Doctorate Scholarships in Canada 2025

Studying for a PhD (Doctorate) in Canada offers both academic growth and the chance to engage in impactful research, with costs ranging from 4,000 CAD to 10,000 CAD per year—affordable compared to the USA or UK. International students can alleviate financial concerns through doctorate scholarships in Canada. This guide aims to assist you in securin the scholarships, whether you're preparing for or already applying to doctoral programs in Canada.

Top 5 Doctorate Scholarships in Canada

Canada offers a plethora of coveted doctoral scholarships for international students to attract top-tier talent from around the globe. Here are the names of some of the most sought-after doctorate scholarships in Canada for international students:

1. 
   Ontario Trillium Scholarships
2. 
   Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship
3. 
   Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship
4. 
   Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
5. 
   IDRC Research Awards

Now that you know these scholarships, let's understand them in detail with their respective benefits and eligibility.

Ontario Trillium Scholarships

• The Ontario Trillium Scholarships aim to attract and retain talented international students for pursuing doctoral programs at eligible universities in Ontario.
• Around 15 research students enrolled at the University of Toronto are awarded each year.
• Applicants must be enrolled in doctoral studies in a research-based program and fulfill the admission requirements for the university.
• An overall average of “A-” in both years of postgraduate studies is required.
• The average amount of the scholarship is around 40,000 CAD and is renewable for 4 years.

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

• The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships are exclusively open for PhD students with a first-class GPA.
• The award amount is 50,000 CAD per year for up to 36 months.
• The scholarship application deadline is usually August 31.
• The evaluation criteria have 3 components that include academic excellence, research potential, and leadership potential.
• An online application using ResearchNet must be submitted along with academic transcripts, letters of support from four referees, and a CV.

Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship

• The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship program offers substantial funding for 3 years to train and equip doctoral students to excel in their field.
• Applicants must be enrolled in a full-time doctoral program in a field of study broadly related to humanities or human science that can contribute to the future of Canada.
• The foundation supports students pursuing PhD in one of 4 themes: Human Rights and Dignity, Responsible Citizenship, Canada and the World, and People, and their Natural Environment.
• Interested candidates are required to submit a separate application through the foundation’s website. Selection will be based on the university’s recommendation.
• Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a group interview before a final evaluative group interview with the Application and Nomination Review Committee.

Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships

• The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships are awarded to students pursuing research in the field of health research, engineering, or humanities.
• The award amount goes up to 70,000 CAD per year for 2 years.
• Applications must be submitted through the ResearchNet account along with a common CV, equity, diversity, and inclusion self-identification questionnaire.
• You need to attach at least three references of which at least one should be at arm’s length from the candidate for the impartial review of the application.

IDRC Research Awards

• The International Development Research Centre offers research awards for doctoral students working in the areas related to Climate-Resilient Food Systems, Democratic and Inclusive Governance, Education and Science, Global Health, and Sustainable Inclusive Economies.
• The award aims to improve the lives of people in the Global South by facilitating research and capacity building in fields that contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Recipients of this award will receive an annual salary of 42,033 CAD to 48,659 CAD.
• It must be noted that the amount granted to recipients is intended to cover the field research expenses and not the university tuition fees. 

Also read: Scholarships to Study in Canada for Indian Students

University Specific Doctorate Scholarships in Canada

Several top Canadian universities offer fully funded PhD admission in Canada with scholarships. Take a look at the table below to get a brief overview of university-specific doctorate scholarships in Canada for international students:

Eligibility to Apply for Doctorate Scholarships in Canada

The eligibility criteria for doctorate scholarships in Canada may vary depending on the university and scholarship provider. However, the general requirements that candidates must typically fulfill for admission and scholarship purposes are as follows:

• Academic qualifications: A master's degree in the relevant field is required for PhD admission in Canada, with strong academic records enhancing scholarship prospects.
• Standardized test scores: GMAT or GRE scores are typically needed, though some universities offer test-optional admissions.
• English language proficiency: Proof of English proficiency, such as a TOEFL-iBT score of 95-100 or an IELTS score of 7.0, is required for international students.
• Research experience: Previous research experience including publications, presentations, seminars, etc. is essential for getting doctorate scholarships in Canada.
• Research proposal: To get PhD scholarship in Canada A detailed research proposal is necessary for PhD scholarships in Canada, highlighting research interests and goals.
• Letters of recommendation: Letters of recommendation from professors or professionals are essential to support your application.

Read Also: SAT Scholarships for International Students in Canada

Strategies to Successfully Secure Doctorate Scholarships in Canada

There are various Doctorate scholarships in Canada for international students. The selection process will involve making the cut based on academic achievements. However, more than academic merit is required for selection. Students require thorough preparation and hard work to increase their chances of success in obtaining scholarships. Here are a few strategies to successfully obtain doctorate scholarships in Canada:

1. 
   Research PhD scholarships in Canada for Indian students, exploring university, government, and private funding.
2. 
   Prepare necessary documents, aligning with the scholarship's eligibility criteria.
3. 
   Highlight academic achievements, research experience, and publications.
4. 
   Tailor your research proposal to match the scholarship's objectives and your study goals.
5. 
   Adhere to application deadlines to avoid disqualification.
6. 
   Ensure all required information and documents are accurately provided.

Canada offers a plethora of scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities tailored for doctoral students seeking knowledge and research excellence in their field of study. Navigating the landscape of PhD admission in Canada with scholarships can be complex but with the right information and guidance, aspiring scholars can unlock pathways to realize their academic ambitions without financial burdens. For more scholarship options, visit GyanDhan's scholarship portal.

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