the next generation of game-changing thinkers.”

Canadian PhD students and postgrads plan mass walkout over low pay

Postgraduate students and postdoctoral researchers have been advocating for higher pay for the past two years through a campaign called Support Our Science. They requested an increase in the value, and number, of federal government scholarships, and got more than they asked for. Stipends for master’s students will rise from Can$17,500 (US$12,700) to Can$27,000 per year, PhDs stipends that ranged from Can$20,000 to Can$35,000 will be set to a uniform annual Can$40,000 and most postdoctoral-fellowship salaries will increase from Can$45,000 to Can$70,000 per annum. The number of scholarships and fellowships provided will also rise over time, building to around 1,720 more per year after five years.

“We’re very thrilled with this significant new investment, the largest investment in graduate students and postdocs in over 21 years,” says Kaitlin Kharas, a PhD student at the University of Toronto, Canada, and executive director of Support Our Science . “It will directly support the next generation of researchers.”

Although only a small proportion of students and postdoctoral fellows receive these federal scholarships, other funders tend to use them as a guide for their own stipends.

Many postgraduates said that low pay was forcing them to consider leaving Canada to pursue their scientific career, says Kharas, so this funding should help to retain talent in the country.

“This is going to move us from a searing brain drain to a brain gain, and position us to compete on the world stage,” says Chad Gaffield, chief executive of the U15 Group of Canadian Research Universities, based in Ontario, which supported the campaign.

‘Determined to thrive’

The budget also includes marked boosts for basic research. There is an extra Can$1.8 billion over five years in core funding for the three federal grant-awarding research councils, as well as Can$400 million for upgrades to the TRIUMF particle accelerator in Vancouver, and more cash for several other large facilities and institutes across the country. There will also be more than Can$2 billion for the artificial-intelligence sector in Canada.

“[This budget] really emphasizes that Canada is determined to thrive in the twenty-first century based on science and research,” says Gaffield.

Canada announces new innovation agency — and it’s not modelled on DARPA

Others have pointed out that the vast majority of the money in the budget for the research councils is backloaded, with just Can$228 million coming in the next two years. This means that the gains will be slow, and could be vulnerable to changes in the political climate, says Alex Usher, president of Higher Education Strategy Associates, a consultancy in Toronto. “Do not count on this money being there after an election,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter). Canada’s next federal election is due in October 2025, and the opposition Conservative Party is campaigning on reigning in spending.

The budget also makes some changes to how science funding is organized. Instead of ten different programmes for scholarships and fellowships, with differing levels of support, there will now be a single programme with just three levels — master’s degrees, PhDs and postdoctoral fellowships. Kharas says that this should simplify the system.

The government will also create a new “capstone” research-funding organization to better coordinate the work of the three granting councils and “help to advance internationally collaborative, multi-disciplinary and mission-driven research”, the budget says. It will also create an advisory Council on Science and Innovation, comprised of leaders from academia, industry and the non-profit sector, which will develop a national science-and-innovation strategy to guide priority setting and increase the impact of federal investments. “This should help move us towards a more efficient, well-coordinated and nimble way of supporting research in Canada,” says Gaffield. “I look forward to working with the government to optimize it.”

Nature 629 , 19-20 (2024)

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-01124-2

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Canada's grants for master's, PhD students haven't increased since 2003. These researchers want that changed

Annual stipends of $17,500 to $21,000 are 'definitely below the poverty line,' says grad student.

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Students doing graduate-level research say Canada risks losing its future scientists to other countries because the dollar amounts of annual grants have remained stagnant for nearly 20 years.

A Canada Graduate Scholarship from one of the three federal research funding agencies is $17,500 per year for a master's student or $21,000 per year for a doctoral student. Those amounts have not changed since 2003.

In return for that funding, the recipients are expected to work full-time on their research, and in some cases are explicitly banned from spending more than 10 hours per week on any other paid employment. 

"Definitely below the poverty line in any capacity," said Sarah Laframboise, a PhD student in biochemistry at the University of Ottawa. 

Laframboise is one of the organizers of a campaign called Support Our Science, calling on the Trudeau government to boost graduate student funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council. 

WATCH | Research grants to grad students unchanged since 2003:

Grad student funding crunch

The three federal agencies fund the research of thousands of grad students every year at universities across Canada.

• Audio The “Support our Science” movement pushes to boost funding for young scientists

"These students really deserve a living wage," said Laframboise. "They're struggling to pay rent, tuition, all of these costs."

Grants haven't grown with inflation 

Support Our Science has held a rally on Parliament Hill, presented a petition to the House of Commons and prepared a submission for the federal government's budget consultations. 

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, François-Philippe Champagne, said he is aware of the call for more funding for graduate researchers. 

"I'm very much seized about that. This is going to be part of our discussions with the minister of finance," Champagne told CBC News earlier in December, adding that students should "stay tuned" for the 2023 budget. 

"It's clear that if we want to own the podium, we need to do more to support the researchers, the students and the scientists," said Champagne. 

He said the Trudeau government has invested in science and research, but Laframboise argues that those investments have not resulted in better annual funding to graduate students. 

Her group wants the government to increase both the value and number of scholarships and fellowships that the three agencies give to graduate researchers. 

"They often spend 40 to 60 hours a week in the lab doing their research," Laframboise said. "So when we look at it from this perspective, these students really deserve a living wage." 

Inflation has eroded the value of the grants. If the $17,500 amount for a master's student researcher had risen with inflation since 2003, it would today be worth $26,140, according to the Bank of Canada's inflation calculator.  

A feeling of 'generalized anxiety'

Jessica Reid, a master's student in fish ecology at Carleton University in Ottawa, says she has had to seek extra funding beyond her NSERC award to support her research and cover her costs.

"I'm one of the fortunate ones," Reid said in an interview. "There's just this feeling of generalized anxiety. Sometimes you are trying to make ends meet, or you're trying to decide between groceries and other things."  

When she learned that the NSERC grant to a master's student had not changed for nearly 20 years, Reid said she found it shocking.  

"It's quite frustrating to hear that my research and my contributions aren't valued," she said. "You just can't help but feel a bit slighted." 

Both Reid and Laframboise believe their research is important. Laframboise's biochemistry work focuses on cancer, using yeast.  

"Yeast and humans share about 30 per cent of the same genes," she said. "I study a gene that in humans causes cancer, but in yeast we can study this in a much more robust, easy, cheaper way."

Reid is researching the impact of urban development on the fish of the Jock River, which flows into the Rideau River in Ottawa. 

• In Depth Black scientists won't stay in Canada without equitable research funding, experts say

She says the stagnant funding is a factor in Canadian students deciding to leave the country for graduate degrees.

"Feeling like you can't thrive or you just don't have the resources to stay in this field is definitely going to dampen Canada's research ability in the coming years," she said.

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10 PhD scholarships in Canada for international students in 2023

Canada is well-known for being a safe, stable, open and welcoming country. According to US News, the country is ranked the  seventh best study-abroad destination  in the world. 

That, however, is not all the Great White North is known for. 

Canada offers many beneficial opportunities for international students — from top universities to scholarships. 

If you’re looking for PhD scholarships in Canada, you’re in luck! There are  many scholarships  for both domestic and international students to further their education. 

There is no denying that studying abroad can be expensive. Combine your tuition fees with the cost of living, and it can all be too much to handle. 

After all, scholarships are a great way to help you pay for your education and reduce that burden. 

Thankfully, in Canada, there are over 800 scholarships available for international students for the term 2023 to 2024. 

With these many scholarships available, there may even be scholarships that you are eligible for that you didn’t know existed. 

So, don’t worry — we have listed down the top 10 PhD scholarships in Canada for international students for you. 

Here is a list of PhD scholarships in Canada every international student should know about: 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by University of Alberta (@ualberta)

1. University of Alberta Scholarships

The University of Alberta is a  comprehensive academic and research university  established in 1908. 

The university consistently ranks as one of Canada’s top destinations for international students due to the many funding opportunities available. 

Among the scholarships offered is the  Graduate Entrance Scholarship , available to all students enrolled in a master’s or doctoral programme. 

Recipients of the scholarship pursuing a PhD will receive a stipend of CA$21,000, and an additional CA$10,000 will be given to international students to help cover the cost of their fees. 

What’s more, the university has removed the IELTS requirement for applicants from many countries beginning this year. 

The deadline for the scholarship varies throughout the year, depending on your admission period.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by University of Waterloo (@uofwaterloo)

2. University of Waterloo Scholarships

The University of Waterloo is a public research university in Canada and is ranked eighth  as the Best Global Universities in Canada, according to US News . 

The university offers scholarships for all international students in undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programmes. The University of Waterloo Graduate Scholarship is fully funded and valued at up to  $10,000 .

The scholarship recipients will enjoy benefits such as the International Master’s Award of Excellence valued at $2,500 per term for a maximum of 6 terms.

The deadline to apply for the scholarship differs based on the programme you are enrolled in. Click  here  to view the deadline based on your programme. 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by University of Saskatchewan (@usask)

3. University of Saskatchewan 

The University of Saskatchewan is renowned for its highly collaborative research environment and is ranked number one in Canada for water research. 

The  University of Saskatchewan Graduate Scholarship  is offered to all international students enrolled in a master’s or PhD programme. 

The best part? This fully funded scholarship provides up to CA$20,000 for PhD students over 36 months. 

Once enrolled at the university, you will automatically be considered for the scholarship based on your academic achievement and financial needs. 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by McGill University (@mcgillu)

4. McGill University Scholarships in Canada

McGill University is one of the leading universities worldwide, ranking #31 according to the  QS World University Rankings 2023 . 

The university aims to make the programmes more accessible to students facing financial difficulties. 

As such, it offers scholarships for international students pursuing an  undergraduate, masters and PhD programme . 

For those pursuing a PhD a modest amount of bursaries is given to help them financially. The deadline for scholarships at McGill is based on your admission.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Université de Montréal (@umontreal)

5. Montreal University Fully Funded Scholarship

When it comes to the number of students, the University of Montreal is the second-largest university in Canada, with  36,000 students enrolled .

UdeM exemption scholarship programme was designed to ensure students from all over the world can attend one of the top research universities in Canada. 

This scholarship programme is available to all international students pursuing their undergraduate, master’s or PhD at the university. 

Montreal Univeristy Scholarships will provide up to  CA$21,593.35 per year .

For more information on other scholarships, you may check out the  Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies  page.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by University of Toronto (@uoft)

6. University of Toronto Scholarships

The University of Toronto is a public research university in Ontario, Canada.

The university offers a wide range of scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students. These scholarships are available to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students.

It has a large number of scholarships that are awarded based on merit, leadership, financial need and many other factors.

All PhD students will receive a base funding package for up to five years of their study period. If selected, international recipients will receive  CA$27,811, including a UHIP of CA$756.00 .

Applicants would need to maintain their academic performance in their programme to remain eligible for the funding throughout the five years.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by University of Ottawa (@uottawa)

7. University of Ottawa Scholarships

The University of Ottawa offers an International Doctoral Scholarship to all international students who are enrolled in a PhD programme.

This scholarship is offered to full-time international students. The scholarship is valued at CA$45,000 over five years.

The scholarships are available to all undergraduate, master’s and PhD students.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The University of Lethbridge (@ulethbridge)

8. The University of Lethbridge

The University of Lethbridge is one of Canada’s top three research universities and is ranked among the 6% of world universities for research performance.

The Graduate Research Award aims to provide financial support to all graduate students at the university.

This financial support is provided to all students except those within the Faculty of Education.

Applicants will be considered upon admission and can receive up to CA$21,000.

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9. Concordia University Canada Scholarships

Concordia University is one of the  top public universities  in Montreal, Canada. 

The university offers awards and scholarships to all students pursuing a PhD programme.

However, students need not apply, as they will be automatically considered for all entrance scholarships once admitted.

For more information on the scholarship, visit the  School of Graduate Studies Entrance Awards  page.

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10. University of British Columbia

The  University of British Columbia  is one of the top universities in the world, ranked #40 by the Times Higher Education rankings in 2023.

The  Four Year Doctoral Fellowship  (4YF) is an outstanding choice for students wanting to pursue a PhD at this university. This programme ensures that students who have achieved academic excellence will receive financial support of at least CA$18,200 annually.

This scholarship is available to all international students and is ongoing based on admission.

Aside from universities, the government offers several PhD scholarships in Canada. Source: Drew Angerer/Getty Images North America/Getty Images/AFP

PhD scholarships in Canada offered by the government

Aside from universities, the Canadian government offers scholarships that are available for international PhD students.

Here is a list of two PhD scholarships in Canada offered by the government:  

1.Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships 

The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship is offered to international students undertaking postgraduate programmes within the field of health research, natural sciences or engineering and social sciences and humanities. 

Apply by the end of April to stand the chance to receive this scholarship of up to CA$70,000 per year.

2. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships 

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship is one of the most prominent scholarship offered by the Canadian government. This fully funded scholarship is open to all international PhD students.

Applicants will be selected based on academic excellence, research potential and leadership abilities. This scholarship is valued at $50,000 per year for three years.

The application window for the 2023 to 2024 term will close on May 1.

Many PhD scholarships in Canada aim to provide financial assistance to international students. Source: Drew Angerer/ Getty Images North America/Getty Images/AFP

Frequently asked questions when applying for PhD scholarships in Canada

The scholarship application process in Canada can be a little daunting, especially for first-time applicants. Not to worry. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions to guide you through the process: 

1. How to apply for a scholarship in Canada for international students?

In Canada, the scholarship application process begins with first receiving an acceptance letter into a Canadian university.

Once you have that sorted, shortlist the scholarships that you are eligible for and best fit your needs. Contact your university’s financial aid representative or head over to the website for more details on deadlines and requirements before submitting your application.

2. Is it hard to get a scholarship in Canada for international students?

Your chances of receiving a scholarship depend on the scholarship’s nature and eligibility. Most scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements.

However, you have a higher chance of receiving a scholarship if you have work or volunteer experience.

3. What are the requirements for PhD scholarships in Canada?

The requirement for a PhD scholarship in Canada differs for each. However, the basic requirement is first to be accepted into a PhD programme. To do so, you must have a  GPA of 3.0 or higher . 

4. How can I get a fully funded scholarship in Canada?

Start applying early to stand a chance at scoring a scholarship. By starting early, you will have more time and opportunities available to you.

The second tip would be to apply for as many scholarships as possible. The more you apply, the higher your chances of winning a scholarship.

5. Can a PhD student work full-time in Canada?

As a PhD student in Canada, you will be eligible to work on and off campus as long as you have a valid study permit. However, while the semester is running, you will only be able to  work part-time for up to 20 hours per week . During semester breaks, students can work full-time. 

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You're in for an academic journey if you've decided to pursue a PhD and the maple leaf is calling your name. With its stunning scenery and welcoming, multicultural communities, Canada is more than simply a destination to study—it's a place where your research aspirations can come true. We're exploring the world of PhD scholarships in Canada in this blog, which is meant to serve as a resource for all of you intelligent people looking for the ideal chance to establish yourself in Canadian academia. 

Why Study PhD in Canada?

Ever wondered why so many folks choose Canada for their Ph.D. journey? Well, let's spill the tea on that! Here are some cool reasons why students pick the Great White North for their study abroad:

1. Top-Notch Universities : Canada houses some of the coolest universities globally, and many of them rock the charts in the top 100.

2. Work Perks : Now, this is a game-changer! In Canada, PhD students not only get paid during their studies (score!), but they can also hustle up to 10 hours a week. And guess what? After you complete your PhD, you get a shot at staying for up to 3 more years with a post-graduation work permit. Talk about levelling up your game!

3. Budget-Friendly Vibes : Let's be real – PhD adventures in countries like the US or the UK can put a dent in your wallet. But fear not, pursuing a PhD won't break the bank in Canada. Tuition fees range from a sweet CAD 6,000 to 30,000, making it a pocket-friendly option compared to some other academic hotspots. Adding to that, students can find a plater of PhD scholarships in Canada for international and domestic students.

If you’re keen to know more about why you should pursue a PhD, here are some great advantages of getting a PhD in 2024!

PhD Funding in Canada 

Canada, being the second-largest country globally, flaunts its impressive size, including a lake bigger than Denmark, Scotland, and Switzerland. Now, let's connect the dots to PhD scholarships in Canada. Canada's vastness, split into provinces and territories, brings nuances to funding. Student loans, mainly for citizens or residents, play a role. With 10 provinces shaping their educational policies, funding options vary among universities. While international doctoral fees are often higher, some universities opt for fairness, charging the same for everyone. Notably, certain institutions establish a baseline funding standard, ensuring every PhD student receives minimum support. Explore our guide for a deeper dive into PhD scholarships in Canada!

Universities that offer PhD Scholarships in Canada: 

1. university of alberta scholarships.

Award Grant: CA$ 21,000 (an additional CA 10,000 for international students) Offered By: University of Alberta Deadline: March 28, 2024 Type of Scholarship: Merit-based Duration/Time Period: Full time

This is one of Canada's best PhD scholarships. Due to its numerous funding alternatives, the University of Alberta, which was established in 1908, is a well-liked option for international students. PhD candidates can get a large CA$ 21,000 stipend through the Graduate Entrance Scholarship, which is open to master and doctorate candidates.. International applicants will also get an additional CA$ 10,000 to help with tuition. Good news: this year, applicants from a wide range of nations will not need to take the IELTS exam. Be quick—the scholarship deadline differs depending on when you are admitted. Come experience an engaging academic adventure with us at U of A!

Eligibility requirements for this PhD scholarship in Canada:

• You have to be admitted in Jan 2024, May 2024, July 2024 and Sept 2024
• You have to be newly admitted in one of the above-mentioned terms in a doctoral program
• You must have a GPA of 3.7 or higher 
• You have to be a full-time student

2. University of Waterloo Scholarships  

Award Grant: $10,000

Offered By: University of Waterloo Deadline: Depends on your course, check out here Type of Scholarship: Merit-based Duration/Time Period: Full time

This is considered one of the best PhD scholarships in Canada for international students. Ranked 8th as the Best Global University in Canada, the University of Waterloo is a top choice for students worldwide. Offering fully funded PhD scholarships in Canada, including the University of Waterloo Graduate Scholarship worth up to $10,000, the perks extend to the International Master’s Award of Excellence, valued at $2,500 per term for a maximum of 6 terms. Deadlines vary by program, so check for yours and seize the opportunity to make your academic journey exceptional!

• You have to take a full-time program.
• Your cumulative average must be at least 80% or first class in your current program.
• You will be nominated by the department based on your allocation of funds.

3. University of Saskatchewan Scholarships

Award Grant: CA$ 20,000 Offered By:  University of Saskatchewan Deadline: Type of Scholarship: Merit-based Duration/Time Period: Full-time

Discover excellence at the University of Saskatchewan, a leader in collaborative research and Canada's top for water research. Deemed among the finest fully funded PhD scholarships in Canada. Recognised as an outstanding PhD scholarship in Canada, you can unlock opportunities with the fully funded University of Saskatchewan Graduate Scholarship, available for all international master's and Ph.D. students. Here's the kicker: PhD candidates can snag up to CA$ 20,000 over 36 months. No extra paperwork – once you're in, your academic achievements and financial needs automatically put you in the running for this fantastic scholarship!

• You must have a cumulative of 80% grade point average 
• You should have completed your masters in a relevant study field form a well known university

4. McGill University Scholarships in Canada

Award Grant: CA$ 3,000 annually Offered By: McGill University Deadline: Canadian students can apply by  27 Sept, other applicants have to apply by 24th Aug. Type of Scholarship: Merit-based Duration/Time Period: Full time

Join the ranks of excellence at McGill University, placed at #31 globally by QS World University Rankings 2023. Striving for accessibility, McGill provides scholarships for international students across undergraduate, master's, and Ph.D. programs. Specifically for Ph.D. aspirants, there are modest bursaries to ease financial burdens. Act promptly, as scholarship deadlines align with your admission schedule. Make your mark at McGill – where world-class education meets support for your academic journey! This stands out as a leading PhD scholarship in Canada.

• Enrolled full-time at the University
• Apply for and accept maximum government student aid
• Maintain satisfactory academic standing
• Show financial need

5. Montreal University Fully Funded Scholarship

Award Grant: CA$ 21,593.35 annually Offered By: Montreal University Deadline: 1st February 2024 Type of Scholarship: Merit-based Duration/Time Period: Full time

This holds a distinguished position as one of the top fully funded PhD scholarships in Canada. Meet the University of Montreal, the second-largest in Canada with 36,000 students. The UdeM Exemption Scholarship opens doors for global students, ensuring access to a top Canadian research hub. Open to all international students in undergrad, master's, or PhD programs, the Montreal University Scholarships offer up to CA$ 21,593.35 annually. 

• International student (not Canadian citizen or resident)
• Admitted to full-time program at UdeM
• Meet the academic requirements of the university and chosen program

Want to know more about PhD in Canada? Here’s a guide that tells you all! Dive into more university and scholarship options using this guide on PhD In Canada .

Top 5 Scholarships to Study in Canada

1. vanier canada graduate scholarships.

Award Grant: CAD 50,000 Offered By: the Canadian Institutes of Health Research [CIHR], the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council [NSERC] and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council [SSHRC]) Deadline: 1 November 2023 Type of Scholarship: Merit-based Duration/Time Period: Full time

Considered one of the elite PhD scholarships in Canada, the Vanier CGS program wants awesome doctoral students! They're all about helping those with leadership skills and excellent academic achievements in social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, engineering, and health. Here's the cool part: Vanier encourages you to explore beyond where you got your last degree. If you're a smart cookie in social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, engineering, or health, the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships might just be waiting for you! Time to step into the world of research with Vanier!

• Nominated by a Canadian institution with a Vanier CGS quota
• Pursuing first doctoral degree (only eligible for PhD part of combined degree)
• Completed less than 20 months of doctoral studies by May 1, 2024
• Maintained a first-class average in two years of full-time study

2. The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships

Award Grant: CAD 40,000 per year to cover tuition and reasonable living expenses and CAD 20,000 per year as research and travel allowance Offered By:   Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation  Deadline: December 1, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. EST Type of Scholarship: Merit-based Duration/Time Period: Full time

Many students highly respect this PhD scholarship in Canada, which is considered to be among the best. International students studying in Canada through the University of Waterloo may apply for the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships. For people now enrolled in two- or three-year PhD studies in social science or the humanities, there is a chance. Your doctoral research ought to be connected to topics such as responsible citizenship, human rights, Canada and the world, or people and their natural environment. The scholarship comes with a pretty sweet package: CAD 20,000 for research and travel, plus CAD 40,000 for tuition and living expenses annually. 

• Enrolled or accepted into a full-time doctoral program, expecting to finish studies in 2027 or later.
• Studying humanities or human sciences relevant to Canada's future.
• Doctoral work linked to Foundation's Themes: Human Rights, Citizenship, Canada in the World, and Natural Environment.
• Canadian citizen or non-Canadian in a Canadian doctoral program.

3. Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships  

Award Grant: CAD 70,000 Offered By: (CIHR, NSERC and SSHRC) Deadline: September 20, 2023 (20:00 EDT) Type of Scholarship: Merit-based Duration/Time Period: Full time

This PhD scholarship in Canada is for both Canadian and international students who are doing amazing research in healthcare, natural science, social science, and economics for their PhD. The deal? Well, the Canadian university is giving out funds to 70 lucky students, and they get a sweet CAD 70,000 each. Keep in mind it's taxable, and you get this support for two years. It's like a boost for your awesome research journey! 

• Non-Canadian citizens must hold Banting Fellowship at a Canadian institution.
• Canadians who earned their degree abroad must have Fellowship in Canada.
• Canadians who earned their degree in Canada can choose Canadian or foreign institution for their Banting Fellowship.

4. Ontario Trillium Scholarship

Award Grant: CAD 40,000  Offered By: Government bodies Deadline: November 24 for the year of 2024-25 Type of Scholarship: Merit-based Duration/Time Period: Full time

The Ontario Trillium Scholarship (OTS) is Ontario's way of helping international Ph.D. students financially. The Ontario Trillium Scholarship is acknowledged as one of the most esteemed PhD scholarships in Canada. Since 2010, this initiative has been supporting scholars with a 2/3 government to 1/3 institution funding setup. Each year, 15 Ontario Trillium Scholarships go to Ph.D. students at the University of Toronto. Eligible universities in Ontario pick candidates based on program criteria and merit. The scholarship lasts four years and gives partial funding for a PhD in any subject at Ontario's top universities. To qualify, you need to be an international student, good in English, not currently in an Ontario school, and have a strong academic record.

• International student with a Canadian student visa.
• Proficient in English during application.
• Intent to join a full-time doctoral program.
• Cannot hold other Canadian scholarships, like QEII-GSST, UW Provost.
• Willing to enroll in an Ontario university's doctoral program.
• Minimum 8.0 average in a full-time master’s degree.
• Not completed a degree in Ontario post-application.
• Not currently a student in Ontario.

5. Ontario Graduate Scholarship

Award Grant: CAD 5,000 per term Offered By: Province of Ontario and the University of Toronto Deadline: January 31 for the year 2024-25 Type of Scholarship: Merit-based Duration/Time Period: Full time

This is acclaimed as a standout PhD scholarship within the Canadian context. The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) program is all about cheering on awesome graduate students in Ontario's universities. Since 1975, OGS has been giving out merit-based scholarships to the brightest minds across all academic fields. At U of T, this scholarship team-up is powered by both the Province of Ontario and the University of Toronto. The Province shares OGS awards with universities, saying how many each can give their students every year. If you've been to one of Ontario's universities, whether you're from there or from afar, OGS is there to support you in any subject you're passionate about!

• Enrolled in a full-time graduate program in Ontario.
• Academic excellence with at least an A- average.
• Must be in a master's or doctoral program for 2 or 3 years.
• Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or international student with a valid study permit.
• Submit an OGS application by the university's deadline.

To sum it up, fully funded PhD scholarships in Canada open doors to diverse academic journeys. From financial aid to research opportunities, these scholarships not only support your studies but also fuel your passion for exploration and knowledge. Canada welcomes you to a world of educational excellence and promising research endeavours! 

Now that you are looking for Scholarships for PhD in Canada, you should know the best university you can apply to, right? To help you out, here are the 10 best universities in Canada .

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a canadian phd program take, how can i secure a fully funded scholarship in phd in canada for international, is it possible to obtain a fully funded phd in canada for international students, what ielts score do i need for a phd scholarship in canada, can students find fully funded phd in canda opportunities.

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Graduate studies in Canada

Transform your future with a graduate degree from a Canadian university. With a global reputation for education and research excellence, Canada is the ideal choice for your master’s degree, PhD or doctoral studies.

Canada is a global leader in research and innovation

Canadian universities conduct research at one of the world’s highest rates. Canada’s thriving research culture exceeds the G7 average in terms of impact in the fields of clinical medicine; biology; information and communication technologies; agriculture; fisheries and forestry; earth and environmental sciences; economics; and business.

To put it into context, Canadian universities conducted CAD 14.3 billion in research and development (R&D), representing 40% of the total 2017 Canadian R&D (Statistics Canada, Spending on Research and Development , 2020).

Canadians have a long, proud history of developing innovations that have changed the world, including the electric wheelchair, Canadarm space technology, IMAX film, Java programming language and wireless radio transmission.

We also have a long list of medical and scientific breakthroughs. Among them: insulin, the pacemaker, the HAART therapy treatment as HIV prevention, open heart surgery and transplantable stem cells. More recently, a Canadian PhD student made a groundbreaking cancer discovery at Queen’s University. Caitlin Miron discovered a chemical compound (DNA binder) that could ‘switch off’ cancers cells and prevent them from spreading (Global News, Canadian PhD student makes groundbreaking cancer discovery , 2017).

Why not add your name to the list? Our teaching and research programs offer endless possibilities for you to work with world-leading researchers in cutting-edge research laboratories.

Graduate program options

In virtually every field of academic study, Canadian universities offer graduate degree programs.

• Master’s degrees require 1 or 2 years of study after completing your bachelor’s degree. In Canada, your master’s studies can include a thesis, practicum, research paper or a course‑based program.
• PhD and doctoral degrees involve 3 to 5 years of study, including a thesis. This usually is pursued after completing your master’s degree. Your PhD path will include a dissertation that you prepare based on extensive and original research in your field.

Search colleges & universities

Canadian institutions offer both in-person master’s degrees and PhD programs as well as online or distance education options.

The case for higher education in Canada

• Canada is seen as the #3 destination in the world for the quality of education we offer international students (U.S News & World Report, Best Countries for Education, 2021 ).
• Graduate studies in Canada are affordable at an average cost of CAD 19,252 for a degree (Statistics Canada. Canadian and International tuition fees, 2020-2021 ).
• A total of 26 Canadian universities feature in the QS World University Rankings 2021, an achievement matched only by a handful of other countries ( QS World University Rankings, 2021 ).

Cost of graduate studies in Canada

Your graduate studies are a smart career investment. Canada’s master’s and PhD programs are recognized around the globe, and our relatively lower cost of living makes the opportunity even more appealing to international students like you. Even Canada’s larger cities are more affordable than many cities around the world. 

Graduate tuition fees in Canada can vary depending on the program and location you choose. 

Study costs

Scholarships to study in Canada

You may be eligible for a scholarship, fellowship or grant to complete your postgraduate studies in Canada. The Government of Canada, our provinces and territories and many educational institutions offer funding for international students.

Find scholarships

Admission requirements and credits

Each university in Canada has its own admission requirements. To learn out about admission requirements for the program you want to pursue, visit the website of the university you would like to attend. Contact the university directly to determine whether your existing credits can be applied toward that program.

To study at a Canadian university, you must provide proof of your English or French language capabilities, depending on the language you choose for your studies.

• English-language universities may require you to write a Test of English as a Foreign Language  (TOEFL),  International English Language Testing System  (IELTS), Cambridge English Assessment or the  Canadian Academic English Language Assessment  (CAEL).
• French-language universities assess students individually. To learn what a certain university requires, check with the Office of the Registrar at the school you wish to attend.

Keep exploring

5 steps to study in Canada

Explore the 5 key steps to follow to get ready to make Canada your study destination.

Common pathways to college and university

Canada's education system is flexible. Discover all the paths you can take to achieve your goals.

Top reasons to study in Canada

Discover the many reasons why international students choose to study in Canada.

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SSHRC supports postsecondary-based research, research training and knowledge mobilization activities in the social sciences and humanities.

SSHRC funding opportunities are available through three programs: Research training and talent development program , Insight research program and Research partnerships program .

• To determine if your research falls under SSHRC 's mandate, see the guidelines on subject matter eligibility .
• For descriptions of SSHRC terms, see Definitions of Terms .

For information regarding SSHRC ’s official languages policy, see Regulations Governing Grant Applications , Regulations Governing Fellowship and Scholarship Applications and SSHRC Policy on Section 41 of the Official Languages Act .

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Through calls for research proposals, we fund projects that aim to foster climate-resilient food systems, global health, education and science, democratic and inclusive governance, and sustainable and inclusive economies in developing countries. Gender equality and inclusion are also central to our strategy and the research we support.

Browse our open calls and learn about the experiences of some of our past  Research Awardees , or browse our rich portfolio of active and completed  research projects  to learn more about the work we do.

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Home > Students and fellows > Postgraduate programs > Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s program

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Canada Graduate Scholarships — Master’s program

The objective of the Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGS M) program is to help develop research skills and assist in the training of highly qualified personnel by supporting students who demonstrate a high standard of achievement in undergraduate and early graduate studies.

Description

The CGS M program provides financial support to high-calibre scholars who are engaged in an eligible master’s or, in some cases, doctoral program in Canada (refer to  Eligibility for more information). This support allows these scholars to fully concentrate on their studies in their chosen fields.

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply, you must

• be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada or a Protected Person under subsection 95(2) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada) as of the application deadline date
• be enrolled in, have applied for or will apply for full-time admission * to an eligible graduate program at the master’s or doctoral level at a Canadian institution with a CGS M allocation
• respect the internal deadline to apply for admission for your intended program of study—contact the faculty of graduate studies (or its equivalent) at the selected Canadian institution(s) for more detailed information
• have completed, as of December 31 of the year of application
• a master’s program
• a doctoral program that you are entering directly from a bachelor’s program without having ever been enrolled in any graduate programs (direct-entry)
• a combined master’s-doctoral program
• a master’s program that will transition to an eligible doctoral program, either before or after award activation, with no master’s degree conferred (fast-track)
• a master’s program for which the degree requirements will be completed before the end of the award, allowing the award to continue into an eligible doctoral program
• or between 4 and 12 months of full-time study (or full-time equivalent) in an eligible master’s program for which the degree requirements will be completed before activation of the award at that same institution, allowing it to be activated during the first 12 months of the subsequent doctoral program for which you are requesting funding
• not have held or be currently holding a CGS M scholarship from NSERC, CIHR or SSHRC
• not have held or be currently holding an Indigenous Scholars Award and Supplement
• Note: Institutions may, at their discretion, accept CGS M applications from individuals who have not obtained a first-class average; contact your proposed host institutions to determine their use of this eligibility criterion
• Note: Should more than one application be submitted, the eligible application submitted first chronologically will be retained

*Refer to the Tri-agency research training award holder’s guide for details regarding part-time admission. **All studies credited toward the eligible program will be counted, whether or not they were completed at the degree-granting institution. Two terms of part-time study count as one term of full-time study.

Program of study eligibility

An eligible graduate program must include a significant research component that leads to the completion of a thesis, major research project, dissertation, scholarly publication, performance, recital and/or exhibit that is merit/expert-reviewed at the institutional level as a requirement for completion of the program.

Joint programs with a professional degree (for example, MD/PhD, DVM/PhD, JD/MA, JD/PhD, MBA/PhD, MA/MBA) as well as clinically oriented programs of study , including clinical psychology, are eligible if they have a significant autonomous research component, as described above.

Master’s programs that are based only on course work are typically not eligible since they do not include a significant research component, as described above.

Given the specific requirements of certain disciplines, institutions are invited to contact the appropriate agency for guidance on the eligibility of programs of study.

Eligible locations of tenure

Without exception, CGS M awards are tenable only at eligible Canadian institutions .

Field of research and subject matter eligibility

NSERC, CIHR and SSHRC support and promote high-quality research in a wide variety of disciplines and areas, which are divided into broad fields of research (health, natural sciences and engineering, and social sciences and humanities). This includes research that bridges two or more disciplines or that requires the skills of several disciplines.

Equity, diversity and inclusion

The Tri-agency is acting on the evidence that achieving a more equitable, diverse and inclusive Canadian research enterprise is essential to creating the excellent, innovative and impactful research necessary to advance knowledge and understanding, and to respond to local, national and global challenges. This principle informs the commitments described in the Tri-agency statement on equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI).

Black student researchers

The Government of Canada has deployed additional funds to increase direct support for Black student researchers . CGS M applicants who self-identify as Black and provide consent in their application to be considered for funds designated for specific groups may be able to receive this funding through a scholarship as part of this initiative. Each agency has a limited number of additional CGS M awards reserved for this initiative.

For more information, consult the Frequently asked questions about the new Black scholars funding web page.

Application procedures

To apply to the CGS M program, you must complete and submit an application to up to three institutions using the Research Portal. Consult the Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s program: Instructions for completing an application for more information on how to apply.

Allocations

Eligible Canadian institutions are assigned a separate allocation of awards to offer from each agency. Institutions must respect the agency-specific allocation. Refer to the Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s award allocations page for a list of allocations by institution and by agency.

Note: As the application deadline approaches, delays may occur due to a high volume of users on the Research Portal, which may prevent the timely submission of your application. It is your responsibility to strictly follow the instructions for completing an application . Requests to submit late applications will not be accepted.

Selection process

The faculty of graduate studies (or its equivalent) at each institution is responsible for coordinating the selection process for the CGS M applications. Refer to Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s program information and instructions for scholarships liaison officers for more information on the selection process.

Selection criteria

The merit review of CGS M applications will be carried out by institutions with an allocation and will be based on the following evaluation criteria:

San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment

In 2019, NSERC, CIHR and SSHRC, along with other Canadian research funding agencies, signed the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA) . As such, the agencies are committed to meaningful assessment of excellence in research funding and to ensuring that a wide range of research results and outcomes are considered and valued as part of the assessment process.They will continue work to ensure that their strategies, policies, and guidance align with DORA.

Notification of results

Conditions of the award.

Location of tenure

Awards must be held at the institution where the offer of award originates. Awards are not intended to be portable; however, at the discretion of the host institution and with agency approval, exceptions may be made in certain circumstances (for example, parental reasons, medical or pandemic-related reasons, family-related responsibilities, or exceptional supervision circumstances).

Policies and guidelines

You must comply with the policies and guidelines set out in the Tri-agency research training award holder’s guide and in any other documents related to scholarship applications and awards. In addition, the award is subject to final approval by the relevant agency before funds can be released.

You cannot be concurrently holding another NSERC, CIHR or SSHRC award, with the exception of the Michael Smith Foreign Studies supplement (MSFSS).

The agencies reserve the right to interpret and enforce the policies and guidelines for their funding opportunities set out in their published materials.

Use and disclosure of information

Official languages.

You may submit your application in the official language of your choice. Institutions must have mechanisms in place to review both English and French applications.

Related opportunities

CGS M holders may be eligible for the following related opportunities:

• Canada Graduate Scholarships – Michael Smith Foreign Study supplements

The first point of contact for the CGS M program is the faculty of graduate studies (or its equivalent) at the institution(s) where you intend to hold the award .

You can also contact any of Canada’s three granting agencies for information about this program. You should communicate with the agency whose mandate corresponds to your field of research.

The agencies aim to respond to inquiries within 48 hours. During peak periods (November to January), response time may be delayed.

For questions about submitting an application

• to NSERC, contact schol@nserc-crsng.gc.ca
• to CIHR, contact cgsma-bescbm@cihr-irsc.gc.ca
• to SSHRC, contact fellowships@sshrc-crsh.gc.ca

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Line 13010 – Taxable scholarships, fellowships, bursaries, and artists' project grants

Report amounts that you received as a scholarship, fellowship or bursary, or a prize for achievement in a field of endeavour ordinarily carried on by you (other than a prescribed prize) that were not received in connection with your employment or in the course of business, to the extent  that these amounts are more than your scholarship exemption. If you received a research grant, see Line 10400 – Other employment income .

Elementary and secondary school scholarships and bursaries are not taxable.

A post-secondary program that consists mainly of research is eligible for the scholarship exemption, only if it leads to a college or CEGEP diploma, or a bachelor, masters, or doctoral degree (or an equivalent degree). Post-doctoral fellowships are taxable.

Scholarship exemption

To claim a scholarship exemption, you must be enrolled in an educational program in which you are a qualifying student in 2022, 2023 or 2024.

Full-time enrolment

Post-secondary school scholarships, fellowships, and bursaries are not taxable if you received them in 2023 for your enrolment in a program for which you are considered a full-time qualifying student for 2022, 2023 or 2024.

The scholarship exemption will be limited to the extent that the award was intended to support the student’s enrolment in the program. To determine what portion of your award was intended to support your enrolment, you should consider such factors as:

• the duration of the program
• any terms and conditions that apply to the award
• the period for which support is intended to be provided by the award

Part-time enrolment

If you have received a scholarship, fellowship, or bursary related to a part-time program for which you are a part-time qualifying student for 2022, 2023, or 2024, the scholarship exemption is limited to the tuition paid plus the costs of program-related materials.

To calculate your scholarship exemption, see Scholarship exemption – Part-time enrolment .

For more information, see Income tax folio S1-F2-C3, Scholarships, Research Grants and Other Education Assistance .

I have an amount in box 105 of my T4A slip from a university. I was not considered a qualifying student. Do I have to report this income on my return?

Only the part of the total of all the amounts you received in 2023 (box 105 of your T4A slips) that is more than $500. 

Only the part of the total of all amounts you received in 2023 (box 105 of your T4A slips) that is more than $500.   

For more information on completing your Income Tax and Benefit Return, go to Guide P105, Students and Income Tax .

Certain scholarship, fellowship and bursaries are not taxable, such as:

• elementary and secondary school scholarship and bursaries
• post-secondary school scholarship, fellowship, and bursaries received in 2023 if you are considered a full-time qualifying student for 2022, 2023, or 2024

If you received an artists' project grant, you may be able to claim certain exemptions.

For more information, see Students.

Forms and publications

• Federal Income Tax and Benefit Guide
• Guide P105, Students and Income Tax
• Income tax folio S1-F2-C3, Scholarships, Research Grants and Other Education Assistance
• Income Tax Folio S4-F14-C1, Artists and Writers

Related topics

• Line 10400 - Net research grants
• Line 32300 - Tuition, education, and textbook amounts
• Artists' project grants

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