Canada Graduate Research Scholarship 2026 (Doctoral) | How to Apply and Eligibility
Are you a driven doctoral student seeking to conduct groundbreaking research in Canada? The Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Doctoral (CGS D) 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity to study at top Canadian universities with an annual grant of $40,000 for up to three years.
Funded by the Government of Canada, this prestigious PhD scholarship supports both Canadian and international students in health, engineering, natural sciences, humanities, and interdisciplinary fields.
Canada Graduate Research Scholarship 2026 Summary
- Host Country: Canada
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded PhD Scholarship
- Eligible Applicants: Canadian & International Students
- Duration: 36 Months (3 Years)
- Scholarship Value: $40,000 per year
- IELTS Requirement: Not mandatory
- Deadline: October 17, 2025
About the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship (CGS D)
The Canada Graduate Scholarships – Doctoral Program aims to support high-achieving students who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to research excellence.
This scholarship encourages research that will contribute meaningfully to Canada’s development and innovation in various fields, including:
- Health Sciences
- Natural Sciences and Engineering
- Social Sciences and Humanities
- Multidisciplinary and Interdisciplinary Studies
Administered jointly by CIHR, NSERC, and SSHRC, the program provides PhD students with robust financial and academic support to complete their research in Canada.
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Eligibility Criteria for CGS-D 2026
To qualify for the Government of Canada Graduate Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Citizenship:
- Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or protected persons
- International students currently enrolled in a Canadian PhD program
- Enrollment Status:
- Must be registered or planning to register in a full-time doctoral program at a Canadian university
- Doctoral Study Limit:
- Must have completed no more than 36 months of full-time PhD studies by December 31, 2025
- Program Type:
- Students in joint programs (e.g., MD/PhD, MA/PhD, MBA/PhD) are eligible if the program includes a significant research component (thesis or dissertation)
Scholarship Benefits
The Canada Graduate Research Scholarship offers:
- Annual Grant: $40,000 CAD
- Total Support: Up to $120,000 over 3 years
- No application fee required
- Flexibility across disciplines and universities in Canada
- Recognition and mentorship opportunities within Canada’s top research networks
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
To apply for the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship 2026, follow these steps:
Step 1: Choose Your Application Path
You must apply through one of the three federal granting agencies depending on your field of research:
- NSERC (Natural Sciences & Engineering Research Council)
- SSHRC (Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council)
- CIHR (Canadian Institutes of Health Research)
Step 2: Apply Through the Correct Channel
Depending on your registration status at the time of the application:
- If you are currently enrolled at a Canadian university, apply through your institution.
- If you are not currently enrolled, submit your application directly to the appropriate agency.
❗ Important: Submitting your application through the wrong channel will result in disqualification.
Step 3: Prepare and Submit Your Documents
Required materials typically include:
- Academic transcripts
- Research proposal
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of enrollment
- Resume/CV
- Personal statement
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
All applications must be submitted before October 17, 2025.
Why Study in Canada?
Canada is a global hub for advanced research, innovation, and multicultural academic environments. Studying in Canada provides access to cutting-edge laboratories, collaborative research communities, and one of the highest quality education systems in the world.
Don’t Miss This Opportunity!
Whether you’re an international student already pursuing your PhD in Canada or a Canadian resident looking to dive deeper into research, the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship 2026 offers world-class academic support and funding.
Apply today to secure your future as a leader in research and innovation.
