Are you planning to pursue a research-based PhD and looking for generous funding? Canada is calling! The Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Doctoral (CGRS D) program offers outstanding local and international PhD candidates a prestigious opportunity to receive financial support while conducting impactful research at top Canadian institutions.
What Does the Canada Grad Scholarship Offer?
Successful applicants will receive $40,000 per year for up to 3 years (36 months) to support their doctoral studies. The funding is meant to help students focus fully on research and academic excellence without the burden of financial pressure. Scholarships are tenable at eligible institutions in Canada and, in some cases, internationally.
Who Can Apply?
This program is open to:
- Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or protected persons.
- International students currently enrolled in a PhD program at a Canadian university.
- Applicants who have completed no more than 36 months of full-time doctoral study (including summer semesters) by December 31 of the year they apply.
Even those enrolled in joint programs (e.g. MD/PhD, MA/PhD, MBA/PhD) are eligible, as long as the program includes a significant research component such as a thesis or dissertation.
Areas of Study
CGRS D supports research in a wide range of fields:
- Health Sciences (apply via CIHR)
- Natural Sciences and Engineering (apply via NSERC)
- Social Sciences and Humanities (apply via SSHRC) – Interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary research proposals are also encouraged.
Can International Students Apply?
Yes! International PhD students already enrolled in a Canadian institution by the application deadline may apply. Up to 15% of awards are reserved for international applicants. However, you must apply through your Canadian university.
How to Apply?
- Go to this portal: https://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/Students-Etudiants/PG-CS/cgrsd-besrd_eng.asp
- Choose your agency: Depending on your field of study, you must apply through CIHR, NSERC, or SSHRC.
- Check your eligibility and institutional affiliation. If you’re enrolled at a Canadian university with a doctoral award quota, apply through your university.
- If your university doesn’t have a quota or you’re at a foreign institution (Canadians only), apply directly to the agency.
- Complete and submit your application online using the respective portal: CIHR: ResearchNet, NSERC Online System, and SSHRC Online Registration.
Important: You can only apply once per academic year and must choose the agency that best fits your research subject. Submitting to the wrong agency may disqualify your application.
Application Deadline
The final deadline to submit your application directly to the agencies is October 17, 2025, by 8:00 PM (ET).
If applying through a Canadian institution, internal deadlines will be earlier — contact your university’s graduate studies office for details whereas scholarship results will be announced on April 30, 2026.
