phd from canada with scholarship

Top 15 PhD Scholarships In Canada!

Link Copied

Share on Facebook

Share on Twitter

Share on LinkedIn

You're in for an academic journey if you've decided to pursue a PhD in one of the best countries in the world. Canada is one of the top ten global destinations for international students . With nearly 12% of its student population being international , Canada ranks among the top 10 welcoming over 20,000 new PhD candidates yearly. The country has over 100 research-intensive universities , with institutions such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia consistently ranking among the world's top 50. Furthermore, PhD students frequently benefit from generous PhD scholarships in Canada and PhD Funding in Canada, with an average award range of CA$ 15,000 to CA$ 50,000 per year depending on the program and institution.

15 Top PhD Scholarships in Canada

From award amounts to type of scholarship, let’s take a detailed look at PhD scholarships in Canada. The list contains the type of PHD scholarship in Canada, who offers it, deadlines and many more aspects!

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.

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!

Eligibility requirements for this PhD scholarship Canada:

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: Varies Type of Scholarship: Merit-based Duration/Time Period: Full-time

The University of Saskatchewan is seen as a leader in collaborative research and Canada's top for water research. Deemed among the finest fully funded PhD scholarships in Canada. Recognized 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 80% grade point average
You should have completed your masters in a relevant study field from 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 .

Turn your academic dreams into reality with amberscholar!

6. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

Award Grant: CA$ 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: 30 October 2024 Type of Scholarship: Merit-based Duration/Time Period: Full time

Considered one of the elite funded PhD programs 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!

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

7. The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships

Award Grant: CA$ 40,000 per year to cover tuition and reasonable living expenses and CA$ 20,000 per year as research and travel allowance Offered By: Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Deadline: 25 November 2024 at 4:00 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: CA$ 20,000 for research and travel , plus CA$ 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 the Foundation's Themes: Human Rights, Citizenship, Canada in the World, and the Natural Environment.
Canadian citizen or non-Canadian in a Canadian doctoral program.

8. Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships

Award Grant: CA$ 70,000 Offered By: (CIHR, NSERC, and SSHRC) Deadline: 19 September 2024 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 CA$ 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 a Banting Fellowship at a Canadian institution.
Canadians who earned their degree abroad must have a Fellowship in Canada.
Canadians who earned their degree in Canada can choose a Canadian or foreign institution for their Banting Fellowship.

9. Ontario Trillium Scholarship

Award Grant: CA$ 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.

An 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, or 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.

10. Ontario Graduate Scholarship

Award Grant: CA$ 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.

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.

11. Simon Fraser University Scholarships

Award Grant: CA$ 25,000 annually Offered By: Simon Fraser University Deadline: January 15, 2024 Type of Scholarship: Merit-based Duration/Time Period: Full time

One of the top choices for fully funded PhD scholarships in Canada, Simon Fraser University provides substantial support to international PhD students. Through the Graduate Fellowship, students can secure a CA$ 25,000 stipend, covering tuition and living expenses. The university encourages applicants from diverse academic backgrounds. With this scholarship, you’ll have a pathway to fully funded PhD studies in Canada, along with a research-intensive environment.

You must be admitted to a full-time doctoral program.
Academic excellence with a GPA of 3.5 or higher is required.
Open to newly admitted students for the September intake.

12. University of Toronto Fellowships

Award Grant: CA$ 18,000 – CA$ 25,000 Offered By: University of Toronto Deadline: Varies by department Type of Scholarship: Merit and need-based Duration/Time Period: Full time

The University of Toronto offers a renowned funded PhD program in Canada, accessible to both domestic and international students. Award amounts vary, but eligible students can receive a stipend ranging from CA$ 18,000 to CA$ 25,000. Ideal for international students looking for a fully funded PhD program in Canada, this scholarship offers a range of benefits, from academic resources to financial support.

You must be a full-time student enrolled in a PhD program.
Strong academic performance and research potential are necessary.
Available to students in their first year of PhD studies.

13. University of British Columbia Graduate Scholarships

Award Grant: CA$ 30,000 Offered By: University of British Columbia Deadline: December 1, 2024 Type of Scholarship: Merit-based Duration/Time Period: Full time

UBC’s Graduate Fellowship is a sought-after PhD scholarship in Canada, offering a substantial stipend of CA$ 30,000 to help cover tuition, research costs, and living expenses. Known for its global impact, UBC fosters an inclusive and supportive environment, making it an excellent choice for international students seeking a fully funded PhD in Canada.

Admission into a full-time PhD program at UBC.
High academic standing with a minimum GPA of 3.7.
Must demonstrate leadership and community engagement.

14. University of Ottawa Excellence Scholarships

Award Grant: CA$ 20,000 annually Offered By: University of Ottawa Deadline: February 1, 2024 Type of Scholarship: Merit-based Duration/Time Period: Full time

The University of Ottawa offers one of the top PhD scholarships in Canada, granting CA$ 20,000 per year. This scholarship is ideal for international students who want to pursue a fully funded PhD in Canada. In addition to financial support, awardees gain access to academic mentorship, networking, and research resources.

You must be admitted to a doctoral program.
Open to both Canadian and international students with a GPA of 3.7 or higher.
Demonstrated potential for research contributions is essential.

15. Dalhousie University Graduate Scholarships

Award Grant: CA$ 22,000 Offered By: Dalhousie University Deadline: December 15, 2023 Type of Scholarship: Merit-based Duration/Time Period: Full time

Dalhousie University offers competitive PhD scholarships in Canada, providing a CA$ 22,000 annual stipend to cover tuition and living costs. Known for its research programs, Dalhousie supports international students, making it a top option for those looking for a fully funded PhD in Canada for international students.

Must be accepted into a doctoral program.
Must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
Open to students with a record of research excellence.

Why Study PhD in Canada?

Ever wondered why so many students choose Canada for their Ph.D. journey? Let’s dive into the top reasons why this beautiful country stands out as an ideal destination for academic success:

1. World-Class Universities

Canada is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world. Many of them consistently rank in the global top 100, offering high-quality research opportunities and expert faculty to guide your academic growth.

2. Work Opportunities

Here's a major bonus – PhD students in Canada aren't just studying; they're earning too! Not only are you compensated for your research work, but you're also allowed to work up to 10 hours a week during your studies. After earning your degree, you can apply for a post-graduation work permit to stay and work in Canada for up to 3 years . It’s a fantastic way to gain professional experience while making the most of your time abroad.

3. Affordable Education

PhD studies in countries like the US or the UK can often come with hefty tuition fees. Canada, however, offers a more budget-friendly option. With tuition fees typically ranging from CA$ 6,000 to CA$ 30,000 per year , it’s an affordable choice without compromising on quality. Plus, there are numerous fully funded scholarships in Canada available for both international and domestic students, making it even more accessible.

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!

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 endeavors! Now that you are looking for scholarship 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

What are the best options for phd funding in canada, how can international students apply for phd scholarships in canada, is it possible to receive fully funded phd scholarships in canada, what are the gpa and ielts requirements for phd funding in canada, are there specific government programs that offer phd funding in canada.

Your ideal student home & a flight ticket awaits

10 Best Engineering Universities in Australia in 2024

Your Guide to Postgraduate Courses in Australia in 2024

9 Best Online Learning Resources

4.6/5 on Trustpilot

Rated as "Excellent" • 5000+ Reviews by students

Rated as "Excellent" • 5000+ Reviews by Students

Language selection

Search and menus

International Scholarships

Are you an international student looking to study in Canada or a Canadian scholar searching for funding to support your studies or research abroad? Look no further!

Global Affairs Canada is responsible for the Government of Canada's participation in major international scholarship programs. We feature international scholarships offered by Canadian governments, foreign governments, non-governmental organizations and international organizations.

Scholarships for Canadians

Discover available scholarship opportunities to study, do research or professional development abroad.

Scholarships for non-Canadians

Discover available scholarship opportunities to study, do research or professional development in Canada.

Apply for scholarships

Apply for a scholarship through our portal. Canadians can apply directly. Canadian institutions must apply on behalf of international students.

Testimonials

Find out what Global Affairs Canada scholarship recipients say about their experiences in Canada.

Search for scholarships

Use our search tool to find out what scholarships you may be eligible for.

Stay on top of the latest news about scholarship opportunities in Canada and abroad.

Featured news

Deadline approaching: Faculty Mobility for Partnership Building Program

November 04, 2024 – Canadian institutions have until November 19, 2024 to submit applications on behalf of Canadian faculty.

Apply today: Grants available for Canadian faculty

September 24, 2024 – The Faculty Mobility for Partnership Building Program (FMPBP) is now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 academic year. Canadian postsecondary institutions must apply online on behalf of eligible candidates.

Deadline approaching: 2024-2025 Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships

September 5, 2024 – The deadline to apply for the 2024-2025 Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships is September 17, 2024, at 20:00 (EDT).

Featured scholarships

Study in Canada Scholarship

The Study in Canada Scholarships provide international students from a wide range of countries and territories with short-term exchange opportunities for study or research at Canadian post-secondary institutions.

Canada-China Scholars' Exchange Program

The Canada-China Scholars' Exchange Program offers scholarships to Canadians wishing to pursue short-term study, research or Chinese language training at participating institutions in China.

Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program

The Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program provides students from Latin America and the Caribbean with short-term exchange opportunities for study or research at Canadian post-secondary institutions.

6 Canadian PhD scholarships for international students in 2022

There are many excellent countries for international students wishing to pursue their PhD studies on a scholarship. Canada is one of them – it has been voted the most attractive study destination by agents in the 2021 survey , thanks to how well the Trudeau administration took care of international students at the height of the pandemic last year.

Canada is well-known for being a safe, stable, open and welcoming country as well. In the same 2021 survey, Canada emerged as tops for safety and openness – factors that are critical to all migrants seeking a life in a foreign land, especially for international students.

Understandably, a PhD can involve great costs since it takes on average three to four years to complete; if you are an international student, from a country with less global spending power, living and travel costs, will add up too.

International students wanting to study in Canada can now apply to these excellent Canadian PhD scholarships. / Source: Vaughn Ridley/AFP

Fortunately, Canada has several scholarships that can help alleviate these, offered by provinces and universities alike – both provincial and university-specific ones. We round up a list of six Canadian PhD scholarships to help you start your application for the 2022 academic year.

Ontario Trillium Scholarship – Western University

The Ontario Trillium Scholarship (OTS) aims to attract outstanding candidates to come to Ontario for their PhD studies. Particularly, if you want to apply to Western University , you should express your interest to the graduate programme chair (Director or Associate Dean) of your admitting programme in order to be nominated for the OTS.

To be eligible for applying, you should be an international student, be willing to be physically present at the university at the time of studies, is not registered with any other Canadian institution, have an excellent academic record and research experience, and need to have achieved a minimum of 80% in two of your most recent years of full-time study. You may be required to demonstrate English language proficiency as well.

Successful applicants starting their PhD programme will get 40,000 Canadian dollars each year, which can be renewed for up to four years.

University of Alberta

Next on the list of Canadian PhD scholarships is the University of Alberta Graduate Entrance scholarship . Located in Alberta, the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research at University of Alberta disburses around CA$26 million in scholarships every year.

If you plan to register for doctoral studies at the University of Alberta, you are eligible for this one-off Graduate Entrance scholarship worth CA$21,000. This may commence either on Jan. 1 or Sep. 1, and cannot be renewed at all.

You are allowed to hold any number of University of Alberta awards concurrently with this scholarship but not the Tri-Council Top-up awards at the same time. Examples include the Walter H Johns Graduate Fellowship and President’s Doctoral Prize of Distinction and the Graduate Entrance 14 Scholarship tuition fee top up at the same time.

University of Montreal

The third Canadian PhD scholarship offering is administered by the University of Montreal in Quebec. Ranked 88th in the world (Times Higher Education ranking 2022) and fourth in Canada for volume of research activities, this university attracts over 45,000 students out of which 8,500 are international.

In addition to the Doctoral Scholarship (CA$7,000 – renewable once, for students who have done their master’s degree at this university), you can apply for the Mackenzie King Scholarship (CA$8,500 for one year – application deadline is Feb. 1, 2022). You can submit an application for the University of Montreal exemption grant (ranging from CA$ 2,078.10 to CA$12,465.60 depending on your academic record, no separate application needed) as well.

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

University of British Columbia

One of the top 20 public universities in the world, the University of British Columbia is ranking 37th by the Times Higher Education rankings 2022, and one of three Canadian universities to make it to the top 50. Over 56,000 students study at the University’s two campuses in the Okanagan Valley and Vancouver.

For students wanting to do a PhD at this University, the Four Year Doctoral Fellowship (4YF) is an outstanding choice. You will receive CA$18,200 as your annual stipend, and full tuition coverage for up to four years of your PhD studies.

You can apply to your preferred Graduate Programme; all PhD applicants are qualified to apply for this Scholarship. Upon selecting the best applicants, the Graduate Programme will inform Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies about their choices.

University of Lethbridge

Located in Southern Alberta, the University of Lethbridge is one of Canada’s top three research universities, a record they have held for the past four consecutive years. The University is ranked among the 6% of world universities for research performance as well.

That is why the University of Lethbridge Graduate Research Award has been designed for incoming graduate applicants of all disciplines except Education. With a value up to CA$21,000, you can combine this Award with the Graduate Assistantship and/or any Research Stipend provided by a Faculty Member, but not with other scholarships such as the Dean’s Scholarship.

University of Windsor

The University of Windsor is the final university on this list of Canadian PhD scholarships. As a comprehensive university located in Canada’s southernmost city overlooking the Detroit River, the University of Windsor offers their 16,000 students a wide variety of courses.

PhD applicants can apply for the Graduate Entrance Scholarship worth CA$7,500 for up to four years. This Scholarship has three application deadlines: the first day of January, May and September – you must have achieved a minimum of 80% average as well.

Other awards for international PhD applicants include the Ontario Graduate Scholarship . Depending on how many months you have completed your PhD studies at the time of application, you may receive up to CA$15,000 (three terms of CA$5,000 each) of funding – the application deadline is Jan. 12, 2022.

All in all, these are great Canadian PhD scholarships if you are an international student looking to start your PhD studies in safe and stable Canada in 2022.