Looking to study a fully funded PhD in Canada in 2026? Canada is opening more doors than ever for international researchers through doctoral scholarships covering tuition, living costs, and research funding.
With top-ranked universities, generous stipends, and post-study work opportunities, Doctoral Scholarships Canada 2026 is one of the most searched and competitive academic funding topics right now.
This up-to-date guide breaks down everything you need to know about doctoral scholarships in Canada for 2026, including fully funded options, eligibility, universities, and how to apply successfully.
What Are Doctoral Scholarships in Canada?
Doctoral scholarships in Canada are financial aid programs designed to support PhD students throughout their research period. These scholarships can be offered by the Canadian government, universities, or external research bodies and may include:
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly living stipend
- Research and conference funding
- Health insurance and settlement support
For 2026 applicants, many programs are expanding funding due to increased demand for global research talent.
Top 10 Doctoral Scholarships Canada 2026 (with Direct Links)
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Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships 2026
A prestigious Canadian award for PhD students in humanities & social sciences — includes generous annual stipends and leadership training.
Apply/Details: https://www.trudeaufoundation.ca/scholarship/ Fondation Pierre Elliott Trudeau
Deadline (2026 cycle)
-
Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Doctoral (CGRS D)
Offered by the Canadian tri-agency (NSERC, SSHRC, CIHR) with approx. $40,000/year for 36 months — open to international PhD students at Canadian universities.
Official Program: https://nserc-crsng.canada.ca/en/funding-opportunity/canada-graduate-research-scholarship-doctoral-program NSERC
Typical Deadline: varies slightly by institution and agency
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Mastercard Foundation Scholarships (e.g., at University of Toronto)
Opportunity for African scholars including those pursuing doctoral research in select fields — full funding, mentorship & leadership support.
Apply/Info (U of T): https://www.utoronto.ca/
Deadline: ~ varies by campus
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Dena McMartin Environmental Research Award (University of Lethbridge)
Supports PhD students focusing on environmental research at the University of Lethbridge.
Apply/Details: https://www.ulethbridge.ca/
Deadline: May 15, 2026 (University deadline).
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Morris & Rosalind Goodman Family Foundation PhD Scholarship (Université Laval)
PhD studentship in pharmaceutical sciences with significant funding value.
Apply/Details: https://www.ulaval.ca/
Deadline: January 21, 2026.
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University of Laval Leadership & Engagement Scholarship – Doctoral
Award for doctoral candidates demonstrating leadership and engagement.
Apply/Details: https://www.ulaval.ca/
Deadline: March 13, 2026.
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University of Laval Henry Schein Scholarship (PhD)
Supports PhD students with academic excellence at Laval.
Apply/Details: https://www.ulaval.ca/
Deadline: March 2, 2026.
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University of Laval Mackenzie King Scholarships
Fund doctoral candidates as part of academic pursuit support at Laval.
Apply/Details: https://www.ulaval.ca/
Deadline: February 2, 2026.
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Global Scholarship Funding at University of Lethbridge
Supports full-time PhD students with global grants, including research areas aligned with The Rotary Foundation’s priorities.
Apply/Details: https://www.ulethbridge.ca/
Deadline: January 16, 2026.
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Edgar A. Wahn Scholarship (University of Regina)
Graduate award, including doctoral students focusing on environmental research or related fields.
Apply/Details: https://www.uregina.ca/
Deadline: May 30, 2026.
Why Canada Is a Top Destination for PhD Studies in 2026
Canada continues to rank among the best countries in the world for doctoral education, especially for international students. Key reasons include:
- Strong government investment in research
- Internationally recognized PhD degrees
- Friendly immigration and post-study work policies
- Opportunity to work while studying
- Clear pathways to permanent residency
For many students, a Canadian PhD is both an academic and an immigration opportunity.
Types of Doctoral Scholarships in Canada (2026 Intake)
Doctoral scholarships in Canada generally fall into the following categories:
- Fully funded doctoral scholarships
- Government-funded PhD scholarships
- University-funded doctoral awards
- External and private research fellowships
Understanding these categories helps applicants target the right funding sources for 2026.
Fully Funded Doctoral Scholarships Canada 2026
Fully funded doctoral scholarships in Canada typically include:
- 100% tuition coverage
- Annual stipend ranging from CAD 18,000 to CAD 40,000
- Research grants and academic support
These scholarships are highly competitive and awarded based on academic excellence, research relevance, and supervisor support.
Government-Funded Doctoral Scholarships in Canada
Canada offers prestigious government-funded doctoral programs through national and provincial research bodies. These scholarships are ideal for students pursuing high-impact research in science, technology, health, and social sciences.
Government-funded doctoral scholarships in Canada 2026 are among the most competitive and well-funded.
University-Funded PhD Scholarships in Canada
Most Canadian universities automatically provide funding to PhD students through:
- Internal doctoral scholarships
- Teaching assistantships
- Research assistant positions
In many cases, funding is included in the PhD admission offer, making Canada attractive for international applicants.
External & Private Doctoral Scholarships in Canada
External doctoral scholarships are offered by:
- International foundations
- Industry-sponsored research bodies
- Global academic organizations
These are especially suitable for specialized research areas and interdisciplinary studies.
Doctoral Scholarships in Canada for International Students (2026)
International students are eligible for a wide range of doctoral scholarships in Canada for 2026, across disciplines such as:
- Engineering and Technology
- Health and Medical Sciences
- Artificial Intelligence and Data Science
- Environmental and Climate Studies
- Business, Economics, and Education
Early application significantly improves success rates.
Doctoral Scholarships in Canada for Nigerian Students
Nigerian students continue to benefit from Canadian doctoral funding opportunities. Successful Nigerian applicants often demonstrate:
- Strong academic background
- Clear and original research proposals
- Alignment with Canadian supervisors’ research interests
Many fully funded PhD slots in Canada are open to Nigerian applicants in 2026.
Doctoral Scholarships in Canada Without IELTS
For the 2026 intake, some Canadian universities waive IELTS if:
- Previous education was completed in English
- The applicant studied in an English-speaking country
- An official English proficiency letter is provided
This makes Doctoral Scholarships Canada 2026 without IELTS a trending search topic.
Doctoral Scholarships in Canada With Visa Sponsorship
While Canada does not officially label funding as “visa sponsorship,” fully funded doctoral scholarships provide proof of funds required for a Canadian study permit, effectively supporting the visa process.
PhD Scholarships in Canada With Monthly Stipend
Most PhD students in Canada receive a monthly stipend ranging from:
- CAD 1,500 to CAD 3,500 per month
The exact amount depends on the university, field of study, and funding source.
Top Universities Offering Doctoral Scholarships in Canada
Leading Canadian universities with strong PhD funding include:
- University of Toronto
- University of British Columbia
- McGill University
- University of Alberta
- University of Waterloo
These institutions are known for consistent doctoral funding and global research impact.
Popular Fields Covered by Doctoral Scholarships Canada 2026
Doctoral scholarships in Canada commonly support research in:
- Engineering and Computer Science
- Medicine and Health Sciences
- Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
- Environmental Sustainability
- Business, Economics, and Social Sciences
Eligibility Criteria for Doctoral Scholarships in Canada
General eligibility requirements include:
- A relevant master’s degree
- Strong academic performance
- Well-structured research proposal
- English language proficiency (if required)
Requirements vary by scholarship and university.
Required Documents for PhD Scholarships in Canada
Applicants typically need:
- Academic transcripts
- Research proposal
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of purpose
- Recommendation letters
- Proof of English proficiency
How to Apply for Doctoral Scholarships in Canada (2026 Step-by-Step)
- Define your research interest
- Identify Canadian universities and supervisors
- Prepare a strong research proposal
- Apply for PhD admission
- Apply for scholarships (if separate)
- Accept offer and begin study permit process
Application Deadlines for Doctoral Scholarships Canada 2026
Most deadlines fall between:
- September – January for Fall 2026
- January – March for selected funding programs
Starting early is crucial for success.
Acceptance Rate for Doctoral Scholarships in Canada
Fully funded doctoral scholarships in Canada are highly competitive, with acceptance rates often below 20%, especially at top universities.
Cost of Studying a PhD in Canada Without a Scholarship
Without funding, PhD study costs may include:
- Tuition: CAD 7,000 – CAD 20,000 per year
- Living expenses: CAD 10,000 – CAD 15,000 annually
This highlights the importance of securing funding.
Benefits of Doctoral Scholarships in Canada
Key benefits include:
- Full financial support
- Access to advanced research facilities
- International academic exposure
- Post-study work and immigration opportunities
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Doctoral Scholarships Canada 2026
- Submitting a generic research proposal
- Not contacting potential supervisors
- Missing application deadlines
- Weak recommendation letters
FAQs
Are doctoral scholarships in Canada fully funded?
Yes, many doctoral scholarships in Canada fully cover tuition and living expenses.
How much is a PhD stipend in Canada?
PhD stipends typically range from CAD 18,000 to CAD 40,000 per year.
Can international students get fully funded PhD scholarships in Canada?
Yes, international students are eligible for many fully funded PhD programs in Canada.
Is IELTS mandatory for doctoral scholarships in Canada?
Not always. Some universities waive IELTS under certain conditions.
How long is a PhD program in Canada?
Most PhD programs last between 3 and 5 years.
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