Top 12 scholarships in Canada for master’s students

Top 12 Scholarships in Canada for Master’s Students: Your Guide to Funding Your Graduate Studies

Canada is a renowned hub for academic excellence, attracting students from across the globe to pursue their higher education. A Master’s degree in Canada can open doors to a wealth of career opportunities and personal growth. However, the cost of tuition and living expenses can be a significant barrier for many aspiring graduate students. Fortunately, numerous scholarships and funding opportunities are available to alleviate this financial burden. This article highlights twelve of the most prestigious and sought-after scholarships in Canada for Master’s students, providing you with the essential information you need to navigate the application process and increase your chances of success.

APPLY FOR VISA SPONSORSHIP JOBS ABROAD

APPLY FOR FULLY FUNDED SCHOLARSHIPS

1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships program is the gold standard for doctoral students in Canada, but it also offers funding for Master’s students pursuing research-based degrees who demonstrate leadership skills and a high standard of scholarly achievement in graduate studies in the social sciences and humanities, natural sciences and engineering, and health. This prestigious scholarship is awarded to students pursuing research-intensive Master’s or doctoral degrees at participating Canadian institutions.

• Value: $50,000 per year for up to three years.
• Eligibility:

  • Canadian citizens, permanent residents of Canada, and foreign citizens.
  • Pursuing a doctoral degree (or a combined MA/PhD or BSc/PhD) at a participating Canadian university.
  • Demonstrate leadership skills and a high standard of scholarly achievement.
  • Nominated by a Canadian university.

• Application Process: Students cannot apply directly to the Vanier CGS program. They must be nominated by the Canadian university they wish to attend. The university then submits the nomination package to the Vanier-Banting Secretariat. This process involves contacting the university’s graduate studies office early in the application process to understand their internal deadlines and procedures.
• Website: http://www.vanier.gc.ca/

Why it’s Top Tier: The Vanier CGS is one of the most competitive and generous scholarships in Canada. It not only provides significant financial support but also enhances your academic profile and credibility.

2. Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Postgraduate Scholarships (PGS) and Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGSM)

NSERC offers a suite of scholarships for students pursuing Master’s and doctoral degrees in natural sciences and engineering. These scholarships recognize and support promising researchers in various fields.

• Value:

  • CGSM: $17,500 for 12 months
  • PGS: $17,500 for 12 months

• Eligibility:

  • Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.
  • Pursuing a research-based Master’s or doctoral degree in natural sciences and engineering.
  • Meeting minimum GPA requirements.

• Application Process: Students apply directly to NSERC through the online portal. The application requires detailed information about your academic background, research experience, and proposed research project.
• Website: https://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/Students-Etudiants/PG-CS/CGSM-BESC_eng.asp and https://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/Students-Etudiants/PG-CS/index_eng.asp

Why it’s Top Tier: NSERC scholarships are highly prestigious and provide substantial funding for graduate studies in critical fields. They are essential for students aiming for research careers.

3. Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGSM)

Similar to NSERC, SSHRC provides funding opportunities for students pursuing Master’s degrees in the social sciences and humanities. The CGSM scholarship supports research-based programs in a wide range of disciplines.

• Value: $17,500 for 12 months
• Eligibility:

  • Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.
  • Pursuing a research-based Master’s degree in social sciences and humanities.
  • Meeting minimum GPA requirements.

• Application Process: Students apply directly to SSHRC through the online portal. The application process is similar to NSERC and requires a detailed description of your research proposal and academic achievements.
• Website: https://www.sshrc-crsh.gc.ca/funding-financement/program_profiles-profils_de_programmes/fellowships/masters-maitrise-eng.aspx

Why it’s Top Tier: The SSHRC CGSM is a significant source of funding for graduate students in the social sciences and humanities, enabling them to pursue impactful research and advance knowledge in their respective fields.

4. Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGSM)

For students pursuing Master’s degrees in health-related fields, CIHR offers the CGSM scholarship. This funding supports research aimed at improving health outcomes and advancing healthcare practices.

• Value: $17,500 for 12 months
• Eligibility:

  • Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.
  • Pursuing a research-based Master’s degree in health-related fields.
  • Meeting minimum GPA requirements.

• Application Process: Students apply directly to CIHR through the online portal. The application requires a strong research proposal and evidence of academic excellence.
• Website: https://cihr-irsc.gc.ca/e/193.html

Why it’s Top Tier: The CIHR CGSM is a crucial funding source for future healthcare researchers and professionals, supporting research that has the potential to transform healthcare and improve the well-being of Canadians.

5. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) program is a provincial scholarship available to students pursuing graduate studies at universities in Ontario. This scholarship supports both Master’s and doctoral students and is awarded based on academic excellence.

• Value: $5,000 per term (up to $15,000 per year).
• Eligibility:

  • Canadian citizens, permanent residents of Canada, and international students.
  • Registered as a full-time student at an eligible Ontario university.
  • Meeting minimum GPA requirements.

• Application Process: Students apply directly to the graduate studies office at the Ontario university they wish to attend. Each university has its own internal deadlines and application procedures.
• Website: Contact the specific university’s graduate studies office in Ontario as the province itself does not have a central OGS website.

Why it’s Top Tier: The OGS provides significant financial support for graduate students in Ontario, making it an essential resource for those pursuing higher education in the province.

6. Quebec Merit Scholarship for Foreign Students (PBEEE)

The Quebec Merit Scholarship for Foreign Students (PBEEE) is a scholarship program offered by the Quebec government to attract international students to pursue graduate studies in the province.

• Value: Up to $20,000 per year for Master’s students.
• Eligibility:

  • International students (non-Canadian citizens or permanent residents).
  • Admitted to a Master’s or doctoral program at a Quebec university.
  • Meeting academic excellence criteria.

• Application Process: Students must be preselected by a Quebec university before applying to the PBEEE program. Contact the graduate studies office at the university you wish to attend for more information.
• Website: https://www.quebec.ca/en/education/student-financial-assistance/quebec-merit-scholarship-program-foreign-students

Why it’s Top Tier: The PBEEE is a generous scholarship for international students seeking to study in Quebec, making it an attractive option for those seeking a world-class education in a vibrant cultural environment.

7. University-Specific Scholarships and Awards

In addition to the national and provincial scholarships listed above, many Canadian universities offer their own scholarships and awards to graduate students. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, financial need, or specific research interests. Examples include:

• University of Toronto Fellowships: https://www.sgs.utoronto.ca/awards/
• University of British Columbia Graduate Awards: https://www.grad.ubc.ca/awards
• McGill University Graduate Funding: https://www.mcgill.ca/gradapplicants/funding

8. IDRC Doctoral Research Awards

The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) offers Doctoral Research Awards to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and citizens of developing countries pursuing doctoral research related to international development. While primarily for doctoral candidates, outstanding Master’s students whose research aligns perfectly with IDRC’s mandate might be considered. Check the specific requirements.

• Value: Varies
• Eligibility: Canadian citizens, permanent residents of Canada, and citizens of developing countries. Research must focus on international development.
• Website: https://www.idrc.ca/en/funding

9. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme

The Aga Khan Foundation provides scholarships to outstanding students from select developing countries who wish to pursue postgraduate studies at leading universities around the world. While competitive, it’s a superb opportunity for eligible students to study in Canada.

• Value: Covers tuition fees and living expenses (partly grant, partly loan)
• Eligibility: Citizens from specific developing countries (check the website), strong academic record, demonstrated leadership potential.
• Website: https://www.akdn.org/our-agencies/aga-khan-foundation/international-scholarship-programme

10. Trudeau Foundation Scholarships

The Trudeau Foundation offers scholarships to doctoral students, but exceptionally talented Master’s students pursuing research in areas related to human rights, responsible citizenship, Canada and the world, and people and their natural environment might be strong candidates.

• Value: Generous funding package covering tuition, living expenses, and travel.
• Eligibility: Highly competitive, focusing on leadership, engagement, and scholarly excellence. Research must align with the foundation’s key themes.
• Website: https://www.trudeaufoundation.ca/en/programs/scholarships

11. Mackenzie King Memorial Scholarship

The Mackenzie King Memorial Scholarship is available to graduates of Canadian universities who pursue graduate studies, in Canada or abroad, in any discipline.

• Value: Up to $10,500 per year.
• Eligibility: Graduates of Canadian universities pursuing graduate studies, with a strong academic record and demonstrated leadership qualities. Two types of scholarships are offered: Open Scholarship and Travelling Scholarship.
• Website: Consult the graduate studies office at your undergraduate Canadian university, as they typically administer this scholarship internally. No central website exists.

12. Canadian Northern Studies Trust (CNST) Scholarships

The Canadian Northern Studies Trust (CNST) provides funding for students and researchers pursuing studies and research relevant to Canada’s North. If your Master’s research has a significant focus on northern Canada, this scholarship is worth exploring.

• Value: Varies depending on the specific award.
• Eligibility: Students pursuing studies or research related to Canada’s North, in a wide range of disciplines.
• Website: https://www.acuns.ca/awards/

Key Takeaways for Successful Scholarship Applications:

• Start Early: Begin researching and applying for scholarships well in advance of your program start date.
• Meet the Eligibility Criteria: Carefully review the eligibility requirements for each scholarship and ensure that you meet all the criteria.
• Craft a Strong Application: Pay close attention to the application instructions and submit a well-written, error-free application. Highlight your academic achievements, research experience, and leadership skills.
• Seek Letters of Recommendation: Request letters of recommendation from professors or mentors who can speak to your academic abilities and potential.
• Proofread Carefully: Before submitting your application, proofread it carefully for any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation.
• Tailor Your Application: Customize your application to each specific scholarship, highlighting how your research interests and qualifications align with the scholarship’s goals.

Securing funding for your Master’s studies in Canada can be a competitive process, but with careful planning, diligent preparation, and a strong application, you can significantly increase your chances of success. Good luck!