Imagine pursuing world-class research in Canada, fully funded and supported at every step. The Canada Graduate Research Scholarship (CGRS) turns that vision into reality. Backed by Canada’s leading federal research agencies — CIHR, NSERC, and SSHRC — this prestigious program supports Master’s and PhD students across health, sciences, engineering, and humanities. More than just money, it’s a launchpad for the next generation of innovators, thinkers, and changemakers. With generous annual funding and access to top Canadian institutions, your journey to becoming a global research leader begins right here.
Brief Description
- Program: Canada Graduate Research Scholarship (CGRS)
- Degree Level: Master’s, PhD
- Duration: 12 months for Master’s | 3 years for PhD
- Universities: Eligible Canadian and International Institutions
- Country: Canada
What This Opportunity Offers You
The CGRS is designed to remove financial barriers so you can focus entirely on your research. Here’s what’s on the table:
- Master’s: Up to $27,000 for 12 months (non-renewable)
- PhD: Up to $40,000 per year for up to 3 years
Beyond the funding, awardees gain access to a high-quality research training environment and become part of Canada’s thriving research ecosystem — an invaluable career advantage in itself.
Are You Eligible for the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship?
The CGRS welcomes applicants from all countries and disciplines. Strong candidates typically meet the following criteria:
For Master’s applicants, you must:
- Have completed the required level of study by December 31 of the application year
- Not have previously held a Master’s-level scholarship from CIHR, NSERC, or SSHRC
- Not have held or currently be holding an Indigenous Scholars Award and Supplement
- Have achieved a first-class average in each of the last two completed years of full-time equivalent study
- Submit a maximum of one postgraduate or postdoctoral application per academic year to any one of the three agencies
For PhD applicants, you must:
- Have completed no more than 36 months of full-time equivalent study in your doctoral program by December 31 of the application year
- This applies to standalone PhD programs as well as joint programs such as MD/PhD, JD/PhD, MA/PhD, MSc/PhD, and MBA/PhD
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Fields of Study
The CGRS-D supports research excellence across a wide range of disciplines, including health sciences, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities — including interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary research. Apply to the agency (CIHR, NSERC, or SSHRC) that best aligns with your research subject matter.
Required Documents for Canada Graduate Research Scholarship
While specific requirements vary by agency, applicants generally need to prepare:
- Completed online application through the relevant agency’s portal
- Academic transcripts showing first-class average
- Research proposal or statement of intent
- Letters of reference/support submitted online before the deadline
- Supporting documents confirming enrollment or admission status
Be sure to check each agency’s official guidelines for a complete and up-to-date document checklist.
How to Apply for the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship
Follow these steps to put together a winning application:
1: Choose the right agency Select CIHR, NSERC, or SSHRC based on your research field. Applying to the wrong agency may result in disqualification, so choose carefully and contact the agencies if you’re unsure.
2: Review the guidelines Each agency has its own eligibility rules and application instructions. Review them thoroughly before starting.
3: Complete your application online
- CIHR: Apply through ResearchNET
- NSERC: Apply through their online system
- SSHRC: Register and log in through their dedicated portal
4: Submit Before the Deadline All materials and reference letters must be submitted electronically. Master’s applicants can apply to up to three institutions via the Research Portal. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Key Deadlines — Don’t Miss Them
- Master’s: December 1
- PhD (through a Canadian institution): Contact your institution directly — internal deadlines are often much earlier
- PhD (directly to the agencies): October 17
Mark these dates now and give yourself plenty of time to prepare a strong application!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Award holders receive $40,000 per year for up to 36 months (3 years) of doctoral study. That’s a total potential value of $120,000 over the course of your award.
Yes! International students are eligible, provided they are enrolled in a doctoral program at an eligible Canadian institution by the application deadline. However, keep in mind that up to 15% of awards are reserved for international applicants, so the competition is selective.
You may submit your application in English or French. Supporting documents in any other language must be accompanied by a certified translation into one of Canada’s official languages.
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