$100,000 PhD Scholarships in Canada 2025

If you’ve ever dreamed of pursuing a fully funded PhD in Canada and earning up to $100K (CAD, USD equivalent) in funding, you’re in the right place. Canada is rapidly expanding its commitment to world-class research, offering generous scholarships to attract top global talent. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about $100,000 PhD scholarships in Canada 2025, including eligibility, application strategies, timelines, and tips for bolstering your candidacy.

Why a $100,000 PhD Scholarship in Canada?

Canada is a top destination for doctoral studies because of:

• High-quality education: Canadian universities consistently rank in the top 100 globally.

• Generous funding packages: Fully funded programs with research assistantships, stipends, and tuition remission.

• Diverse research opportunities: From AI and climate science to public health and social policy.

• Immigration support: Post-study work permits and pathways to permanent residency.

• Inclusive environment: Vibrant international student communities.

A $100,000 PhD scholarship typically covers:

1. Full tuition (CAD > $10,000/year).

2. Annual living stipend (CAD $30,000–$40,000).

3. Research/teaching assistantships.

4. Conference travel and research allowances.

5. Potential top-up funding for exceptional candidates.

Top $100,000 PhD Scholarships in Canada (2025)

1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (CGS)

• Value: CAD $50,000/year for 3 years (total CAD $150,000).

• Eligibility: Canadian/foreign students entering or enrolled in a full-time doctoral program at a Canadian institution.

• Selection Criteria:

  • Academic excellence.

  • Leadership and research promise.

  • Fit with host institution.

Fully Funded $50,000 Scholarship for International Students

2. Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships

• Value: Up to CAD $60,000/year for up to 3 years (total CAD $180,000).

• Fields: Social sciences and humanities with strong public-policy relevance.

• Highlights: Leadership training, mentorship, conference support.

3. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) + University Top-ups

• OGS value: CAD $15,000/year for 2 years.

• Top-ups: Many Ontario universities or external partners boost this to CAD $30,000–$40,000/year.

• Combined funding: Often reaches CAD $60,000–$80,000 total.

4. NSERC, SSHRC, and CIHR Doctoral Awards + Institutional Funding

• NSERC (natural sciences/engineering): Up to CAD $35,000/year for 3 years.

• SSHRC (humanities/social sciences): CAD $20,000/year for 3 years.

• CIHR (health/biomedical): CAD $35,000/year for 3 years.

• Plus: University-specific awards and stipends can push total funding toward CAD $100,000+.

Eligibility & Application Strategies

Academic Requirements

• Strong GPA (equivalent of Canadian A-/A).

• Published research or relevant experience.

• Clear research proposal aligned with your field.

Application Essentials

1. Research Proposal: Clear objectives, methodology, impact, feasibility.

2. CV/Resume: Highlight academic history, publications, projects.

3. Letters of Recommendation: At least two, preferably from academic referees familiar with your work.

4. English Proficiency: IELTS (7.0+), TOEFL (100+), or equivalent.

5. Personal Leadership Statement: Especially for Vanier and Trudeau—highlight leadership roles, community engagement, or public impact.

How to Maximize Your Chances for $100,000 Funding

1. Start Early and Map Out Deadlines

• Vanier: Deadline around November annually—application through your university.

• Trudeau Foundation: Deadline typically in October.

• OGS & Federal Scholarships: Vary by institution; plan by late winter.

2. Connect with Potential Supervisors

• Identify 2–3 faculty members whose research aligns with your interests.

• Send a polished inquiry email:

  • Short self-introduction.

  • Why you’re interested in their lab/project.

  • Brief outline of your research idea and timeline.

3. Draft a Stellar Research Proposal

• Hook: Begin with a compelling research question.

• Background: Review the current state of the field.

• Methods: Explain how you’ll carry out your study.

• Impact: Emphasize the real-world, policy, scientific, or societal benefits.

• Timeline & Feasibility: Show that your project is realistically achievable in 4–5 years.

4. Polish Your Academic Profile

• Publish (if possible) in peer-reviewed journals or conferences.

• Attend conferences and get a few presentation prizes or awards.

• Network: Engage with the academic community by joining associations or conferences.

5. Leadership & Service Credentials

• Serve in student government, clubs, outreach programs, or volunteer initiatives.

• Document your leadership roles and their outcomes.

• Craft a cohesive narrative that links leadership experience to your research excellence.

Sample Timeline for a 2025 Intake